5 Common Fence Problems (And How To Fix Them)

Fences can experience a wide range of damage over time, from weather-related wear and tear to physical impacts and pest infestations. Wood fences may warp, crack, or rot due to exposure to the elements, while metal fences can corrode from moisture and salt air. Fences can also suffer dents, breaks, or other structural damage from falling debris, vehicle collisions, or even vandalism. As fences age, they will naturally show signs of deterioration, such as fading and loosening of joints.

That said, below are 5 common fence issues and a few easy ways to repair them.

When dealing with any of these fence issues, it’s often best to consult a reputable Fencing Contractor. A skilled professional can assess the extent of the damage, provide repair or replacement recommendations, and ensure the fence is properly restored to a safe and visually appealing condition using their expertise with various fence materials and installation techniques.

 

That said, below are 5 common fence issues and a few easy ways to repair them.

Rotten posts

Fence posts can develop rot over time as a result of prolonged exposure with the earth. When seriously rotten, there is not much you can do with these posts except replace them. But if a post is only mildly damaged, there is the option of concrete post repair, which involves supporting the post with a concrete repair spur. 

How can you stop fence post rot happening in the first place? One solution is to place fence posts into holes filled with gravel. The gravel can form a barrier between the soil and fence posts and help water drain deeper into the earth. Applying sealants to fence posts can also reduce water damage.

Insect damage

While termites may not be a problem in the UK, there are many beetles in this country that love to chew through wooden fences. Wooden posts with serious woodworm often need to be supported while boards may need to be replaced. If the whole fence is seriously damaged, it may be better to consider a total replacement.

The best treatment for insect damage on fences is to take preventative measures – the easiest being to paint your fence. Insects generally avoid painted fences. Using a sealant can provide added protection if this still doesn’t work. Be wary that there are also many insecticides that you can spray onto fences.

Missing boards

If your fence is missing one or two boards, there’s usually no need to replace the entire fence. Replacing individual boards will save you a lot of money. Just make sure these are made from similar timber and that they are cut to the same measurements as the old boards. Only replace the entire fence if several boards are missing. 

You can prevent boards coming loose by making sure that your fence has been securely assembled. Sealants can also protect your fence against weathering such as frost damage, which can cause boards to warp and come loose. 

Mildew

If you’ve got lots of mildew growing on your fence, you may be able to easily remove this mildew by spraying it with anti-mould products. Alternatively, a DIY mixture of water and bleach may do the trick.

Mildew tends to grow on damp fences. A good quality sealant will prevent your fence from staying damp, which could discourage future mould growth.

Rust

Iron and steel fencing can become prone to rust. By using a wire brush and a rust removal product (a mix of vinegar and lemon juice also does the trick), you can usually brush away the first signs of rust. Of course, if rust has really set in, your fence may need to be replaced. 

How can you prevent rust on metal fences? An epoxy primer is typically the best defence. This guide to metal primers offers some tips on which primer to use.

TTFN

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