There are many opportunities for an outside fence to become damaged. If a fence starts to show any signs of damage, such as corrosion, rust or rot, it should be repaired to avoid a more costly repair later. Many damages can be repaired easily with materials found at Cedar Fence Company.

Depending on the damage, various tools might be needed. A saber saw is used to cut wood to shape. A coping saw is used for more exact cuts on thinner materials. Primers are undercoats that even out the base and provide a layer in between porous surfaces and final coats. A hammer is used to pound nails into wood.

A sagging gate could have various causes but is easy to repair. First, check if the weight of the gate has bent the hooks. If so, remove the hooks and drill longer holes in the gate to install longer hooks that will hold up better. If the gate is only sagging slightly, it can be fixed by driving a thin piece of cedar up into the hinge and following it with longer screws to hold it in place.

Wooden fence screens are a relatively easy fix. Using a carpenter’s square to get exact angles, cut boards to the exact length and width of the loose boards in the fence. Next, remove loose boards by using a hammer to pry up the nails. Remove the nails entirely. Finally, set up the replacement boards and nail them into place. Use a stain or paint to camouflage the repair with the rest of the fence.

To fix a broken fence post, the first step is to find the cause of the damage in the first place. Otherwise, the damage will likely happen again. Find two 2×4 pieces that extend into the ground past the frost line. Insert the pair into the ground on either side of the post. Finally, drill through the 2×4s and the original post and use galvanized carriage bolts to hold the pieces together. Concrete can also be used to hold the post in place.

In some cases, a replacement for a post is needed. First, remove a post from the rail and other fixtures binding it. Remove the entire post from the hole. Using a post-hole digger, dig a long, narrow hole for the new post. If a post-hole digger is not available, a thin shovel will work. A tamper tool can further help to make a narrow hole that can support the post. Next, place the post in the hole, paying careful attention to the measurements required for the post to fit seamlessly into the fence. When the post is at the right height when sitting in the hole, add some dirt around the post in the hole to settle it. As you shovel more dirt into the hole, check that the post is still aligned with the rest of the fence. Finally, attach the rails. Start at the bottom and work your way up for easier installment.

If a wooden rail is rotting, instead of replacing the wood, try replacing the rail. This is easier and just as effective. First, use a wood preservative to help stop the rot. If the rail is level, place a 2×4 cleat underneath and attach with nails. Next, use caulk to waterproof the repair and galvanized steel T-braces to make the repair long-lasting.

Overall, while it is frustrating to repair fences, it is worth the saved time and money in the long run, and it is made easier with help from Cedar Fence Company.