Wooden fences are a timeless addition to any property, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits such as security and privacy. Over time, these fences can give in to wear and tear, requiring repairs to maintain their integrity. Whether you're dealing with a leaning fence, a broken gate, or damaged fence posts, understanding the basics of fence repair can come in handy. Here we'll explain some of the key components of wood fence repair and gate repair, discuss when to repair or replace your fence, explore the benefits of timely repairs, and offer practical tips for assessing and addressing common fence issues.
When it comes to wood fence repair, several key components warrant attention. Replacing damaged boards is essential to uphold the fence's structural integrity and appearance. Over time, wooden boards may become warped, cracked, or rotted, necessitating replacement to maintain the fence's aesthetic and structural appeal. Reinforcing fence posts is another critical aspect of wood fence repair. Loose or rotted posts can compromise the fence's stability, posing a safety hazard and diminishing its effectiveness as a barrier. By repairing or replacing damaged posts and reinforcing them with concrete footings, you can ensure the fence remains sturdy and reliable. Protecting against pests and decay is also essential for prolonging the lifespan of a wooden fence. Insects such as termites and carpenter ants pose a significant threat to wooden structures, causing extensive damage if left unchecked. Regular inspections and treatments can help mitigate this risk, preserving the fence's integrity and preventing costly repairs down the line. Additionally, applying protective coatings such as paint or stain can shield the wood from moisture, UV damage, and other environmental factors, further enhancing its durability and longevity. Gate repair is another aspect of fence maintenance that shouldn't be overlooked. Gates are subjected to frequent use and can experience issues such as sagging, misalignment, or wear over time. While minor repairs may suffice for newer gates, older gates may require more extensive interventions, such as replacement with steel-framed alternatives. Steel-framed gates offer unparalleled durability and longevity, ensuring smooth operation and minimal maintenance requirements. Knowing when to repair or replace your fence is a critical decision that hinges on various factors, including the extent of damage, budget constraints, and long-term goals. As a general rule of thumb, if 25% or more of the fence requires repair, it may be more cost-effective to replace the entire structure. However, minor repairs and upgrades, such as gate replacements or section replacements, can extend the fence's lifespan and enhance its functionality without breaking the bank. The benefits of wood fence repair extend beyond just the aesthetics, including improved security, increased property value, pet safety, and extended fence lifespan. By addressing minor issues promptly and employing appropriate repair techniques, you can enjoy these benefits while avoiding more extensive damage and costly repairs in the future. Whether you're tackling a DIY repair project or seeking professional assistance, prioritizing wood fence maintenance is essential for preserving the beauty and functionality of your property's perimeter. Wood fence repair and gate repair are essential aspects of property maintenance that require careful attention and timely intervention. By understanding the key components of fence repair, knowing when to repair or replace your fence, and recognizing the benefits of proactive maintenance, you can ensure that your wooden fence remains sturdy, attractive, and secure for years to come. Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or prefer to enlist professional help, investing in wood fence repair is a worthwhile endeavor that pays dividends in terms of property value, curb appeal, and peace of mind.
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KDAT or Kiln Dried After Treatment wood can be and is used for fencing. KDAT is a unique material which has gained significant popularity in recent years. There are few fence contractors who offer this material but some actually prefer it. KDAT in a nutshell is pressure treated wood that has been dried. This process, significantly reduces the tendencies of pressure treated pine to twist, bend, and crack. Some believe this makes KDAT one of the best wood materials available for fence rails and other uses. Not only is it a long lasting, strong, and resistant, it’s cost falls in the middle range between say cedar and standard treated pine lumber.
