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Save Your Leaning Fence
What happens next when wind or storms create damage?
Fences are perfect for so many things, from creating privacy and security to providing a safe, enclosed space for children and pets to play. But being outside puts them at risk of damage from high winds and storms. You may even end up with a leaning fence after a traffic mishap.
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The good news is, they can typically be fixed without a major reinstallation or renovation project. Just make sure you make these needed repairs sooner, rather than later, since damage to one section can quickly weaken others.
Determine The Cause
There could be a number of factors impacting your fence’s structural integrity. Figuring that out first will help determine which steps to take next. For instance, the posts may not have been installed deeply enough. In this case, they would struggle to resist excessive moisture or high winds.
Rotting wood is typically a sign that the wrong kind of materials was used – though even recommended pressure treated woods can warp over time. If you determine that the post is rotten, then it will have to be completely replaced. Otherwise, you should be able to make a quick fix, provided you have the right tools.
Getting To Work
Head to the local hardware or home improvement store if you do not own a fence mender. This strip of heavy-duty metal has holes so that the post can be attached to an anchor. Grab a few bags of concrete while you’re there — but ensure that it’s designed for fence posts, or you’ll be repeating this process on a much shorter timeline. Next, assess and clean the area around the post.
You’ll need a helpmate to hold the post in place while you set the mender. Drive the mender into the ground next to the post, creating a stronger base, then affix the mender to the post with a drill.
Once you’ve completed this process, add some extra concrete for more stability. Closely follow the instructions for the concrete so that it has a durable bond — then reattach the fence, as needed.
Still struggling with a leaning fence, or finding yourself in a bind while trying to complete this process? Call in a professional. Incorrect or incomplete repairs can end up causing even more extensive damage.
REAL ESTATE 101
