Common Fence Problems & How to Fix Them

Fencing is essential to many homes and commercial premises and provides security, privacy and a reliable boundary for our outdoor spaces. A well-maintained and secure fence is an ideal way of keeping children and pets safe, improving your garden’s aesthetics and protecting your property from prying eyes. But, like any other outdoor installation, fences can experience wear and tear from challenging weather conditions and daily use. If left unaddressed, this can lead to a range of problems over time that can impact your fencing’s structure and appearance.

Here at Sky Fencing, we know how important a quality fence is to secure outdoor spaces and help them look their best. With years of experience in fence supply and installation, we’ve seen our fair share of fencing issues, and we’ve always found a way to address them. In this blog post, we’ll highlight some of the most common fencing problems that homeowners face and will offer practical solutions to repair them. We’ll also highlight some top tips for fence maintenance so your installation continues to perform throughout the year. Interested in a new fence? Contact us today!

Common Fence Problems & How to Fix Them

Every fence faces its own set of challenges – from rot and leaning fences to damaged hardware and more. Fortunately, most fence issues can be fixed with ease. Here, we’ll explore some of the most common fence problems and provide practical, step-by-step solutions for fixing them so your fence can continue to serve its purpose for years to come.

Rotting Wood

One of the most common issues, particularly with wooden fencing, is rotting wood. When exposed to moisture such as rain, humidity, snow and more, timber can absorb water, which can cause it to weaken and begin to decay. Signs of rotting wood include a soft or spongy texture when touched, discolouration and visible mould growth.

How to Fix It: If the rot is isolated to just a few fence boards, you might be able to replace only the affected areas with treated wood panels. We recommend treating the new wood with a water-resistant sealant to prevent future rot. If the rot spreads across a larger area, you may need to replace larger sections or the entire fence. If this is the case, Sky Fencing is here to help – view our full range of fencing panels here!

Leaning or Sagging Fence

Leaning or sagging fencing is often caused by unstable posts or shifting soil. Fencing that was installed a long time ago may lean due to ground movement, challenging weather conditions such as strong wind can cause posts to shift, and poor installation can also cause fence posts and fencing to lean or sag to one side.

How to Fix It: We recommend inspecting your fence posts to determine if a post is loose or if the ground has shifted. Once you’ve identified the issue, you can decide which course of action is best – you may need to re-set the posts, or, for a fence with multiple leaning posts or panels, you may need to replace them entirely. View our full range of fencing panels and posts here!

Broken or Missing Panels

We’ve all faced a fallen fence due to bad weather, cracked or splintered fencing and general fence wear and tear. Sometimes, this can cause panels to be missing or broken, which can impact the aesthetic appeal of your fencing and compromise the security and privacy that your fence panels provide you with.

How to Fix It: We advise replacing any damaged or missing panels as soon as possible. At Sky Fencing, we specialise in the supply-only or the supply-and-fit of all types of fencing. Our installers are all experienced professionals with a vast knowledge of fencing, so we can provide you with a service tailored to your needs.

Rusting, Loose or Damaged Hardware

Fences, as well as panels and posts, comprise hinges, latches, brackets and more to help them remain secure and functional. Over time, these components could start to rust, corrode, become loose or suffer from general wear and tear. If left unaddressed, these issues could compromise the security of your fencing as well as its aesthetics.

How to Fix It: We strongly recommend replacing any damaged, loose or rusted hardware as soon as possible. This will help to maintain the structural integrity, safety and appearance of your fencing. At Sky Fencing, we offer a range of hardware options, including masonry fixings, screws, gate accessories, post supports and more. View our full range here!

Insect & Pest Damage

Insects and other pests can cause significant damage to garden fencing, whether that’s wood-eating damage or damage caused by burrowing. Signs of insect and pest damage include holes in the fencing, sawdust-like material in surrounding areas and soft sections of fencing panels or posts. If left untreated, these issues could weaken the overall structure of your fence.

How to Fix It: If you spot pest or insect damage, we advise inspecting the rest of your fence for further signs of infestation. Sometimes, applying an insecticide treatment can help eliminate the problem, but if the infestation is severe, replacing the affected sections of the fence may be the only solution. View our range of fence panels here.

Weathering & Discolouration

Fencing undoubtedly faces weather-related challenges and, with constant exposure to the sun, rain and wind, can be susceptible to weathering and discolouration. Signs of weathering include discolouration, fading and more.

How to Fix It: To restore your fence’s appearance, we recommend cleaning it to remove any dirt or debris. Once clean, you can reapply a fresh coat of paint or stain, we recommend a weather-resistant paint designed for outdoor use to ensure the finish lasts longer. If you’re working with a wooden fence, consider using a high-quality sealant to protect it from future weathering.

