Serving South Central Kansas

Fence Maintenance

Repair, cleaning, and staining tips to keep a Wichita, KS fence looking good and lasting longer.

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hole in the fence

A hole in your wood fence can do more than affect your property’s appearance. It can also impact your home’s security, leaving it vulnerable to pests and wildlife. No matter the reason for the hole, identifying the cause early ensures you’ll need only minimal repairs from a trusted fence company in Wichita, KS. 

If you notice signs of wood fence damage, TM Fencing LLC is the company to call. Here, we break down some of the most common reasons wood fences develop holes. 

How Wood Fence Holes Can Affect Your Property

Holes are eyesores, and they can significantly detract from the fence’s aesthetics. An unsightly fence can impact the property’s curb appeal, lowering its market value. 

If the hole is big enough, it can become a way for wildlife, pests, and stray animals to enter your property. It also makes it easier for people to see into your yard, increasing the risk of trespassing and other unwanted activity due to the loss of privacy and security.

Common Reasons for Holes in Wooden Fences 

Reviewing a fencing guide can help you with everything from choosing the right material to understanding the installation process. But what happens if you discover a hole in the fence? In wooden fencing, insect activity is one of the top causes of this type of damage.

Carpenter Bees

The most common cause of small holes in fences is the carpenter bee. Carpenter bees often nest in softwood fencing materials like cedar and pine, leaving half-inch holes with yellow staining around them. The damage from one or two bees is usually minor, but many bees can do far worse. 

Termites

A termite infestation can cause significant damage to a wooden fence. These insects feed on the cellulose in wood fibers. A colony of termites may create multiple holes and tunnels in the wood, which compromises the fence’s structural integrity over time.

You might have a termite problem if your wooden fence sounds hollow or if you see sawdust-like frass on the ground beneath it. If you think your fence has a termite infestation, you should schedule a pest control inspection immediately. Otherwise, the pests could spread into your trees and your home. 

Carpenter Ants

Unlike termites, carpenter ants don’t eat wood. However, they will dig through it to create nests, leading to considerable structural damage. Multiple small holes and piles of frass are clear indicators of carpenter ant activity.

Need Professional Fence Repair Services? We Can Help

Ignoring a hole in the fence may allow structural problems and insect damage to spread over time, leading to more expensive repairs. Understanding common pest activity around wood fencing helps you take action before your fence becomes unstable or unattractive.

TM Fencing LLC proudly offers comprehensive fence installation, replacement, and repair services to property owners throughout Wichita, KS. Our specialists understand everything from leading causes of fence leaning to structural fence damage. If you’re ready to repair or replace your fence, call us at (316) 218-3450 to schedule an appointment. 

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do you need concrete for fence posts

Fences are a great way to add privacy, keep pets in your yard, and make your property attractive. However, if the company you hired to install your fence didn’t do the job the right way, there’s a good chance you’ll start seeing the consequences of improper installation after a few years.

In this blog post, you’ll learn about five common fence problems and how to prevent them by hiring the right team. Don’t let your next fence deteriorate like your current one. Contact the best fence company in Wichita, KS: TM Fencing LLC.

How the Climate in Wichita, KS, Affects Fences

Many fencing overviews fail to take local climate into account when describing common issues. In Wichita, KS, homeowners have to protect their fences from strong winds, hot summers, and freezing winters. Heat causes wood to dry and crack, freezing temperatures expand and contract materials, and strong plains winds push against panels and posts.

Five Fence Problems and How To Prevent Them

The sections below describe five of the most common fence problems in central Kansas and how to prevent them through proper installation techniques from a reputable, experienced fence company like TM Fencing LLC.

Rotting Wood

Central Kansas storms often soak the soil around fence posts, which speeds up wood decay when installers place posts directly in the wet ground. A professional crew prevents rot by using pressure-treated lumber and adding gravel at the base of each post hole to improve drainage.

