Time to set boundaries

WE’RE getting to know our neighbours better than ever.

But that doesn’t mean we don’t need boundaries – of the fencing variety at least.

After a wild winter, many of us will have a few broken wooden panels.

This is a job you can tackle yourself, so no need to worry about finding a handyman in lockdown.

Deal with problem panels as soon as you spot them – early action can stop damage spreading to the rest of the fence, therefore avoiding even bigger bills.

I’m going to talk you through how to remove a wooden fence panel and how to reinforce a rotten fence post with a concrete spur.

A badly damaged panel is easier to simply replace, and they are a doddle to source as most designs come in standard sizes.

Use a claw hammer to lever the side of the panel from the post, exposing the nails that join the two together, and then pull these out.

Next, repeat the process at the opposite end of the fence panel and then it’s done.

Now we come to broken posts, and they’re a little tricker.

The most common problem is the rot setting in at ground level, with the bit of the post that is attached to the fence still in useable condition. If this is the case then you can use a concrete support spur to repair your existing post.

The second option is to replace the entire thing, but that needs more graft.

Once you have detached the panels at either side, dig out the post and then remove any concrete. Preserve the base of your new post before

TOO many posts is better than not enough. A good rule of thumb is to never place them more than 8ft apart or they will be more likely to blow over in gales.

placing it in the hole. Use a spirit level to make sure everything is straight before refilling the hole with gravel and readyto-use concrete.

You must leave the post for 24 hours before reattaching the panels.

Now, you’re all set to apply a lick of wood preserver and paint and it’s done.