How to repair timber fence cracked at post base?

[Milton86]

Hi Braintrust!

First time poster here.  

I recently moved into my new house in VIC but noticed that the fences on one side of my house have slanted and there are cracks at the base of multiple posts (see pics below). I've consulted with a few repairers in the area, and all have indicated that the fences were poorly designed, with cracks like these being inevitable (despite the property being only 7 years old). They've also been quite reluctant to do any work on the fence or mentioned that it is a very difficult job whilst not giving me a straight answer.

Just seeing if anyone here is able to give me some insights onto a potential solution?
Thank you! 

   

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @Milton86. It's terrific to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about cracked fence posts.

It sounds like the issue with your fence is primarily due to its design, specifically the way the posts are attached to the retaining wall using brackets. This type of connection can lead to problems like cracking and splitting over time, especially if the posts are exposed to movement or shifting of the retaining wall or high winds. Given that the fence posts are already damaged, it’s likely that replacing the posts alone may not solve the underlying problem, and this is probably why repairers are hesitant to take on the job—they would likely need to replace the whole fence to ensure a long-term fix, which could be costly.

One solution could be to move the fence posts within your property line, so they are secured directly into the ground behind the retaining wall, moving away from this bracketed installation. This would provide a more stable foundation for the fence. However, this approach might require you to consult with a structural engineer to assess the retaining wall and ensure the new posts are installed in a way that won’t cause issues with the wall. The engineer can also help you determine the best way to secure the posts and ensure the fence is built to last.

It’s a tricky situation, and while it might seem like a major project, properly addressing the issue with the correct installation methods will prevent future problems. 

I’ll tag @Dave-1 and @Nailbag to see if they have any further thoughts on the matter or suggestions based on their experience.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[Dave-1]

Good morning @Milton86 

Now thats an interesting way to build a fence, As I was scrolling through I was wondering why the fence posts were splitting and then saw the last pic of the retaining wall post...

So Short term fix (I am like @MitchellMc  thinking you need to sort a longer term fix)

So for each base of the post I propose to drill two holes through each post about an inch (30mm) below or above the existing bolts but on the facing plane. So sitting at the fence base looking at it, drill those two holes (Prop the fence vertical to close up the split as much as possible)

Once you have drilled all the way through I would suggest either very large washers on either end ofthe bolts or a large plate that covers both holes.

Whne all the new bolts are done then remove the temporary stays. I really like the way the posts connect to the retaining wall but they really should have been twisted 90 degrees to give the correct strength. You could wait 6 months after doing the new bolts and see if it continues then determine if its better to replace the posts.

Dave

[Nailbag]

Hi @Milton86 

I have to agree unfortunately with @MitchellMc that the fence has not been built with any long term structural integrity. The shear weight of the fence as well as being essentially a big wind break has flexed the bottom sections of the posts apart.

One possible solution would be to position new steel posts into the ground independent of the sleeper retainer directly opposite the exisiting ones. Then some form of pulley system to bring the existing posts/fence to the steel posts where they could be fixed against. But finding a fencer or builder willing to do the job and then guarantee it as you have already discovered with be a challenge.  It's easier for them to either walk away or build a new fence than take on the challenge and potential to open up a can of worms trying to make good somebody else's mistake.

Personally I think the cheapest and easiest solution would be to simply remove the damaged section and erect a new fence offset to the retaining sleeper retainer with posts fully independent of this. 

Regards, Nailbag