Continue reading to learn when you should repair your fence and when you should get it replaced.
You’ve assessed your residential fence, and you’re deciding if it’s worth repairing or replacing. There are a number of factors that will impact this decision, so it will definitely be worth it to sit down and consider if the flaws that you see are minor or major. Follow this guide to help you make your fence decisions.
Common Fence Problems
Let’s go over some of the common fence problems that you’ll probably face over time as a residential fence owner. Starting with wood — because it’s a natural material, it’s more prone to damage and depredation. Being exposed to the elements will cause discoloration, warping, and sometimes splintering. Vinyl fences, although relatively low maintenance, are prone to cracking, especially if hit by debris or landscaping equipment. Also known for its durability, aluminum fences can become loose because of shifting soil, and rust from moisture exposure.
Better to Repair
Here’s some guidance for deciding if you should repair your fence, instead of replacing it. Many of the defects that you see are quick fixes, especially if you tend to them sooner rather than later. Going back to the list of common fence problems, the available solutions can be done over a weekend, or even in a day. Cracking can be solved by simply replacing the isolated board that is affected. The same goes for splintered areas. Use additional soil, gravel, or even concrete to secure loose posts.
Better to Replace
Here’s some guidance for deciding if you should replace your fence, rather than repairing it. After doing a visual inspection of your fence, you find that the issues that you’re seeing aren’t from the list of common flaws, but will require much more attention and repair to fix. The first example is if more than 20 percent of your fence needs repairs, it will probably be more economically efficient to replace the entire thing. If your fence is quite old, there might not be any replacement parts available that will work for its construction. In addition, if large portions are rotting away, you’re dealing with an insect infestation, or your fence no longer meets the zoning requirements in your neighborhood.
Residential Fences from Hercules Fence of Washington, DC
Hercules Fence DC has been providing homeowners with quality fences for over 50 years. We are well equipped to meet your needs, whether they are residential or commercial. We have extensive experience working with families and pet owners to keep the most important members of their home safe, so call us today about installing a new pet fence for your family. Contact us by giving us a call at 301-441-1600 or visiting us online. To see examples of our work, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Flickr.
