Not everything can last forever. Unfortunately, that old adage holds true for fences. While a well-cared-for fence can last for generations, there comes to be a point where it can no longer provide the security or fashionable appeal it once had. Environment and animal hazards can reduce a fence’s integrity over time, and ultimately render it an impractical tool against robbery or animal intrusions. It may be time for a new investment in fencing. Here are some indicators that it’s time your fence retires:
How to Recognize Rust Damage
Rust comes in many colors, though it shares a rough, grainy texture different from the surrounding metal. While rust itself is very easy to spot, whether or not the rust has resulted in enough damage to warrant a replacement rather than a repair of a fence, is not as simple. One component of gauging whether or not a fence requires a total replacement is an assessment of how much and where rust is present. Red rust, for example, is typically a sign of thorough corrosion and clings to a large surface area of a fence. If a fence has more rusted metal than not, it’s time to think about getting a new fence, as rust itself cannot be repaired. If small sections of a fence are subject to rust, and in areas which can be detached and replaced in part, it can be a more profitable decision to contact a trusted fence provisioner, such as Central Fence, and have your fence be repaired by professionals.
How to Recognize Rot
Rot is the result of fungal spores having taken root in the grain of wood, eating it from the inside out. Rot can be more difficult to spot than rust, and is sometimes not immediately apparent, especially if the damage has not spread to the outside of a fence. There are several kinds of wood rot, and each leaves its own distinct signature. Some forms of rot are easier to treat than others. Wet rot leaves a black discoloration upon the planks of a fence, and is spongy to the touch. If a fence has been painted, it can be hard to spot this; in such cases, look for places where the paint has chipped. Chipped and cracked paint is a sign that your fence has wet rot. Fortunately, wet rot can be treated if the damage is not extensive. To cure wet rot, the fence must be completely dried. Many times, a wet rot treatment means taking apart the infected sections and replacing them or storing them in a completely dry area. Once the fence has completely dried, wet rot will disintegrate. Once it has, an application of fungicide will ensure the continued wellbeing of a fence, all without the need to replace it completely.
Dry rot, on the other hand, is much harder to get rid of. It can be recognized by a film of white or yellow growth on the outside of the fence, which is sometimes accompanied by the presence of flowering bodies, such as mushrooms, on the fence exterior. In many cases, dry rot destabilizes a fence’s strength and leaves it prone to breaking under pressure. If your fence has been infected with dry rot, it might be time to consider a replacement fence.
On the fence as to whether or not you need a new fence? Feel free to call us on our telephone number (1-800-221-6425) or visit us at one of our convenient locations in Swainsboro, Vidalia, Statesboro, or Sandersville. We’ll be happy to assist you in any way we can!
