A sturdy, attractive fence can increase curb appeal and provide privacy and security for your property. However, as your fence ages, you’ll likely need to repair damaged or deteriorating areas to maintain its functionality and appearance. Fortunately, many common fence problems can be fixed with simple DIY solutions. Follow this guide to learn 10 effective ways to repair a fence and keep it looking great for years.

Inspect the Fence and Assess Damage

The first step in any fencing repair project is a thorough inspection. Walk along the entire perimeter, looking closely for any issues. Check for:

• Loose or missing boards, pickets, or posts
• Rotting or cracked wood
• Rusted, damaged, or loose nails, screws, and hardware
• Sagging or detached fence sections
• Holes dug under the fence
• Decaying fence posts

Pay particular attention to the bottom rails and posts, as they suffer the most wear. Probe any visibly damaged wood with a screwdriver to check for hidden soft spots or rot.

Make note of all problem areas and take photos to help plan your repairs. Assess whether you can tackle fixes yourself or will need to hire a professional for major reconstruction.

Materials Needed

Gather the necessary materials before starting repairs:

• Replacement wood boards, pickets, or posts
• Galvanized nails, screws, bolts, brackets, and other hardware
• Wood filler, wood glue
• Sandpaper
• Paint or wood stain and brushes
• Post hole digger (if replacing posts)
• Power tools like a circular saw, drill, reciprocating saw
• Safety gear – gloves, goggles, dust mask

Choose replacement wood that matches your existing fence material. Cedar, redwood, and pressure-treated pine are common fencing woods naturally resistant to rot.

Tighten Loose Boards and Pickets

Loose boards and pickets make a fence look unkempt and create gaps that reduce privacy. Typically, they just need a few new fasteners tightened securely into place.

Step-by-Step

1. Support the loose board from underneath as you work to prevent cracking.
2. Remove any damaged or loose nails, screws, or staples from the board using a hammer or pry bar.
3. Reseat the board snugly against the fence rails if it has shifted out of position.
4. Drill pilot holes to prevent wood splitting.
5. Drive 2-3 new galvanized finish nails or exterior wood screws at each end of the board and in the middle.
6. Countersink screws and fill holes with wood filler for a smooth finish.
7. Allow filler to dry fully before painting or staining.

Repeat these steps to tighten any wobbly pickets back into place as well. Properly securing loose boards and pickets will instantly improve the look of a shabby fence.

Patch or Replace Damaged Boards

If you have boards that are split, cracked, or partially rotted, they require more extensive repairs. Small damaged sections can be patched, while boards with major deterioration will need complete replacement.

Patching Small Damaged Areas

1. Mark the damaged portion of the board to be cut out. Make the cutout shape rectangular.
2. Use a circular saw or reciprocating saw to remove the marked section. Make cuts just beyond the damaged area.
3. Cut a patch piece from a new board to fit snugly into the cutout space.
4. Apply wood glue on the edges of the patch and insert into the cutout. CLAMP tightly.
5. Drill pilot holes and drive 2-3 finish nails through the repair into the fence rail to reinforce.
6. Fill nail holes with wood filler, allow to dry, and sand the patch smooth and flush when dry.
7. Paint or stain the patched area to match the rest of the board.

Patching preserves intact sections of the board while replacing only the damaged portion. Multiple patches can restore a failing board to usefulness.

Replacing Entire Boards

1. Remove the damaged board by prying all nails up with a cat’s paw, hammer, or flat bar.
2. Pull the board free from the fence rails.
3. Cut a replacement board to the same length from matching material.
4. Apply wood glue to the back side edges. Insert into opening and clamp in place.
5. Secure with nails/screws evenly spaced at the top, bottom, and middle.
6. Countersink and fill screw holes. Sand, stain, and seal the new board to match old after the glue dries fully.

A totally rotted or split board needs complete replacement to restore strength and appearance.

Reinforce Weak or Sagging Sections

Wood fences bend and sag over time under the pressure of soil, plants, and wind. A sagging fence looks bad and will only get worse if not corrected. Reinforcing weak sections helps level any dips or slumps.

Step-by-Step

1. Support sagging sections with bracing while making repairs.
2. Securely re-anchor fence posts on either side of the sagging section using post repair techniques.
3. Add new support posts every 4-6 feet along the dipping portion if needed.
4. Install angled knee braces running diagonally from the fence rails down to the posts. Secure tightly with lag screws.
5. String a taut wire line along the top of the fence to pull the sag upwards. Attach tightly at each post.
6. Install additional cross braces horizontally across the sagging section for extra reinforcement.
7. Check that fence rails are securely reattached to posts with nails/screws if needed.

Proper bracing and post reinforcement will pull sagging sections back into proper alignment. Monitor the area to ensure the fix holds up over time.

Mix Up a Post Repair Solution

Loose, rotting, or leaning posts are a common fence repair challenge. In many cases, posts can be restored and reused rather than replaced. The right DIY post repair solution can fix the problem relatively quickly and cheaply.

