Backyard Fence Repair
Take a close look at your backyard fence and inspect it from the bottom to upward. If the fence is made of wood, rot normally starts at ground level. You should also look for cracks, holes, splintering, warping, and discoloration. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should repair your fence promptly to avoid any further damage.
Check your fence warranty to see if it’s still valid and covers the damage you found. If there’s no warranty, you can take the do-it-yourself approach. Fill small cracks and holes with putty or wood filler. You should also replace any warped panels or posts. Homeowners who aren’t confident in their home repair abilities should hire a professional.
It’s always a good idea to do routine maintenance on your wood fence, even if it doesn’t appear to be anything wrong. Try to seal it once a year to prevent decay or apply a coat of varnish if you see water soaking into the wood rather than beading on the surface. By staying on top of your fence’s condition you can make sure it reaches its top life expectancy.
When to Lean Towards a Fence Replacement
A backyard fence that’s rundown or falling over creates a bad impression. It looks messy to your guests and any potential buyers, and may also be a black mark on the neighborhood.
When things get this bad, it’s time to consider a fence replacement. Here are circumstances in which you should construct a new fence:
- The damage is substantial, and more than a quarter of the boards have rotted
- Pests and termites have begun to eat away at the wood
- A car accident or falling tree has destroyed a large section
- The wood has exceeded its life expectancy, which varies depending on the type.
Once a wooden fence becomes unmanageable and no longer provides security or privacy, it’s time to install a replacement. If it becomes more than an eyesore and appears dilapidated, it’s time to make the call to Total Property Maintenance company. Also, if the backyard fence repair cost is higher than the price of a new fence, installing a new fence is the more economical option.
Replacing? Consider the Alternatives for Backyard Fencing.
Backyard wood fences look great but require significantly more upkeep than other types of fences. Other fencing materials, such as vinyl and aluminum, can provide the same amount of privacy but are more durable and easy to maintain.
The upfront cost of installing more durable types of fences may be higher than wood but could be worth it in the long run. They can be made to be aesthetically pleasing and will last for many years.
If you are comparing a wood privacy fence repair vs. a vinyl replacement, you might be put off by the upfront cost. However, a vinyl fence will last longer and require fewer repairs, which often saves money in the long-run.
