Coastal Custom Carpentry | Custom Fences & Gates in Charleston, SC

The main culprit is the combination of high humidity, salt air, and poor drainage common in coastal areas. Moisture seeps into untreated wood, especially at ground level, leading to fungal decay and insect damage. In Charleston’s climate, standard pine posts can start rotting within two to three years if not properly sealed or installed with a gravel base.

Look for leaning posts, cracked or splintered rails, and soft or spongy wood near the ground. You might also notice loose gates that sag or drag, or visible mold and mildew. If you can push a screwdriver into a post more than half an inch, the wood is likely compromised and should be replaced soon.

We assess each post individually. For minor rot, we can reinforce the base with a concrete collar and replace damaged sections. For severely rotted posts, we remove the old post, dig out the rotted wood, and set a new pressure-treated or cedar post in a concrete footing with gravel at the bottom for drainage. This method prevents future moisture buildup and extends the life of your fence.