Whether you installed a new fence or inherited one when you purchased a home, it’s important to remember that even the most durable fencing materials don’t last forever. Properly caring for a fence helps extend its life, but unexpected damage can occur from storms or pests. As a homeowner, you should regularly inspect your fence for wear and tear or damage.
Certain signs of damage signal that it’s time to repair or replace your fence. Not sure what to look for? Keep reading to learn the top seven signs that it’s time for a fence repair or replacement.
1. Your Fence Looks Like the Leaning Tower of Pisa
While the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a famous Italian landmark, you probably don’t want your fence to be leaning in the same way. Many people think that wooden fences are the only ones that can warp their shape, but all fencing materials can begin to lean due to age or storm damage.
Weak boards and posts typically cause a leaning fence. Keep your eye out for disfigurement, as these signs usually cause a fence to lean.
- Cracking
- Bending
- Heaving
- Warping
Additionally, a weak foundation causes fence posts to become unstable. When your fence was initially installed, each post was secured in a strong concrete foundation. If the concrete deteriorates, it weakens your posts, meaning it’s time to repair the foundation or replace the fence altogether. Signs of weak concrete include:
- Pooling water
- Shifting soil around the post
- Crumbling of the concrete base
2. Missing Boards Compromise Privacy
Over time, fence boards can weaken and fall off. If there is a glaring hole in your fence from a missing board or multiple boards, you are dealing with a privacy and security issue. With significant gaps in your fence, you can see right through to your neighbor’s yard and vice versa. Not to mention, gaps in fences pose issues for households with pets or small children, as they can easily escape through the openings.
Missing boards also negatively impact the appeal of your yard and lower your property value. Whether you have a wooden or vinyl fence, you can repair sections of your fence if most of it is in good standing or reach out to a professional fence installer for a total replacement.
3. Your Wood Fence Is Cracking and Splintering
No one likes getting a splinter in their finger, and splintering wood fences can present a safety issue. You may think you can just paint over cracking or splintering wood, but splintering is typically a sign of a larger problem with your fence.
If you notice both splintering and cracking on your fence, that’s a tell-tale sign that your fence will fall apart soon due to weakened wood. Catch this complication before your fence collapses, and schedule a replacement.
4. Animals Have Chewed Holes
A small hole in your fence may seem like nothing, but it should sound alarm bells. It’s highly possible that an animal chewed its way through your wooden or chain link fence. Additionally, insects and microorganisms can cause damage to any fencing material. Signs of pest damage include:
- Swollen wood
- Mold or mildew
- Buckling with no apparent cause
- Insects crawling across the fence
- Bad odors
- Visible termite mazes
Typically, a replacement is your best option when dealing with damage from animals or insects. However, if only a small area was affected, you may be able to opt for repairs. A knowledgeable fence contractor will be able to guide you in the right direction.
5. The Color Is Different Than the Original
Did you build a beige vinyl fence many years ago that now looks green? Perhaps you bought a home with a white picket fence that now appears grey. Any type of fencing material can become discolored over time or without the proper care.
Green tints on vinyl fences are caused by algae growth, while greying wood comes from mold or insects. Discoloration may seem like a cosmetic issue, but it actually points to more significant problems like built-up moisture. Resist the temptation to paint over the discoloration and speak with a professional instead.
6. Your Steel Fence Is Eaten by Rust
Wrought iron or ornamental steel fences require regular maintenance. Without the proper care, your ornamental steel fence can accumulate small rust spots that become larger over time. Eventually, your wrought iron fence can get taken over by rust, causing an unsightly appearance and disintegrating metal. Rust is most common at points where two pieces of metal are soldered together, so if the issue gets out of hand, your fence may start falling apart.
Ornamental steel isn’t the only material susceptible to rust. Chain link fences can also develop rust. You can try to remove rust on your fence by:
- Washing your fence with warm, soapy water.
- Buffing the rust with a wire brush or gentle sander.
- Using a multi-purpose cleaning agent specialized for rust.
These cleaning tips can work for small areas of rust, but if rust has eaten your fence in many significant places, it is best to opt for a replacement. For metal fences, professional installations are better than DIY projects. Once your new fence is installed, be sure to keep up with regular maintenance, including applying a protective layer of anti-rust paint every two or three years.
7. An Intense Storm Hit Your Property
Accidental damage can happen when you least expect it. If a storm tore through your neighborhood, or if you live in a place with high precipitation levels, various forms of weathering can wreck your fence.
Perhaps a tree fell on your fence during a storm, or it was struck by lightning. Maybe hail caused dents and damage, or strong winds weakened your fence’s foundation. No matter what accidental damage your fence incurred, it is essential to schedule service promptly. If only a small area was affected, you might be able to opt for repairs. However, if a significant portion of your fence sustained damage, it is best to schedule a total replacement.
Act Fast When You Notice Signs of Damage
Fences are in place to keep your property safe and to increase your home’s value. When your fence begins to show signs of damage such as missing boards, holes, discoloration, or rust, don’t wait for the situation to worsen before scheduling repairs. An experienced fence contractor will give you their expert opinion and suggest repairs or a replacement based on your situation.
If your fence indicates any of the signs of damage explored in this article, give Northland Fence a call today. Our team will assess your fence and create a plan of action.