How much does it cost to repair a wood fence?

Reviewed by Cristina Miguelez remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

When you fix a wooden fence, you prolong the life of the structure. In many scenarios, the cost to repair a fence is significantly less than installing a new one. Wood fence repairs are usually needed if the material has been rotted due to environmental exposure or the ground has shifted, resulting in leaning posts. The cost of wooden fence repair depends largely on how many posts, panels, and rails need to be replaced.

The average cost to fix a wooden fence ranges from $400 to $600. The average homeowner spends around $500 on replacing 50 to 100 feet of 6-ft stockade panels with posts, hardware, and labor​. That said, prices can be as low as $125 to repair 25 linear ft. of stockade fence and can climb as high as $2,000 to replace 400 linear feet of a 6-ft fence and repair a wooden gate, too.

Wood Fence Repair Price

Wood Fence Repair Cost per Foot

There are standard lengths of wood fencing. Because the size varies, the cost of repair varies as well. Common sizes range from 25 to 400 feet, with the width normally being 6 to 8 foot panels. As you may have guessed, the larger the area you need, the more fencing you will need, which is why it is important to know how much you need and how much it will cost you. Typically, it costs between $5 and $20 per linear foot to repair wood fencing. The average cost per foot to repair wood fencing ranges from $125 to $8,000, depending on the size.

Cost of Wood Fence Repair by Type of Wood

With so many choices, wood fencing has long been the material used to provide a barrier around back yards, gardens, and playgrounds. However, there are some cost differences in repairing wood fencing depending on the type of wood. The following are common wood types used to fix fencing, ranging from $4 to $35 per linear foot. These prices are for a 6-foot tall fence.

Composite 

Typically, it costs between $4 and $8 per linear foot to repair wood composite fencing. Compared to other wood varieties, composite fencing is very easy to maintain. Mostly, they just need occasional cleaning with water. Composite holds up better against severe weather, UV rays, insects, mold, and more. Other issues you will commonly see with them include scruffs, abrasions, and rust stains.

Pine Fence Repair

Pine fencing parts, including panels and gates, are also the least expensive material type, with an average cost to repair of $6 to $9 per linear foot. These repairs are typically the least expensive due to the commonality of the material. Common issues with pine fencing include shrinking, warping, and splitting in dry conditions. They can also rot over time without proper maintenance, which is why it is important to check on them at least once a year. Regular maintenance includes sealing and re-staining.

Redwood Fence Repair

The average repair cost is $6 to $10 per linear foot for a privacy fence made from redwood. They are made from softer wood and are more prone to damage. However, they have natural oils that resist rot and mold, making them more resistant to moist conditions. Many homeowners choose redwood for small areas such as patios and pools. It is important to note that without regular maintenance, they can crack in dry weather and take on serious sun damage, too.

Ipe Fence Repair

If you have an ipe fence, you can expect to pay between $6 and $10 per linear foot to repair it. This covers the cost of hiring a contractor to treat the wood so it does not turn gray over time. They also may need to replace panels if the wood is too far gone. Ipe is incredibly hard, which means it can naturally withstand harsh weather conditions and resist insects and mold, too. Typically, it can last upwards of 50 years with little to no maintenance.

Cypress Fence Repair

Cypress fencing is very durable and well worth the investment to fix at an average rate of $6 to $12 per linear foot. This type of wood is naturally resistant to corrosion, insects, and decay. This is because it produces a preservative called cypressene. However, it cannot protect itself all on its own. After a few years, you may see it turning a dark gray color or become covered with mold and moss if you do not take care of it.

Douglas Fir Fence Repair

When it comes to repairing Douglas fir fencing, plan to pay between $7 and $9 per linear foot. Douglas fir is a soft wood that is still rather stable and durable. However, it has an overall shorter lifespan because it does not naturally produce pest-resistant oils like other wood types. Since they are not as weather-resistant, you will have to keep an eye out for mold and mildew, storm damage, warping, and rot.

