Common Fence Repairs and Issues:

#1 – Broken fence posts (fence has fallen over)
This is by far the most common issue with fences, and it’s caused by moisture damage to the wood. Sprinklers, rain, snow, and other moisture can get trapped around the base of the fence post, causing the wood to rot over time. As this happens, the posts get weaker and eventually break. After the fence post reaches a certain point, a gust of wind can knock it right over. Since it is often windy around Sawbridgeworth and Bishops Stortford, this happens a lot.
There are a few ways to repair this. You can have me replace the fence post entirely by digging out the old post, setting a new one in concrete, and then rebuilding the section that blew over. When I do this, I’ll slope the concrete away from the post so that moisture can drain away and future wood rot issues can be avoided.
The second way to repair a broken fence post is with a fence repair bracket. This works surprisingly well and is significantly less expensive. This is a great way to save money and can last just as long as a new fence post.
The third way to repair a broken fence post is to use a concrete spur. This is a less subtle repair but provides a strong, lasting solution.

#2 – The fence is unstable (it moves when you push on it)
If you can walk up to your fence and move it more than one or two inches, then the fence post is most likely rotted and no longer supporting the fence. This is essentially the same problem as a broken fence post; your fence just hasn’t blown over because the horizontal rails support it.
In some cases, the fence post isn’t broken, and the concrete that the post sits in is loose in the ground, but this is rare. Usually, the fence post is broken and needs to be repaired or replaced.

#3 – Broken, missing, or loose fence boards
Here is another common issue that I run into. This is relatively easy, and you are likely to be able to complete this repair on your own.
Once you have the materials, this repair can be done quickly. Go to your local home improvement store, pick up a couple of replacement fence boards and some nails or screws, and attach the new fence boards. You’ll need a hammer, a pry bar, a cordless drill, and potentially a saw and shovel. Easy!
You can do this yourself or go to the contact page, request a quote, and I’ll be happy to help you.

#4 – The gate is sagging or dragging on the ground.
Just like doors, gates need regular maintenance to function properly. However, sometimes they are built incorrectly to begin with. Either way, sagging gates are a common issue you don’t have to live with. Most of the time, reinforcing the gate with a cross member and some screws is more than enough to solve the issue. Occasionally, however, the gate may need to be rebuilt to function properly.
Fixing a sagging gate is easy when you know what you’re doing and frustrating when you don’t. For a stress-free repair, contact me for a free quote, and I’ll get your gate working perfectly in no time.

#5 – The gate won’t latch.
As fences are exposed to harsh weather and changing seasons, they move around as the wood expands and contracts. This can cause the gate to become misaligned and not allow the gate to latch. The most common reason a gate won’t latch, however, is that the gate is sagging (see the issue above).
Repairing this issue can be as simple as moving the latch or supporting the gate with a diagonal brace to keep it from sagging.
Also, some gate latches are better than others. 


How much do fencing repairs cost in Sawbridgeworth and Bishops Stortford?
Of course that depends on who you hire. Some fencing contractors will convince you to complete unnecessary fencing repairs that can double or triple the cost.
However, you can expect to pay between £200 and £1,000 for most fence repairs. If you have multiple broken posts or need to completely rebuild your gate, then you may be on the higher end of this range.
If you only need adjustments to your gate, a few fencing boards replaced, or a single fence post repaired, then you can expect to pay £200-£300 for your fence or gate repair.
Money Saving Tip:
If you only need a small fence repair, you can save money by hiring me for multiple projects simultaneously. For example, you may also need a TV wall mounted, some pictures hung, or a few doors repaired. By batching these together, you save because I have to make fewer trips to your home.

Contact me for a free estimate today
A broken fence can be a pain, especially if you have dogs or are concerned with your family’s security.  But it doesn’t have to be! If you need a repair to fencing in Sawbridgeworth, Bishops Stortford or surrounding areas, contact me today, and I’ll get back to you within 24 hours with a free estimate.