Installing Fence Panels: Weather Damage
Winter is the time when your fence panels are most at risk from weather damage. Strong winds, damp weather and freezing cold temperatures can all cause damage to your fence. That is why it is vital to know the best way for installing fence panels should they become damaged. Installing fence panels requires knowing the best fence panel designs to use as well as how to replace them. With that in mind, here is what you should do when replacing fence panels damaged due to bad weather.
Choosing Fence Panel Designs
Before you start repairs you should check each panel that the weather has affected. In the best case scenario, the fence panels may have simply moved out of place and you will be able to simply lift the panel up and slot it back in place or resecure the panel to the post. However, if the panel has bent or warped out of shape or is broken and will not fit in its original spot then you will need to buy replacement fencing panels.
It is a good idea to know ahead of time what fence panels are available and those which match existing fencing, before you make your purchase. Some of the options for panels that we offer include:
- Closeboard Panels – These offer excellent privacy, security and a solid look to your property. In addition, they are highly durable and can withstand all kinds of weather.
- Traditional Rustic Panels – For a more traditional look to your fence, these offer security and privacy as well as being treated for extra strength.
- Decorative Panels – These panels combine the strength and security of other panel fences with stylish European style decorations.
Once you have the panel designs you need you can start installing your replacement fence panels.
Wood Vs Concrete Posts
Before installing fence panels decide on the type of post you want to use (if the fencing post has also suffered damage). Concrete posts are heavy and are not a great look with wooden panels, but they are long-lasting and make it easy to add and remove panels. Wooden fence posts are more lightweight but do not last as long and are easily moved by wind and other weather conditions. Make sure you weigh up the benefits of both before choosing your panels.
Once you have made your choice, remove the old posts and replace them with new ones. If you have several posts and fence panels in a row to replace, make sure you install the fence post, then the panel, then the next fence post and so on. This will avoid having incorrect gaps between panels and posts.
If you are not confident in your ability to install replacement posts and panels yourself, you can hire a professional fencing contractor to put them in place.
Replacing Fence Panels
To begin replacing your fence panels do the following:
- Ensure the post that you need to attach the fence panel to is in good condition and able to support the new fence panel.
- If your fencing has gravel boards, check the quality of the gravel board and replace it if necessary. Gravel boards keep the wooden fence panel off the ground to reduce the damage caused by dampness and rot and prolong the life of your fencing panel.
- If you are attaching your replacement panels using L Brackets you will need to fix these to the post approximately 25 mm in from the face of the post. Add 2-3 L Brackets to each post. You will also need to repeat this on the backside of the fence panel. Ensure you measure the depth of your fence panel and leave an adequate gap to slot your fence panel between the brackets. Once your fence panel is in place, secure the panel to each L-bracket.
- Otherwise, you can nail or screw your new panel directly to the fence post.
- Ensure your fencing panel has been installed correctly and is securely attached on all sides.
Using Clarke Fencing
Here at Clarke Fencing, we have been supplying timber products and services to clients for 35 years. For more details on our range of fence supplies visit our online store or call in to our Stowmarket depot. We also offer fencing services including we can installing fence panels and posts for you. Call today on 01449 614939.
