Replace panel
2Replace post
1 Replace post
2 Make gate stable
3 Secure hinges
STRUCTURAL PROBLEMS
205
BROKEN OR UNSTABLE FENCING
1
Replace panel
• If a fence panel has been damaged by an impact, blown over by high winds, or is in a state of disrepair, you will need to replace it.
• For a panel supported by wooden posts or recessed concrete posts, remove the nails or angle brackets holding the panel in place at each end and remove the panel. Hold a new panel in place and reattach it.
• For a panel supported by grooved concrete posts, slide the old panel out and slide a new one in.
Slot the fence panel into the grooved concrete post
2Replace post
• If a fence post wobbles, it is rotten at the base and needs replacing.
• Detach the fencing on either side. If the fence is closeboarded, wedge
strong wood props under the top edge to hold the fence in place while you work on the post.
• For a post set in concrete, cut it off at ground level, drive a metal
repair socket into the centre of the stump, then insert a new post cut to the right length. Reattach the fencing panels on either side.
• For a post not set in concrete, dig it out and replace it with a new one.
• Before inserting the new post, soak it in chemical preserver overnight
to protect it against rot.
• Anchor the new post firmly into the ground then reattach the
fencing panels on either side.
BROKEN OR UNSTABLE GATE
1 Replace post
• A rotten gate post should be replaced by a new wooden post( see Replace post, above).
2 Make gate stable
• If a gate is generally unstable, check the diagonal brace on its back. If the brace is not sound, replace it with a new one.
• Alternatively, if a joint is loose, open the joint slightly and squeeze some waterproof adhesive into it. Use a metal bracket to keep the joint together, fixed with 1-in( 25-mm) galvanized or alloy screws.
3 Secure hinges
• If a gate is sagging, the hinges may need to be secured using longer or thicker screws.
Reattach the hinges with stronger screws