White Oak Fence Repair

Oak fencing repairs will be the most costly compared to other woods. You will spend at least $7 to $10 per linear foot to make common repairs. It is very expensive and a rarer choice for privacy fences. White oak is naturally resistant to the elements, making it a convenient choice for many different purposes. It is more prone to warp or bow, so it is important to keep an eye on it. This type of fencing is also great to contain animals that typically chew on other wood types like pine because it deters this behavior.

Spruce Fence Repair

Typically, it costs between $8 to $14 per linear foot to repair spruce fencing. Spruce is one of the most affordable types of wood for fencing, but it decays after about eight or ten years. Common issues that occur with this type of fencing are it darkens or turns gray over time without proper sealing, and the pickets shrink when they absorb moisture and then dry. It is less durable than many other fencing types and warps over time if not cared for properly. Be sure to inspect it once or twice a year or after severe weather events.

Cedar Fence Repair

Cedar wood has a very tight grain with high durability and costs $9 to $16 per linear foot to fix, which is a bit more expensive than many other wood types. This material is ultimately well worth the cost to maintain due to its attractive appearance. They are naturally more resistant to moisture, rot, and insects. On the downside, they dent and scratch easily and turn gray over time if you do not properly stain and seal them. That is why they require annual maintenance, including sanding, sealing, and staining.

Western Red Cedar Fence Repair

Western red cedar fencing usually costs between $10 and $17 per linear foot to repair. This type of wood is known for its warm tones and unique grain pattern, making it an attractive option for all properties. As long as you stain and seal it regularly, you should not have many issues with yours. Otherwise, it turns gray over time. This type of fencing will not shrink or warp over time and is naturally resistant to rot and insects. That said, the only thing you’ll need a contractor for is to treat it or replace boards that are too damaged.

Tropical Hardwood Fence Repair

To repair tropical hardwood fencing, you can expect to pay between $12 and $20 per linear foot. They are convenient in humid climates because they are naturally resistant to moisture. They are a bit more expensive to install and costly to repair since they are a much more rare wood variety. They will not need to be treated but should be inspected at least once a year or after bad storms to ensure they did not sustain any damage. You will want to hire a contractor to fix any broken posts, panels, or gates.

Black Locust Fence Repair

Repairing black locust fencing typically costs between $14 and $25 per linear foot to repair. The good news is they are very durable and require little to no maintenance barring any extreme weather conditions. Common repairs include dealing with wood rot or broken panels. When this happens, hire a contractor to either treat the wood or replace the pieces.

Bamboo Fence Repair

On average, it costs $16 to $35 per linear foot to repair bamboo fencing. Left untreated, it begins to rot after just two years. Treated, it can last up to 20 years. Either way, prolonged exposure to moisture causes rotting and warping, which is something you need to check continuously. When installed, most contractors suggest not having it in contact with soil so it stays out of the moisture.

Average Cost to Repair a Wood Fence by Type of Repair

Fences are made up of many different components. Each one has to remain in top shape to ensure your fencing looks great and stays in peak condition through every season for years to come. The parts needed to fix a fence affect the overall cost of the repair job. For example, larger parts, like a wooden gate, have a much higher repair price than the post caps and lumber rails. Depending on the type of repairs, you can expect to pay anywhere from $80 to $2,500.

Wood Fence Post Cap Repair

Expect to pay around $80 to $100 to repair a wood fence post cap. These are the coverings that fit over the top of the posts. Many people think these caps are just for decoration, but they actually do much more. They also protect the top part of the post itself, which is the most vulnerable part of the fence. If this part breaks, it is important to fix it right away. Otherwise, the rest of the structure can sustain damage over time.

Wooden Fence Rails Repair

An average cost of a wooden rail fix is $80 to $120. They need repair or replacement when they have pulled loose from the fence. Along with the rail, you need to pay for a t-brace to reinforce the replaced rail. You will also want to consider painting the replacement rail to match the rest of your fencing.

Picket Fence Repair

To fix a section of a picket fence, you will pay between $85 and $130. They are usually less expensive to repair than privacy fences. Manufactured replacement pickets are available for purchase, but if not, your contractor can provide a matching replacement constructed from wood. Picket fence repair usually needs a jig as part of your equipment rental fees.

