A high-quality fence adds beauty, value, and security to your property. It protects your children, pets, and plants from harmful outdoor elements.

A good quality wooden fence will last up to 20 years, but even the most well-maintained wooden fences eventually wear out and need a replacement. How do you know when investing in a new wall is time?

You’re Seeing Signs of Damage

The constant exposure to the elements and varying weather conditions can take a toll on your fence. It’s essential to make it part of your routine to regularly inspect your fencing for signs of damage so you can repair them promptly.

Some common signs of damage to your fence include sagging fence posts, charring wood from harsh storms, and small cracks in the wood. These can be easily repaired, but consider replacing your fence if you see many signs.

Another sign that it’s time to replace your fence is if you see holes in the boards. Various things, such as pests or weather damage, can cause these. The whole wall is likely to be damaged if the holes are widespread. The best way to determine your fence’s damage is to have a fencing contractor Lake County, IL evaluate it.

You’re Seeing Signs of Rust

Metal fences, whether chain link or wrought iron, are prone to rust. This is especially true in areas with high humidity. While rust may look unsightly, it can be easily repaired using a wire brush and rust-inhibiting paint. However, when rust penetrates the metal and causes pits or holes in the structure, it is time to consider replacing your fence.

These holes will not only weaken the structure and cause it to corrode more rapidly, but they could also allow unwanted intruders to enter your property. It is always better to replace a fence before this happens.

A well-maintained fence can add value to your property, enhance curb appeal, and help ensure that children and pets stay safe outside your yard. However, neglecting it can lead to severe issues like dry rot or termite infestations. These problems can be expensive to repair and require your whole fence to be replaced.

You’re Seeing Signs of Leaning

There will come a time when your fence is due for replacement, no matter how well it’s maintained. All fencing types, made from timber, steel, or aluminum, will deteriorate over time. While a little bit of leaning in one spot may be remedied by replacing or adjusting a few fence posts, generalized leaning across the whole structure is usually a sign that the fence needs to be replaced entirely.

Missing boards are also a surefire sign that your fence is nearing the end of its life. While playing whack-a-mole with your fence is tempting, regularly replacing boards can be expensive and time-consuming. Having boards also means that your fence needs to do its job, which is to keep children and pets from wandering out of the yard.

If you see signs of learning, it’s best to consult a professional to address the problem immediately. Depending on the severity, shimming hinges or resetting the post may be sufficient for minor settling, while a full concrete footer and bracing are required for substantial leaning.

Even with the best fence care, it’s impossible to prevent damage from outside sources completely. Cars, animals, rainy weather, strong winds, and other things out of your control can damage or deteriorate it to the point where it’s time to replace it entirely.

If your fence has sections or areas that are warping, sagging, or leaning, this is typically a sign that the wall frame is damaged. The frame is the backbone of your fence, and any structural damage will have a domino effect. This could mean a physical impact (like a collision) on the wall, a tree or other plant falling on it, or someone trying to gain access by cutting through it.

Also, pay attention to screws and nails that are rusting, pulling out, or loosening. These fasteners keep your fence together, and if they break or rust too much, it’s time for replacement.