Is It Time for a New Fence?

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Fences can take a lot of maintenance. Whether you’ve just moved into a new property that already has a fence or seem to be spending all your time fixing and painting, there are a few signs that it’s time to invest in a new one.

Fencing deteriorates over time, but some problems can be quickly fixed with a little sanding, some string, or a lick of paint. However, sometimes these repairs are more hassle than they’re worth, and since fencing doesn’t have to cost a lot, it can often be better to just replace it.

In this post, we’re sharing three signs it’s time for a new fence. If you’re still not sure, a reputable fence and deck company will be able to advise you on what’s best.

There are holes in the wood

A few holes or chips can be fixed. If there are only some fencing panels that have holes in them, these can easily be replaced separately to reduce the cost of a full replacement. However, if you notice there are holes throughout the whole fencing, this could be a sure sign there’s more severe damage being caused to the wood. The long-term effects of UV from the sun can create holes as the wood dries out and breaks down. If your fence has started to discolor, it might be worth inspecting it for any other signs of damage or weakness.

The more holes your fence has, the less integrity it has too – which is pretty much the opposite of what you want in a fence! As such, you should consider a full replacement with a material that’s a little more durable.

Rust

Rust on fencing can occur in two ways: on the screws used to keep it in place or if your fence is actually made of metal.

Most metal fencing is coated with rust-resistant paint; however, it’s recommended that you regularly check it for rust spots. The resistant coat can wear off over time, and missing the initial signs could cost you a pretty penny.

If you do notice a few areas of rust, there are plenty of spot treatment options available. You can also sand the rusted area down, repaint, and add a resistant coating to prolong the life of your current fencing.

Nowadays, you can install aluminum fencing that looks identical to its steel counterparts, with the added bonus that it doesn’t rust.

It’s leaning to one side

If you don’t want to annoy your neighbors by encroaching on their garden space, your fence should only ever be upright and straight. Leaning fences are usually beyond repair (although most of us have tried the simple option of keeping it upright with string).

When your fence starts leaning to one side, it’s usually down to damage in the posts or the ground underneath them. If the ground shifts, the foundation of the post can become wobbly, causing the posts to slant. Similarly, if the posts have become damaged from the weather and lost integrity, they’ll have a tough time holding up the rest of the fence. Repairing the post anchoring can be a serious job, and it is probably easier, quicker, and better to replace the whole fence instead.

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