Don't Let Your Fence Fall Apart: How to Hire a Repair Company
15
Dec
2025
Author:
Rob Thibeault
Why Your Wooden Fence Deserves Professional Repair
Wooden fence repair companies are your best resource when your fence shows signs of wear like rotting wood, broken pickets, or leaning posts. Here's how to hire the right one:
Verify licensing and insurance - Most states require fencing installers to be licensed
Get at least three written quotes - Average fence repairs cost around $250, ranging from $50 to $1,443
Check online reviews and referrals - Look for companies with proven experience and positive customer feedback
Ask about warranties - Reputable companies stand behind their work
Confirm they handle permits - Many repairs require local permits and property surveys
Your wooden fence provides privacy, security for kids and pets, and curb appeal. But over time, weather and wear can turn it into an eyesore or a safety hazard. When you see sagging gates, warped panels, or leaning posts, you must decide between a DIY fix and hiring a professional.
Most fence repairs require specialized skills, tools, and knowledge of local building codes that homeowners typically lack. Hiring the wrong contractor can lead to poor work and costly future repairs. This guide will help you spot warning signs, choose a qualified contractor, and understand fair pricing.
A wobbling post or cracked picket doesn't automatically mean you need a new fence. Knowing whether to repair or replace can save you money and stress. In New England, harsh weather—from freezing winters to humid summers—can quickly turn a small weakness into a major problem. At Brentwood Fence LLC, we help homeowners across New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine make this choice.
Common issues include rotting wood (especially at ground level), warped panels, leaning posts, insect damage, and general weather-related wear. A simple guideline is the "20% rule": if more than 20% of your fence needs repair, replacement is usually more cost-effective. A new fence may be a better investment than patching up widespread damage.
Repairs make sense when damage is localized and your fence is relatively young. You'll save money, create less waste, and restore your fence's appearance quickly. The benefits of repairing a wood fence often outweigh replacement when the overall structure is sound.
Signs You Need a Repair
Here's when a repair from experienced wooden fence repair companies will suffice:
Loose boards: Pickets that have worked free can be re-secured, often with stronger fasteners.
A sagging gate: This common issue is often fixable by adjusting hinges or reinforcing the gate's structure.
Localized rot: If rot is confined to a single post or a few pickets, those sections can be replaced without affecting the rest of the fence.
Broken pickets: These are simple to replace and instantly improve your fence's appearance and function.
Faded stain or peeling paint: While cosmetic, this indicates the protective layer is failing. Refreshing it prevents more significant damage.
Signs You Need a Replacement
In some cases, starting fresh is the better long-term solution:
Widespread damage (20% or more): At this point, the cost of labor and materials for repairs may approach that of a new installation.
Multiple leaning posts: This often signals a systemic issue, such as improper installation or widespread rot at the post bases.
Extensive rot at post bases: The posts are the fence's foundation. If several are compromised, the entire structure lacks integrity.
Old age: A fence that is 15-20 years old may have cumulative wear that makes frequent repairs inevitable.
Outdated style: If your fence no longer fits your home's aesthetic or your privacy needs, a replacement is a valid choice. For detailed cost information, check out more on fence replacement costs.
How to Find and Choose Reputable Wooden Fence Repair Companies
Finding the right wooden fence repair companies in New Hampshire, Massachusetts, or Maine doesn't have to be difficult. Your fence is a significant investment, and you need a contractor who will treat it with care.
Start by asking for referrals from neighbors, friends, and family. Word-of-mouth often leads to reputable local contractors. Next, research online reviews on multiple platforms. Look for consistent patterns in feedback regarding punctuality, communication, and long-term customer satisfaction. A professional company should also have an online presence that showcases their work. For more tips, see our Guide to Choosing a Local Fence Company in NH, MA, ME.
What to Look for in Wooden Fence Repair Companies
When evaluating potential contractors, look for these non-negotiable qualities:
Licensing and insurance: Most states require fence installers to be licensed. Insurance protects you from liability if an accident occurs on your property. Hiring an unlicensed contractor can lead to code violations and poor-quality work.
Years of experience: A company with a long history of repairing wooden fences in New England understands how our climate affects different materials.
Portfolio of work: Photos of completed projects reveal a company's craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Positive customer testimonials: Consistent praise for communication, clean work sites, and fair pricing is a strong indicator of a reliable company. For more insights, see our guide to finding the Best Rated Fence Company.
Written estimates: Always insist on a detailed written quote that outlines the scope of work, materials, labor costs, and timeline.
Warranties: Reputable companies offer guarantees on both labor and materials, giving you peace of mind after the job is done.
Key Questions to Ask a Potential Contractor
Before signing a contract, ask these questions to gauge a contractor's professionalism:
Are you licensed and insured to work in my state (NH, MA, or ME)?
What is your experience with repairing wooden fences specifically?
What is the estimated timeline for my project?
Who handles the permit and property survey process?
What is your payment schedule? (Be wary of contractors demanding full payment upfront.)
Where do you source your materials?
What is your cleanup policy?
What are the risks of hiring an unlicensed installer? A professional will explain how their credentials protect your investment.
The Professional Repair Process: From Consultation to Completion
Once you've chosen your wooden fence repair company, a professional will follow a straightforward process to restore your fence without stress. Here’s what to expect from consultation to completion.
Consultation & On-Site Assessment: The process begins with a discussion of your concerns, followed by a thorough on-site inspection. A technician will identify all issues, including those you may have missed.
