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Common Causes of Damage and How to Prevent Them

Barriers are built from various materials, each offering different levels of durability and maintenance. Common options include wood, vinyl, aluminium, and steel, with treated timber and Colorbond steel being popular choices in Australia. Here is a list of frequent causes of damage and tips on how to prevent them:

Damage from Weather (Rain, Wind, Snow)

• Cause: Structures can be weakened by strong winds, prolonged rain, and heavy snow accumulation.


• Prevention: Ensure posts are installed deeply and securely to withstand wind, and maintain adequate drainage around the base.

Rot and Moisture Issues (Timber)

• Cause: Prolonged exposure to moisture can lead to rot and structural weakening of timber barriers.


• Prevention: Use pressure-treated wood, apply waterproof paint or sealants, and ensure the foundation has proper drainage to prevent water from pooling.

Rust and Corrosion (Metal)

• Cause: Rain and humidity can cause metal structures, particularly steel or iron, to rust and corrode over time.


• Prevention: Opt for rust-resistant materials like galvanised steel or aluminium options. Regularly inspect for signs of rust and treat any affected areas promptly.

Impact from Vehicles or Equipment

• Cause: Accidental impacts from cars, lawnmowers, or falling branches can cause serious issues.


• Prevention: Install protective barriers or use reflective markings near driveways. Regularly trim overhanging branches and avoid placing heavy objects near the boundary.

Ground Shifting or Soil Erosion

• Cause: Movement in the soil can cause posts to lean or become unstable.


• Prevention: Ensure posts are set deeply in solid concrete footings. In sloped areas, consider installing a retaining wall to stabilise the ground.

Insect and Pest Damage (Timber)

• Cause: Termites and other wood-boring insects can cause significant damage to timber structures.


• Prevention: Use termite-resistant wood or apply insect-resistant paint. Periodically check for any signs of infestation and address them immediately.

Overgrowth of Vegetation

• Cause: Vines, bushes, and tree branches growing into a barrier can cause structural damage over time.


• Prevention: Keep all surrounding vegetation well-trimmed and avoid planting invasive species close to your boundary line.

Improper Installation

• Cause: Incorrect installation can lead to wobbly posts, sagging panels, and premature failure.


• Prevention: Always use high-quality materials and ensure post holes are dug to the correct depth. For the best results, hire a professional for the initial setup.

Damage from Pets

• Cause: Dogs or other animals may dig underneath, chew on panels, or scratch at the surface.


• Prevention: Install sturdy, pet-friendly materials and consider adding deterrents or barriers at the base to prevent digging.

UV Damage (Wood and Plastic)

• Cause: Extended exposure to the sun can cause timber and plastic materials to warp, fade, or become brittle.


• Prevention: Regularly apply a protective stain or sealant to wooden surfaces. For vinyl or plastic, choose high-quality, UV-stabilised materials.

Common DIY Repair Tasks

Some minor jobs can be tackled on your own, while more complex issues may require a professional. Here is a guide to what you can often fix yourself:

Replacing Loose or Missing Screws and Nails

• The Fix: Use a hammer or screwdriver to tighten or replace any loose or missing nails and screws.


• When to DIY: This is a simple fix for isolated issues that do not compromise the overall structural integrity.

Removing Minor Rust from Metal

• The Fix: Use a wire brush to remove small rust spots, then apply a rust converter and a fresh coat of paint.


• When to DIY: This is suitable for minor surface rust that has not corroded or weakened the metal.

Securing a Wobbly Post

• The Fix: Dig around the base of the post, reposition it so it is level, and fill the hole with fresh concrete or gravel to stabilise it.


• When to DIY: This can be done for one or two affected posts, provided there is no significant ground movement issue.

Replacing Broken or Warped Boards

• The Fix: Remove the damaged boards and replace them with new ones, then paint or stain them to match the rest of the structure.


• When to DIY: If you have basic carpentry skills and only need to replace a few boards.

Fixing Minor Gate Alignment Issues

• The Fix: Adjust the hinges or tighten the screws to correct a sagging or misaligned gate.


• When to DIY: This is suitable for minor alignment errors that do not affect the overall structure.

Cleaning and Staining Timber

• The Fix: Use a pressure washer or a light detergent and water to clean the surface, then apply a fresh coat of stain or sealant.


• When to DIY: Regular maintenance tasks like cleaning and sealing are typically easy to do on your own.

Patching Small Holes in Wood or Vinyl

• The Fix: Use wood filler or a vinyl patch kit to fill in any minor holes or cracks.


• When to DIY: This is for small, aesthetic damage that does not affect the overall strength.

When to Call a Professional

When DIY fixes are not enough, you need to contact a skilled builder. You should hire a professional when dealing with the following issues:

• Multiple leaning or tipping sections


• Extensive rust or corrosion on metal structures


• Multiple broken or shattered posts


• Significant foundation or ground movement problems


• Malfunctioning automated gate openers


• Damage to entire sections


• Severe bowing or warping of wooden panels


• Major storm-related damage


• Extensions or height adjustments


• Significant pest infestations on wooden structures


• Welding repairs for metal components


• Structural damage from a vehicle impact