Repair or Replace? How to Keep a Fence in Good Condition

Apart from offering privacy and security, a well-maintained fence can make a house more attractive.

Apart from offering privacy and security, a well-maintained fence can make a house more attractive. In contrast, a worn-down fence can attract negative attention from onlookers and the homeowner association. Therefore, when the fence starts to wear down, homeowners should either repair it or replace it.

Knowing which route to take depends on the type of fence and damage evaluation. Please keep reading to learn more about the tell-tale signs that it’s time for a fence repair or replacement.

Inspect the damage

The only way to get an accurate estimate of a fence’s condition is to inspect it thoroughly. Then, depending on the perceived damage, homeowners can decide whether to try and repair the fence or fully replace it.

As a rule of thumb, if more than 20% of the fence needs work, it’s probably best to get a new one. However, this rule may differ depending on the material used.

How to determine if a wooden fence needs repair or replacement

Cracks and holes tend to be the first signs of damage on a wooden fence. Wood putty will go a long way toward repairing this damage. However, homeowners should also account for a painting job if they want their fence to match throughout.

Discoloration may be another early warning sign of deterioration in unpainted fences. Homeowners should replace the pickets turning yellow or gray.

The most worrying sign of decay is rot at the base of the fence’s posts. The posts typically wear out more quickly in humid climates, especially without adequate drainage on the property. In addition, rot can cause the posts to lean, eventually warping the fence board.

If only one or two posts are leaning, homeowners can choose to repair them separately. A repair might be the better option, as replacing damaged posts requires digging out the cement footing. However, replacing the entire fence might be the only option if the rot has spread significantly.

How to determine if an aluminum fence needs repair or replacement

Proper maintenance of aluminum fences can be rather expensive. As a result, some aluminum fences can display signs of premature aging.

The first signs of aging are rust and bubbling paint. Homeowners should sand these down and repaint the affected areas to prevent further damage.

One of the most common issues with aluminum fences has nothing to do with the fence itself. Instead, the soil beneath the fence might cause problems as it settles and shifts over the years. As a result, the posts pull out, straining the rest of the fence. A few inches of a shift is enough to warp the fence railings.

Since aluminum fences are usually welded, homeowners shouldn’t attempt a repair without a professional builder. They should also be in charge of replacing a dented fence. Namely, aluminum fences are susceptible to damage caused by accidents, such as a falling branch. Unfortunately, there is no way to repair aluminum once it’s bent out of shape, so replacement is the only option.

How to determine if a vinyl fence needs repair or replacement

Vinyl is undoubtedly the most durable option for a fence. Because it has a built-in color, it isn’t susceptible to cracks, peels, or discolorations. Furthermore, water damage and rot pose no threat to this type of fence.

However, UV rays can make a vinyl fence prone to cracking over time. Generally speaking, homeowners can easily remove and replace only the damaged panels.

Another common issue with vinyl fences is warping due to shifting soil. Luckily, vinyl is relatively affordable, so homeowners can choose to replace all the affected panels.

Consult a professional

Apart from the perceived damage, the cost is another essential factor. Replacing the entire fence isn’t necessarily more expensive than repairing it. The best option is to consult fencing professionals. They can advise whether repairing a fence is worth it or a replacement is in your best interest.

Eagle Home Renovation is a family-owned general contracting business offering 20 years of experience in residential home remodeling. We remodel kitchens and bathrooms, garages, balconies, porches, deck porches, and more for homeowners in Richmond, VA, and surrounding areas. Call us today at (804)538-3334.