Screening Material Repair

Screening repair jobs for fences cost between $100 and $150. Before repairing a screen, all broken pieces must be removed, along with any nails. Replacement wood and galvanized nails are required to make the necessary fix. Replacement pieces need to be stained or painted to match the rest of the fence.

Fence Panel Repair

To fix a single wooden panel, the cost is approximately $115 to $155. The replacement panel needs to be measured before you make the necessary repairs. Once the old panel is removed, the contractor will hang the replacement panels. Usually, the only hardware needed for this repair is screws or nails.

Wood Fence Post Repair

If you need to repair a fence post, you can expect to pay between $125 and $160. Wood post repair is usually needed if the post is leaning or has sustained substantial damage.Post repair costs include the post, hardware, and the equipment needed to make the fix. Post hole diggers are typically needed to replace the wooden post.

Wood Fence Reinforcement

The cost to reinforce fencing ranges between $200 and $600. There are a handful of different ways you can protect your fencing from the elements. This includes screwing braces along the rails and applying concrete at the base to secure the posts. To get the job done right, be sure to get in touch with a professional contractor near you.

Gate

To replace a wooden gate fence, you can expect to pay between $300 and $1,000. Wooden gate repairs include more working parts than other types. Wooden gate panels, hooks, and hinges are usually needed to complete the job. Galvanized steel is best for hardware replacements needed on wood fence gates. New hardware may be enough to fix a sagging gate, but total replacement of wooden gate panels may be best if the gate is old and badly damaged.

Wood Fence Painting and Staining

Painting and staining a fence costs from $1,000 to $2,500. When it comes to wood fencing, you can choose to do one or the other. If you want to retain your wood’s natural aesthetic, staining is the way to go. Painting gives you more style options, but it is not as durable or long-lasting as staining. This is because stain seeps into the surface of the wood while paint sits on top.

Price to Repair a Wood Fence by Type of Replacement

When minor repairs are not enough, it may be time to invest in replacement parts. Projects range from simple, like replacing post caps or a couple of pickets and panels to complex like installing a screen, lumber rails, and a new gate. As you may have guessed, the cost to replace wood fence posts and the cost to replace a wood fence gate will be much more expensive. Each part needs to be in good shape for it to look and perform at its best. Depending on what part you need to replace and how many pieces you need, you can expect to pay between $75 and $800.

Wood Fence Repair Prices by Type of Problem

The exact repairs needed dictate the average cost of a wood fence repair. Your contractor assesses the damage and recommends solutions to repair the underlying issue. The following are common fixes a contractor may suggest at your initial appointment. Depending on the problem and how you need to fix it, you can expect to pay between $60 and $4,075.

Rusted Nails or Screws

Typically, replacement hardware for your fence costs between $50 and $100, depending on the size and complexity of the project. You will need these if the current nails or screws are rusting. This happens if your fencing is exposed to moisture consistently over time. Many contractors remove the old screws and nails, costing an extra $10 to $20.

Leaning or Falling Panels

Similar to how you deal with leaning posts, you can have a contractor install support braces ($60 and $150) or lay a concrete foundation ($125 to $2,300) to stabilize leaning or falling panels. One of the more common fixes will be to replace the panels themselves, which can cost between $150 and $400. Falling panels can be an eyesore and lead to further damage to your fence down the road. This issue is usually caused by inclement weather or other external forces.

Leaning or Falling Posts

If you have leaning or falling posts, there are a couple of different things you should do. Adding support braces costs between $60 and $150. These will provide security against heavy winds and storms. They can also lay concrete, which can cost anywhere from $125 to $2,300, depending on the size of the fence. A few leaning or falling posts can ruin the integrity of your entire fence, which is why it is important to fix them quickly.

Cracked Wood

Smaller cracks can be fixed by filling them with a special type of putty or glue used specifically on wood. Typically, this project costs between $75 and $250. If left unchecked, these cracks can get larger and larger until it ruins the post. The cost of replacing wooden posts and boards ranges from $135 to $400. If your posts are cracking, it is probably because they are too dry.

