Mills Fence Co - Cincinnati's Top-Rated Residential Fencing

The main cause is the freeze-thaw cycle. In winter, water in the soil freezes and expands, pushing posts upward. When it thaws, the ground settles unevenly, causing posts to lean. Poor drainage or shallow post holes worsen the problem. Mills Fence Co addresses this by setting posts below the frost line (around 30 inches in Cincinnati) and using concrete collars for stability.

Look for visible signs: gaps between pickets, sagging gates, cracked or rotting wood near the ground, rust on metal hardware, or posts that move when you push them. After heavy rain, check for pooling water around post bases. If your fence wobbles or has uneven spacing, it's time for a professional inspection. Mills Fence Co offers free assessments to catch problems early.

For ongoing rot, the best long-term solution is to replace wood sections with vinyl or aluminum, which resist moisture. If you prefer wood, Mills Fence Co recommends pressure-treated lumber with a high-quality sealant and proper drainage. We also install gravel at post bases to prevent standing water. Regular cleaning and re-sealing every 2-3 years can extend the life of a wooden fence significantly.