How to Repair a Broken Fence

Broken fences should be repaired immediately.

Fences are installed in yards and along property lines to keep intruders out and pets in, as well as for privacy purposes. Keeping a fence well-maintained allows it to last longer; therefore, any damage on the fence should be repaired promptly. Moisture from rain and snow causes wood fences to rot and deteriorate over time, while strong winds, ice and extreme weather conditions cause wood fences to break.

Things You'll Need

• Pry bar
• End-cutting pliers
• Work gloves
• Measuring tape
• Rip saw
• Level
• Nails
• Hammer
• Good quality outdoor paint
• Paintbrush

Instructions

1. Pry out the damaged section of the fence, using a pry bar. If nails are attaching the wood post to the fence, remove the nails with end-cutting pliers. Wear work gloves during the entire repair process.

2. Measure the damaged wood section with a measuring tape to determine how much new fencing material to purchase. Purchase a new section of wood fencing to replace the damaged section of the fence. Try to find the same type of wood as the original wood to match the fence.

3. Measure the new wood post. Cut the wood post or section with a rip saw, to match the measurements of the damaged wood section.

4. Place the new wood post in the empty space, where the damaged section once stood. Lay a level on the top of the new post to ensure the post is standing straight.

5. Attach the new wood post to the fence's frame by hammering nails into the new post. Evenly space out the nails to ensure the new fence post is thoroughly attached to the frame.

6. Paint the entire fence with good quality outdoor paint. Allow the paint to dry fully, according to the manufacturer's directions. Although painting is not necessary, it will camouflage the recent repairs.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a handsaw to remove the damaged section of wood if the pry bar doesn't work.

References

• Repair Home: Fence Repair
• Ask the Builder: Repairing Existing Fencing