Warping Wood

If you have to replace your fence pieces, it will cost $135 to $400. Over time, your fencing can warp due to an imbalance in the moisture content in the wood. Some minor warping can be fixed by applying heat, moisture, and pressure to the affected pieces of wood. In most severe cases, you will have to replace the boards or posts.

Stains or Mildew

Typically, to remove the stains or mildew on your fencing you should pressure wash your fence, which costs between $125 and $235. If it is starting to lose its aesthetic appeal due to stains or mildew growth, you will probably want to resolve the problem as quickly as possible. The pressuring washing process involves using unheated water fed through a pressurized motor. The power behind the water effectively cleans any surface. Get in touch with a local professional for the best pressure washing care.

Vehicle Drove Through

When it comes to fixing the damage, you can expect to pay between $250 and $800 if it is not covered by insurance. If a vehicle drives through your fencing, you should first contact your homeowners insurance provider. Damages should be covered by basic homeowners insurance policies. These costs include labor and materials for replacing any boards, posts, or the gate, depending on which part of the fence was hit. In addition to repairing it, contractors clean up the area to make sure no loose nails or screws are left strewn about the property.

Storm Damage

Storm damage repairs to your fence typically cost between $335 and $1,250. This will be much less expensive than dealing with most damages to your home since fencing is much more easily accessible and is made with fewer materials. No matter where you live, dealing with storms is inevitable. Extensive damages can still end up costing a lot, especially if your fence is made with more expensive materials.

Fallen Trees

Replacing any broken boards or posts will usually cost you between $135 and $400. However, you will want to dispose of the tree properly. This usually costs $400 to $900. While having trees on your property adds to its aesthetic, they can cause many problems. One of these potential issues occurs when the tree falls and damages your fencing. This can happen after a bad storm or if the tree is dying.

Ground Erosion

When dealing with ground erosion, you can expect to pay between $700 and $1,700 for a soil fill, depending on the size of your fence. Ground erosion affects the structural integrity of your entire fence, which is why it is important to resolve the issue quickly. Plus, ground erosion near the perimeter of your fencing leads to further damage closer to your home, which will be even more expensive.

Wood Rot or Termites

When dealing with wood rot or termite damage, the repairs are fairly straightforward. Pest control for termites typically costs between $300 and $1,200. After getting rid of the termites, you or a contractor will fill the holes with putty. This costs between $75 and $375. Wood rot can also occur from moisture and fungi growing in the fence. This happens when your fencing consistently stays damp for a long time. After that, you need to stain or repaint the area, costing from $1,000 to $2,500.

Labor Cost to Repair Wood Fence

Any type of fence repair requires professional assistance. The contractor gives an estimate after assessing the damaged portions of the fencing. Professionals provide recommendations on whether they can fix a fence. You can call a big company or contact a local fence repair company. Some landscapers, handymen, and general repair workers will also do it for you.

Fence post repair is possible, but if large sections are damaged or the fence is very old, new installation may be recommended. Seemingly small repairs should be addressed by a professional, too. Although you may think your wood fence repair is insignificant, there could be a more serious underlying issue, such as termites or ground erosion.

Estimates are typically free and included with the total for the wood fencing repairs. Labor charges for fence repair are usually between $50 and $100 per hour. Surcharges of $100 or more may be applied for emergency repair work. Traveling outside of the provider’s service area could result in a labor surcharge of $25 or more.

Cost Factors When Repairing a Wood Fence

Wood fence repair cost depends on the type of fixes needed for the project. A contractor’s estimate will reflect the following:

• Extent of damage. This is the biggest determinant in calculating wood fence repair cost. For example, replacing a single post is usually around $135. However, you could pay closer to $400 if you need to repair three or more missing or rotted boards.
• Age of wood. The age of the wood factors into how much you can expect to pay for wooden fence repairs. Older fencing will likely cost more to fix since the wood is more prone to have sustained damage over the years. Parts may also be harder to come by for older fencing.
• Type of wood. The type of wood used to make fence replacements has a direct impact on cost. For example, an 8’ section of untreated low-end wood may cost $35, while an 8’ section of red cedar costs an average of $60.
• Height, length, and style. The type of replacement is another factor when estimating costs. The height, length, and style of replacement pieces should match your current fencing. For instance, stockade fences usually measure at least 6 ft. high and cost more than a 3 ft. high picket fence to fix.
• Hardware and special parts. Any hardware or special sections cost more to fix than basic panels. For instance, a red cedar stockade fence gate will cost between $145 and $350 to replace.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance is extremely important after repairs. With the right maintenance, wood fencing lasts for ten years or longer. Plan an annual wood fencing maintenance day in the early spring months.

