What we look at when we arrive
Our first job in Stourport-on-Severn is always to walk the whole boundary before touching anything. We look at the overall line first, because a fence that leans or bows along its length tells us a lot before we get close. Then we go post by post, checking firmness and probing the timber just above the soil for softness. On a Stourport-on-Severn visit we also stand back at the far end and sight along the tops of the posts, which shows any lean or dip that is hard to spot from close range.
After the posts, we check rails, panels and boards, then any gate. We note whether damage is in one spot or spread out. We also think about what is around the fence: damp ground, overhanging plants, a slope or a hedge pressing against the timber can each shorten a fence's life. Most of the verdict comes from those few minutes of looking.
The honest line between repair and replacement
We are happy to repair when it is the right answer. A few loose or split boards, a single panel, or one leaning post with sound timber around it can usually be put right and the fence carries on. We would rather tell you that than sell you a bigger job than you need. A fence that has a few years left in it is worth keeping, and we will help you get those years.
When posts are rotten at the base in several places, or panels and rails are soft along the run, we say so plainly. Repairs in that situation tend to come back as the next fault appears a few bays along. Replacing the whole run once, with gravel boards fitted, often works out as the better value than patching again and again. Many homeowners are relieved to hear a clear answer, even when it is the bigger job, because it ends the cycle of small fixes.
Making your own decision at home
You do not need us there to start the process. Take a screwdriver and a phone, walk the fence, and test each post. Photograph anything doubtful. Count the faults and notice whether they are clustered or scattered. A clustered fault points to repair, and scattered faults point to replacement. Take the photographs in daylight, include the base of the posts, and show any gate or corner that gives you concern.
If the fence is shared with a neighbour, a calm chat first often saves trouble later. As general information only, ownership and responsibility vary, so check your deeds or ask your local council if you are unsure. We are fencers rather than solicitors, so we cannot give legal advice, but we can tell you what the timber is doing.
Quick tips
- Walk the whole boundary before touching anything, as the overall line often shows more than any single close-up check.
- Look for damp ground, overhanging plants or hedges pressing on the timber, since they shorten the life of a fence.
- Clustered faults point to a repair; scattered faults along the run point to replacement.
- Photograph doubtful areas with something for scale so we can give you a clearer opinion from a distance.
If you are in Stourport-on-Severn, DY13, and unsure about a fence, call us or send a photo with the fence location. We also work in Kidderminster and Bewdley, and you can take our opinion or leave it with no pressure.
Frequently asked questions
What do you check first when you look at a fence in Stourport-on-Severn?
We walk the whole boundary before touching anything, looking at the overall line for lean or bowing. Then we go post by post, probing the timber just above the soil for softness, before checking rails, panels, boards and any gate. Most of the verdict comes from those few minutes.
Can I send you photographs so you can advise on my fence?
Yes. Take them in daylight, include the base of the posts, and show any gate or corner that worries you. Putting something in the shot for scale helps. We can then give you a clearer opinion from a distance on whether repair or replacement suits your fence.
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