Do I Need to Replace My Fence or Just Repair It?

If you're standing in your backyard wondering whether that leaning, creaking fence is still doing its job, you're not alone. Most people aren't sure when it's time to pull the trigger on a full replacement—or if a quick fix will hold things together for a while longer. So let’s break it down.

Do I Need to Replace My Fence or Just Repair It?
Spoiler: Not every crooked post means you need a brand-new fence—but sometimes it's not worth patching either.


1. First, Look for the Obvious Signs

Before calling anyone out, do a quick walk around your fence. Here’s what to check:

  • Rotting wood or rusting metal
    If you can stick a screwdriver into the post like it’s a cupcake, that’s rot—and it spreads fast.

  • Leaning or sagging sections
    This usually means the posts are failing below ground. One or two might be salvageable. More than that? It might be time.

  • Broken or missing panels/pickets
    These are often easy repairs—as long as the structure behind them is solid.

  • Gate issues
    If your gate won’t latch, drags on the ground, or feels like it’s about to fall off, that’s usually a post problem (and not just an annoyance—it’s a security issue too).


2. When a Repair Makes Sense

We’ll always tell you if a repair will do the job, especially if:

  • The damage is isolated to one section

  • The posts are still solid and set properly

  • You’re just dealing with cosmetic damage (like chipped boards or hardware issues)

Small fixes can go a long way, especially if the rest of your fence has life left in it.


3. When It’s Time to Replace

Repairs stop making sense when you're basically patching patches. You’re probably due for a new fence if:

  • Multiple posts are rotten, cracked, or loose

  • The fence is more than 15 years old (depends on materials and care)

  • It’s become unstable or unsafe for pets/kids

  • You're spending more to fix it every year than it would cost to replace

We’re not in the business of putting Band-Aids on broken bones. If it’s time, we’ll tell you—and if it’s not, we won’t waste your money.


4. Why It’s Worth Getting a Second Opinion

Sometimes it’s hard to tell from the outside. What looks like a small issue might be hiding bigger problems below the surface. And what seems like a total loss might just need a few key fixes.

If you’re not sure, that’s where we come in. We’ll give it to you straight—no pressure, no upsell.


Need a Fence Pro to Take a Look?

Send us a few photos or fill out a request form and we’ll take a look. We’ll let you know if a repair makes sense or if it’s time for something new—and we’ll keep it honest either way.