How to Restore an Old Wood Fence in 8 Steps
- Check the Posts. If you’re, you know, on the fence (sorry) about restoring your old wooden fence, the first thing you should do is check the state of its foundation.
- Identify What Needs to be Repaired or Replaced. ...
- Power Wash. ...
- Let the Fence Dry. ...
- Sand Your Fence. ...
- Make Any Necessary Repairs. ...
- Apply Sealer or Stain. ...
- Repeat Every Two Years. ...
Full Answer
How much does it cost to repair a wooden fence?
How much does it cost to repair a wooden fence? Homeowners nationwide pay an average of $585 to repair a wooden fence. Project costs usually range from $298 and $871 but can be as little as $150 or as much as $1,350.
How do you replace a wooden fence?
- Cut back any vegetation preventing you from accessing the rotted post.
- Wedge one end of a 2 x 4 under the top rail of the fence on either side of the post and push the other end into the ground. ...
- Remove all fasteners holding the rails and fence boards to the post. ...
What is the easiest fence to install yourself?
Install the Fence Rails
- Mark the Rail Locations on the Posts. For this fence, with 6-foot pickets, the lower edge of the top rails will be 5 feet, 4-1/2 inches above the ...
- Begin Installing the Rails
- Attach the Remaining Rails
- Attach the Boards
- Trim the Top Posts. One of the keys to installing fence pickets is keeping the tops at a uniform height. ...
How do you repair a rotten fence?
- We recommend undertaking any fencing project with the help and assistance of a friend.
- Always wear protective safety gear when necessary.
- If using concrete, always wash your hands after use as wet cement can cause burns.
- Don’t allow concrete to dry on your tools - clean it off with a stiff brush.
What are the components of a wood fence?
The components of a wood fence include vertical posts, rails that run horizontally from post to post, and screening material such as boards or pickets. Examine your fence, no matter what its type, and you can probably identify each of these elements. Rot is a wood fence's biggest enemy.
What to do if a post is rotted?
If the post is rotted or broken, you may be able to repair it with a pair of splints or you may have to replace the entire post. Advertisement. If the post seems intact but has come loose in its hole, a pair of stakes or, better yet, a new concrete base can steady the post. To stake a post:
How to repair a 2x4 rail?
Step 1: Before you make repair, saturate the damaged areas and a 2x4 liberally with a wood preservative. This keeps the rot from spreading. Step 2: To make a cleat to support the rail, make sure the rail is level, then fit a 2x4 snugly underneath.
How long should nail boards be?
They should be of uniform length, as long as the distance from the bottom of the bottom rail to the top of the top rail, as measured at one of the posts. Starting at one end, nail boards to one side of the rails, leaving space equal to a single board width between each.
How long does it take to replace rotted screen?
Replacing broken or rotted screening takes only a few hours and simple carpentry skills. To replace rotted screening:
How to plumb a post?
To plumb a post, set it in in its hole, hold a level to one side, and adjust the post until the level's bubble is exactly centered. Step 7: To set intermediate posts, measure the height of each end post above grade level to ensure that both are the same height .
What to do if rail needs to be replaced?
If the entire rail needs to be replaced, dismantle that section of fence and rebuild it as explained below.
How long does it take to replace a fence?
They are a good option to hide your fence if you’re not into designs and they also give a better level of privacy. It will only take a couple of hours and basic carpentry skills to do this fence replacement. Measure the unbroken piece of screening for the new pieces you’ll need. You can use lumber or rip boards.
How long does a wooden fence last?
Is your wooden fence in need of repairs? Though your wooden fence can enhance your curb appeal, it’s not resilient to weather. A wooden fence can last up to 15 years with good care. Finding out the affordable ways you can keep your fences up and sturdy is important.
What is a fence post?
Fence posts are an integral part of any fence system. They act as the main support of your fences. When any of these posts begin to wobble, it is best that you find out what causes them before doing any fence repairs. You can fix a rotten or broken post using a pair of splints or change it into a newer one.
What is a fence section?
Fence sections or fence panels are the main part of any fence system. They create privacy within your place while blending into the outdoor environment. When your fence section needs repairs, dismantle them, and start rebuilding. The first thing to do is cut 2×4 wooden rails to fit along the top of the posts.
