4 Common Fence Problems That Require Repairs

A fence provides a significant bit of curb appeal to a home. A white picket design brings back memories of simpler times or the nuclear family. A tall privacy fence harkens back to backyard barbeques and family time. Unfortunately, not all fences will stand the test of time, especially without adequate maintenance and timely repair. However, before calling for a teardown and fence installation in Edmonton, consider making necessary repairs and salvaging what you have.

Not every fence is salvageable, but the number is likely more than you’d expect. Fencing can look like it is in shambles or a state of disrepair, but with power-washing and replacing a few boards, it will look as good as new. At least four sights make a homeowner feel like replacement is their only option, but they are far from it.

1. Leaning or Sagging

A leaning or sagging fence can be a strong indicator that it needs to be taken down and replaced, but not always. If your fence is leaning across multiple sections and the angle is severe, it is possible the main support posts have rotted through or the cement base has eroded. However, if the fence is only leaning in a couple of areas, it is possible a repair can salvage the entire thing.

A leaning fence is typically a sign of the post’s position weakening. When it is across several posts, it is a sign of improper installation or soil erosion. However, when it is only in one spot, the damage is less catastrophic. Even if it is caused by soil erosion, a skilled professional can often correct the problem without destroying the entire fence. 

2. Rot or Insect Damage

Many homeowners might see several boards with rot or insect damage and assume the entire structure is compromised, but that is not always the case. The boards in question might have less of a seal than the others, enticing insects and rot.

Choosing to eliminate and rebuild the entire fence is costly and likely unnecessary. A better tactic is to remove the contaminated or infested boards and replace them. You can then allow a professional to clean and reseal the entire fence, preventing future rot and infestations. 

3. Missing Boards

Depending on the number of missing boards, a fence replacement might be in order. However, it is much easier and less expensive to repair or replace only the missing boards, especially if the primary posts are still intact.

When there is a large number of missing boards, many homeowners worry about new boards blending in with the old, but that is a concern not worth having. Wood is an excellent material, and as long as the homeowner purchases the same wood species to replace the missing boards, everything should blend after cleaning the sealing the fence.

4. Stains or Mildew

After several years of exposure to the elements, it is natural for a wood fence to begin turning grey, developing stains, and growing mildew. These problems occur as the sealer or stain begins to fade away, minimizing the level of sun and weather protection and leaving the fence susceptible to UV and water damage.

Repairing stain and mildew damage is a straightforward process. A professional will use a high-pressure washer to cut through the surface layer of the boards, reaching the bare clear wood. Any boards that are not cleaned by this process will be replaced. The person cleaning the fence will then allow the entire thing to dry before applying a new stain or topcoat. 

Before you decide to replace your old fence, contact the fence repair services at Handyman Connection. They will come to your property, assess the damage, and provide an estimate for the work they can do.