CRF Services Ltd
Fence panel fitting and fence repairs
A leaning post or a panel that blew out in the last storm is one of the most common garden jobs CRF is asked about. Fencing suits a one-man operation well: it is practical, outdoor work where care over lines and levels makes all the difference.
Finding out why the fence failed
Before replacing anything, it helps to know what actually went wrong. A panel that has simply rotted after years of weather is a straightforward swap. A whole run that leans usually points to posts that have rotted at ground level or were never set deep enough. Replacing panels without dealing with the posts only puts off the same problem until the next strong wind.
Danny will look at the posts, the gravel boards along the bottom, and how the fence sits against neighbouring structures and ground levels. That tells him whether you need a panel or two, new posts in a few places, or a fresh run along the whole boundary.
Typical fencing work
Most fencing enquiries fall into one of these.
- Replacing broken or rotten panels in an existing run
- Resetting or replacing leaning and rotten posts
- Fitting gravel boards to keep panels off wet ground
- Taking down and clearing away an old fence
- Putting up a new run of panels along a boundary
- Repairing or rehanging a garden gate
Boundaries and neighbours
Fences mark the line between properties, so it is worth sorting out whose fence it is and having a word with next door before work starts. Access often means working from both sides for a short time. Danny will ask about this when planning, but he cannot decide who owns a boundary for you, so check your deeds or talk to your neighbour if you are unsure.
Keeping the new fence on the same line as the old one is usually the simplest approach. If you want the line or height changed, mention it early, as it can affect your neighbours and sometimes needs more thought.
Making a fence last
Timber in contact with soil is where rot starts. Gravel boards, posts set properly and good drainage around the base all help a fence stand for longer. Treating exposed timber from time to time and keeping climbing plants and heaped soil away from panels also makes a noticeable difference.
If your garden is due a wider tidy, fencing can be combined with other landscaping, such as clearing overgrown borders, laying a path or neatening lawn edges, so the whole outdoor space finishes together rather than piece by piece.
Getting a clear quotation
Send photographs of the fence from both ends of the run, a close-up of any damaged posts and a rough length of the boundary. Say whether you want panels only or a full replacement, and whether the old fence needs taking away. With that information Danny can give you a clear idea of the work involved and arrange a visit to confirm the details.
The fence panel replacement cost guide on this site explains the factors that affect price, so you can go into the conversation knowing what to ask.
Working through the seasons
Fencing can be done most of the year, but very wet ground makes digging post holes harder and frozen soil slows everything down. Storm damage tends to bring a rush of enquiries at once, so if a panel has come down, secure what is left and send photographs early. A loose panel flapping in the wind can pull at the posts either side and turn a small repair into a longer one. If plants, sheds or compost bins sit against the fence line, clearing a working strip before the visit saves time on the day and protects your garden from accidental damage while the old fence comes down.
This work is part of our Landscaping service.
Common questions
Fence panel fitting and fence repairs questions answered
Have a job in mind?
Tell Danny what needs doing and get a clear, no-obligation quotation.