One notable advantage of KDAT wood is its readiness for painting or staining immediately after purchase. Unlike other types of wood that may require days or even weeks to dry out completely, KDAT wood offers convenience akin to a ready-to-eat meal, saving time and effort for woodworking projects. On the other hand, many fence materials are purchased pre-stained. KDAT can be difficult to find and good luck finding it pre-stained. You can build a fence using bare wood and KDAT have the fence stained using your own custom colors. Fence staining can be Do It Yourself type of project, but probably one best left to a professional fence company if you’re building a new fence. The manufacturing process of KDAT wood is where its exceptional features originate. Initially treated with preservatives to strengthen its defenses against decay and insects, the wood then undergoes controlled drying in a kiln to remove excess moisture. Once dried, the wood is sealed, locking in all protective features and ensuring readiness for use. Traditional treated wood does not go through the drying process and usually comes wet. It’s a widely used product for fencing in many areas of the country. Both serve the primary purpose, but KDAT offers additional benefits such as a drier texture, reduced warping, a more stable structure, and immediate finishing readiness. Though KDAT wood may come at a higher price point, its extensive advantages make it a worthy investment for many. Kiln Dried After Treatment wood is generally less expensive than cedar. Some would consider KDAT to be of the same or better quality than cedar when it comes to fence rails. This can be a significant cost savings but the cost of fence staining needs to be considered if you want a stained fence. The best way to preserve a fence is to stain it regularly every 3-5 years. In today's eco-conscious world, KDAT wood stands as a sustainable choice, employing fewer chemicals in its manufacturing process compared to traditional treatments. This not only ensures strength and durability but also contributes to environmental conservation. KDAT wood exemplifies the marvels of modern woodworking techniques, offering quality, durability, and a touch of luxury in every fence. Lewisville Fence Pros is a new fence company as well as a fence repair company. We spend the majority of our time servicing the Lewisville Texas residents. We specialize in fence restoration and will take a look at any project you’ve got. We also provide all the traditional new fencing options as well. Most people can replace a few broken boards but if you need a section of fence and a gate replaced, we’ve got you covered. If you’re not ready to replace your entire fence yet, give us a call so we can get you squared away.
Our fence services include cedar wood fence, treated wood fence, vinyl fence, chain link fence, metal fence, fence staining and fence painting, and of course, fence repair. If you have a project in mind simply give us a call we always look forward to hearing from you. We can discuss your project and answer any questions you have. We can probably give you a ballpark estimate to see if it’s within your budget. At this point if we are on the same page we will probably come out and take a look to get you an exact price and set a start date if you would like. We are fully insured for your peace of mind and ours. We will always put everything in writing so you know exactly what to expect from us. We do some chain link fence repair but most fence repair jobs are wood fence repair and fence restoration. If you want to know what it would cost to replace your existing fence give us a call. We consider ourselves a customer service company that happens to know fence construction. We are flexible in that we are willing to work with you to build a fence that meets your needs rather than a cookie cutter fence that we sell. If there’s a chance of saving your existing fence we are happy to help with that as well. We look forward to hearing from you. We like chain link fence or cyclone fence for residential as well as commercial. Chain link fence comes in different heights and can be aesthetic. Black chain link fence is attractive and can blend into an environment. If you want to add a little flash and privacy to your property you can add a variety of colored slats to your fence. Chain link fence installation also comes with more options for security than any other fence. Although, FYI you may be able to add security measures to a wood fence provided you have steel posts. Chain link fence cost is one of the least expensive fence options upon initial purchase and future maintenance needs. Cedar is the fencing wood of choice for most people and for good reason. Cedar is naturally resistant to insects, rot, decay, and moisture. Cedar is a lightweight material which puts less