Fence Repairs Made Easy: How to Fix Common Damage and Prevent Future I

A fence isn’t just a line between two properties—it’s a crucial part of your garden’s look, security, and privacy. But like anything exposed to the elements, fences take a beating over time. Strong winds, moisture, pests, and age can all leave your fencing in need of repair.

At David’s Timber, we supply quality timber and fencing materials that help you keep your outdoor space looking its best. Whether you’re fixing a few broken boards or dealing with a fence that’s seen better days, this guide will walk you through the most common fence problems, how to fix them, and how to prevent them from happening again.

1. Rotting Wood: The Most Common Culprit

Rot is the most frequent cause of fence deterioration—especially in timber fencing. It tends to start at the base of posts or where panels trap moisture.

Signs to look for:

Dark, damp patches
Crumbly or spongy texture
Green algae or mildew build-up
A musty smell

✅ How to fix it:

Replace affected boards or posts entirely. Trying to patch over rot rarely works long term.
Use pressure-treated timber, like the fencing products we offer at David’s Timber, to slow rot from setting in again.
Apply a water-repelling sealant or stain to all wooden components once installed.
Avoid soil contact by using gravel boards or raising panels slightly off the ground.

2. Leaning Fence Posts: A Warning Sign of Bigger Issues

A slightly tilted fence post might not seem like a big deal—but left unchecked, it can lead to major structural problems across the entire fence.

What causes it:

Shallow or poorly installed concrete footings
Erosion or waterlogged soil
Impact from heavy winds or tree roots

✅ How to fix it:

Dig out around the post and check the footing. If it’s loose, re-set it in fresh concrete with at least 2 feet of depth.
If the post is rotted at the base, it’ll need replacing.
Use gravel for drainage around the base and consider installing post spikes or anchors for added stability.

Top tip: Use treated fence posts and install with a concrete slant away from the post to allow water runoff—this extends the lifespan dramatically.

3. Broken or Missing Boards: The Quick Fix That Matters

Loose, cracked, or missing fence boards don’t just look bad—they also reduce your privacy and can make your property less secure.

Causes include:

Accidental damage (like kids kicking balls or wind-blown furniture)
Animal activity
Nails or screws working loose over time

✅ How to fix it:

Replace damaged boards with matching treated timber panels—we stock several options for colour and grain matching.
If boards are loose but not damaged, resecure them using galvanised screws instead of nails, which provide a stronger hold.
Regularly inspect for signs of movement, especially after heavy wind or storms.

4. Sagging Gates: A Frustrating Problem With an Easy Fix

A gate that sticks, scrapes the ground, or won’t latch properly is more than a minor annoyance—it’s a sign that something’s shifting.

Why it happens:

Hinges wear out or rust
Gate posts lean over time
The gate frame warps due to moisture

✅ How to fix it:

Tighten or replace hinges with heavy-duty, weather-resistant hardware.
Re-set or reinforce leaning posts.
If the timber has warped, consider replacing the gate with a new one built from pressure-treated timber for added resistance.

5. Loose or Failing Fixings: The Hidden Weakness

It’s easy to overlook, but screws, nails, and brackets are what hold everything together. When these fail, everything else follows.

Signs to watch for:

Rusted or corroded screws
Boards moving or creaking when touched
Loose panels that sway in the wind

✅ How to fix it:

Replace corroded fixings with galvanised or stainless-steel alternatives, which won’t rust over time.
Add extra fixings to areas under strain (like gate corners or fence joins).
Regularly tighten fixings as part of routine maintenance.

6. Insect Damage: Subtle but Serious

In the UK, termites aren’t as common, but wood-boring beetles and ants can still pose a problem—especially in untreated or older fences.

What to look for:

Small holes or sawdust trails
Cracked or hollow-sounding wood
Ant nests at the base of fence posts

✅ How to fix it:

Replace infected wood completely—don't risk spreading it.
Treat new timber with insect-resistant preservatives.
Use treated wood from reliable sources like David’s Timber, which is built to resist pests and decay.

7. Poor Drainage Around Fencing

Water is wood’s biggest enemy. Even treated wood can suffer over time if water is allowed to pool around it.

Symptoms include:

Posts rotting at the base
Soil erosion around the foundation
Moss or algae growth at the base of panels

✅ How to fix it:

Add a layer of gravel or stone beneath panels and around posts to improve drainage.
Use gravel boards to lift fence panels off the ground.
Re-grade the soil if necessary so water runs away from the fence line.

Our Recommendations: Build and Repair Smart

If you’re building or repairing a fence, a few smart decisions now can save you from repeating the same work in a few years. At David’s Timber, we recommend:

5 Best Practices for Long-Lasting Fences

Use Pressure-Treated Timber
It’s naturally resistant to rot, insects, and moisture damage—essential in the UK’s damp climate.
Choose Galvanised or Stainless Steel Fixings
Rust-proof fasteners keep your structure intact and safe over time.
Install Proper Drainage and Gravel Boards
Keeping timber dry at the base adds years to your fence’s life.
Inspect and Maintain Twice a Year
A simple walk along your fence in spring and autumn can catch small problems before they grow.
Don’t Delay Repairs
A cracked board or leaning post won’t fix itself—tackling issues quickly protects the entire structure.

Keep Your Fence Looking Good for Years to Come

Fencing is one of the first things people notice about your property—don’t let yours fall into disrepair. With quality timber, the right fixings, and some simple maintenance, your fence can stay strong and attractive for decades.

At David’s Timber, we supply everything you need to build and maintain a beautiful, durable fence, including: