Gate Damaged from Storm? Here's How to Fix it!

Has a recent storm left your fence gate looking worse for wear? High winds and severe weather can wreak havoc on even the most durable fence, compromising your property's security and curb appeal. But don’t worry, homeowners! This blog is your one-stop guide to assessing and repairing fence gates damaged by storms.

Whether you’re dealing with the aftermath of a storm or looking to fortify your fence against future weather events, this blog aims to equip you with the knowledge you need. We'll explore the different ways severe weather can damage your fence gate, how to assess the situation safely, and the options you have for getting things fixed, DIY, or with a pro.

Understanding Storm Damage

Severe weather, particularly thunderstorms packing high wind speeds, can leave a path of destruction on your property. But beyond roof damage or downed trees, fences, and fence gates often take a significant hit. Powerful winds can directly impact your fence gate in several ways:

• Warped Frame: The relentless pressure can bend and distort the gate's frame, making it difficult or impossible to open and close smoothly.
• Sagging Gate: Over time, sustained wind can cause the gate to sag away from its hinges, creating an unwanted gap at the bottom and compromising its functionality.
• Complete Breakage: In extreme cases with exceptionally high winds, the force can completely snap the gate frame or hinges, leaving a gaping hole in your fence line.

Strong winds can also transform loose objects in your yard or surroundings into dangerous projectiles. Flying debris, such as branches, furniture, or even trash cans, can collide with the fence gate, causing various types of damage:

• Dents and Scratches: At the bare minimum, flying debris can leave unsightly marks on the gate's surface, affecting its aesthetics and appearance.
• Cracks and Splinters: Depending on the size and force of the impact, debris can cause cracks or even splintering in the gate material, be it a wood fence or vinyl fence.
• Hinge and Latch Damage: A forceful collision can damage the gate's hinges or latch, rendering the gate unusable or insecure.

Assessing the Damage after a Storm

After a storm, it’s crucial to assess the damage to your property, particularly your privacy fence and gate. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it effectively and safely.

Safety First

Before you begin your inspection, safety should be your top priority. Storms can leave behind hazards like exposed wires, broken glass, or sharp splinters. Take a moment to visually scan the area around your fence for any potential dangers before approaching the damaged gate. If everything is safe, you can clean up the surroundings to make the area safe to work.

Visual Inspection

Once you checked and are happy with the surroundings, you can do a visual inspection of your fence and gate. Look for obvious signs of wind damage such as cracks, splintering, or warping in the wood. Check for misalignment in the fence panels or the gate. These could be indications of structural damage that may require professional repair.

Gate Functionality

Next, check the functionality of your gate. Can you open and close it smoothly? Does the latch engage and secure the gate properly? If the gate is significantly warped or damaged, it may be completely unusable.

Repairing a Storm-Damaged Fence Gate

Now that you've assessed the storm's wrath on your fence gate, it's time to consider your repair options. For minor storm damage, some homeowners with a knack for DIY projects might feel comfortable tackling repairs themselves. Here are some examples of DIY-friendly fixes:

• Reattaching Loose Boards: If a strong wind has dislodged a board from the gate frame, you might be able to reattach it using screws or nails appropriate for the fence material.
• Tightening Hinges: Over time, hinges can loosen, causing the gate to sag. Fortunately, fixing a sagging fence gate can be quite easy. Often, it can be remedied by simply tightening the hinge screws. 

However, it’s important to remember that DIY repairs are time-consuming and require a certain level of skill and understanding. Using the right tools for the job is crucial, as is knowing when a repair is beyond your capabilities. Always prioritize safety when undertaking DIY repairs.

For situations where the damage is significant or requires specialized skills, hiring a qualified fence contractor is the best course of action. Here are some scenarios where professional help is recommended:

• Extensive Damage: If the storm caused major fence and/or gate damage, like a completely broken gate frame or significant warping, a professional contractor has the expertise and tools to handle a complex repair.
• Structural Issues: If the storm damage has impacted the structural integrity of your fence, such as a leaning post, a professional can assess the problem and recommend the most appropriate solution.

Additional Considerations

While getting your fence gate back in working order is the primary goal, there are a few additional factors to keep in mind:

• Warranty Coverage: Some fence materials or even the installation itself might have warranty coverage that extends to storm damage. Take a moment to review your warranty documents to see if it applies to your fence gate. Contacting the manufacturer or installer can also provide clarification.
• Building Codes: Before embarking on fence repairs or replacements, it's important to be aware of your local building codes. These regulations may dictate aspects like fence height, material limitations, and setback requirements. Please check with your local building department and ensure your repairs or replacements comply with the regulations.
• Privacy Concerns: A damaged fence gate can compromise the privacy and security of your backyard. While repairs are underway, consider installing a temporary privacy screen. This could be a simple tarp or even strategically placed landscaping fabric to deter unwanted eyes and maintain a sense of security.

How to Protect Your Fence Gate from Storms

Storms can be a real threat to the integrity of your fence and fence gates. However, with the right precautions and regular maintenance, you can enhance the resilience of your fence against high winds and severe weather conditions. Here are a few things to do:

Reinforcing Fence Panels

One of the most effective ways to protect your fence from storms is to reinforce the fence panels. This can be done in several ways:

• Use sturdy materials: Opt for high-quality, durable fence materials that can withstand high winds. For instance, metal and certain types of wood are known for their strength and durability. Also, make sure the fence gate is built sturdily.  
• Install windbreaks: Planting shrubs or installing other types of windbreaks around your fence can help reduce the impact of high winds.
• Secure the panels: Ensure that each panel is securely attached to the fence posts. You can use brackets, screws, or other types of fasteners for this purpose. The more secure the panels, the less likely they are to be damaged by high winds.

Regular Maintenance

Regular maintenance plays a crucial role in preventing severe storm damage. Here are some maintenance tips:

• Inspect your fence and fence gate regularly: Look for signs of wear and tear, such as loose panels, rust, or rot. Early detection of these issues can prevent further damage during a storm.
• Repair damages promptly: If you notice any damage to the fence gate, repair it as soon as possible. Even minor damages can become major problems during a storm.
• Seal your fence: If you have a wooden fence, consider sealing it to protect against moisture damage. This can help prevent rot and make your fence more durable.

Conclusion

Climate changes are unpredictable. But when it comes to your fence gate, with the right knowledge and preparation, you can weather the storm – literally and figuratively. In this blog, we tried to equip you with the information you need to assess storm damage, determine the best repair approach (DIY or professional), and even explore preventative measures to keep your fence gate strong and secure. We know that a well-maintained fence not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your property but also ensures its security and privacy. We hope you understand too. If you are looking for professional advice on anything related to your fence and fence gate, don’t hesitate to contact us at Ergeon today!