How To Fix a Leaning Fence Post

A fence can be a functional part of your home or an accent piece that completes your home’s look. But a leaning fence will diminish your home curb appeal and, if left unrepaired, can lead to more expensive fence replacement.

When you have one or two leaning posts, it is much more affordable to straighten the post than to rebuild the fence.

So, how do you fix a leaning fence post?

This article will walk you through the step-by-step guide to fixing a leaning fence post.

Step-by-Step Guide To Fix a Leaning Fence Post

It’s common for a fence to loosen at the concrete base due many reasons. Whatever the reason your fence post is leaning, you must address it immediately if you notice that you have a leaning post.

You will need braces, concrete, a shovel, a wheelbarrow, a level, and a wrench or screwdriver to fix a leaning fence post.

Below are the steps to follow to fix a leaning fence post:

Step #1: Assess the Situation

The first step to take when you want to fix a leaning fence post is to determine the extent of the damage. Determine the cause of the leaning fence post: if the wood has rotten at the base or if you use a metal post.

Also, check if it is rusted or if the post has bent due to an impact. Also, check if the ground underneath has given way.

Assessing why the fence is leaning will help you know the best approach to fix it. If the wooden post has rotted or the metal post has rust, the best method to fix it is to replace it. If a bent post is why you have a leaning fence, you can fix the issue by straightening the post.

But if the soil has moved due to erosion, you can use concrete to reinforce the post.

Step #2: Relieve the Pressure From the Post

To fix the bent fence post, you must free it from the rest of the structure. Removing the retaining clip and post cap will free the fence post from the rest of the structure if you have a chainlink fence.

For a wooden fence, you will need a few spare 2 x 4 x 8s to create some bracing for the fence panel. After attaching the bracing for both sides of the fence, stake them to the ground. You can then pry the stringer off the fence post that is leaning.

Step #3: Excavate Around the Post

The next thing to do is to excavate your post. At the base of your post, there is often a chunk of concrete. Your goal is not to break the concrete but to dig around it.

You are to dig about 18 inches around and 2 feet down.

When excavating around the post, aim to remove enough material so that you can move the post back to its vertical position.

Also, note that you will need enough room to install a brace so it stays in place. When straightening the fence, use a level to ensure it is vertical.

Step #4: Mix a Fast-Setting Concrete

Hold the fence post in place using concrete, as this helps prevent it from bending again. Ensure you get fast-setting concrete so you don’t have to wait too long for it to dry. Mix the concrete in a container or wheelbarrow.

The number of posts you are fixing should determine the quantity of concrete to mix, so you only mix what is required.

Mix 60 lb or 27 kg of fast-setting concrete with water in a container or wheelbarrow using a shovel for two fence posts. Ensure you use only a little water to get the right consistency. Always read the manufacturer’s instructions on how to mix the specific concrete.

Step #5: Set the Post Brace in the Hole

With the concrete ready, assemble the brace you got to hold the fence in place. Put the brace in the hole and position it such that it braces against the post. Having someone hold the post for you while you set the brace will be great.

Aim for the rectangular part of the brace to flush against the post. With the brace in place, use something to secure it and ensure it does not go out of position.

Step #6: Fill the Hole Around the Brace With the Concrete

Carefully start pouring concrete on the brace to hold it in place. Ensure you fill the hole you dug evenly with concrete on all sides to avoid it from tilting to one side again.

Stop adding concrete to the hold when it levels with the surrounding ground. Check the brace with the post fence and make any minor adjustments before the concrete sets.

Also, you can use a stick or pole to press the concrete around the base of the brace to ensure no uneven spots or air pockets.

Step #7: Attach the Brace to the Post Using Screws

Concrete have different drying time, but generally, it can take up to 4 hours for it to set and about 24 hours to cure completely. Once the concrete is ready and completely solidified, you can then attach the brace to the post.

Hold the post leaning against the brace and screw it in place. Most braces come with bolt head screws rather than the standard screw head, allowing you to use a wrench to screw the post in place.

Takeaway

Conclusively, when you want to fix a leaning fence, always remember to assess the nature of the damage first. There are some braces you can use to set a leaning fence post that does not require you to go through the hassle of excavating and using concrete.

All you need to do is hit the brace beside the leaning post, screw it in place, and you are good to go.

Also, do not forget to wear protective equipment when fitting the leaning fence post. Another smart move is to hire a professional to get the job done for you.