Leaning Fences

Rot isn’t the only problem caused by these conditions. Central Kansas receives periods of heavy rain and spring storms that leave the ground soft for days at a time. When installers place posts too shallow or fail to anchor them properly, saturated soil allows the posts to shift and slowly lean out of position.

Experienced installers prevent this problem by digging deeper holes and securing posts in concrete with a gravel base.

Broken Panels

Kansas thunderstorms often produce strong straight-line winds that place stress on long fence sections. A skilled crew prevents this problem by spacing posts correctly and using strong exterior fasteners to secure each panel.

Gate Issues

Temperature swings in Wichita, KS, cause hardware to expand and contract throughout the year, which loosens poorly installed gates. Professional installers prevent this by reinforcing the gate frame and installing heavy-duty hinges on stronger gate posts.

Pest Infestation

Moist conditions after Kansas storms accelerate wood decay and make fences more vulnerable to pests. A professional fence company prevents this type of fence damage by installing treated lumber and keeping boards slightly above the soil to reduce moisture exposure.

Call TM Fencing LLC To Schedule Fencing Services in Wichita, KS

In this blog post, you learned about common fence problems, including rotting wood, leaning fences, broken panels, gate issues, and pest infestations. If you’re ready for a fresh fence or need help repairing a broken one, call TM Fencing LLC at (316) 218-3450 to schedule service.

If you’re dealing with wooden fence problems, check out our other blog post that talks about common wood fencing installation issues and how to avoid them.

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how to prevent fence boards from warping

Fencing is a great way to add privacy, security, and a cohesive aesthetic to your property. However, when installers use the wrong materials or installation techniques, wooden fence boards often warp as the fence ages.

As a professional fence company in Wichita, KS, many people come to us asking for tips to stop wooden fence boards from warping. We offer fence repair services, but severe board warping often traces back to installation mistakes made during the original build.

In this blog post, you’ll learn how to prevent fence boards from warping by understanding the causes of warped boards and installation choices that help them remain straight. If you’re ready for a properly built fence that resists warping, contact TM Fencing LLC to schedule professional fence installation in Wichita, KS.

Causes of Fence Board Warping

In addition to common factors like outdoor conditions and wood behavior, warping in fences may be due to installation mistakes, including:

  • Using low-quality or overly wet lumber that shrinks and twists as it dries
  • Installing boards too tightly, which prevents natural expansion and contraction
  • Skipping proper spacing between boards, causing uneven pressure as moisture levels change
  • Failing to seal or protect boards from ground moisture and weather exposure
  • Rushing installation without allowing wood to acclimate to local conditions

When you hire a professional fencing company like TM Fencing LLC, you won’t have to deal with these issues because their team uses proper materials, follows correct spacing guidelines, and installs fence boards in a way that accounts for long-term moisture and weather exposure.

How To Prevent Fence Boards From Warping

The best way to prevent damage to your wooden fence boards is to hire a professional company that knows what they’re doing. At TM Fencing LLC, we use the proper methods during installation to help fences hold their shape. Here are some of the techniques our team focuses on:

  • Selecting quality fence boards that match local climate conditions
  • Allowing boards to acclimate before installation to reduce moisture-related movement
  • Installing boards with the proper spacing to allow natural expansion and contraction
  • Using correct fastening methods that limit twisting and uneven pressure
  • Installing fences with consistent alignment to reduce stress on individual boards

Don’t let just anybody install your fence; contact TM Fencing LLC to schedule installation with a team that takes protecting wood fence boards from moisture damage seriously. We also offer fence repair services if you only have a few warped boards that need replacement.

Call TM Fencing LLC To Schedule Professional Fencing Installation Services

You’ve now learned about the causes of warped boards and the installation choices that help keep them straight. If you still need help understanding how to prevent fence boards from warping, reach out to TM Fencing LLC to speak with one of our fencing experts.

Don’t let your next fence suffer from the same warping that your current one is. Call TM Fencing LLC at (316) 218-3450 to schedule professional fence installation services. If you have an old fence that’s starting to warp, check out our other blog post about fence lifespans to learn more about how age and exposure affect long-term fence performance.