What is a stringer fence?
Fence rails or stringers are the wood between or across the posts. They are also often the place where you fix fence boards into. When a fence rail got loose from one or more posts, the possibility of repair will depend on how rotted the joint is. You can salvage a minor broken fence rail by either using a 2×4 wood scrap or metal t-braces.
Can you use galvanized steel for fence rails?
If you opt for a T-brace for your fence rail repairs, better use galvanized steel T-braces. They are less noticeable and often last longer. For steel T-braces, make sure you level the rails before drilling pilot holes into them and the posts.
Is it Worth Fixing?
When it comes to starting any of your fence repairs, first consider if it is still worth fixing. Before you go on a home repair on your fences, inspect the entire thing.
What to use to even out putty on fence?
After the putty has dried, take medium grit sandpaper to even out the putty with the rest of the fence.
How long does it take for putty to dry?
Don’t worry about lumps as you’ll be sanding it down later. Once the putty is evenly distributed on both sides, let it dry for 12-24 hours after application.
How much does it cost to replace a wooden fence?
In many cases, restoring an old wood fence is actually a better option than replacing it. A new wooden fence can cost up to $3,000, and installing a wrought iron fence could cost even more.
What is the best way to clean cedar fences?
Power washing your fence helps remove grime, fungi, wood flakes, and peeling wood. It’s also a good way to clear away gray fading, a common occurrence when tending to older cedar fences.
What is the best sandpaper for restoring a fence?
Sanding helps remove splinters and sharp edges and gives your old wooden fence a fresh look. Medium-grit sandpaper is good for most fences.
What is a well constructed fence?
A well-constructed fence is held up by its posts. If those are structurally sound and just need some TLC, then you can proceed. If they are falling apart or compromised beyond repair, installing a new fence (or hiring a local fence company) might be the better way to go.
How much pressure to use to power wash a fence?
If you use a store-bought chemical cleaner, be sure to read the label and use the correct water ratio. Start on low (500 to 800 PSI) when power washing your fence and increase as needed. Too much pressure could strip or damage the wood.
Can you stain a fence?
You’re almost done. If you’re happy with the color of your fence, all you have left to do is apply sealant and let it dry. If you’re looking to change things up or bring new life to your old fence, you can also try staining or painting it.
How long does it take to reattach a fence post?
If the soil around the fence is dry and rocky, fill in the hole with half-wet sand and half small gravel. Pack the hole tightly. You can also fill the hole with fast-setting concrete and pour approximately a gallon of water on top. Make sure the water has thoroughly mixed with the concrete. It should be dry in about 40 to 60 minutes, and you can reattach the fence panel to the post in roughly 4 to 6 hours.
How long does it take for a concrete fence to dry?
Make sure the water has thoroughly mixed with the concrete. It should be dry in about 40 to 60 minutes, and you can reattach the fence panel to the post in roughly 4 to 6 hours. Photo: istockphoto.com.
Why does my fence sag?
A fence can lean and sag due to weather, soil erosion, or rot. Find out how to fix a leaning fence so you can keep it in good condition year-round. A leaning or sagging fence not only diminishes a home’s curb appeal, but if it’s left unrepaired, it can also lead to more expensive fence replacement. Maintaining the fence around your home will ...
How to keep a post straight?
To keep the post straight while you fill in the hole, affix braces to the top of the post and brace against the ground at a 45-degree angle for maximum support.
Why is my fence post unstable?
A wooden fence post can lean and become unstable because of shifting soil or from the post expanding and contracting as it absorbs moisture. It’s common for wood fence posts to loosen in their concrete bases due to freeze and thaw cycles or because the post may have rotted at the bottom.
Can a wooden fence post be bent?
A wooden post can become unseated and wobbly, or it can be rotted at the base. A metal fence post can be bent or unstable. If a wooden post is rotted, broken, or has insect damage, it will need to be replaced. The same goes for a bent metal post.
Can you reattach a fence panel?
At this point, you can reattach the fence panels that you removed. Affix them to the original place, and they will be sturdy and solid .