Detailed Quote: You'll receive a comprehensive estimate that breaks down the scope of work, materials, and total cost, ensuring no hidden fees.
Project Scheduling & Material Selection: Once you approve the quote, the company will schedule the work at a convenient time and confirm material choices, such as matching an existing stain.
The Repair Process: The skilled team arrives with all necessary tools and materials to complete the job. Most simple repairs are finished in one to two days, though weather can cause delays.
Final Inspection: You'll walk through the completed work with the contractor to ensure you are fully satisfied with the results. This reflects a commitment to quality, as detailed in our Fence Installation Client Commitment.
The average fence repair costs around $250, but prices can range from $50 for a minor fix to over $1,400 for extensive work. Straightening a leaning fence typically costs between $200 and $400. Several factors influence the final price:
Labor Rates: Complex repairs requiring specialized skills cost more.
Material Costs: The type of wood (e.g., pine vs. cedar), fasteners, and concrete all affect the price.
Extent of Damage: Replacing a few pickets is inexpensive, while addressing widespread structural issues is more costly.
Fence Height and Style: Taller or more intricate fences require more material and labor.
Terrain and Location: Fences on steep slopes or in hard-to-reach areas can increase labor costs. For more pricing information, see our guide on Fence Cost Per Linear Foot NH, MA, ME.
Common Materials and Durability
The materials used by wooden fence repair companies are critical for a long-lasting repair, especially in New England's climate.
Pressure-Treated (PT) Wood: This is a durable and affordable choice, especially for posts. The wood is chemically treated to resist rot and insects. It should be sealed or stained for UV protection.
Cedar: A premium option, cedar naturally resists rot and insects. It's less prone to warping and can be left to weather to a silvery-gray or stained to preserve its color. While more expensive upfront, its longevity makes it a worthwhile investment.
Fasteners: Screws are recommended over nails for their superior holding power, which prevents boards from loosening as wood expands and contracts.
Concrete: Posts should be set in concrete to provide stability and prevent leaning.
Understanding these materials helps you appreciate the quality of a professional repair. For more on structural components, see our Complete Wood Fence Rails Guide.
Maintaining Your Repaired Fence to Prevent Future Issues
After your fence has been professionally repaired by skilled wooden fence repair companies, regular maintenance is key to keeping it in great shape and preventing future issues. A little attention goes a long way in avoiding expensive problems.
Regular Inspections: Walk your fence line twice a year (spring and fall) and after major storms. Look for loose boards, early signs of rot, or leaning posts.
Annual Cleaning: Gently wash your fence once a year with a mild detergent and soft brush to remove dirt, mold, and mildew. Avoid high-pressure washers, as they can damage the wood.
Staining and Sealing: In New England's climate, a quality stain or sealant is crucial. This protective barrier against moisture and UV rays should be reapplied every two to three years.
Prevent Moisture Damage: Ensure sprinklers aren't soaking your fence and that water doesn't pool around post bases, as this can cause rot.
Manage Vegetation: Trim trees, shrubs, and vines away from the fence. This prevents scraping, moisture buildup, and hidden insect infestations.
Address Minor Issues Promptly: Tighten a loose board or clean a small patch of mildew immediately. Small, quick fixes can prevent major, costly repairs later on.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wood Fence Repair
As experienced wooden fence repair companies serving New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine, we've answered countless questions from homeowners. Here are some of the most common ones.
How long does a typical wood fence repair take?
The timeline depends on the scope of work. Minor fixes like replacing a few pickets can take just a few hours. More involved projects, such as stabilizing leaning posts or rebuilding a section, typically take 1-2 days. The final timeline can be affected by weather delays or material availability. We provide a realistic schedule during your consultation.
Do I need a permit for a wood fence repair?
Whether you need a permit depends on your local regulations and the scope of the repair. Minor fixes like replacing a few pickets or adjusting a gate usually don't require a permit. However, major work such as changing the fence's height, altering its location, or replacing a large section often does. Some municipalities may also require a property line survey for larger projects. An experienced contractor will know the local codes and can guide you through the permit process. Before any digging, your contractor must call 811 to have underground utility lines marked. This is a free service and is required by law to ensure safety.
What are the benefits of repairing a fence instead of replacing it?
When damage is limited, repairing your fence has several key advantages over a full replacement:
Cost Savings: Repair is almost always significantly cheaper than replacement, saving you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Less Waste: Repairing is a more sustainable choice, as it keeps usable materials out of landfills.
Faster Completion: Most repairs are completed much faster than a full installation, meaning less disruption to your property.
Preserving Aesthetic: A repair allows you to maintain your fence's unique style, especially if it was custom-built or has sentimental value.
When a repair can restore your fence's strength and appearance, it's often the smartest move. Our Fence Repair Company NH, MA, ME services are designed to maximize these benefits.
Conclusion
Your wooden fence is a key part of your home's privacy, security, and curb appeal. Knowing when to call professional wooden fence repair companies can save you from a costly replacement down the line. This guide has covered how to identify problems, decide between repair and replacement, choose a reputable contractor, and maintain your fence post-repair.
Restoring your fence improves your property's value and provides peace of mind. A strong, beautiful fence starts with quality craftsmanship from an experienced team.
At Brentwood Fence LLC, we provide expert fence services to homeowners across New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine. Whether you need a minor fix or a major repair, our team is ready to help. Contact us for your wood fencing installation and repair needs to keep your fence standing strong for years to come.
