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Common Causes of Fence Damage and How to Prevent Them

Fences are built from a variety of materials, each offering different levels of durability, aesthetics, and maintenance. Common options include wood, vinyl, aluminium, steel, and composite materials, with treated timber and Colorbond steel being popular choices in Australia for residential and commercial properties. Here is the list of frequent causes of fence damage, along with advice on how to avoid them:

The Weather (snow, rain, wind)

• Cause: Fence constructions can be weakened by severe winds, prolonged precipitation, snow accumulation, and freeze-thaw cycles.
• Prevention: Clear snow accumulation, make sure drainage is adequate, and install poles that can withstand wind.

Wooden fence rot and moisture

• Cause: Rot and weakening of wood can result from prolonged exposure to dampness.
• Prevention: Preventive measures include using treated wood, waterproof paint, and sealants. To prevent water from accumulating, make sure the fence foundation has enough drainage.

Corrosion and Rusting of Metal Fences

• Cause: Rain and humidity can cause metal fences, such as steel or iron, to rust.
• Prevention: Use rust-resistant materials fencing, such as galvanised steel fencing or aluminium fencing, to prevent corrosion. Examine and assess regularly

Effect of Equipment or Vehicles

• Cause: Serious damage may result from unintentional incidents involving automobiles, lawnmowers, or falling branches.
• Prevention: Use barriers or place conspicuous markings next to driveways. Eliminate overhanging branches and stay away from putting large objects close to the fence.

Soil erosion or ground shifting

• Cause: Tilting or instability in fence posts may result from soil movement.
• Prevention: Make sure your posts are properly anchored and use solid, deep-set posts. Put up retaining walls in sloped regions or fence off-level terrain.

Insects and Pests (Wooden Fences)

• Cause: The cause of insect damage to timber fences is termites and other wood-boring insects.
• Prevention: Apply insect-resistant paint to wood and periodically check it for indications of infestation.

Vegetation Overgrowth

• Cause: Fences can sustain damage from vines, bushes, and tree branches growing into them.
• Prevention: Keep surrounding plants well-trimmed, and steer clear of putting invasive plants close to the fence.

Improper Installation

• Cause: Improper installation may lead to misplaced posts or shaky foundations.
• Prevention: Use high-quality materials and dig deep post holes; alternatively, hire professionals to install the system.

Pet Wear and Tears

• Cause: Under fences, dogs or other animals may dig, chew, or scrape.
• Prevention: To stop digging, erect sturdy fencing that is suitable for pets and add obstacles or deterrents.

UV Damage (Wooden and Plastic Fences)

• Cause: Extended sun exposure can result in warping, fading, or cracking.
• Prevention: Give wooden fences regular coats of protection and go for finishes that are resistant to UV rays. Select UV-stabilized materials for vinyl or plastic.

What You Can Fix In Fence Repair?

Some fence repair jobs are simple enough for you to complete on your own, while others could call for a professional. Here's a guide on what you can do on your own to fix the issue.

Missing or Loose Screws and Nails

• Fix: A hammer or screwdriver can be used to quickly tighten or replace nails and screws.
• When to DIY: When it doesn't compromise the structural integrity of the fence and is restricted to a single location.

Minor Metal Fence Rust Removal

• Fix: Apply a rust converter, remove rust using a wire brush, and repaint.
• When to DIY: If the metal hasn't been destroyed by tiny rust spots.

Unsecured Fencing Posts

• Fix: Dig around the base of the posts, reposition them, and fill them with gravel or concrete to stabilise them once again.
• When to DIY: if the problem is limited to one or two impacted posts and does not involve a large amount of ground movement.

Boards that are warped or broken (wooden fences)

• Fix: Paint or stain the damaged boards to match the rest of the fence, then replace them with new ones.
• When to DIY: If you are a basic carpenter and only need to replace a few boards.

Problems with Gate Alignment

• Fix: To correct a drooping or misaligned gate, adjust the hinges or tighten the screws.
• When to DIY: If the alignment error is small and doesn't impact the fence's overall structure.

Getting Wooden Fences Clean and Stain Ready

• Fix: Use a light detergent and water to clean the fence, then apply a stain or sealant.
• When to DIY: Regular upkeep such as sealing and cleaning are typically easy to do on your own.

Replacing Tiny Holes in Wooden or Vinyl Fences

• Fix: To patch up minor holes, use wood filler or vinyl patch kits.
• When to DIY: For small holes or aesthetic damage that doesn't affect the strength of the fence.

When to Choose Professional Fence Repair?

When the DIY tips don’t work, you need to contact skilled fence builders. You must hire them when you deal with the following issues.

• Tipping or Leaning
• Extensive Corrosion or Rusting (Metal Fences)
• Shattered fence posts:
• Foundation Problems (Posts for Fences)
• Automated gate openers that are damaged.
• Damage to Entire Sections of the Fence
• Bowing or warping of wooden fences
• Storm-related damage
• Fence Extensions or Height Adjustments.
• Infestation of Pests on Wooden Fences.
• Welding for Metal fence repairs
• Structural Damage from Vehicle Impact