Common fence problems homeowners face
- Leaning posts – Occasionally, fence posts may start leaning due to a variety of factors, including soft soil, wind damage or physical impacts. Resetting or replacing fence posts is labor intensive and can become quite costly. If the number of posts needing to be fixed is minimal, repair may make sense. However, if there are many posts that are leaning, strong consideration should be given to replacing the fence or fence section.
- Missing/damaged fence boards – Wood and vinyl fence boards can get damaged over time from weather, mowing and trimming or other factors. Typically, these fence boards can be replaced relatively easily.
- Gate sagging – Over time, gates, especially wood gates, can begin to sag and become difficult to operate. You can quickly assess the root of the problem by checking whether or not your gate posts are plumb with a simple level. If they are, then the problem is with the gate itself. Replacing the gate is usually the best course of action. If you find that the posts are out of level, the issue can usually be resolved by either resetting or replacing the gate posts and re-installing the existing gate.
- Gate hardware not functioning properly – Gate hardware takes the brunt of operational abuse over the years. Replacing damaged gate hardware is easy to do and in many cases can be done by the homeowner.
Considerations for Repair versus Replacement
- Cost comparison – How much will it cost to repair the damage versus replace the fence. If the difference is relatively small, you should strongly consider replacement.
- Curb appeal – You should consider whether repairing or replacing the fence will result in better curb appeal. Often times, repairing the fence will correct the immediate problem but can leave you with a fence that looks inconsistent.
- Short-term versus long term objectives – Consider whether your goal is just to make the existing fence functional or if you want to take the opportunity to upgrade.