Pressure treated panels and posts give you a stronger wood fence. Sealants and stains add an extra layer of protection to the wood. You will probably want to stain or paint your wood fence every couple of years to keep it looking fresh. The cost to paint an entire fence ranges from $1,000 to $2,500.

Insects can be problematic to wood fencing. Treat your yard with insecticides to combat pesky bugs, such as termites and carpenter ants. Keep shrubs and trees trimmed away to avoid any issues like wood rot. Mold and dirt can build up over time on the wood fencing. Pressure washing a fence costs between $125 and $235 and can be done annually to remove any mold and residue from the wood. Although wood fencing is exposed to moisture during wet weather days, limit the amount of water by moving any sprinklers away from the wooden fence.​

Cost to Repair vs Replace Wood Fence

Fence repair cost is always significantly less than installating a new one. However, fixing wood fencing may only offer a temporary reprieve. Plus, certain areas may be too far gone for simple repairs. Trying to handle extensive damage with repairs can take more time and be more expensive. Repairs also usually will not have warranty protection like a replacement project will. That said, it is less costly, offers a quick turnaround, and will prolong the lifespan and current aesthetic of your current fence.

Replacement could be recommended if the fencing is substantially damaged or very old. Investing in a replacement is expensive, but it allows you to change the look of your current fence. Plus, the project will most likely be covered by a warranty. Depending on which option you choose, you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000. These prices refer to a 150-linear-foot fence.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Wood Lattice Fence

Privacy lattice is an enhancement to consider when arranging for wood fencing replacements and repairs. Wood lattice panels enhance the appearance of your fencing while maintaining privacy in your yard. The average cost of privacy lattice is $15 to $75 per panel.

Wood Fence Cross Beams

To make old fencing look new, add treated fence posts and cross beams. Mix up the old pickets with new ones scattered throughout. For posts and cross beams, expect to pay around $11 to $30 per linear foot.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Permits. Wood fence repairs typically do not require a special permit. However, if the repairs include replacement panels over 6 feet or if you live in a housing development, the rules may be different.
• Get prepared. Before you hire a contractor to make any wood fence repairs, get your yard ready for the crew’s arrival. The company is likely to arrange a visit to your home prior to making any repairs. During this visit, the contractors evaluate the extent of the damage to provide an accurate estimate. An estimate for wooden fence repairs will come at no cost to you.
• Experience. Not all fence installers will have the experience to make specialized repairs. Interview contractors who have a background in wood fence repairs.
• Warranty. Fencing manufacturers often include a warranty at the time of purchase. Review your warranty coverage before contacting contractors about wood fence fixes. Many manufacturers may only provide a limited one-year warranty. Make sure you review the requirements of your warranty since the company may require repairs to be made by an approved contractor.
• Clean-up services. Contractors normally include clean-up with their service contracts since leaving nails and damaged wood behind would be a liability. Clean-up jobs include nail and wood removal. You may be charged an hourly rate of $50 to $100 or more for this service.
• DIY. DIY is cost-effective, but many wooden fence repairs are specialized with the need of an experienced contractor.
• Accessibility. To gain access to the damaged area of the fence, the homeowner should remove any obstacles. This could include lawn furniture, statues, kids’ toys, barbecue grills, and potted plants. If you need to do any landscaping to provide better access to the damaged fence, schedule an appointment with a landscaper ahead of time. To remove a tree, expect to pay between $400 and $900, while removing poison ivy costs approximately $400 to $600. Landscaping services may also be needed after the wood fence repairs are completed. Yard clean-up services typically run between $200 and $500.