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 do you fix a broken fence post?
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. 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:
Should I repair or replace my rotted wood fence?
A wood fence doesnt have to be replaced just because its rotting. A rail that's pulled loose from one or more of its posts may or may not be salvageable, depending on how badly rotted the joint is. You may be able to mend the break with a 2x4 scrap or a couple of metal T-braces, or you may have to replace the entire rail.
How do you replace a rail on a fence?
If the entire rail needs to be replaced, dismantle that section of fence and rebuild it as explained below. Step 1: Cut 2x4 rails to fit flat along the tops of the posts. The rails can extend from post to post, or a rail can span two sections.
How do you fix a fence that has boards on both sides?
If your fence will have boards on both sides, nail up all the boards on one side first, then nail alternate boards to other side of the rails, positioning boards to cover spaces left by boards on opposite side. Replacing broken or rotted screening takes only a few hours and simple carpentry skills.
How do you fix a broken wood fence panel?
3:444:30How to fence repair, replace fence pickets, replace fence post. Easy!YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo what I did is pulled those pickets off and then use treated two by fours from underneath to blockMoreSo what I did is pulled those pickets off and then use treated two by fours from underneath to block the hole and that way we could install our panels. So they're all level at the top.
How do you fix board on board fence?
0:518:26How to repair a wood privacy fence, replacing boards with or without cutsYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIn to hold it in position we'll go on the other side of the fence. And we'll mark and cut our boardsMoreIn to hold it in position we'll go on the other side of the fence. And we'll mark and cut our boards then won't take our old boards off and we'll replace them with new boards.
How do you repair a wooden fence slat?
0:301:31Home Repair & Maintenance Tips : Repairing Wooden Fences - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThese guys is you're going to find that there's extra screws in there so here use your drill to goMoreThese guys is you're going to find that there's extra screws in there so here use your drill to go ahead and take those out. Once you go ahead and remove the pieces that you want to replace.
How do you fill gaps in fence panels?
4:034:28Cover Gap on Wood Fence - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBring it down here and just cut it right there and then staple that down and just continue on downMoreBring it down here and just cut it right there and then staple that down and just continue on down and that'll keep that uh all those gaps filled so that you have some privacy in your yard.
How do you fix a rotten fence panel?
0:034:51How to Repair and Replace Wooden Fence Section Panel Only - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipStart by measuring where the top of the 2x4 will be placed. Use the same measurements as from yourMoreStart by measuring where the top of the 2x4 will be placed. Use the same measurements as from your old fence mine is six inches down from the top and this is where I'll screw in the first.
How do you refurbish a wooden fence?
0:002:46Different Methods To Restore an Old Fence with Ready Seal - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipStarted. As you can see the fence is cleaning up bringing it back to life before I to the true woodMoreStarted. As you can see the fence is cleaning up bringing it back to life before I to the true wood before I'm able to plot ready-seal. And that's what we want it to look.
Can you put fence boards tight together?
For solid privacy fences, the fence boards can be butted tightly together or spaced 3/8 to 1/4 inch apart to allow for wood expansion and contraction during varying weather conditions.
What is a kickboard on a fence?
A rot board, also called a kickboard, is a horizontal board installed along the bottom of the fence panel. Typically a 2x6 or 2x8 piece of wood, it runs along the base of the entire fence panel for a finished look and added protection.
Why does my fence have gaps?
Air circulation. One reason why fences have gaps is to allow air to circulate the area it surrounds. The bigger the gaps, the more air you can let in. This is important for homes that are exposed to heat; not letting the air circulate would mean a more uncomfortable area for your home.
How do you put a fence panel back in?
2:498:43How to Install Fence Panels into Concrete Slotted Fence Posts and 2 ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipDay make sure there's not a breath of wind. So just lift it up as high as it'll. Go. Just feed itMoreDay make sure there's not a breath of wind. So just lift it up as high as it'll. Go. Just feed it into those grooves. And then gently lower it. Down. Now with three of you this is a really easy.
How do you fix fence panels to post?
Measure and cut 25mm-thick boards to fit between the posts. Fix them with galvanised screws or nails inserted at an angle into the posts. Countersink screws, or drill pilot holes for nails. Alternatively use steel gravel board clips, which are screwed to the fence and into the boards, securing them in place.
How do you fix feather edge boards?
We recommend that each board is fixed once with a nail located 10mm above the upper edge of the previous board. Some suppliers advise using two nails per board, but this does not allow for shrinkage of the board and can result in splitting.
What kind of nails do you use for fencing?
Most fences will be secured effectively using galvanised nails, but for coastal areas, stainless steel is recommended. The salty sea air has a harsh effect on metals, meaning extra protection is needed for a long-lasting fence.
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.
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 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:
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.
Why are my fence panels rotting?
Or the passage of time and many seasons of wind and rain may have caused a panel or panels to rot.
What happens if you poke wood with a screwdriver?
The wood may appear discolored. It may also have more obvious damages, such as splintering or warping. If you can poke the wood with a screwdriver and the wood pushes in, then you may have rotten wood beneath the surface. Time to replace the panel!
Can you replace a wooden fence panel?
Check your posts. It doesn’t make sense to replace a single wooden fence panel if the posts to which it is attached are compromised. A single damaged post can ruin an entire fence line. Be sure to double check that the fence’s posts are secure and level before beginning work on any individual panel. Fix or reinforce a damaged post before starting to repair or replace a panel.
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.