load on the entire fence structure. A cedar fence should last 20-30 years with proper care and is one of the most aesthetically pleasing fence options available. In the Dallas-Fort Worth metro area the two most popular varieties of cedar are Western Red Cedar and Japanese Cedar. Both are great options with similar visuals and characteristics, but Western Red is considered premium and will cost more. Vinyl or PVC fence is a versatile fence that offers complete privacy like a wood fence. Vinyl privacy fences come in different heights and styles like a vinyl picket fence. You can purchase vinyl in a wood grain look and other colors besides the traditional white vinyl fence. Vinyl fences are very low maintenance basically spray and wipe. If it every gets damaged you can purchase a replacement piece from the manufacturer. Vinyl fence installation is one of the most expensive fence options available initially. Over time the cost will come down in comparison to a wood fence if the wood fence is properly maintained. A treated fence has many of the same benefits as a cedar fence with a lower cost. With proper care and maintenance, a pressure treated wood fence can last as long as some cedar privacy fences. Treated pine can be stained just like cedar. It can also be purchased pre-stained. Treated pine has resistance to insects, rot, and moisture. In many cases a cost savings can be achieved when integrating some pressure treated fence boards into a fence with cedar fence pickets. Cedar is definitely easier to work with and a superior wood when compared to treated pine. Although in many regions of the U.S. a treated pine fence is the fence of choice. Metal fencing is an elegant option for residential and commercial use. Metal fence is one of the most durable and long lasting fence options available. There is little to no maintenance required for metal fencing unless it is damaged. When metal fencing is damaged, replacement parts can be replaced by the manufacturer. Metal fencing comes available in various strengths including aluminum, iron, and steel. Aluminum fence would be the weakest of the three and iron can rust if not protected. Iron fence can also require some welding when installed and/or when being repaired. Steel fence is our metal fence of choice. If you're not ready for a complete fence replacement we can take a look at repairing your current fence. The majority of our repairs would include fence post repair or replacement, gate repair, and wood fence repair. We are a fence repair company as well as a new fence contractor. Many times you only need a short term option rather than complete replacement. Metal, chain link, and vinyl fences generally last a long time with little maintenance. Wood fence on the other hand being is a natural product and can rot, warp, crack, or break over time. We are pros when it comes to fence repairs and wood fence replacement. Cedar and pressure treated wood fences are naturally resistant to insects, decay, rot, and moisture. Staining is not a necessity although it is recommended to maximize the life of your fence. You have the option of pre-staining your new fence or staining it later when funds will allow. Pre-staining is a process of completely dipping the wood in stain in comparison to spraying it on once the fence is completed. The only real difference is, some areas may not get coverage as well as dipping it before construction. If you decide to wait a few months or even years, you will need to pressure wash prior to staining which will give your fence the look of being new even after 2-3 years after installation. Another option for protecting a fence is painting it. We recommend staining rather than painting unless you need a particular color in your outdoor design. Stain will begin to fade in 2 or 3 years letting you know it is time to re-stain. Unfortunately a painted fence will let you know it's time when the paint starts flaking. A painted fence will usually require some scraping and sanding, pressure washing, before re-painting. Give us a call if you have any fence installation questions. Thank you! The first thing you want to do is decide if this is a project you can take on yourself. Ok, now that you have decided you want to fix this fence on your own let’s get to work. The first thing you want to do is assess the damage. You can look down the line of each section of fence to see if it’s leaning one way or the other. You want to check the posts in those areas for being loose or broken. While you’re walking down the line of each section you can grab every post and assess the condition and whether or not it needs to be replaced. So write down how many posts need to be replaced and where they are. If more than 25% of your posts need to be replaced you might want to ask yourself again if this is something you want to take on.
