There are several causes of rotting/weak fence posts. The main cause is the wood having prolonged exposure to moisture in soil which means fence posts decay at ground level – just above the concrete base. This means the post will still be solid below and above the damaged area.
Insect infestations can also cause rotting in wooden fence posts. Some insects such as a range of beetles, woodworm and moths use wood as their home for their entire life cycle, making it increasingly weak over time.
When wind and other natural elements are thrown into the mix, it can make already weak, stressed and rotted posts weaker and ultimately break.
If the unsupported weight of the broken section of fencing is not reinforced, it will start to affect the other areas and pull down the adjacent posts. Therefore, if the rotten or weak fence post is not seen to immediately, one broken fence post can soon cause the whole fence to collapse.
What can you do to prevent it in the future?
There are a few fence repair solutions on the market but none like the award-winning Post Buddy repair system, which is completely unique. This affordable product makes it quick and easy to repair a broken fence post where it stands. Unlike other repair methods, the Post Buddy stake allows you to fix any size and shape concreted-in fence post in even difficult to reach places, without destroying your garden.
The end of the Post Buddy stake embeds firmly into the below ground wood of the post, finding a solid anchor below the rotted or weak section, supported by the surrounding concrete base.
Once the top of the Post Buddy is securely screwed in place on to the fence post (above the weakened section of fence post), it ultimately bridges the broken section and re-joins the two pieces of the snapped post by creating a solid link which will last years.
Safety is key
When embarking on any project where tools are required, health and safety is paramount, this is no different when repairing fence posts.
As with any device driven into the ground, satisfy yourself that there are no services within the vicinity (e.g. gas, electricity, water).
Safety equipment including heavy duty protective gloves and eye protection are advised.
A second pair of hands could also come in handy if available!
Repairing Tips
By using a Post Buddy system you are saving time and money.
Here are a few do’s and don’ts when repairing a rotted or weak fence post:
The Do’s
- For the Post Buddy solution to work, the post must be set in concrete – do check this
- Do ensure you have good quality screws available to fix the stakes to your fence post
- Do ensure you have all the required tools to hand before getting started
The Dont’s
- Don’t use an inferior product – you will have to repair your fence again in no time!
- Don’t attempt to use a Post Buddy system if your fence post is not set in concrete.
- Don’t drive the Post buddy stakes into the ground past the MAX line.
- Don’t attempt to drive the stakes into concrete, they are designed to go between the post and the concrete setting.