Wooden fences entice homeowners with their elegant appearance, versatility, ease of installation, environmental friendliness, and cost-efficiency. However, over time, these fences wear out or get damaged and require replacement. Learn seven signs you need to replace your wooden fence.

Your Fence Is Old

A well-maintained wooden fence can serve you for up to 20 years. If your fence is approaching this age, it is a good candidate for replacement. After two decades, your fence may be old and worn and compromise your property's curb appeal and value. Also, a broad range of problems may affect your fence, making replacement a feasible option.

Your Fence Is Rotting

One of the downsides of wooden fences is their vulnerability to rotting, especially in cold regions. Rotting emanates from excess moisture and is mainly accompanied by a damp, musty smell and mold growth. It compromises your fence's structural integrity, making it a safety hazard and a weak security point.

The most conspicuous sign of rotting is yellow or grey stains on the base of the fence. Replacement is the best option for a rotting fence, as most repairs are only short-term remedies. In the future, you can prevent rotting by treating your fence with chemical preservatives. 

Your Fence Requires Recurrent and Expensive Repairs

One of the more obvious signs you should retire your wooden fence is numerous expensive repairs. While it is tempting to keep repairing your fence, hoping that it will last a little longer, at times, it makes more sense to replace it than incur massive huge expenses now and then. A new fence has a long lifespan and will save you money.   

Your Fence Has Missing Boards

Harsh weather and wear and tear are the common culprits for missing boards. While you can replace one missing board, numerous missing boards call for a new fence. Missing boards, especially when accompanied by other problems like rotting and splitting, make your fence structurally weak.

Your Fence Has Been Damaged by Termites

Termites are notorious for wreaking havoc on wood fences. Signs of termite damage on your fence include holes and structural weakness. You may also see large numbers of termites on your fence. Once you notice pests on your wooden fence, call a fencing professional to inspect the extent of damage and determine if replacement is needed.

Your Fence Is Sagging

After years of use, your fence may start to lean on one side. If the leaning is extensive and affects a significant portion of the fence, the fence has lost its strength, and replacement is suitable. However, you can tackle slight leaning by repairing and replacing the affected posts. 

Your Fence Has Huge Gaps

Numerous things can cause gaps in your wooden fence, including missing boards and fasteners, strong winds, and accidental damage. Loose fasteners, for instance, allow boards and panels to break loose and result in gaps.

As a result, your fence may allow intruders into your property and give your pets and kids an escape route. Also, your privacy is affected, and you can't relax in your yard without seeing the neighbors.

How Much Does Fence Replacement Cost?

If your fence is a candidate for replacement, you may be wondering how much a new one costs. The cost of replacing a wooden fence depends on several factors, such as wood type as well as the fence's length and height. Typically, you will spend between $1,675 and $4,082 for a new fence. 

A new fence is an excellent investment that increases your home's appeal and enhances your security. If your fence has seen better days, get in touch with York Fence for fence replacement. We create fences from the ground up to give you lasting satisfaction.