7 Common Fence Problems and How to Fix Them

Fences, fences, fences. These property components are indeed crucial to our safety and security from any kind of intruder or stalker, as we get ourselves jam-packed with other stuff in life.

Well, it is undeniable that even these sturdy structures can get worn down or damaged down the line. And chances are – when that problem arises, you don’t know how to fix it!

This blog post is designed to help you with common fence problems in Birmingham, AL and how to fix them. We’ll cover everything from a leaning or sagging fence to nasty rusting of its components, so you can get your fence looking good as new in no time. Let’s get started right away!

But before anything else, let us first know the average lifespan of the most dominating fence materials in the industry.

Fence material foundation and their average lifespan

Most fence components should last numerous years if they are taken care of regularly.

Material #1. Vinyl

Vinyl fences are expected to last somewhere between 20-30 years.

Material #2. Wood

Depending heavily on the kind of wood, wooden-based fences have very different life spans. People often build fences out of cedar with about 20-30 years of length, spruce with about 5-8, and pine with approximately 6-10. With the right care, wood that has been treated with a certain pressure should live up to about 20 years.

Material #3. Aluminum, Iron, or Steel

If a car or a tree doesn’t hit it or break it, metal fences are known to last for decades. But if you scuff the paint on conventional structural iron, it will oxidize almost right away which is already a common fence problem. With this, aluminum and steel are used more than ever before. These components are easy to take care of and last almost as lengthy as iron. They are also cheaper to put in place.

Material #4. Chain-link

Most fences made of these materials last somewhere between 15-25 years.

Now, let’s get right down to the most common fence problems and notions on fixing them:

Problem #1. Installation-borne errors and troubles

This common problem is brought about by incorrect measurements, either of the components or of the area where the fence will be installed. This can also be due to problems with leveling during installation.

How do you fix an installation error?

When this happens, you’ll need to take out the entire structure and start from scratch. If you’re not confident enough to do it on your own, it would be best to hire a professional fence contractor to do the job for you.

Problem #2. Damaged or even missing fence boards

As your timber fence gets aged and wears down from the weather in Birmingham and other things, its boards may come loose or get broken. This could also be caused by the heavy winds that come with typhoons. Your home companions may also like to chew on these boards for fun, which could damage them.

How do you fix damaged or missing boards?

Damaged wood fence boards or pickets, as common fence problems, are easy to change out. Don’t forget that you will have to repaint the parts to fit in with the entire fence setup. Most vinyl fences are made in factories, so if you do possess one, you may have to opt for a complete fence replacement with the whole panel.

When you have to substitute boards or picket lines often or when large parts of your fencing need some serious work, it’s time to ask for help from a pro. You might get a few more years out of repairs, but don’t waste so much money on a wall that will just have to be replaced in the near future.

Problem #3. Visible sagging on structure

If your fence is made of chain link, you may have noticed that the fabric has started to sag.

How do you fix saggy fences?

This is among the common fence problems and can be fixed by tightening the bolts that hold the fence posts in place. You may also need to add more support posts if the sagging is severe.

Additionally, the passageway on a railing will often begin to sag down the line. We recommend putting an aluminum spacer right at the bottommost rail of your panels so they don’t sag. If your entire gate is sagging, try giving it more strength by putting an 8-foot aluminum spacer on the latch posts and/or hinges.

Sometimes, the best thing to do is to get a new fence. If you don’t know if a short term fix will be supported or if you’d be more comfortable with a new set of fencing, let the experts come to you.

Problem #4. Leaning fences or boards

Do you have a fence that’s leaning to one side? This is usually caused by rotted fence posts or improper fence installation troubles.

How do you fix leaning fences?

Do your finest to figure out why your fence is leaning or why panels are coming off. Soil that has been eroded or wiped away by high winds or water can induce these kinds of problems. Sometimes all that needs to be done is to put the posts back in line.

Soil erosion and waterlogging should be taken care of by a landscaping pro. If you can, pick a company that has worked with drainage systems or grading before. They will know the entire fixing process of the drainage issue and stop it from happening again. As a short-term fix, put rocks or small stones around your fence where the problem is.

When tree branches fall and impact fences, the posts, panels, and even the boards should be replaced as required. When a post is flimsy but not severely broken, sometimes all it needs is a little extra support.

Problem #5. Rust/oxidation has begun

If your fence has started to rust, don’t worry – this is a common problem.

The remedy to this problem will depend on the primary damage. The best way to fix it is to sand down the rust and then repaint the fence. You may also want to consider replacing any rusty hardware with new, stainless steel hardware.

Also, you can get rid of tiny areas of rust with a certain rust-removing brush and some rust remover, but if the corroded area is just too big, you have to go for a complete fence replacement. To stop more rust and corrosion, the restoration should also include putting on a protective layer that stops rusting.

Problem #6. Rotting invasion

Have you noticed that your fence has started to rot? This is a common fence problem in areas that are moist or humid. One of the biggest problems with wooden fences is that they can rot and be damaged by insects. Some types of timber, like cedar and wood that have been treated with pressure, are stronger than other options.

How do you fix rotting problems?

To fix this problem, you’ll need to remove the rotted boards and replace them with new ones. You may also need to treat the fence with a fungicide to prevent further damage.

Problem #7. Stained fence and mildew invasion

The worst thing that could lead to common fence problems is when the weather fluctuates in Birmingham. With the constant day heat and the cold rain, vinyl and wood components will be more likely to get mildew growth. Molds on your fence will turn wood fences into having a different color first.

How do you fix stains and mildew?

Wood fence. Utilizing pressure washing will get rid of stains and mold growth. Once the gate is clean, put a specific stain on it to keep it strong and make it last longer.

Vinyl fence. You can use fluids and mild detergent to clean this type of fence. If the stains are more stubborn, use a relatively strong cleaner or even a defined pressure washer. Vinyl fences are meant to lose their shine over time, so fret not.

How do you save yourself from these common problems?

Fences aren’t really free of maintenance at all. Even things like steel or vinyl that are easy to take care of need help occasionally.

Mind these takeaways in place to avoid the usual problems and ensure that your fence will operate smoothly through the years:

1. Contact a professional who has been checked out to put up the fence and do any major repairs.
2. Check for damage right away. Depending on how big the problem is, a new set might be the least expensive solution.
3. To make your fence last longer, clean the structure and seal it when you need to.

Eliminate all of the common fence problems with Landmark Fence Company

By now, you might already be convinced to maintain your fence or repair them, especially if you’ve noticed the problems and complications we have managed to mention above. With this, go right down to a fence company in Birmingham, AL that can give you the best possible set of services. You guessed it – it’s none other than Landmark Fence Company. They can set you up for an amazing deal and take care of any problem for you! Pay them a visit and schedule an appointment to upgrade your fence today!