Fences offer a variety of benefits, including security and defining space. But they also need a bit of care to maintain their beauty and functionality. That’s where Taskrabbit comes in. Our NYC Taskers are experts at fence installation and repair, handling everything from cleaning to sanding and staining. Keep your fence in top condition with help from Taskrabbit!
A fence is a structure that encloses an area, typically outdoors, and is usually constructed from posts that are connected by boards, wire, rails or netting. Fences differ from walls in that they don’t have a solid foundation along their entire length.
One of the most popular reasons for having a fence is to keep children and pets wrangled up in your yard so they can’t escape or wander into dangerous areas where they could get lost or hurt. But a fence can be used to protect people and animals from other dangers, too, such as bodies of water or steep cliffs. It can also be useful for keeping your property from being harmed by wildlife, such as coyotes and squirrels that may try to dig under the fence or climb over it.
Most homeowners choose to have a wood fence, and the type of wood will determine how well it holds up against the elements. For example, cedar is a popular choice because it has a natural red color and fewer knots, which makes it more resistant to rot than other types of wood. It can also withstand wet conditions better than some other species of wood. But cedar will eventually rot, so homeowners will need to do periodic repairs or replace the fence panels and posts.
The main area that needs repair on a wooden fence is the post. This can be due to rotting or the post shifting in the ground. If a post is loose, it will need to be either replaced or reseated in the ground with concrete. This can cost $125 to $400, depending on the size and length of the fence.
During the construction of your fence, be sure to clear the area around it for easy access and safety. This includes removing landscaping debris, such as rocks and branches. If there are trees or shrubs near the fence, it’s a good idea to grind their stumps and roots to avoid future problems with root growth or falling limbs. If you need a professional then try fence installation and repair in Tampa, FL.
If your fence is made of a material that will require painting, it’s best to prep the surface before the contractor begins work. Clean the surface and remove any mildew or dirt with a pressure washer. Then, sand the area to smooth it out and apply an acrylic or oil-based paint. Staining and repainting can add to the cost of the project, but will make your fence look new again.
If your fence has cracks or chips in the wood, they can be repaired with a wood-specific glue or putty for between $75 and $250. Putting off these repairs can lead to larger cracks or holes, which will cost more to fix. Warping is another common problem that can be fixed by applying heat to the affected area and then sanding and staining it to match the rest of the fence.