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How To Remove Rust From Metal Fencing

Having a fence company install metal fencing around your property is a good way to ensure your border is sturdy and stylish. Unfortunately, metal fencing has a significant drawback: It can rust and corrode over time.

To protect your fencing’s appearance and structural integrity, it’s good to learn the best way to remove rust from metal fences. As a premier fence contractor, our team at TM Fencing LLC uses industry-leading rust-removal methods. Learn the basics of corrosion removal for metal fencing in our guide below. 

Wrought Iron Fence Restoration in Five Steps

Wrought iron is one of the most popular types of metal fences. However, untreated steel and iron can corrode over time due to moisture exposure. Follow these five steps to learn the best way to remove rust from metal fences.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

The first step in restoring your rusty fence is collecting the supplies you’ll need to tackle the job. Here’s what you’ll need: 

  • A wire brush 
  • Sandpaper with coarse and fine grits
  • A commercial rust neutralizer
  • Primer and paint suitable for metal surfaces
  • Safety gear, including a dust mask, gloves, and safety goggles

Step 2: Prepare the Metal Surface

Next comes the metal surface preparation step. You must clean the entire fence manually to remove loose rust and debris. Sanding and wire brushing the surface may be necessary to address severe rust buildup. 

Don’t forget to wear your safety gear for this step. The mask and goggles will prevent you from inhaling fine particles, and the gloves will protect your hands from injuries.

Step 3: Apply a Commercial Rust Neutralizer

The best way to remove rust from metal fences is to add a rust neutralizer. A rust converter application is essential for preventing rust particles you can’t see with the naked eye from spreading and causing massive damage to the metal fencing. 

To apply the chemical solution, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. You may simply need to wet a brush with the neutralizer and re-scrub the fencing, but different products may have varying instructions. 

If you prefer not to use a commercial solution, you can make one. Apply a thick layer of jelly to rusty areas, let it sit for at least 15 minutes, then scrub it with a wire brush. Always rinse well with water. 

Step 4: Apply a Primer

After removing most of the rust, you must apply a primer to the metal surface. This is essential before re-painting to ensure the paint sticks. 

Step 5: Paint Your Fence

After applying the primer, apply the protective paint coating. You’ll likely need about two coats to ensure a smooth, even finish.

Keep Your Wrought Iron Fence Looking Its Best With Professional Assistance

Now you know the best way to remove rust from metal fences. If you’re still experiencing complications, though, we can help. TM Fencing LLC offers top-tier fencing solutions for residential and commercial properties throughout Wichita, Kansas. 

For professional assistance with your metal fence, contact TM Fencing LLC at (316) 218-3450.

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Why Your Fence Is Leaning and How To Fix It

When you hire a fencing installation company, like TM Fencing LLC, you expect your new fence to be straight and upright. Yet, over time, you may notice your barrier leaning in one or more places, causing you to ask, “Why is my fence leaning?”

Your fence is one of the first things people notice about your property, so a lean could impact your home’s curb appeal and security. Review our guide below to learn why fences lean and how you can address the issue if you experience it. 

Reasons Your Fence Isn’t Standing Upright

If you’re wondering, “Why is my fence leaning?” consider the following reasons for this kind of structural instability.

Improper Installation

Sometimes, inexperienced contractors fail to ensure proper post alignment during the fence installation process. Technicians may also use the wrong fence post depth, insert posts above the ground frost line, or use insufficient footings, all of which can cause the barrier to shift over time. 

Rotting, Weakened, or Damaged Posts

Posts play a significant role in a fence’s structural stability. If they begin to rot or weaken due to weather exposure or physical damage, the fence may develop a tilt. Weak posts cannot support the weight of panels, boards, or pickets. 

Soil Erosion

Erosion will affect the soil stability around your fence posts, but it happens gradually. You’ll likely notice leaning posts or boards around areas on your property prone to flooding or poor drainage if erosion is a problem.

