A summer storm comes through Union County, a limb comes down, and now there is a gap in the fence and a dog who has noticed it. Or it happens slowly: one post starts to lean, then the gate stops latching, then the section next to it starts to sag. Either way, most fences can be fixed without tearing the whole thing out.
Signs your fence needs repair
- A post leans or moves when you push on it
- A section sags or waves along the top line
- The gate drags on the ground or won't latch
- Boards are cracked, split, missing or rotted at the bottom
- Chain link mesh is loose, bent or pulled off the post
- A top rail is bent from a fallen limb
- Vinyl panels are cracked or popped out of the posts
- Gaps at the bottom where a dog has been digging
Common causes in Monroe
Red clay and water. Clay holds water after storms and shifts as it dries. Posts that were set shallow, or sit where water collects, are the first to lean.
Storms. Wind pushes against a solid fence like a sail, and falling limbs land on anything in the way.
Rot. Hot, humid summers and soil or mulch piled against the bottom of a wood fence lead to rot at the base of boards and posts.
Gate weight. Gates hang off one post. Over time, an undersized post or worn hinges let the gate sag.
What a repair involves
Leaning or broken posts
The old post is dug out, including the concrete footing if needed. A new post is set at proper depth in concrete with drainage at the base, and the rails and boards are reattached. Replacing one or two posts is often a half-day job.
Gate repair
Sagging gates may need new hinges, an anti-sag kit, a re-hung gate, a heavier gate post, or a new latch. Sometimes the gate frame itself has twisted and needs to be rebuilt.
Section and panel repair
Broken boards, damaged chain link, bent rails and cracked vinyl panels can usually be replaced section by section. On older wood fences, new boards will look lighter at first until they weather.
Storm damage
The crew clears the damaged section, checks the posts on either side for movement, and rebuilds what is needed. If you are filing an insurance claim, ask the contractor for a written description of the damage and the repair quote.
What it costs
Most repairs cost far less than a new fence. The price depends on how many posts and sections are involved, the material, and how hard it is to get to. A single gate fix is a small job. Several posts and a long damaged section are a bigger one. We don't publish prices, and your real price comes from a free on-site visit and written quote. The fence installation cost guide covers new fence pricing if a replacement makes more sense.
Repair or replace? An honest checklist
Repair usually makes sense when:
- The damage is limited to a few posts or sections
- The rest of the fence is solid
- Matching material is still available
Replacement often makes more sense when:
- Many posts are leaning or rotted at once
- Repairs would cost a large share of a new fence
- You were planning to change the style or material anyway
A good contractor will tell you which way they would go and why. If replacement is the better answer, they can quote a new wood privacy fence, vinyl fencing or chain link fencing.
What to do right after storm damage
- Take photos before anything is moved.
- Keep pets inside or leashed until the gap is closed.
- Stay clear of downed power lines and call the utility.
- Call (980) 414-4919 or request a free quote for a repair visit.
Questions people ask
Can you fix just one leaning post?
Yes. A single leaning post is one of the most common repairs. The old post is removed and a new one is set in concrete, then the rails and boards are reattached. Fixing it early keeps it from pulling neighboring sections out of line.
Why does my gate keep sagging?
The usual causes are an undersized or leaning gate post, worn hinges, or a gate frame that has twisted. The fix depends on which one it is. A good repair checks the post first, since a new hinge won't help if the post is moving.
Do you repair HOA fences?
Yes. Repairs that match the existing fence usually don't need new HOA approval, but if you are changing the style, height or material, check with your HOA first.
Will new boards match my old fence?
New wood will be lighter than weathered wood at first and usually blends in over time. Staining the whole fence after a repair evens out the color. For vinyl and chain link, matching depends on whether the same product is still available.