Winter storms can damage and destroy your fence. It could be obvious – your poor fence flat on its back in your yard – or more subtle, such as loose or warped boards that need replacing. Quick repair is crucial, as damaged wood is prone to further warping and rot.
If you’re very handy and/or the damage is minor, you may be able to fix the fence yourself. We at Buzz Custom Fence are happy to help if you lack the skills, tools or time for a DIY solution.
DIY Tips
If you decide to take on the job yourself, check for damage with a pry bar. Always protect your hands from unexpected nails by wearing work gloves. Hand protection is especially important if you’re working with barbed wire! For wood fences, a coat of high-quality paint can help conceal your repairs after storm damage.
Home Insurance
Fences are typically covered in homeowners insurance policies in the section called “Other Structures.” Be sure to thoroughly photograph storm damage to document it for the insurance company. If your fence is on a boundary line between two houses, you might share responsibility for the fence with your neighbor. Get together and compare insurance policies.
To Repair or Replace after Winter Storms?
Sometimes the damage to a fence is so severe that it will cost as much – or even more – to repair it than to replace it. In this case, your answer is clear. Call us and together we will dream up a beautiful and sturdy replacement for your fallen fence.
Prevention
Mother Nature and her superstorms are beyond human control. But once you get your fence fixed or replaced, there are things you can do to minimize future damage. These include:
- Regularly checking for loose or damaged boards and promptly replacing them
- Weatherproofing wood fences with stain, sealant or paint
- Keep trees and bushes near your fence well-trimmed. Don’t let branches overhang your fence.
Remember that a fence adds value to your property. It is part of your home’s overall worth, and contributes greatly to its aesthetic. Your fence is the first thing people see when they visit your house, so make sure it’s looking its best. If winter storms have been hard on your fence, call us today at Buzz Custom Fence and we can discuss your best repair or replacement options.
If winter storms have been hard on your fence, call us today at Buzz Custom Fence and we can discuss your best repair or replacement options.