Weather Exposure

Your property’s barrier is under constant exposure to the elements. Intense winds, snow, extreme temperature fluctuations, and rain will eventually wear down your fence. Wind alone can push posts and panels out of their upright position. 

What To Do If Your Fence Is Leaning

When it comes to fixing a leaning fence, you first need to know why the tilt is occurring. That way, you can implement the best solution for the problem. 

For example, if your issue is soil erosion, you can add more soil around the concrete footings of the affected posts and compact it tightly to keep everything in place. You’d also need to improve drainage in the area to control future erosion concerns. 

Replacement is best for addressing rotten or damaged wooden posts. You can have professionals replace the affected sections and apply a high-quality wood sealant afterward to protect the entire barrier from moisture. 

If you suspect storm damage is the reason for your fence’s tilt, thoroughly inspect the structure. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need to contact a local fence company for professional repairs. 

Need Additional Fence Support To Address a Lean? Contact TM Fencing LLC

If you’re still asking questions like “Why is my fence leaning?” after trying to resolve the damage yourself, it’s time to get professional assistance. TM Fencing LLC has years of experience installing, repairing, and replacing residential fences throughout Wichita, Kansas. With our expertise, quality materials, and customer education, you can enjoy a longer fence lifespan. 

Are you ready to schedule an appointment with Wichita’s leading fencing contractor? Call TM Fencing LLC at (316) 218-3450.

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Every sitcom has that one episode where neighbors explode over a fence. It plays as lighthearted on screen. Then you go online, see the same arguments, and the anger feels a lot less amusing. What seems like a joke turns into a real problem once you face it yourself.

In this blog post, you’ll find answers to the question, “Do you have to share fence costs with your neighbor?” along with what Kansas law says, how cost sharing usually works, and how to deal with repairs without letting things turn ugly. Call TM Fencing LLC at (316) 218-3450 to schedule service with the best fence company in Wichita, KS.

Who Owns and Maintains the Fence?

Before repairs start, confirm who owns the fence. A boundary fence that sits directly on the property line belongs to both neighbors. Each side decides how it looks, when to fix it, and who pays. If the fence sits fully on your land, the responsibility falls on you alone, even if your neighbor benefits from the privacy.

Shared fence maintenance requires ongoing care, and both owners carry responsibility for the upkeep. Documenting tasks, dates, and costs helps prevent arguments. If one side ignores rot or loose posts, the whole run weakens, posing a risk to children, pets, and property. Setting expectations early with a simple checklist or agreement keeps everyone accountable and avoids finger-pointing when repairs come up.

Neighbor Fence Repair Laws

Kansas law treats true boundary fences as shared property. Both landowners contribute when a repair is necessary, and neither side forces the other to cover more than their share. If the work is a cosmetic upgrade rather than a repair, you aren’t required to pay.

Counties and HOAs may add their own rules, so it’s smart to review local requirements before hiring. If talks with your neighbor get tense, keep meetings short, stay calm, and meet during daylight for safety. Good notes and photos provide backup if fence viewers or county officials become involved.

Other Fence Cost Sharing Rules

In most places, cost-sharing rules follow the same pattern. Neighbors split the cost of functional repairs, while upgrades are optional. You don’t have to pay for a style change or decorative material that you didn’t request.

The best way to avoid conflict is to put a boundary fence agreement in writing. Outline the scope of work, materials, cost, and a target timeline.

So, do you have to share the fence cost with your neighbor? For real repairs that restore function: yes. For aesthetic swaps that one neighbor prefers: no. Written agreements set a clear path forward and reduce the risk of arguments later.

Call TM Fencing LLC for Fence Services in Kansas

TM Fencing LLC builds, repairs, and replaces fences across Kansas with workmanship that respects your time, privacy, and safety.

Still have questions about sharing fence costs with your neighbor? Call TM Fencing LLC at (316) 218-3450 today for straight answers and reliable service. In the meantime, check out our other blog post on fence permit rules in Kansas so you’re prepared before the first post goes in the ground.