Step-by-Step

1. Remove loose soil around the post and any attached hardware to expose the full damage.
2. Mix an exterior wood filler, like an epoxy consolidant or expanding foam, per manufacturer instructions.
3. Fill any cracks, holes, or areas of decay in and around the post.
4. Brace the post in plumb position while the filler hardens. Add temporary supports on adjacent posts to share the load.
5. Drive wood stakes adjacent to shored up the repaired post while curing. Leave braces in place 1-2 weeks minimum.
6. Make further repairs – attach hardware, install anchors, excavate footing, etc. depending on issues discovered.
7. Paint repaired post and let cure fully before removing supports. Monitor for proper drying and realignment.

With the right filler products, most posts can be restored at a fraction of full replacement cost. But larger repairs may still require sistering or complete new posts.

Sister Up Split or Leaning Posts

Sistering means placing a new post tightly next to an existing damaged post for reinforcement. It’s ideal for fixing split posts or posts leaning severely out of alignment.

Step-by-Step

1. Dig a new post hole about 6” from the damaged post, aligned with the fence corner/braces.
2. Cut a new pressure-treated 4×4 post to the same height as the original.
3. Place the new post snugly adjacent to the original in the hole.
4. Shim any gaps between posts with hardware or gravel to stabilize.
5. Mix concrete and pour into hole, embedding both posts 2-3’ deep.
6. Use bolts/fasteners to connect the two posts near the tops once cured.
7. Replace or strengthen any deteriorated cross members attached to the original post.
8. Remove any temporary bracing once the concrete fully sets, typically 1-2 days.

Sistering locks the two posts together for mutual reinforcement against further damage or leaning. Monitor routinely to ensure effectiveness long term.

Replace Rotting Posts

Posts sunk into the ground will eventually rot below soil level from moisture exposure. Replacement is the only option once significant subsurface rot occurs. Digging out and replacing rotted posts also allows improving the footing depth for greater stability.

Step-by-Step

1. Support the fence on both sides of the post using temporarily bracing.
2. Dig down around the deteriorated post with a post hole digger to loosen.
3. Rock the post back and forth to pull it up and out of the ground using pliers or a pry bar for leverage.
4. Dig the new post hole 6-12” deeper and wider than the previous hole. Tamp down the soil.
5. Cut a pressure-treated post long enough to allow for the deeper hole and gravel backfill all around the inserted post.
6. Mix concrete, pour into hole, and set post. Make sure it’s plumb using a level.
7. Nail horizontal support beams back onto the new post once concrete cures fully.
8. Refasten any fencing to the new post, tightening all hardware securely.
9. Remove temporary bracing supports.

Replacing decayed posts restores structural integrity and prevents ongoing damage from potential collapse.

Repair Fence Posts Loosened at Ground Level

Ground movement, erosion, or decaying concrete can leave fence posts loose but still intact above ground. There are several ways to re-secure posts in the soil for a long term fix.

Options for Repair

Add concrete collar – Mix fresh concrete and pour around the base of the loose post in a 12-16” diameter collar.

Drive anchors – Drill pilot holes and drive steel anchors or mending plates into the soil adjacent to the post to lock it in place.

Plant rocks – Wedge small rocks tightly around the post at ground level for added support and drainage.

Compact gravel – Add and compact gravel backfill around a loose post for stability.

Install new hardware – Fasten post bases or connecting plates to anchor posts into the ground or concrete pads.

Start repairs by clearing loose soil from around posts to allow solid connections. Monitor post repairs routinely to confirm they are working or make adjustments as needed.

Block Animal Burrowing Under Fences

Pests like skunks and groundhogs can dig sizeable burrows under your fence, creating holes for other animals to enter and compromising the structure. Stop this destructive digging through prevention and immediate burrow elimination.

Prevention

• Use an L-shaped footer when building fences to block digging underneath.
• Bury fences 1-2 feet underground or install a wire mesh dig guard below ground.
• Place large rocks, gravel, or patio pavers around the fence perimeter to prevent burrowing starts.

Removing Existing Burrows

• Smoke out small burrows by pouring a mix of liquid smoke and water inside and sealing the hole with soil.
• Flush out tunnels with a garden hose then pack with rocks or gravel to prevent re-digging.
• Use fencing to block off larger holes and cave in burrows by stomping on the top of tunnels.
• Set traps inside holes to remove resident pests before permanently closing burrows.

Regular inspection and prompt burrow removal will protect your fence from subsurface damage. Call in pros for extensive tunnel networks.

Stain or Seal to Protect and Beautify

Exterior wood stains add color while sealing the wood grain to protect fences from moisture, UV rays, and decay. Keep your fence looking its best with preventative staining.

Step-by-Step

1. Clean fence with a pressure washer and let dry completely before applying stain or sealer.
2. Scrape, sand, and spot prime any damaged wood or bare areas first.
3. Use a pump sprayer, roller, or brush to apply even coats across boards and pickets.
4. Allow stain to penetrate the wood fully before adding further coats.
5. Add a clear wood sealer like polyurethane for extra weatherproofing if desired.
6. Spread drop cloths and use care when spraying to avoid overspray on plantings.
7. Stain horizontal rails first, then vertical pickets for optimal coverage.

