my fence is leaning - now what?

If you've noticed that your fence is leaning, it's important to take action sooner rather than later. A leaning fence can not only be an eyesore, but it can also be a safety hazard. Here are some steps you can take to address the issue:

• Assess the damage: The first step is to determine the extent of the damage. Is the entire fence leaning, or just a section of it? Are the posts loose, or is the privacy fence itself warped? Understanding the problem will help you figure out the best course of action.

 

• Determine the cause: Once you've assessed the damage, try to determine what caused the fence to lean. Common causes include water damage, soil erosion, and strong winds. If you can address the underlying issue, you may be able to prevent the fence from leaning again in the future.

 

• Reinforce the fence: Depending on the extent of the damage, you may be able to reinforce the fence to prevent further leaning. This could involve adding additional posts or braces, or securing the existing posts with concrete.

 

• Repair or replace: In some cases, the damage may be too extensive to repair. If the fence is beyond repair, it may be time to replace it. Consider the age and condition of the fence, as well as your budget and aesthetic preferences, when deciding whether to repair or replace.

 

• Hire a professional: If you're not comfortable repairing or replacing the fence yourself, consider hiring a professional. A fencing contractor can assess the damage, recommend a course of action, and ensure that the repair or fence replacement is done correctly.  You can trust Guelph Fence as we are among the best fencing companies in Guelph.

Example

In the growing South Guelph area (noted for the fastest population growth at 17.2% between 2011–2016 in that region) a homeowner in the Victoria Road South neighbourhood contacted us when their backyard fence began to lean significantly toward the adjacent lot. The property sits in a neighbourhood where single-family homes average well above the city average value, and so maintaining good fence condition is important both for curb appeal and boundary clarity. With roughly 143,740 residents in Guelph and the median age around 38.4 years, homeowners expect long-lasting installations. 

Our team at Gueph Fence assessed the issue and found that insufficient post depth combined with shifting clay soils (common in local sites) had caused several fence posts to tilt. We removed the leaning panels, extracted and replaced the undersized posts with properly embedded pressure-treated posts set in concrete below frost line, realigned the panels, and re-secured the horizontal rails. We also recommended and applied additional drainage adjustment at the base to reduce water accumulation, which had accelerated the lean. The result: the homeowner now has a stable, straight fence that restores the boundary, enhances privacy and will stand up better to future seasonal cycles.


By taking these steps, you can address a leaning fence and ensure that your property remains safe and visually appealing. Don't hesitate to address the issue - the longer you wait, the worse the damage may become.

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