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Wood fences are a popular choice among property owners because of their natural aesthetic and timeless appeal. Unfortunately, this fencing material is vulnerable to moisture, which promotes the growth of mold, mildew, moss, and algae. 

Knowing how to clean mold off wood fences is essential for maintaining the look and integrity of your property. Consider the three helpful tips below for removing organic blemishes from your wood fence without damaging it. 

1. Apply a Homemade Solution

If your fencing only has a few small areas affected by mold, you could use household materials and a scrub brush to kill the fungal growth. A typical homemade cleaning solution that works well for wood is a half cup of vinegar per gallon of water. You could also mix a quarter cup of bleach with a quarter cup of laundry detergent per gallon of water. 

Apply either solution to the affected wood. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to soak into the fencing. Then, rinse everything clean. 

If your fence has a problem with mold and algae, you’ll need a liquid chlorine or bleach. A 50/50 solution may resolve the issue.

2. Consider Using a Commercial Wood Fence Cleaner

Did a homemade solution fail? Applying a store-bought wood fence cleaner may be more effective in that case. Many commercial fence cleaners that target mold work well with a scrub brush. 

Before using any cleaning solution on your fence, be sure to test it on a small section. This will let you know whether your fencing will react poorly to the chemicals before using the product as intended.

3. Use a Pressure Washer

When learning how to clean mold off wood fences, you may consider using a pressure washer. High-power pressure washing can eliminate mold, grime, and other debris from your fence, restoring its beauty.

Still, you must be careful with pressure washers. An overly high PSI could damage the wood. Test a hidden spot on your fence to avoid setting the equipment’s pressure too high.

Does Your Fence Need Regular Maintenance?

Mold and moss are common problems for wood fences. Both thrive in moist conditions and are likely to grow in warm weather. Unfortunately, uncontrolled mold can affect your fence’s visual appeal and compromise its longevity. 

Periodic wood fence maintenance is essential for keeping the border around your home structurally sound and looking its best. Pressure washing your fence or using wood cleaner in the fall and early spring may help minimize the need for extensive mold removal. 

Turn to TM Fencing LLC for Reliable Fencing Solutions

Knowing how to clean mold off wood fences will help you protect your fencing from damage and extend its lifespan. However, some fencing problems will require professional assistance to resolve. 

TM Fencing LLC is one of the leading fencing companies serving Wichita, Kansas. Our experienced fence contractors can advise you on everything from wood fence maintenance to knowing when to repair or replace fencing. We’re here to help, so contact TM Fencing LLC at (316) 218-3450 to request an appointment. 

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Many homeowners enjoy having vinyl fencing around their properties because the material is attractive and versatile. One of this material’s benefits is that it’s low maintenance. That doesn’t mean vinyl fence maintenance is unnecessary. 

TM Fencing LLC is a leading fence company in Wichita, KS, with ample experience in caring for vinyl fencing. Consult our guide below to learn how you can preserve the barrier around your home.  

Clean the Fence Regularly

People often install a vinyl fence because they want a structure that requires only minimal maintenance. However, you must still clean this type of fencing. At the very least, cleaning the boards regularly is crucial for preventing stains. 

To restore your fence’s luster, mix a small amount of non-abrasive detergent with water. Wet a sponge or soft cloth in the mixture, and gently scrub away debris, grime, and oil.

Eliminate Mold and Mildew

Mildew and mold removal is often necessary with vinyl fencing. Such growth can cause barriers to look splotchy, detracting from their overall appearance. If you leave mold and mildew on vinyl for long enough, it can penetrate the material and compromise its durability. 

Remove mold and mildew using soap and a scrub brush. If the growth is deeply set, removal may require the use of a pressure washer, bleach, or vinegar.

Trim Plants Along the Fenceline 

Trees are one of the top culprits behind vinyl fence damage. In the winter, trees may lose their weakened or dead branches due to the weight of ice and snow. The impact of the broken wood could cause serious damage to whatever it falls on, including fences. 

If you have trees near your fenceline with overhanging branches, consider trimming them. Tree care professionals can assess the tree for dead, decaying, or weak branches and remove them before they fall onto your structure. 

