Fence damage is a common issue that can cause expensive problems. Your fence should help protect your home from the weather, animals, accidents, and even intruders. A broken or damaged fence can’t live up to its job, which is why it’s important to keep your fencing in good condition. You can prevent many types of fence damage with some simple preventative steps. Explore some of the most common types of fence damage, see how to avoid them, and learn when your fence needs professional repair or replacement.
Corroding Materials
Many construction projects can weaken or corrode after installation. This is especially true for outdoor projects like fences that are constantly exposed to sun, rain, and wind. Memphis area homes are at risk for severe weather events like tornadoes, and we also see occasional snow and ice. All of these conditions can damage your fence over time. Wooden fences may get moldy or rot, and metal fences can start to rust. Mold, rot, and rust all weaken your fence’s structural integrity. These problems start small, but they’ll develop into major issues that ruin your fence’s effectiveness.
How To Prevent Fence Corrosion
Planning and forethought will help you avoid fence corrosion. The best way to prevent this problem is by choosing the best materials for the Memphis region. Homes in our area need a durable, water-resistant finish. Consider staining and sealing your fence if it hasn’t already been water-treated. You can also avoid build-up by keeping your fence clean. Wipe down the wood or brush dirt off of a wooded fence regularly. This simple step will keep your fence in good shape for years to come.
Holes, Gaps, And Missing Slats
Does your wooden fence have a broken or missing slat? This type of damage usually happens to fences that have inadequate fastening. Your slats might be loose or shaky because they weren’t installed properly. Once a slat is already loose, it’s easy for it to get knocked out of place. High winds or heavy impacts can be enough to break a slat away from the fence.
How To Prevent Holes, Gaps, and Missing Slats
The best way to avoid holes in your fence is to have them professionally installed. An expert fence company like Bluff City Fence will carefully construct your fence using the best supplies and fasteners for the job. Let professionals make any fence repairs to avoid problems from improper fasteners.
Sagging Gates
Fence gates can start to dig and sag on their hinges over time. This is another problem that starts small, then grows into a major issue. A seriously sagging gate can be hard to use. If your gate starts to drag on the ground, you might not be able to open it fully. Sagging gates can also cause security breaches. Your gate might not close all the way once it starts to sag. This can leave an opening that pets and children can fit through. An open gate also invites wildlife and intruders into your property.
How To Prevent A Sagging Gate
Sagging usually happens when your fence post or gate is damaged due to weathering or corrosion. Include your gates when you clean your fence every season. You should also inspect the hinges, lock, and other hardware. These elements all have a lifespan, so make sure to replace them when they show wear and tear.
Stained Fences
Stains are unattractive, but they can also hide structural damage. A stain on your fence can ruin your curb appeal or your backyard views. Address stains as soon as possible so they don’t have time to sink into the materials. You can usually wash stains off of a metal fence. Remove any excess material so it doesn’t cause rust. Wooden fences can absorb stains, turning temporary messes into permanent marks.
How To Prevent Fence Stains
Choose a paint color or finish for your fence that’s neutral, blends into the background, and is easily maintained. Black paint on a metal fence is a classic choice that complements any landscaping. Dark finishes on a wooden fence hide many stains and marks over the years. Stain prevention is another benefit of cleaning your fence regularly. You should spot-clean any parts of your fencing that get dirty in between full cleanings. For example, you should brush grass clippings off your fence after mowing the yard so it doesn’t cause a stain.
Grey Wood
Older wooden fences turn grey because oils in the wood dry out as the fence ages. You might enjoy this natural aging patina, or prefer the original wooden tones of your fence. Either way, an aging fence is slowly losing its oils, moisture, and flexibility.
How To Prevent Grey Wood On Fences
You should have your fence stained regularly to keep it from turning grey. Stain adds vibrant color to your fence but also protects the wood by sealing in the natural oils. Staining will extend the lifespan of your wooden fence.
Tilted Fence Posts
Your fence is built on posts sunk into the ground at regular intervals. These posts form the foundation of your fence, so they’re a very important part of your fencing system. Posts can tilt or move for several different reasons. Ground shifts, post weathering, and corrosion can all cause your fence to tilt and warp out of shape. Sagging, bent, or twisted fences are all signs that your fence posts may be tilted.
How To Prevent Tilting Fences
The best way to prevent a tilting fence is to set posts in concrete when the fence is being built. This is an especially useful trick for stabilizing fences on unsteady ground.
Need Your Fence Repaired?
It’s normal to find signs of damage on your fence. Fences are constantly exposed to the elements and they all need repair eventually. You can protect your fence and extend its lifespan by addressing any damage as soon as you notice it. Contact Bluff City Fence if you have any questions or want to learn more about repairing your fence.
