If you own a fence, you want it to last. A lot of people think their new fence will look the same in five years as it did in week one. That is rarely the case, especially here. Rain, snow, hot sun, and wind: all can damage a fence. Some skip basic upkeep and end up searching for fence repair Colorado Springs far sooner than they expected.
The Real Cost of Neglect
A fence needs more than the occasional repair. I learned this the hard way. I left debris and leaves along my back fence for a year. The moisture rotted the bottom boards. When I tried to clean it up, several boards snapped off.
I called a few fencing companies Colorado Springs and learned that regular cleaning and sealing could have saved me hundreds of dollars.
A little prevention each year adds years to your fence. Skipping this will cost you, sooner or later.
What Should You Actually Do?
Keep it simple. Every spring and fall:
- Check for loose boards or posts
- Look for stains or discoloration
- Cut back bushes that crowd panels
- Sweep away soil or mulch from fence bottoms
This can be boring, but it prevents big damage.
Should You Stain or Paint?
If you have wood fencing, stain soaks in and repels water. Paint sits on the surface. Both can work, but stain needs to be redone every two to three years. Skipping it invites repairs.
Are Vinyl and Metal Fences Trouble-Free?
Some people think vinyl or metal fencing is zero work. It is mostly true, but not always. Vinyl gets brittle after a lot of sun. Steel rusts if the paint chips. Even Vanta Fencing crews will tell you, no fence lasts forever.
Pets and Fences
Pets can dig, chew, or lean on fences, making small problems worse. Pet owners here seem to call fence repair Colorado Springs services more often than people without pets.
Call a Pro or DIY?
Some repairs, like tightening hardware, you can do yourself. If you see wobbly posts or wide gaps, call someone like Vanta Fence Repair. In my case, trying to fix a leaning post alone was a mistake. I made it worse, and the pros took longer to fix my work.
Plants: Friend or Enemy?
Vines and shrubs look nice but can trap moisture. I once let ivy run wild on a fence. When I removed it, the boards crumbled in my hands. I learned my lesson.
Common Problems by Fence Type
| Fence Material | Common Issue | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Wood | Rot, warping, insect damage | Stain, seal, replace soft boards |
| Vinyl | Cracks from impact or sun | Replace cracked panels |
| Chain Link | Rust, loose wires | Paint, tighten hardware |
| Steel/Aluminum | Paint chips, rust at base | Touch up paint, seal base |
Costs of Neglect vs. Maintenance
A fence wash costs $50-$200 per year by a pro. Repairs can run $300-$800 if you wait too long. If you use Vanta Fence or similar companies, ask if they offer annual checkups. Some do, but you may need to call and ask, since not all post the service online.
Is Professional Maintenance Worth It?
If you lack time or tools, calling a pro makes sense. But if you care about details, you can do a lot yourself. Sometimes the best approach is to let a pro inspect every few years, just in case you missed something.
Catching a minor issue early saves money. Waiting until the wind blows down an entire section will hurt your wallet.
Weather Challenges in Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs can change from snow to sun in hours. That puts strain on materials. Some fencing companies Colorado Springs use extra-deep posts or reinforced anchors for windy lots. Ask if you notice your fence shakes more than your neighbor’s fence.
Finishing Thoughts
A little effort keeps your fence strong. Choose fence contractors Colorado Springs who teach you about proper care, not just those looking for the next sale. If you want your fence to last, you need to invest small amounts of time or money each year. It can feel tedious but pays off long-term. That is how you make your fence work for you.
