Are you looking for an easy-to-understand guide on how to repair a wooden fence?
Damage to your property after a storm is inevitable. If your wooden fence took a hit, you found the right article to guide you. Whether it’s a few loose boards, a leaning post, or sections that are completely blown away, our professional here in The Colorado Fence Company will help you fix it.
This guide will walk you through different stages of wooden fence repair including assessment of damage, and other important steps to ensure your fence is restored.
Five Wooden Fences that Get You Through a Storm
Not all wooden fences are built to withstand harsh weather conditions. If you live in an area prone to storms, consider wood types that are sturdy and can withstand storms.
Remember that investing in high-quality wood, as well as proper treatment can increase the longevity of your fence. It is highly advisable in storm-prone areas.
- Cedar Fences. Cedar is a strong wood type that naturally resists rot and decay; a sturdy wooden fence to use particularly in storm-prone places.
- Redwood Fences. Redwood is known for its durability and resistance to moisture damage. This type holds up well in extreme weather.
- Pressure-Treated Pine. Pine wood that is pressure-treated is also a great choice. It can resist pests and water damage; thus, prevents warping and cracking.
- Oak and Hardwood Fences. These dense woods offer excellent resistance against strong winds but may require more maintenance.
- Horizontal Fencing with Wind Gaps. It is a type of wooden fence that is designed to let wind pass through it. Essentially, instead of a solid fence, it is built using horizontal slats with small gaps that allow wind to pass through and reduce pressure on the fence.
How to Repair Storm-Damaged Wooden Fence
Before you jump into the repair stage, you must evaluate the damage and gather repair materials first. Here’s how:
Evaluate the Damage
Take a thorough look at your wooden fence. Consider the checking the following:
- Are any fence panels or pickets missing?
- Are the posts leaning or wobbly?
- Are there loose nails and screws?
- Are there soft spots due to rot and water damage?
Gather Repair Materials
Once you’ve assessed the extent of the damage, gather the necessary tools and materials:
- Hammer and nails or a power drill with screws
- Replacement wooden panels or pickets
- Wood glue or waterproof adhesive
- Concrete mix (for post stabilization)
- Wood preservative and sealant
- Post leveler and measuring tape
- Protective gear (gloves, safety goggles, etc.)
A Step-by-Step Wooden Fence Repair Guide
Step #1: Fixing or Replacing Broken Boards
If only a few pickets or boards are damaged, simply remove the broken pieces using a hammer or a drill. Then, cut new replacement boards to size and fasten them with galvanized screws or nails to prevent rusting.
LAstly, apply a wood sealant to protect the fence against moisture.
Step #2: Stabilizing Leaning Fence Posts
If, on the other hand, your fence is leaning, the issue is likely with the foundation.
Fix it by digging around the loose post to expose the base. Then check if the existing concrete footing is cracked or deteriorated.
Once done, pour new concrete around the base for better stabilization. You may want to use a post leveler just to make sure that everything is properly aligned.
Finally, let the concrete cure for at least 24-48 hours before reattaching panels.
Step #3: Reinforcing Weak Joints and Connections
Wind impact can also loosen joints over time. You may want to strengthen them by tightening loose screws and nails, using waterproof wood glue for extra support, or adding metal brackets to reinforce corners and high-stress areas.
Step #4: Addressing Rot or Water Damage
If sections of the fence show signs of rot immediately cut out the affected area and replace to prevent spreading. You may also want to sand down minor water-damaged areas to smooth out imperfections.
Then apply a wood preservative to protect the fence from moisture and insects.
How to Prevent Damages in Wooden Fences?
Once your fence is repaired, take proactive steps to minimize future damage. Consider the following preventive measures:
- Apply a weatherproof sealant. Protects against rain, snow, and humidity.
- Trim nearby trees and bushes. Prevents branches from falling on the fence.
- Upgrade to stronger posts. Consider thicker posts or deeper foundations for added stability.
- Install wind gaps. Small spacing between pickets allows wind to pass through, reducing pressure on the fence.
- Perform regular inspections. Checking for loose boards and fasteners helps catch small issues before they become major repairs.
When to Call a Professional?
While minor repairs can be done DIY-style, some situations require expert help. If there is, for example, more than 30% damage, a full replacement may be cost-effective. Fallen and severely leaning fences call for a repair as well.
All in all, if the wood is severely damaged, best to call a professional fence repair service like The Colorado Fence Company.
Let Experts Repair Storm-Damaged Wooden Fences
Fixing a wooden fence after a storm doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Simply assess the damage, list down targeted repairs, and take preventive measures—all these can restore and help extend the lifespan of your fence.
Colorado Fence Company offers comprehensive wooden fence solutions, including storm-damaged wooden fence repair service. Using high-quality materials, we guarantee exceptional workmanship.
Start your repairs today and call us at (720) 902-8056 or send us a message.