Vegetation Overgrowth & Tree Root Ingress

Vegetation overgrowth and nearby trees can cause significant damage to your fencing over time. Overgrown vegetation such as plants, bushes and vines can trap moisture and promote rot, while the roots of nearby trees can cause significant damage to your fence if they grow beneath the installation.

How to Fix It: We advise regularly cutting back any vegetation to prevent it from coming into contact with your fence. Ensure there’s a gap between the plants and the wood or metal to allow air circulation and reduce moisture build-up. If you have nearby trees, we recommend keeping an eye on their growth to ensure the roots don’t impact your fence’s structure.

A well-maintained fence provides aesthetic appeal, security and privacy to any outdoor space, which is why you must act fast when issues arise. From rotting wood and insect infestations to damaged hardware and weathering, each issue has a repair that can significantly improve the condition of your fence and extend its lifespan. If you find yourself struggling with a fence issue, need a new fence or require a replacement, please don’t hesitate to contact Sky Fencing today. We’re here to ensure that your outdoor space remains safe, secure and visually appealing.

Our Top Tips For Fence Maintenance

• Regular Inspections

Carry out regular checks, twice a year in spring and autumn, to identify damage early.

• Clean Your Fence

Remove dirt, debris and organic growth to prevent deterioration.

• Reapply Sealant & Finish

Regularly apply a weather-resistant sealant or paint to protect your fencing.

• Trim Vegetation

Keep plants and bushes trimmed around your fence to avoid damage.

• Reinforce Loose Posts

Tighten or replace any loose or damaged posts to prevent leaning or sagging.

• Prevent Soil Erosion

Ensure proper drainage around your fence to direct water away from the posts.

• Check for Insect Damage

Inspect wooden fences for signs of insects and pests.

• Inspect Gate Hardware

Regularly check hinges, latches and other hardware.

• Address Damage Quickly

Address fence damage quickly to prevent further issues.

Signs You Need a New Fence

While many fence issues can be repaired, there are certain signs that indicate it’s time to replace the fence altogether. Here are some of the signs that you might need a new fence…

• Extensive Rot or Damage

If the majority of your fence is rotting or damaged beyond repair, replacing the entire fence may be more cost-effective.

• Frequent Repairs

If you’re finding yourself constantly repairing your fence, it might be time to invest in a new one.

• Security Concerns

A fence that no longer provides security due to gaps, broken panels, or leaning posts should be replaced.

• Unattractive Fencing

If your fence is significantly faded or damaged and detracts from the appearance of your home, replacing it will improve your property’s kerb appeal.

If you’d like to transform your outdoor space with a brand new fence, Sky Fencing is here to help. We offer a wide range of fencing options and are confident that we’ll have one to suit your aesthetic, lifestyle and function requirements. View our full range today or contact us for more information!

Keep Your Fence in Top Condition For Longer…

A fence is a significant long-term investment in your property’s security, privacy and aesthetic appeal. Unfortunately, due to exposure to the elements, poor installation, pest infestations and more, fencing can incur damage and wear and tear over time. The importance of addressing fencing issues should never be underestimated, as fast repairs and treatments will ensure that your fence continues to provide visual appeal, security and privacy for years to come.

At Sky Fencing, we’re here to help with all of your fence replacement and installation needs. Our team of experts provides reliable, high-quality fencing solutions, so why wait? Contact us today and let us help you maintain or install the perfect fence for your home.

Common Fence Problems FAQs

How often should I inspect my fence?

We recommend inspecting your fence at least twice a year to avoid common fence problems, once in spring and once in autumn, so that you can identify and fix any issues early.

Can I repair a leaning fence myself?

Small leanings can be fixed by resetting the posts and adding concrete for stability. However, more extensive leaning may require a fence replacement – contact us today.

What’s the best way to prevent wood rot?

To avoid one of the most common fence problems, treat the wood with a sealant, stain, or paint designed for outdoor use, and ensure proper drainage around the fence to avoid water accumulation.

How can I stop plants from damaging my fence?

Trim any plants that grow near the fence regularly, and avoid planting vines directly on the structure.

When should I replace my fence?

If your fence has some of these common fence problems or frequent problems, or if it’s compromising your security or aesthetics, it’s time to replace it. View our full range here!

How long does a fence typically last?

Our fencing options can last for 30+ years if maintained properly!

Is it safe to install a fence near trees?

It can be safe, but you should be mindful of tree roots that could interfere with the fence posts.

Common fence problems can be avoided. So if you’re ready to repair or replace your fence? Contact Sky Fencing for professional, high-quality fencing installation. We are here to provide expert advice and reliable fencing solutions!