How to repair a fence after storm damage: what to do when a tree falls on your fence

Oregon storms can cause significant property damage, and one of the most common issues contractors see is a fallen tree damaging or destroying a fence. Whether the fence is wood, vinyl, or metal, storm-related impact can compromise both its structure integrity and safety. Proper repair requires more than just replacing a few boards—it requires a thorough assessment and professional construction techniques to ensure the fence is secure, level, and built to last.

Common Causes of Fence Damage After a Storm:

High winds, saturated soil, and falling trees create extreme stress on fencing systems. Even if the fence doesn’t completely collapse, underlying damage can occur, including—

▪️ Fence posts shifting or pulling out of the ground

▪️ Cracked or broken panels

▪️ Fasteners loosening from impact

▪️ Gates falling out of alignment

▪️ Concrete footings cracking or failing

These issues can worsen over time if not repaired correctly.

1️⃣ Remove the Tree and Debris

Before fence repairs can begin, the fallen tree must be fully removed. Please get a professional to do this part, it can be very unsafe. What this involves from professionals is, cutting the tree into manageable sections and carefully lifting it off the fence to avoid further damage. Contractors typically coordinate with professional tree removal services to ensure the site is safely cleared.

Once the tree is removed, all debris, damaged panels, and compromised posts are taken out to expose the full extent of the damage.

2️⃣ Inspect Fence Posts and Footings

Fence posts are the foundation of the entire fence system. After a tree impact, posts are frequently:

▪️ Snapped below grade

▪️ Leaning due to soil displacement

▪️ Pulled out of concrete footings

A professional contractor will check each post for plumb and stability. Any post that is cracked, leaning, or loose must be removed and replaced. In many cases, concrete footings must be broken out and repoured to meet proper depth and code requirements.

3️⃣ Rebuild the Fence Structure

Once new posts are set and properly cured, the fence frame can be rebuilt. This includes:

▪️ Installing new rails and supports

▪️ Ensure proper spacing and alignment

▪️ Reattaching or replacing panels

▪️ Reinforcing high-impact areas

For wood fences, pressure-treated lumber is typically used for posts and rails to resist moisture and rot. For vinyl or metal fencing, damaged sections are replaced with manufactured-approved materials to maintain strength and uniform appearance.

4️⃣ Restore Fence Alignment and Security

Storm damage often causes fences to twist or bow. Contractors carefully realign the fence to ensure it is straight, level, and secure. Gates are rehung, hinges are adjusted, and latches are reinforced to restore full functionality.

Proper alignment is critical not only for appearance but also for preventing future stress on posts and panels.

5️⃣ Finish and Protect the Fence

Once structural repairs are complete, finishing work helps extend the life of the fence. This includes:

▪️ Sealing or staining wood fences

▪️ Replacing rusted hardware

▪️ Adding post caps for moisture protection

▪️ Reinforcing wind-exposed sections

These final steps help protect the fence from future weather damage and improve overall durability.

🟢Why Professional Fence Repairs Matter🟢

Storm-damage fences often look like a simple fix, but improper repairs can lead to leaning, premature failure, and additional costs down the road. A professional construction company like us (Forged Built) ensures repairs are completed to industry standards, using proper materials, footing depth, and alignment techniques.

Addressing storm damage quickly also helps maintain property security, privacy, and curb appeal.

If this has happened to you this winter please give us call. We are happy to help always.

(971) 486-6587

CCB#246536

Levi@forgedbuilt.com

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