Every fence wears out eventually, but a leaning post or a sagging gate doesn't always mean you need a whole new fence. Repairing the right problem can buy you years. Replacing too late can cost you more. Here's how to tell which one you need, based on what we see on fences around Shreveport, Bossier City and Northwest Louisiana.

Signs your fence can be repaired

A repair usually makes sense when the damage is limited to a few parts of the fence and the rest is still solid.

• One or two leaning posts. A post can be re-set or replaced, and the panels re-attached.
• A few broken or loose boards. Pickets can be swapped out and re-fastened.
• A sagging or dragging gate. Gates can often be fixed with a re-set gate post, new hinges, a new latch or an anti-sag kit. See our gates page.
• A section damaged by a fallen limb or a car. If the damage is limited to one or two sections, they can be rebuilt to match.
• Rusty hardware or a broken latch. Hardware is quick and inexpensive to replace.

7 signs it's time to replace your fence

1. Many posts are rotted or loose

Posts are the backbone of a fence. Push on a few posts near the ground. If several are soft, wobbly or rotted at the base, repairing them one at a time usually costs more than starting fresh.

2. The whole fence leans

When long stretches lean in the same direction, the posts are failing across the line, not just in one spot.

3. Boards are rotting, splitting or warping everywhere

A few bad pickets can be replaced. When most of the fence is cracked, cupped or soft, the wood has reached the end of its life.

4. It keeps needing repairs

If you're paying for a repair every year or two, that money is often better spent on a new fence that won't need it.

5. Termite or insect damage

Termites are common in our area. If you find mud tubes or hollow wood in several posts, replacement is usually the safer choice.

6. It no longer does its job

If your dog gets out, your pool area isn't secure, or your HOA has sent a letter, a repair may not be enough.

7. You're ready for an upgrade

Sometimes the fence still stands but no longer fits your home. Replacing an old pine fence with cedar or redwood, Bufftech vinyl or Ameristar aluminum can cut maintenance and add curb appeal.

After a storm

Strong winds and storms are one of the most common reasons for fence damage around Shreveport-Bossier. After a storm:

• Stay clear of any downed power lines near the fence.
• Take photos of the damage from several angles before anything is moved.
• Check whether your homeowner's insurance covers fence damage, and ask what they need from you.
• Secure pets, since a damaged fence may not hold them.
• Call or text us photos so we can tell you whether it's a repair or a replacement.

How to make your next fence last longer

• Choose posts and materials built for our humidity and storms.
• Make sure posts are set deep enough and in concrete.
• Stain or seal wood fences every few years.
• Keep sprinklers, soil and mulch from piling up against wood.
• Trim trees and vines away from the fence.
• Fix small problems, like a loose post or sagging gate, before they spread.

Frequently asked questions

Can you repair a fence you didn't install?

Yes. We repair fences and gates no matter who built them.

Can you match my existing fence?

In most cases, yes. New wood will look brighter at first and will weather to match over time.

Is it cheaper to repair or replace?

Repairs cost less when the damage is limited. When the posts are failing along the whole line, replacing is usually the better value. We'll tell you honestly which makes sense.

How fast can you come out?

Call or text photos to (318) 518-1524 and we'll get back to you as quickly as we can.

Get an honest answer

Not sure whether to repair or replace? Text a few photos to (318) 518-1524 and Superior Fence & Decks will give you a straight answer. Learn more about our fence repair service or read our fence cost guide. We're located at 126 Gardner St, Shreveport, LA 71106, and serve Shreveport, Bossier City, Benton, Haughton, Greenwood, Keithville, Stonewall and nearby towns.