A storm can be devastating to property. Strong winds, debris, or hail can cause extreme damage that might need repair jobs. Damage after a storm can happen to well-built structures resulting in cracked posts and broken or missing planks.
Once a storm passes, and you’re faced with different repair jobs, it’s essential to know the type of damage. Some may be easy to repair, while others might be difficult. In case of too much damage, it might be best to reach out to a local fence company, such as Albuquerque fencing.
Regardless of the damage, there are steps you can take to deal with the aftermath. For one, you should repair your fence as soon as possible, as the wood rots fast when it’s damp. This way, you won’t have to deal with delays when fixing it.
Below are some useful tips to make the assessment and repair process easier.
Assess The Damage
Once the storm is over, the first step is inspecting the damage to understand what you’re dealing with. Begin by noting any safety risks and the extent of the damage. This means looking for major structural damage, dents in the wood, debris, and missing balusters.
Some damage can compromise the fence’s integrity, and this might mean replacing the fence altogether. And according to fence repair Albuquerque, it’s important to make repairs as soon as possible.
Consider Whether To Repair Or Replace
After assessing the damage, you might realize it requires a simple repair or replacement. If the damage is too great, it might mean replacing the fence, which is more work. So, if your fence needs replacing, consider upgrading it to a better-quality option. The new fence you choose can be long-lasting and easy to repair.
On the other hand, simpler repairs are usually smaller and can be fixed with the right supplies. You can make plans to improve the damage by noting the measurements of pickets that needs replacement. In addition, you can take note of areas that need a touch-up of paint. Eventually, consider having a list of fasteners and nails required to restore the fence.
Consider Your Safety
Now that you’ve asserted that the damage can be repaired, it’s important to consider your safety before moving on. The first step is getting appropriate work gear to protect you from accidents. A good example is getting work gloves that protect your hands against sharp and dangerous debris. Another part of safety is deciding whether you need a helping hand to avoid exerting yourself.
Remove Debris
After determining the repairs and taking the necessary safety precautions, it’s time to start the cleanup job. This removes debris, including broken pieces, leaves, trash, sticks, and loose nails. Larger debris, such as a fallen tree, should be removed by professionals who can dispose of it effectively.
Find And Order The Materials
With debris gone, and damage assessed, the next step is to get the materials needed to repair your fence. When choosing the materials, ensure that the right fit will suit the remaining fence. Once you’ve found relevant materials, consider their quality to create a durable and long-lasting repair. Double-check what you need and order the correct quantity when ordering your materials.
Make Minor Repairs
With the materials ready, it’s time to repair the damage. Consider using a hammer and nails to fix small breaks on boards. However, if the damage is expansive, consider replacing the entire board. After removing the damaged boards, replace them with posts that fit well in the gaps.
Once the posts are leveled, hammer them into the frame of the fence. However, if the fence has weak spots, consider reinforcing them with support beams. This will be helpful if the fence is old or the damage is extensive.
Paint Or Stain After Repairs
Once the damage is repaired, the next step is refreshing your fence. The best way to do this is by panting or staining the fence. Painting your fence will help it look good and match the existing color making it look new again.
The extra coat of paint or stain protects against harsh elements. It does this by sealing the wood and extending the life of your fence. When choosing paint, consider the quality. And before painting the fence, consider using a coat of primer to get a great finish and adhesion. To maintain your fence, consider washing it using a garden hose whenever it gets dirty.
Bottom Line
You can enjoy a well-repaired fence for years. If you did a great job with repair, you could rest knowing that your fence can withstand the damage of a storm. This can only happen if you use quality materials that reinforce your fence. So, take your time to find great repair methods for extra strength.