DIY or Hire a Service for Your Fence Repair in Ottawa

Did your fence look worn out recently? It may be leaning to one side, have some gaps in the boards, or have nails sticking out. If you live in Ottawa, you are well aware that the weather is unforgiving on fences. Snow, rain, and freezing temperatures can destroy even the toughest fences. Now you might wonder: do you fix the fence yourself or hire a fence repair service to get it done? Let’s discuss both options for fence repair in Ottawa so you can make the right decision.

Why Fence Repair in Ottawa is So Needed

However, before we discuss how to repair your fence, let’s discuss why fences are necessary in general. Fences do many things for your house:

• They provide you with privacy from the people next door.
• Fences keep kids and pets safe within your yard.
• They make your house look good and neat.
• They can even prevent animals from entering your garden.

However, once a fence begins to deteriorate and break, it can’t do those things well. So, you should repair your fence as soon as you detect a problem.

See also: Common Siding Materials Used in Sacramento Area Homes

Ottawa’s Weather and Your Fence

Ottawa’s weather makes fence repair a little trickier. Winters here are cold and snowy, and summers can be hot and wet. This kind of weather can cause:

• Wood to rot or crack
• Metal parts are prone to rust
• Fence posts to move or lean because of frozen ground
• Paint to peel off from moisture and sun

Due to this, repairing a fence in Ottawa sometimes requires more planning than elsewhere. You must consider the season, the type of material you use, and how deep the posts should go.

Repairing the Fence Yourself (DIY)

DIY is short for “Do It Yourself.” It refers to repairing yourself rather than having someone else do it. 

When DIY Is a Good Idea:

• If the damage is minor, such as one or two broken boards.
• If you have the tools required on hand.
• You enjoy doing handywork at home.
• If you wish to save some cash.

What You May Need:

• A hammer and nails
• A saw
• A level to guarantee things are level
• New boards or screws
• Cement if a post is loose or needs to be replaced.

 Hiring a Fence Repair Service in Ottawa

Sometimes, it’s best to leave Fence repair in Ottawa to the professionals. Commence Fence employs trained personnel who know the proper way to repair fences.

When Calling in a Professional Is the Smart Move:

• If your fence is seriously damaged.
• If your posts are tipping or collapsing.
• Your land is rocky or frozen.
• If you don’t have the proper tools or free time.
• If you’re not confident in how to repair safely.

What a Professional Will Do:

• Check your fence to find out what’s wrong.
• Inform you of the best solution to repair it.
• Use heavy equipment and quality materials.
• Make sure everything is straight and strong.
• Get the work done quicker than most others could alone.

How to Choose the Right Option for You

Still indecisive about DIY or hiring someone? Here are some questions you can ask yourself:

How bad is the damage?

• A loose board or tiny crack is simple enough to repair yourself.
• A leaning fence or rotting post may require a professional.

Do I have the time and tools?

• If you don’t have the correct equipment, buying it can be expensive. Repairing a fence also involves time and work.
• Do you have a weekend to devote to working outdoors?

What season is it?

• The frozen ground in winter in Ottawa makes digging difficult.
• Spring and autumn are more suitable for repairs since the weather is less extreme.

Am I comfortable with doing this work?

• Certain repairs will require you to use power tools, climb ladders, or apply cement. If any part of this puts you on edge, it’s fine to bring in the professionals.

Some Additional Tips for Ottawa Homeowners

If you choose to do it yourself or hire someone, here are some helpful tips to remember:

• Use long-lasting stuff such as pressure-treated wood or metal that does not rust or rot easily.
• Consult local regulations regarding fence height and location. The City of Ottawa has regulations on this, and you may require a permit.
• Maintain regularly. A minor repair now can keep you away from a vast, costly repair later.
• Keep grass and plants around your fence trimmed to keep it dry and free from rot.

Look for trouble signs such as loose boards, sagging posts, or rusted nails. Addressing minor issues immediately may help avoid larger ones.

Protect Your Home Better

Fences protect your house, pets, and family. They are worth maintaining, particularly in Ottawa’s rough climate. If you’re not sure, it can’t hurt to have a free estimate from Commence Fence for fence repair in Ottawa. They can come and assess the situation and let you know what’s required. Contact them now.