Should you replace your old fence or simply repair it?

As you complete your summer fence maintenance, you may be noticing many spots along your fence in need of repair. Should you repair or replace? What types of fence repair can be done easily? Should you opt for a new fence altogether? Here are some ways to judge the severity of repairs your fence needs and decide whether or not to repair or replace.

Take a Walk

First things first, inspect the perimeter of your fence and carefully examine each section from bottom to top. Pay extra attention to where the fence meets the ground and posts that could have rot or rust starting to form. Fences that are flush with the ground tend to rot or rust most easily than other fences. Any vegetation growing on your fence should be removed so that decay doesn’t accelerate. If there are many major patches of rot, it might be time to consider a partial fence replacement or a new fence.

Rust

If you have a metal, chain link, or aluminum fence, rust is your primary enemy. Once it sets it, your fence will never be exactly the same. However, you can maintain fences with small spots of rust for many years. To repair rust:

1. Brush off all rust using a steel brush.
2. Spray the affected area with a high-quality metal protective spray or coating.
3. Keep an eye on the fence for additional rust and treat it as needed.

Peeling Vinyl Coating

Vinyl coating is designed to protect your chain link fence from aging prematurely, so if it is falling away or peeling it isn’t properly doing its job. To repair peeled vinyl coating:

1. Trim away any excess vinyl.
2. Use 60 grit sandpaper to sand the piece down and create a smooth finish.
3. Spray the affected area with a high-quality metal protective spray or coating.
4. Keep an eye on the fence for any additional peeling or any signs of rust.

Let Us Fix Up Your Fence

If you have entire sections of rusted aluminum, rot at the base of your wooden fence posts, or vinyl coating that has peeled away beyond repair, you can trust Excel Fencing and Decking to give you the fence repair, fence replacement, or new fence that will protect your yard for years to come. For a free estimate, use our online form. For more information, give us a call at (410) 803-9499 or visit us online. To see examples of our work and hear from some of our valued customers, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.