Re-apply stain or sealer every 1-3 years based on wear to renew protection and beauty.

Paint for Easy Color Changes

Painting a fence allows changing its color easily when desired versus restaining. Follow proper prep and application steps for smooth, consistent painted finishes.

Prep Work

• Lightly sand then clean fence with TSP substitute to remove mildew stains and dirt.
• Scrape off any loose paint and spot prime bare wood to ensure proper adhesion.
• Counter sink protruding nails and screws so they don’t leave spots on the finished paint job.
• Use painters tape and drop cloths to mask off non-painted surfaces like house siding.

Painting Steps

• On hot days, dampen fence with water before starting to prevent blistering.
• Use an exterior latex primer followed by two finish coats of exterior acrylic latex.
• Apply using a sprayer, roller, or brush in smooth, thin, even applications.
• Work from top to bottom painting pickets between rails to avoid drips.
• Let each coat fully dry 24 hours before adding the next.
• Remove painters tape right after the final coat before paint dries.

Proper surface prep and application technique will result in a durable, uniform painted finish on your fencing.

Make Minor Repairs to PVC, Vinyl, and Aluminum Fencing

Alternative fencing materials like vinyl, PVC, and aluminum require less maintenance than wood. But they can still need minor repairs over time.

Common Minor Repairs

• Tighten any screws securing pickets or rails that have worked loose.
• Patch small nicks, dents, or holes using manufacturer recommended adhesive filler. Sand smooth after drying.
• Replace broken or severely dented pickets and rails. Most snap or slide out easily from connectors.
• Secure detached posts using post repair methods and manufacturer guidelines.
• Refasten separated railing joints with compatible metal screws.

When to Call a Pro

• For major section replacement or full fence rebuilding. Most synthetic fencing requires special tools.
• If fence panels have become misaligned and need complete removal and reinstallation to straighten.
• When concrete footings have deteriorated, compromising posts. May require digging out and pouring new footings.
• If the fence fabric has become brittle and needs full replacement.

With just occasional minor maintenance, alternative fences can last 20+ years. Know when bigger issues demand professional repair.

Remove Rust from Wrought Iron and Metal Fencing

Wrought iron and other metal fences can fall victim to rust over many years of exposure to moisture and elements. Removing rust keeps them looking their best.

Step-by-Step Rust Removal

1. Lightly scrub rusted areas with a wire brush or sandpaper to remove flaky rust and expose fresh metal.
2. Clean and degrease the metal with a solvent like acetone. Let dry fully.
3. Apply a rust converter primer to stabilized rust and corroded areas per manufacturer instructions.
4. Allow converter to cure fully, which chemically transforms rust into an inert protective barrier.
5. Sand any remaining rough spots, then wipe clean.
6. Apply at least two finish coats of a compatible outdoor metal paint according to label directions.
7. Touch up paint yearly to prevent new rust formation.

Converting existing rust and protecting the bare metal with primer and paint will restore corroded iron or steel fencing and railings without the need for full replacement.

Know When to Call In a Fencing Pro

While many common fence issues can be addressed with DIY repairs, some scenarios require bringing in an experienced professional:

• Replacing more than a few fence posts, especially if concrete footings are involved
• Straightening severely leaning or damaged sections
• Major repairs needed on long spans of perimeter fencing
• Correcting significant ground subsidence causing fence instability
• Rebuilding fences damaged by falling trees, vehicle impacts, or other disasters
• Installing a brand new fence or fence type you have no experience with

Don’t take chances tackling repairs you may not be equipped for. Professionals have the tools, supplies, and expertise to handle major fence reconstruction and upgrades safely and correctly the first time.

Maintaining and Repairing Your Fence: FAQs

How often should I inspect my wooden fence?

Inspect wood fences at least twice per year – spring and fall – for any signs of wear, weathering, rot, or other damage. Catching issues early makes repairs simpler.

What are common signs my fence needs repairs?

Watch for loose or sagging sections, missing boards, deteriorating post bases, cracked wood, peeling paint or stain, rust on hardware, overgrown vegetation, and burrowing holes under the fence.

Can rotted wood fence posts be repaired?

If less than 30% of a wooden post is rotted, repair may be possible with wood consolidants and waterproofing fillers. Otherwise replacement is the best option for rotted posts.

How do I re-straighten a fence post leaning severely out of plumb?

You’ll likely need to fully remove and replace leaning posts. Dig out the post, concrete, and soil beneath to make room for packing gravel for increased stability when resetting the new post.

What’s the easiest way to restore gray, weathered wood fencing?

Wood fences with extensive graying and cracking can be refreshed with a thorough power washing followed by a penetrating stain in a new color. Avoid noise regulations though – power washing early in the day is best.

Can I DIY repairs on vinyl or PVC fence panels?

Minor repairs like tightening hardware and patching small holes or dents can be handled DIY on vinyl and PVC fencing using manufacturer approved adhesives and