Symptoms
- One or more pickets cracked, split, or missing
- Panel feels soft or crumbles near the ground
- Gap or leaning section in an otherwise solid fence line
Likely causes
- CommonWood rot from ground contact or prolonged moisturePickets and rails touching soil or mulch stay damp and decay faster than the rest of the fence.
- CommonImpact damage from a fallen branch, mower, or vehicleA hard knock can crack or snap individual pickets or rails.
- PossibleOld or brittle material reaching the end of its lifespanSun and weather exposure over many years makes wood and some vinyl brittle.
- PossiblePost movement pulling panels looseA shifting or leaning post can stress and crack the panels attached to it.
What to do
- Identify whether the damage is isolated to a picket or panel, or if it traces back to a leaning or rotted post.
- Remove the damaged picket or panel section by unscrewing or prying it free from the rails.
- Measure the removed piece carefully to buy a matching replacement in the same material and dimensions.
- Treat or seal the cut ends of new wood pickets before installing to slow future moisture absorption.
- Attach the new panel or picket using corrosion-resistant screws or nails matched to the original fasteners.
- Check the post at that section for stability, and address any rot or lean there before considering the repair complete.
Tools and parts
- Pry bar
- Drill/driver
- Tape measure
- Saw (if trimming new pickets)
Matching fence picket or panelSearch: “replacement fence picket panel”
Exterior wood sealantSearch: “exterior wood fence sealant”
When to call a pro
A fencing contractor can efficiently replace multiple damaged sections or address a leaning post affecting several panels.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.