A good fence provides security, privacy and adds to the appearance of your property. Like all outdoor timber structures, fences require regular maintenance to remain sound and looking good in Canterbury's varied climate.
Annual Fence Inspection
- Check posts at ground level — this is where rot most commonly begins
- Look for loose, split or missing palings
- Inspect rails for sagging, splitting or rot
- Check all fixings (nails, screws, bolts) for rust or failure
- Look for leaning sections — may indicate post failure
Maintenance Tasks
Keep vegetation clear of the fence base to allow airflow and reduce moisture at ground level. Re-paint, stain or seal the fence every 3–5 years to protect against weather and UV. Replace any failed or deteriorated capping on posts to prevent water ingress.
Common Repairs
- Loose palings: Re-nail or screw using stainless steel fixings. Replace any rotten palings.
- Rotten posts: Dig out and replace, or use a concrete spur post alongside the existing post.
- Sagging rails: Re-fasten or replace damaged rails. Check post fixings.
- Storm damage: Contact us quickly — we provide 24/7 emergency callouts for urgent fence repairs.
Repair Versus Replace
If more than 40–50% of your fence requires attention, full replacement is often the most cost-effective option. A new fence will be structurally sound, look better and require less ongoing maintenance. We can advise on the best approach for your specific situation.
Selwyn Property Services repairs and replaces fencing throughout Selwyn and Canterbury. Contact us for a free quote.