Reliable Wood and Vinyl Fencing in Farmington, MI 48334 - Platinum Services

In Farmington, typical signs include leaning fence posts (often caused by frost heave in clay soils near Orchard Lake Road), rusted or stuck gate hinges, loose or cracked pickets, and gaps at the bottom where animals can enter. After a harsh winter, you might also notice nails popping out or rails separating. If your gate no longer latches properly, that's a clear sign that the posts or hardware need attention. Catching these issues early can save you from a full replacement.

Farmington's freeze-thaw cycles and heavy spring rains are tough on wooden posts. Moisture gets trapped at the base, especially if posts are set in concrete that holds water against the wood. Over time, this causes rot near ground level. The shifting soil from freezing and thawing also loosens the posts, leading to leaning. Platinum Services recommends using pressure-treated wood and proper gravel drainage at the base to extend fence life—something many older local fences lack.

If your gate drags or sticks, it's often because the gate post has shifted or the hinges are worn. Platinum Services will first check if the post is plumb and stable. If the post is leaning, we may reset it with concrete and gravel for better drainage. For the gate itself, we adjust or replace hinges and check the latch alignment. We also trim any sagging sections so the gate swings freely again. This is a common fix for older homes near Grand River Avenue where original hardware has simply worn out.