Fence Repair: How to Fix and Maintain Your Fence Like a Pro

Fences do a lot more than mark property lines. They protect pets, add privacy, and boost curb appeal. But over time, they can lean, break, rot, or wear down. The good news? Most fence repair jobs are totally doable with a little time and know-how.

Whether it’s a broken post, a sagging gate, or chain link damage, this guide will walk you through the most common fence problems and how to fix them yourself. We’ll also share tips on fence maintenance, repair costs, and when to call in the pros—like the team at Sunready Landscaping.

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Table of Contents

    •    Signs Your Fence Needs Repair

    •    DIY Fence Repair Tips (By Material)

    •    Wood Fence Repair

    •    Chain Link Fence Repair

    •    Vinyl Fence Repair

    •    Wrought Iron and Aluminum Fence Repair

    •    Prevent Future Damage with Regular Maintenance

    •    Fence Repair Cost: What to Expect

    •    When to Call a Professional

    •    FAQs About Fence Repair

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Signs Your Fence Needs Repair

You don’t have to be an expert to spot fence damage. Watch for these signs:

    •    Leaning or wobbly fence posts

    •    Sagging gates that won’t close properly

    •    Cracked, rotting, or missing boards

    •    Rusty metal or bent chain link rails

    •    Mold or mildew buildup

    •    Holes dug under the fence (thanks, dogs)

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DIY Fence Repair Tips (By Material)

Wood Fence Repair

Wood fences are common—and often need the most upkeep. Here’s how to fix them:

1. Replace a Rotten or Leaning Post

    •    Dig around the base and remove old concrete.

    •    Set a new post in fresh concrete.

    •    Reattach rails and let the concrete set.

2. Fix a Sagging Gate

    •    Use a no-sag gate kit.

    •    Tighten or replace screws in the hinges.

3. Reinforce or Replace a Panel

    •    Unscrew or cut out damaged panels.

    •    Set new ones using three-inch screws or pocket screws.

    •    Paint or stain to match.

4. Patch Small Rot

    •    Chisel out soft wood.

    •    Fill with exterior wood filler.

    •    Sand, stain, and seal.

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Chain Link Fence Repair

Chain link fences are tough, but they’re not invincible.

1. Replace a Bent Rail

    •    Cut out the damaged rail.

    •    Use a coupling sleeve to install the new section.

2. Fix a Hole in the Mesh

    •    Untwist damaged wire.

    •    Twist in a replacement piece from a new roll.

3. Replace a Bent Post

    •    Remove the old post and concrete.

    •    Install a new post with fresh concrete or expanding foam.

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Vinyl Fence Repair

Vinyl fences are low-maintenance, but cracks can still happen.

    •    Remove top rail and slide out broken slats.

    •    Replace the damaged slat.

    •    Reinstall the rail and cap the posts.

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Wrought Iron and Aluminum Fence Repair

Wrought Iron

    •    Use epoxy putty (like JB Weld) to patch broken joints.

    •    Clamp pieces together until cured.

Aluminum

    •    Cut out damaged panels.

    •    Slide in a new panel and screw it to the posts using railing brackets.

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Prevent Future Damage with Regular Maintenance

The best way to avoid costly fence repair is to take care of your fence before problems start. Here’s how:

    •    Clean your fence regularly (pressure washer for wood, hose for vinyl).

    •    Apply paint or stain every couple of years.

    •    Keep hinges and latches greased.

    •    Don’t let mulch or soil pile against posts.

    •    Keep string trimmers away from the base.

Pro tip: Check for digging from pets or wildlife. Lay pavers or bury chicken wire at the fence base to block them.

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Fence Repair Cost: What to Expect

On average, fence repair costs $300 to $950, with the typical homeowner spending about $609. Factors include:

    •    Type of fence (wood, vinyl, chain link, etc.)

    •    Severity of the damage

    •    Materials needed

    •    Labor (if hiring help)

DIYers can save money, but if you’re unsure about structural issues, it’s smart to call a pro.

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When to Call a Professional

Not all repairs are DIY-friendly. Call a fencing expert like Sunready Landscaping if:

    •    The entire fence is leaning or collapsing

    •    Posts are deeply rotted or set in concrete

    •    You don’t have the tools or time

    •    You want guaranteed results that last

Sunready Landscaping serves Stouffville and the GTA and provides expert fence repair, installation, and maintenance services for all fence types.

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FAQs About Fence Repair

If the damage is minor (like a broken slat or small lean), a repair is usually enough. But if multiple posts are failing or the fence is old and worn out, replacement might make more sense long-term.

You’ll likely need a drill, screws, saw (reciprocating is best), shovel or post hole digger, level, and concrete or wood filler.

Sometimes! Fence repair spikes or braces can straighten minor leans. But for serious leaning, it’s best to reset the post in concrete.

Use pavers or bury chicken wire at the base in an L-shape. This also keeps critters out of your yard.

Yes, but use a low to medium setting. Let it dry fully before staining or sealing.

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FAQs About Sunready Landscaping

We specialize in fence repair, installation, landscaping, lawn care, seasonal cleanups, and property maintenance.

We proudly serve homeowners and businesses throughout Stouffville and the GTA.

Yes! We provide free, no-obligation quotes for all our fencing and landscaping services.

Absolutely. Our team is fully licensed, insured, and experienced in all types of fence work and landscaping projects.

Just give us a call, send us a message through our website, or stop by our office. We’re happy to help!

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Final Thoughts

Fence repair doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little effort—and regular maintenance—you can keep your fence strong and looking great for years. If things get out of hand, the team at Sunready Landscaping is always here to help.

Need help with your fence?

Contact Sunready Landscaping today for expert fence repair and a free quote.