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It’s easy to erect a fence and then forget about it. After all, a wooden fence should generally last ten to fifteen years, while a chain-link fence can last up to twenty years.
However, issues are likely to arise during your fence’s lifespan. Adverse weather, insects, and vehicular accidents can all cause damage. If you want your fence to last a long time, you need to repair it as soon as you notice damage. If you delay, the problem is likely to get worse, and you may need more extensive repairs or even a complete replacement.
Fences provide privacy and security for you and your family. They keep out pests and help ensure the safety of pets and children. A high-quality, professionally installed fence will also add to the aesthetics of your home and even increase its value. However, a broken fence will reduce your home’s curb appeal and expose your family to danger. Let’s look at how you can evaluate your fence and get it repaired by an Austin fencing professional as soon as possible.
Tune in to our video for expert advice on when repairing your fence is the best option. https://t.co/Be70SqVODn #fencerepair #fencereplacement #fence #homeimprovement pic.twitter.com/UbCD9elS5b
— Austin Fence (@AustinFenceATX) March 21, 2024
When to Repair A Wooden Fence
To check your wooden fence, inspect it from the ground up since it’s likely to rot from the bottom. Take note of subtle warps, splinters, discoloration, and larger holes and cracks. All these must be fixed immediately, even if they seem minor. If you catch the problems in the earliest stages, you may need a little putty and a fresh coat of paint.
However, if your fence is leaning because the posts are no longer stable, this could be a bigger problem. The hole may have eroded, or the posts may be rotting beneath the earth. This would require disassembling parts of the fence on both sides of the posts. Ignoring loose posts isn’t an option. They will eventually collapse, and if a storm comes to Austin, TX, they can become airborne, taking pieces of the fence with them. This can even cause damage to your home.
When to Repair A Chain Link Fence
Chain link fencing is usually quite resilient since it’s galvanized to prevent rust and corrosion. However, some of your fence’s components are more likely to suffer damage. For example, the top rail can become dented. When this happens, you must address it since the top rail supports the rest of the structure.
The posts are also vulnerable to corrosion, so they must be checked regularly for damage and quickly repaired or replaced. Loose posts can also cause sagging. This is easy to spot, and it will worsen if it’s not attended to immediately.
Meanwhile, if trees or heavy objects rest against your fence, the links may become damaged. They often snap near the posts or top rail but can break in any spot. When this happens, only the affected links need to be replaced.
Understand the key factors in choosing between repair and replacement in our next blog: Fence Repair or Fence Replacement?
Get Professional Fence Repairs in Austin, TX
While you can do some fence repairs independently, hiring a professional for large or delicate jobs is best. Your fence plays too significant a role not to ensure it is in excellent shape.