When a storm hits, it can leave a trail of destruction, including damage to your beloved fence. After enduring the fury of mother nature, what should you do? Is it better to repair or replace your damaged fence? This is a tricky question, and there is no clear-cut answer. Every situation is different and knowing how to identify when the time has come to continue making repairs or to completely replace your system can make a significant difference.
The Fantastic Fence team is here to help show you how to spot vital signs that your fence can still be repaired and when the time has come to completely replace it.
Repairing Your Fence after a Storm
Not every storm is created the same, and that goes double for the kind of storm damage you may be dealing with. If your fence has minor damage, repairing it is a viable option. However, the extent of the damage should be assessed by a professional. A slight hit from debris can loosen the fence posts, and the fence may look wobbly.
Before repairing the fence, ensure that it will be stable enough to withstand future storms. Repairs are usually less expensive than replacing the entire fence. Moreover, you can maintain the fence’s original look if you choose to repair it. This is particularly important if you have an older fence that matches well with your home’s architecture. If you’ve noticed that the damage to your fence appears to be surface level or it has affected the underlying structure, a professional fence repair company in Sacramento, CA, can help.
Replacing Your Fence after a Storm
While some storm damage can be minor and readily addressed, other systems may cause more significant trouble and require a more in depth approach. If the damage caused by the weather patterns has affected the core of your fence, or it’s simply too expensive to repair, replacing the entire system may be your best option.
In cases of severe damage to your fence, replacement is the best solution. If your fence is old or worn-out, this may be the ideal opportunity to get a new fence. Take note that a total replacement of your fence may be more expensive than repairing it if it is only slightly damaged. However, a new fence will last longer, require less maintenance and boost your home’s resale value. Additionally, it enables you to choose new designs or materials, giving your home more modern appeal.
Fence Maintenance
Your property’s fences can take a regular beating throughout the stormy season. With so much wear and tear, one bad storm could completely break down your system when you least expect it. Fortunately, you can take certain steps to help extend the lifespan of your fencing system.
Regular fence maintenance is essential for its longevity. Proper maintenance reduces the odds of damage caused by storms. Before the winter, test the fence posts for stability by pushing on them each. If they give/move when pushed then you should probably have this fence posts replaced. Also check for rotten or loose rails and pickets. By fixing these issues when they first appear you will be able to avoid the issue spreading and the problems being more expansive. Moreover, avoid hanging heavy items on the fence. Trees should also be pruned to reduce their likelihood of falling on the fence during storms.
Considering Repair Costs vs. Replacement Budget
Add up estimated costs for materials and labor to repair the existing fence. This includes fixing damaged sections, replacing broken boards and posts, and restoring coatings. Compare the repair budget to an estimate for complete replacement.
While replacing will cost more upfront, continuing to repair an aging fence gets expensive over time. New installations also raise property values. If the repair cost is close to 50% or more of a new fence, replacement may be worth considering. Factor in potential discounts and insurance coverage which can reduce replacement costs.
Evaluating the Fence’s Age and Lifespan
Determine the age of your existing fence and how much longer it’s likely to last in good shape. Older fences near the end of their lifespan will require frequent repairs and upkeep. Investing in a complete replacement now can avoid continually maintaing an outdated fence.
New fence installations come with extended warranties, such as 10-year coverage. This guarantees your investment against defects and damage. Repairing an old fence has no warranty, so future issues can’t be prevented. Replacing an obsolete fence can provide peace of mind.
Choosing the Best Materials
When replacing a fence, think about upgrades. Selecting redwood instead of cedar fencing, hidden steel posts instead of pressure treated wood posts, durable Vinyl or ornamental iron will hold up well to the harsher weather we have been seeing.
Investing a bit more into premium materials will pay off for many years to come. Going cheap often leads to early failure and replacement. Be sure to get a warranty on materials and the installation labor. Opt for weather-resistant, reinforced materials to withstand future storms.
Making an Insurance Claim
Contact your home insurance provider to see if storm damage is covered. Depending on your policy, you may be able to file a claim to offset some or all of the cost to repair or replace your fence. Fence damage from wind, trees, floods, and other disasters may qualify if covered sufficiently by your policy.
Find out if you’re eligible for any disaster relief aid in your area. Local and federal programs sometimes help cover uninsured losses from storm destruction.
Choosing the Right Fencing Company
Be sure to hire a professional, reputable fencing contractor whether you decide to repair or replace your fence. They should provide a detailed quote for the recommended work and be willing to file insurance paperwork on your behalf. Only work with a company that’s fully licensed, insured, and will provide a warranty on labor.
Look for a fencing company that is experienced in storm repair and replacement. They will understand how to properly evaluate damage and make sound recommendations. Check reviews and references to verify quality of work.
In the aftermath of storm destruction, taking time to carefully evaluate the state of your fence is key before deciding on repairs versus full replacement. If damage is minor, targeted repairs may get your fence back in working order. But if the fence is old, damaged extensively, or in disrepair, replacement is likely the better investment for long-lasting function and value. Choosing the right materials and contractor is also essential to ensure your fence is rebuilt to withstand future storms.
Whether You’re Looking to Repair or Replace, Call Fantastic Fence for Your Storm Damaged Fence
The decision to replace or repair your fence after a storm depends on various factors, the most significant being the extent of the damage. If the damage is minor, repair is the best option. However, if the damage is severe or if you have an old fence that has seen better days, replacement may be the best solution. If you’re on the fence about what to do, getting an expert opinion can help make the decision an easier one to process. For the people in Sacramento, CA, Fantastic Fence is here to help!
With decades of experience repairing and replacing fencing systems of all styles, our experienced fencing experts can help identify what exactly is wrong with your system and make the necessary recommendations on whether you should repair or replace it. We’re always up front with our customers and have their best interest in mind. Learn more about our chain link fence repair and vinyl fence replacement services in Sacramento, CA, and schedule your next appointment today!
