How to Fix Gaps in Your Fence to Keep Animals Out
Looking for the bigger picture? Start with our Home Repair Advice. It lays out how to decide what matters most before you dive in.
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Looking for the bigger picture? Start with our Home Repair Advice. It lays out how to decide what matters most before you dive in.
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Discovering that neighborhood critters or even pets have been getting into your yard can be frustrating. More often than not, the culprit is a small gap in your fence. Whether it’s from settling ground, shifting panels, or general wear, these openings are a common issue for homeowners.
The good news is that you can often fix these gaps yourself with a few basic tools and a little time. This guide will walk you through how to find and fix the most common types of fence gaps, helping you decide what you can handle and when it might be time to call a professional.
imageAlt: "A homeowner wearing work gloves measures a gap between two fence pickets."
Before you can start fixing, you need to know exactly what you’re dealing with. A thorough inspection will help you identify every potential entry point.
What You’ll Need:
Inspection Steps:
Once you have a clear picture of the problem areas, you can move on to the right fix.
Most small to moderate gaps can be fixed without needing to call a professional. We’ll break it down by the type of gap you found.
This is one of the most common issues, often caused by soil erosion or uneven ground.
1. Level the Ground
For smaller gaps, simply building up the ground may be enough.
2. Install a Buried Ground Barrier
If leveling the soil leaves gaps wider than a few inches, or if you’re dealing with animals that dig, installing a barrier is a more permanent solution.
Shifting panels or warped boards can create vertical gaps that are easy for animals to slip through.
1. Tighten Loose Hardware
Sometimes, all that’s needed is to re-secure loose boards.
2. Add a New Picket or Slat
If tightening the boards doesn’t close the gap, you can add a new piece to cover it.
While many fence repairs are manageable, some issues point to larger structural problems that are best left to a professional fence contractor.
It’s time to call a pro if you find:
DIY Fixes:
Professional Help:
Finding and fixing gaps in your fence is a straightforward project that can make a big difference in securing your yard. By methodically inspecting your fence line and addressing the small issues, you can prevent bigger problems—and unwanted visitors—down the road.
Taking on home maintenance can feel empowering. For guidance on your next project or help finding a trusted professional for the jobs you can’t tackle, download the Casa app. We’re here to help you care for your home with confidence.