When You Should Call a Fence Professional

Your fence is one of the first things people notice when they come to your home. A sturdy, attractive fence enhances your property's curb appeal and provides security and privacy. But fences are exposed to the elements year-round, so they require periodic maintenance and eventual replacement. Knowing when to call in a Fence Professional versus tackling fence repairs yourself can save you time, money, and frustration.

Signs You Need a Fence Repair

Minor fence damage like a few missing or broken boards can often be repaired by a handy homeowner. But there are several signs that indicate your fence needs more extensive repairs that are best left to professionals:

• Posts or poles leaning or moving. Posts that are no longer straight up and down mean the fence is unstable. The posts may be rotten at ground level or the concrete footing may have shifted. A pro has the expertise and equipment to re-secure posts properly.
• Multiple broken or missing boards. If you're constantly re-securing multiple boards that are damaged or gone, it likely indicates an underlying issue like uneven ground settlement that is stressing the fence.
• Sagging or bowing sections. When you see sections that are sagging or bowing inward or outward, it means the fence is under structural stress. This will only get worse over time without proper repairs.
• Rotted wood. Wood that is blackened, crumbly or spongy usually means rot has set in. Rot weakens the integrity of the wood, reducing the lifespan of fences. Professionals can replace rotted elements.
• Rust, dents or other damage to metal fencing. Rust spreads quickly on metal fencing and is difficult to fully remove. Dents or impact damage can also weaken the structure. Fence companies have the tools to fix metal fence damage.
• Overgrowth of vegetation. Trees, shrubs, and vines that grow into or around a fence can lift boards, bend or break posts, and even uproot entire sections. Pro-fencing crews can remove vegetation thoroughly without harming your fence.
• Property changes require new fence lines. If you've added a pool, deck, garage, or other addition, or expanded your property boundaries, you'll likely need new fence lines configured. Fence professionals have the layout and measuring expertise to handle this.

When to Call a Pro for Fence Replacement

No matter how well you maintain your fence, it will eventually reach the end of its functional lifespan. But when is it time to completely replace a fence rather than keep repairing it? Here are key indicators:

• It's more than 20 years old. Most wooden fences last 15-20 years, while vinyl and metal last 20-25 years. If your fence is nearing or exceeding its material's lifespan, replacement may make more sense than continuing repairs.
• Repairs are too frequent. If you have to fix broken boards, posts or hardware every few months, replacement is likely your most cost-effective option. Continual repairs become labor-intensive and expensive.
• It no longer serves its function. If privacy, security, or pet containment are constantly compromised no matter how often you repair, it's time for a new fence that meets your needs.
• You want to change the fence type or location. Replacing gives you the opportunity to switch fence materials, height or configuration to better fit your home. Just be sure to check with your homeowners association first if you live in a regulated community.
• You're renovating your yard. Major landscaping upgrades are the perfect time to replace your fence to match your home's new modernized or refreshed look.
• Storm damage is extensive. After severe storms, assess how much of your fence needs repair versus replacement. If 50% or more needs replacing, it often makes sense to install all new fencing material.

Jobs to Leave to the Fencing Experts

Fence installation and repair require nuanced skills and tools to get structures square, straight, stable and level. Without this specialized expertise, your DIY efforts may eventually fail or detract from your home's look. Leave these tasks to qualified fencing pros:

• Post hole digging and planting. This requires digging proper widths, depths and spacing using professional equipment like augers and power diggers.
• Leveling and aligning fencing. Fence experts use advanced techniques and tools like laser levels to ensure precision installation.
• Securing posts permanently. Pros have the concrete mixing skills and resources to securely anchor posts and gateposts in the ground.
• Structural repairs. Damaged posts, poles and stringers often require structural carpentry skills to properly sister or replace.
• Gate installation and repair. Getting gates properly hung and swinging smoothly is tricky. Fence companies have the skills to install and adjust them properly.
• Fence layout and measuring. Installing new fences or lines requires precision measuring and survey skills to configure accurately.

Know Your Fence Options

When hiring a fencing pro, it helps to know the main types of fencing materials to choose from:

• Wood - The most common residential fencing, available in natural cedar and pressure-treated pine. Offers a classic look but requires more maintenance.
• Vinyl - No rotting or painting required, but tends to be more expensive upfront. Can crack or warp in extremely hot or cold climates.
• Ornamental iron or aluminum - Wrought iron is elegant but costly. Aluminum is affordable but less durable for security. Requires more care and rust mitigation.
• Chain link- Provides maximum security and visibility. Galvanized finish resists rust. Can look institutional rather than residential.

A Fence Professional can help you select the right material for your home based on budget, look, durability, security, maintenance and other factors.

Work With Fencing Specialists

Your fence is a major investment that protects and beautifies your property. With proper care and maintenance from skilled fencing crews, it will serve you well for years before needing replacement. Watch for signs like sagging, excessive damage or old age to determine when it's time to call the pros. Their expertise in building and repairing fences can save you time, money and aggravation in the long run.