At FloriFence, we work hard to ensure that your fencing installation will last. However, every fence will eventually need to be replaced, whether it’s due to lack of maintenance or simply old age. If you are worried about the health and longevity of your fence, look out for these five signs of aging:
Pest damage
Insects, particularly termites, are always problematic for wooden fences. If you notice any cracks, holes, or chips in your fencing that might be due to pests, it’s time to call your fencing contractor. You should at least replace the damaged panels, and may even consider replacing the fence entirely depending on how extensive the damage is.
Sagging panels
Does your fence slightly lean in one direction? This is likely because the foundation has weakened and your fence is no longer supported by the ground underneath. This can be caused by flooding, soil erosion, or simply old age. However, this problem does not go away easily. If your fence is starting to sag, it’s only a matter of time before it is knocked down. Talk to your fencing contractor to determine if it can be salvaged or if you need to replace it.
Your fence is rusted or warped due to water damage
Water damage is one of the most common reasons homeowners have to replace their fencing. Materials such as wood and wrought iron are especially susceptible, even if they have a protective coating. You can avoid this by choosing a water-resistant material or by reapplying your sealant on a schedule, but once water damage has occurred, you’ll need to replace your fence.
Tree root intrusions
Tree roots will almost always be more powerful than your fence. Unless you have poured concrete at the foundation, tree roots will easily damage the fence posts and cause the fence panels to shift. You may be able to remove the roots, but a better solution is often to replace any damaged fence posts and create an alternate design that works around the growing root.
Your fencing is over 30 years old.
Most fence materials will last anywhere between 10 to 30 years if properly maintained. However, after 30 or more years, the signs of wear and tear will begin to worsen its aesthetic appeal and the structural integrity will quickly begin to fade. We recommend replacing your fence at this age because repairing it will be more expensive in the long run.
If you are interested in replacing or upgrading your fence, contact us today1We have plenty of options for both home and business owners that will stand the test of time.
FloriFence LLC. 