Signs It’s Time to Get a New Wood Fence Installed
No fence can last forever, regardless of its style, construction, or material. Even the most well-made and maintained wooden fence will eventually need a replacement over time.
Some issues may be repaired, but there will come a time when a complete teardown will be necessary. This guide will cover the tell-tale signs you need a new wood fence installation.
Signs That You Need a New Wood Fence Installation
Wooden fences can boost your property’s value. When properly maintained, it provides privacy and protection to a home’s occupants and increases its curb appeal. Housing authorities and construction specialists estimate that wooden fences can last 15 to 20 years with proper care and maintenance.
However, it is best to estimate the age and condition of your perimeter enclosure before you consider installing a new wood fence.
If your fence has been around for a while, it will be best to look for certain signs to confirm that a wood fence installation is necessary.
1. Noticeable Holes, Cracks, and Other Damage
Before you try and install a new wood fence, you should walk around your entire perimeter and inspect the wood for holes and other defects. Pay special attention to the posts since they provide the necessary support for the other elements, such as the brackets and rails.
Look for noticeable holes, cracks, and other deformities in the posts. These defects can be caused by termites and other insects burrowing into the wood, weakening the fence structure. If you only have an isolated incident, then it will be better to replace the affected post. However, if you find multiple posts with significant problems, installing a wood fence may be better and more cost-effective.
2. Missing or Loose Posts
Aside from visible structural problems, look for posts that have come loose or are already missing. This issue is a sign that you must install a new wood fence. If multiple posts have come loose, the wood is too weak to stay in place.
3. Leaning Fence
This problem usually occurs on older or damaged wooden fences. It can indicate that installing a new wood fence is necessary. However, before you call professionals for an estimate, you can do some repairs to confirm the issue, saving you money in the long run.
You will need some tools and replacement parts to resolve this problem. Check the fence supports and straighten them out. Look for damaged or weakened structures and replace them to see if you can get the fence to sit upright.
If this fix works, then you don’t need a replacement. However, if the fence still leans after fixing these potential issues, it’s time to call for professional help. There may be an underlying problem, and installing a wood fence will be a more permanent solution.
4. Insufficient Privacy and Protection
Sometimes the fence in your home may have no defects or damage. However, it may be too short or need more privacy for your family. For instance, if you have a dog that can jump over your fence, it will be better to replace the entire fence.
5. Mismatched Fence Designs
In some cases, different contractors worked on a home’s fencing. Some may have added a section or two, and another set of professionals added the other areas at a different time. This situation happens when homeowners switch from one contractor to another.
It isn’t always easy to match what the other contractor did when they built their side of the fence, which means the fencing will get mismatched and won’t look pretty.
You can try to paint the fence in the same color or use the same stain. However, the design, cut, level, and patterns will still be noticeable. If you’re aiming to improve your property value, it will be best to have a new wooden fence installed.
6. Tree Growth
If you have trees along your fence line, they can damage your fence in the future. The branches, roots, and trunks can sometimes grow into the fence, causing problems. You can do some trimming, but trees will eventually grow too big on your property’s perimeter. It is best to let professionals handle the situation and have a new fence installed to protect the tree and your property.
7. Major Damage
Extreme weather conditions and accidents, like someone backing their car into your fence, can cause significant damage. Trees can fall into your property, damaging your home’s roof, fence, and other structures. In this situation, it is better to have a fence replacement rather than try to repair your old fence.
Get the Best Fence for Your Home
Expert fence builders from As Good As New LLC can help you determine if your home needs a new fence. We can assess your property and provide expert recommendations based on your needs and budget. You can contact our specialists by filling out this form.
