After several years, it might be time for a fence replacement. Here are the signs to watch out for.
Over time even the most durable made fence will need to be replaced. While high quality, well-installed fencing can last for over twenty years, if it hasn’t been adequately maintained you may find that you need to replace the entire fence rather than just repairing damage segments. Knowing when to repair versus replace can be tricky, but these five signs are good indicators that it’s time to opt for something new.
Too Expensive To Fix
There comes a point in a fences life where the cost of fixing the sections and the cost of a full replacement become too close to make fixing worthwhile. Often, when fences are at this level, you may have some or all of the other symptoms below. This also may happen if the original fence is a specialty or very high-cost style that was put in place by the original owners. Additionally, a frequent mistake of homeowners is to repair large sections only to have others break or become just as bad only weeks later.
Cracked or Broken Boards
Over time most fences begin to crack and break. Vinyl fencing, in particular, can become prone to cracks and at a higher risk of breaks as it ages. Wood is less likely to crack, but over time it may split resulting in a similar dilemma.
Missing Fasteners and Connectors
Fences are held together by a number of things including nails, fasteners, and connectors. Over time, as the effects of force on the fence, the environment and natural wear and tear take their course, these can become loose and even pop out of place. As this happens, it often affects the entire fence at once as it caused by several contributing factors. When you start to notice this is happening, it’s time to find a fencing specialist.
Wood Rot and Rust
While wood and metal fences are highly durable when well cared for, they are both subject to degradation if maintenance is ignored. Both must be kept painted or stained. For wood, this layer protects the material from water, mold, and mildew which all lead to rot and decay. For wrought iron and many other metals, even the smallest scratch in the paint can lead to rust that can cause corrosion.
Warped and Bursting Boards
One of the most telling times that you need to replace and not repair is if your fence is showing signs of pushing out of the ground or falling. Structural instability like this can lead to more extensive damage as each section puts more stress on those around it. While this can happen naturally, it is also a sign of improper installation if it occurs too quickly.
Hercules Fence is Here to Help
No matter what type of fence you have decided on, Hercules Fences has the expertise and equipment to construct your dream fence. Our experienced team can help meet your fencing needs, whether they are residential or commercial, for the right price. We proudly serve Albemarle County, Amelia, Ashland, Augusta, Buckingham, Caroline, Charles City, Charlottesville, Chester County, Chesterfield County, Colonial Heights, Cumberland County Dinwiddle County, Fluvanna County, and Fort Lee, Virginia, VA. Give us a call at 804-752-7992 or visit us online. To see examples of our work and keep in touch, don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Flickr, and Pinterest.
