Fence Post Repair: Saving Your Fence Without a Full Replacement

In Saskatoon, the freeze-thaw cycle is a fence post's worst enemy. "Frost heave" can push posts out of the ground, or moisture trapped in concrete collars can cause wood to rot right at the ground line. A leaning fence is often a sign of one or two failed posts rather than a total failure of the entire structure.

Identifying the Problem

Check the base of the leaning post. If the wood is soft or broken at the ground level, the post has failed. If the entire concrete footing is tilted, the post was likely not set deep enough (we recommend 3.5 to 4 feet in Saskatoon to get below the frost line).

Repair Options

• Post Sleeves/Splints: For posts that are rotting at the base but still have a solid footing, steel splints can be driven into the ground and bolted to the post to provide structural support.
• Post Replacement: This involves removing the old post and concrete, and setting a new pressure-treated post. This is the most permanent fix.
• Sistering: In some cases, we can set a new post directly beside the old one and bolt them together to restore stability.

Prevention Tips

When installing new posts, ensure they are set in well-draining gravel or that the concrete is "crowned" above the ground level to shed water away from the wood. Using pressure-treated lumber rated for "ground contact" is non-negotiable.

Don't let a leaning fence bring down your property's curb appeal. We can assess your fence and provide an honest recommendation on whether a repair or replacement is the best path forward.

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