Next you want to check the runners or the horizontal boards that the pickets are secured to. Also check the kicker or rot board which is the horizontal board (usually a 2x6) along the bottom of a fence and any top cap and trim work. Are any of these boards broken, warped, or something that you might want to replace at this point? If so, write them down by board size, where they are, and how many you need of each. Know that if any of the runners need to be replaced you will need to look at the structure closely to see if you have to dismantle the entire section and every picket to replace that runner. If you can replace only the runner by removing the screws and nails on that board only that would be ideal. Just remember not to resecure any pickets that you are going to replace. Kicker boards and top trim can be replaced once you get the main structure back in shape. Adding a kicker board and top trim can add to the stability of the fence provided the boards are not so old that you can’t properly secure them. When repairing an old fence you are better off using screws in place of nails you will need the extra grip of a screw. Replacing some fence pickets is not a horrible task it might actually be quite simple. In general, nothing is easy but you never know you might get lucky. Replacing broken, bent, or leaning posts is another topic. You can do it yourself but be prepared for some work. If you have wood fence posts you will probably want to replace them with wood fence posts vs steel fence posts simply for aesthetics. If you are replacing a gate we recommend considering replacing it with a steel frame and steel fence posts. This is a gate that will open and close properly for a very long time. If you have a pressure treated fence you will want to use pressure treated pine for replacement. We do not ever recommend using anything other than cedar for fence pickets but there are fences everywhere made of other types of wood still standing after 20 years. This article is not a course on fence construction, but we have covered some of the basics of fence repair Gate repair is not so easy. It is just like the rest of the fence in that it’s wood and posts but you do add a little geometry to the construction when it comes to gates. You can try watching some videos on youtube and evaluate if you want to do this part or hire someone. If you’re handy it shouldn’t be a problem. Any of this fence repair work will take time, the gate is just another piece of the puzzle. You may need to replace the posts if these are loose at all. We generally recommend using steel polls for every fence and especially gates. If you want to build a gate that will operate the way it is intended for a long time to come, you will want to consider installing a steel framed gate as well as steel poles. You can imagine the difference as it can be significant. If you do have to remove any fence posts you need to know that this can be difficult without the proper tools. If you have a stubborn post you will need to use some leverage and again there are videos on youtube. At this point before you do anything, you want to consider at this point if the fence is worth salvaging! Are you trying to rebuild nearly an entire fence? If you are it’s not worth it. If you need to replace half of it, how long will it be before the other half needs repairs or replacing? If it’s worth salvaging you want to put together your list of materials needed including posts, pickets, runners, kicker boards, trim, post cement, gate hardware, screws, and tools. You can look on the internet for pricing and get a pretty good estimate of what the materials cost will be. If you think the fence is salvageable but you’re having second thoughts about the amount of time and work needed maybe you want to bring in a professional to take a look and get their opinion and an estimate. Now you can see pretty much how much your are going to pay for labor. Many fence companies will have a minimum charge before they will come out. Most companies will have a minimum anywhere between $1500 to $3000. Anything less can probably be handled by a handyman. Handymen are not always the best option when it comes to gate construction. If you have some minor work needing repairs like replacing a few pickets, a handyman will be your best option. If you need significant work and don’t want to replace an entire fence, let a professional come out and look at it. You don't need to run out and buy $2000 worth of tools to repair your fence. You don’t need to buy a nail gun you can use screws if you prefer as a nail gun may be one of the more expensive tools on the list. As for fasteners, you can use nails or screws. If you are going to use screws we recommend an exterior rated polymer coated or hot-dipped galvanized screw for pressure treated wood. If you are using cedar we recommend double hot-dipped galvanized screws. If you are going to use nails we highly recommend using ring shanked stainless steel nails. We like to use screws to attach rails to posts and nails for fence pickets to rails. When attaching rails to posts you will need an 18d to 20d nails or 3-1/2in. to 4in. long screws. To attach pickets to rails you will need 8d to 10d nails or 1-1/4in. to 1-3/4in. screws. We hope this answers some of your fence repair questions. If you have questions please give us a call. Looking at the cost of wooden fences, remember that a lot of this information can help with other kinds of fences too. You can break down the cost of a fence into parts like how tall it is and how long, the style of the fence, what kind of materials are used for the fence boards and rails, the posts, any trim at the top and bottom, and what kind of stain you use. The price you might pay for a fence can really vary, with each company figuring out prices in their own way.
