Before you decide whether to repair or replace a fence, you’ll need to examine the damage carefully. This will give you an idea of what would need to be done to make the repair and how much it would cost. If broken fence repair costs nearly as much as replacing, you might be better off getting a new fence. Here are some common problems that can be easily repaired, and some that indicate it may be time for a new fence.
Wooden Fence Repair vs. Replacement
Wooden fences are classic, beautiful and unfortunately, prone to damage. Without regular maintenance they are susceptible to decay, insect infestation, cracking and warping. Before you start any broken fence repair, you want to ask yourself is, how extensive is the damage and what is causing it?
If termites have infested a small area, you can usually exterminate them and replace any severely damaged boards. If the infestation is widespread and the damage extensive, you may have no choice but to replace whole sections.
Cracks or holes in your wooden fence can be patched with wood filler. If it needs to be done in a highly visible location, you may want to paint your fence so that the repair can’t be seen.
Moisture can have a serious impact on wooden fences, especially if you haven’t been diligent about reapplying sealant every couple of years. If you have extreme decay in one area, see if you can figure out why. It may be that water gets focused on that area during rainstorms and needs to be diverted. If the fence has gone too long without sealant, the rot may be widespread and require complete replacement.
Chain Link Fence Repair vs. Replacement
When it comes to broken fence repair on chain link fences, it depends on how extensive the damage is. Sagging and rust are the most common problems. Sagging is usually the result of a loose post that will need to be reseated.
If rust is isolated to one or two small areas, it will be less expensive to repair. Mesh panels are relatively easy to replace, and new mesh can even be woven into existing panels to fill a hole. If the whole fence is rusted, it could be a good time to upgrade to a higher quality fence.
If you need help assessing the damage, don’t hesitate to contact a specialist in fence repair and installation like Big “Wood”y’s Fence, Inc. A family-owned and –operated business, they have 21 years of experience and customer service. They can help you determine whether you need to repair or replace your fence.
