It’s always hard to know when to repair or replace something. Like many other high-value items, when damage or wear-and-tear takes place, your first question is often whether it’s more cost-effective to repair the item or replace it entirely. In this case, a good example is a fence. A fence can undergo a large amount of stress and damage over the course of many years from exposure to the elements. While some repairs are relatively low cost, other problems may require replacing the entire fence. It’s best to weigh your options and talk to a fence company to get their professional opinion as well. Here are a few things to keep in mind when trying to decide to fix your fence, or go for fence replacement.

Common Fence Repairs

Below are common issues for a variety of fence types that can generally be resolved with basic repairs:

Vinyl fences: Vinyl Fencing tends to be very low-maintenance. Small areas of damage or cracking can occur, particularly during the winter when heavy snowfall builds up. Other damage may occur from being hit by a vehicle, a tree branch or other small debris. Most often these issues can be fixed by repairing the section, so you can leave the rest of the fence intact.

Wood fences: A wood fence will wear down over time from insects, moisture and other environmental factors. They can also warp, splinter or become discolored over time. Many times these can be repaired if the issues are confined to a few areas and small. If the problems are widespread and more severe, you will want to replace the fence.

Aluminum fences: A common issue with aluminum fences tends to be shifting soil that will loosen fence posts. This issue can usually be repaired by using some backfill- either soil or gravel will work.

When To Go For Fence Replacement

On the other hand, here are a few situations that may suggest it’s time to replace your fence:

• 20% Rule: Generally speaking, if any issues or damage are causing you to repair more than 20% of the entire fence, it’s more cost-effective to simply replace the fence than make repairs.

• Post Problems: Repairing fence posts tends to be more expensive than replacing panels or pickets. This is mostly due to the need for digging out of the ground. If you post issues, you may want to consider replacing the fence.

• Age: Fences will eventually reach the end of their lifespan and replacement parts may not be available from the manufacturer. At this point, it’s probably time to replace the fence.

• Personal need: The last reason has nothing to do with damage or age, it will be to fit your needs. Whether you are looking for more height, better privacy, or other specific functions-the sky is the limit.

Call The Fence Replacement Pros At Vinyl Fence Connection

For a professional opinion on whether to repair or replace your fence, rely on Direct Fence NJ, your #1 fence supplier.  For all your fence replacement or fence repair needs, give us a call today  or fill out our contact page.  You can speak with one of our staff and find out what option is best for you.