Trimming services may also be necessary for other plants around your vinyl fence. Plants growing too closely to it could scratch and dent the material, which affects its durability and attractiveness. You can avoid this issue by incorporating plant trimming services into your vinyl fence maintenance routine.

Address Fence Damage Immediately

Vinyl fences have great weather protection. Still, they can sustain damage from intense winds, heavy rain, and forceful impacts.

Damage isn’t always unavoidable, but it’s best to schedule repairs as soon as possible. Depending on the type, location, and extent of the damage, your fence may require a simple replacement part or a more complex repair, such as a panel replacement.

Reach Out to Our Fence Experts in Wichita for More Help With Your Vinyl Fencing

If you want to enjoy the benefits of vinyl fencing, you must maintain it well. While the material doesn’t require as much care as other materials, such as natural wood, routine cleanings and inspections can extend your fence’s lifespan and maintain its appearance.

TM Fencing LLC proudly serves the greater Wichita area by providing comprehensive fencing solutions for local homes and businesses. We offer premium fence installation, repairs, and maintenance for all types. For professional vinyl fence maintenance in Wichita, call TM Fencing LLC at (316) 218-3450 and request your free estimate.

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Know How To Determine Whether Fence Repair or Fence Replacement Is Right for You

Though wooden and vinyl fences make excellent additions to yards, enhancing the space’s visual appeal and security, they won’t last forever. If your fencing’s best days are long gone, you’ll need to take prompt action to restore its beauty and performance. So, should you repair or replace fences at the first signs of trouble?

As Wichita’s leading fence company, TM Fencing, LLC has years of experience providing various services like fence renovation and repair. Here, we explain which factors to look for in your fence to determine whether fence restoration or repair services are best for your individual situation. 

Severity of Fence Damage

When assessing your fence, you should first note whether the damage or problem with your fence is cosmetic or severe. A total fence upgrade is usually unnecessary for surface-level damage like fading or peeling paint. To remedy that problem, you can simply repaint the fence. 

Serious problems that would require fence replacement include:

  • Broken posts or panels
  • Extensive rot
  • Mold

Repairing those problems is usually expensive, so it might be best to replace the fencing to restore its beauty and structural integrity. 

Typical Problems Associated With Specific Fencing Materials

Some problems with fences are specific to the fencing’s materials. For instance, natural wood fences are more porous and prone to rot, moisture, and other environmental conditions than engineered or pre-treated wood.

Before you repair or replace fences consisting of natural wood, check for discoloration, splintering, and warping. Wood filler can repair minor damage, like small cracks, but replacing boards and rails with severe damage is usually ideal.

Vinyl is a more weather-resistant fence material. Still, the material is vulnerable to cracks from heavy snowfall and direct impacts from debris or vehicles. Avoid fixing cracked vinyl; replace the damaged picket or the entire fence panel for the best results. 

Fence Age

Even if you maintain your fencing well, time will eventually take its toll. Wooden fences are the most susceptible to natural wear and tear; their average lifespan is about 15 years. Aluminum and vinyl fences can last up to twice that long. Before your fence nears the end of its lifespan, consider upgrading the structure.

Current Financial Status

Your current financial status will also determine when to repair or replace fencing. Getting a fence permit and investing in an entirely new fence will require higher costs upfront. Repairs and ongoing maintenance are more cost-effective options, yet they’re not always the best long-term solutions.

Should You Fix or Replace Your Fence? Contact TM Fencing, LLC Today for More Help

Sometimes, knowing when to repair or replace fences isn’t obvious without professional help. Thankfully, the experienced professionals at TM Fencing, LLC in Wichita, KS, can advise you on everything from fence maintenance to the cost of building a privacy fence. 

As one of the top fence contractors serving residential and commercial clients throughout the area, we employ skilled, experienced fencing professionals. We offer in-person consultations, top-of-the-line fencing materials, and custom fencing options. Schedule your free on-site estimate today—call (316) 218-3450 to speak with us.

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