The best way to figure out what a fence might cost you is to find some trustworthy fencing contractors and ask them to give you a quote. Once you've found a good company, you can relax knowing you'll get a well-made fence that should last a long time. If you're just looking for the cheapest price, be careful because sometimes you get what you pay for. It might not always be true, but we think it's not worth risking a poorly built fence. When we're talking about the height and length of a fence, it's pretty straightforward. An eight-foot fence will generally cost around 30% more than a six-foot one because it needs more materials: longer fence boards, more posts, more concrete, more stain. When you think about length, we measure that in linear feet. The first thing to think about to save some money is whether you can reuse most or all of the fence posts. You might save a few dollars for every linear foot of fence if you can. How much a fence style costs usually depends on how many fence boards are used and how much work it takes to build. Popular styles for wooden fences include board-on-board, side-by-side, shadow box, and horizontal. We don't see a lot of horizontal fences in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, so you might want to check with your Homeowner's Association if you're thinking about one. A board-on-board privacy fence needs more fence boards than other styles. Building a shadow box fence takes a little longer than a side-by-side fence. Adding a trim at the top can cost between $5 to $10 for each linear foot of fence, and a kickboard or rot board at the bottom is one of the cheapest upgrades you can get. A kickboard not only looks good, but it also lifts the fence boards off the ground to help keep them from rotting, and gives you something to run the weed whacker against instead of the fence boards. Around North Texas or Dallas/Fort Worth, most people build fences using steel posts and cedar fence boards. You could save a little money by using treated pine for the rails. Treated pine fence boards are used in some parts of the country, but in Texas our summers get really hot, and you might not be happy with how a fence with treated pine boards looks after its first summer. You could choose to use treated pine for the rails because they don't move around as much as the fence boards since they're thicker and attached at multiple points to the fence boards and posts. If you're worried about treated pine boards but still want to save some money, you could use KDAT or Kiln Dried After Treatment rails, which are made of pine but have been dried in a kiln after they've been pressure treated. They cost more than standard treated pine 2x4s but less than cedar 2x4s. If you want a fence where all the wood matches, you should go with a fence made entirely of cedar. Just like with pine fence boards, most people in the Dallas/Fort Worth area don't use treated pine for fence posts because they don't last as long as steel fence posts. Considering how much the price of materials has gone up since COVID, it doesn't seem worth it to risk the chance of having to rebuild a fence multiple times during the period you own your home. Steel fence posts are basically a given in our area. An eight-foot fence will cost a bit more for posts because eight-foot fences have posts every six feet apart versus a six-foot fence which has posts every eight feet apart. Eight-foot fences also need longer poles because the posts are generally dug three feet deep, needing more concrete as a result. If you want a stronger fence, it's perfectly fine to use a six-foot span for a six-foot fence and bury the posts three feet or more. Additionally, steel posts come in different thicknesses, including 16 gauge, 13 gauge, 10 gauge, and schedule 40. One of the strongest and most expensive posts you can use is a Postmaster post. These are also the easiest to hide because they're designed to be covered with a single fence board. A nice-looking top trim can add a lot to the cost of a fence. Using a 2x6 or a 2x8 cedar board as a "top cap," whether you stain it or not, can be costly. You can add, say, a 1x4 face trim or even a triple trim by adding a 1x2 on top of the 1x4. As mentioned earlier, this can add another $10 for each linear foot of fence. You can also add decorative corbels and a fancy gate to the equation. Most fences are custom made and hand crafted, but when you start adding expensive wood and craftsmanship above and beyond what's standard, it can really add up. You can often get a gate with a steel frame for less than a few hundred extra dollars, as long as one of the Lewisville fence companies you choose is capable of doing it. If you don't want a decorative top trim, corbels, and other fancy add-ons, you can save some money by either using a single 1x4 face trim for a flat top fence or just going with the traditional dog ear fence board. You can generally get your fence stained for less money if you buy wood that's already been stained. This is because pre-stained wood is completely dipped in the stain, covering the whole board. You can get custom staining done after the fence is built, but the stain might not cover the boards as well as pre-staining does. Either way you choose to stain your fence is a good choice. Staining your fence will make it last longer, but you'll need to reapply the stain in a few years. The cheapest way to stain a fence is to do it yourself if you can, but it's not as easy as it sounds. Staining a fence can be a messy job and the stain tends to get in the air. There are different types of stains and ways to apply them. You might have neighbors to consider when it comes to the color and style of your fence. If you have multiple neighbors, it's best to try to work with them when you decide on staining your fence. The best way to save money on a fence is to try to share the cost with your neighbors. This can be difficult, but with some planning and communication, it can be done. |
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