Fences take damage over time. Sometimes, only one side needs attention. A full replacement may not be necessary, but a few things should be considered first.
The Damage Must Be Assessed First
A full replacement isn’t always required. If only one section is affected, fixing that part may be an option. However, the fence’s overall condition should be checked.
- If posts are weak, the new section won’t stay stable for long.
- If multiple sections are worn, repairs will keep piling up.
- If the fence is leaning, the foundation may be failing.
A professional assessment will help determine if a full replacement is the smarter choice.
Material Matching Might Be Tricky
Differences in color, texture, and wear can make repairs stand out.
- Wood ages, so new boards won’t match older ones right away.
- Vinyl and aluminum fade, making an exact color match difficult.
- Fence designs change, so finding the same style might not be easy.
Staining, painting, or choosing complementary materials can help the new section blend in better.
Repair Costs Can Add Up Over Time
Fixing one side may seem cheaper, but long-term expenses should be considered.
- Partial repairs save money upfront, but future fixes may add up.
- If a fence is nearing the end of its lifespan, a full replacement may be the better investment.
- Labor costs for custom repairs can be close to a full installation.
A repair should make financial sense, not just be a quick fix.
Shared Fences Require Neighbor Agreements
If the fence sits on a property line, both owners may need to approve the changes.
- Cost-sharing should be discussed before any work begins.
- A mismatched fence could cause disputes, so a shared decision is best.
- Local fence laws should be checked to avoid unexpected legal issues.
Clear communication with neighbors can make the process smoother.
When a Full Replacement Makes More Sense
A full replacement may be the better option if:
- The fence is over a decade old and showing widespread damage.
- Repairs have been done multiple times, but issues keep coming back.
- A fresh, uniform look is desired instead of a patchwork fence.
The cost of frequent fixes is close to replacing the entire fence.
Replacing One Side is Possible, But Not Always Best
If the rest of the fence is in good shape, replacing just one side may work. However, the long-term outcome should be considered. Need a professional opinion? Big Jerry’s Fencing can help assess your fence and recommend the best solution for your property!Â
