Cedar Fence Repair in Texas: When to Patch vs. When to Replace

Cedar fences are the standard in Cedar Park, Leander, Round Rock, and most of Central Texas. They look beautiful when new, resist rot naturally, and handle Texas weather better than most alternatives. But even cedar has its limits. After years of brutal summer heat, driving rain, and occasional ice storms, even the best cedar fence will need attention.

The question every homeowner faces: is it worth repairing, or is it time for a full fence replacement? Here's how to decide.

Signs Your Fence Needs Repair (Not Replacement)

A repair makes sense when the damage is localized and the overall structure is still sound:

• A few individual pickets are cracked, warped, or missing
• One or two posts are leaning but the rest are solid
• A single section was damaged by a fallen limb or impact
• The fence is less than 10 years old and generally in good shape
• Gate hardware is broken but the gate frame is sound

Most fence repairs in Cedar Park cost between $200 and $800 depending on the extent of the damage. Replacing a few pickets and resetting a leaning post is a straightforward handyman job that takes 2–4 hours. For full pricing details, see our handyman cost guide.

Signs It's Time for a Full Replacement

Replacement is the better investment when the damage is widespread or structural:

• More than 30% of pickets are damaged, gray, or deteriorated
• Multiple posts are rotted at the base (poke the post at ground level with a screwdriver — if it sinks in easily, the post is rotted)
• The fence is over 15–20 years old
• Sections are leaning or bowing significantly
• You're spending more on cumulative repairs than replacement would cost

A full cedar fence replacement in Cedar Park typically costs $18–$30 per linear foot installed, so a standard 150-foot backyard fence runs $2,700–$4,500.

Pro Tips for Extending Your Fence's Life

Whether you repair or replace, these steps will maximize your fence's lifespan in the Central Texas climate:

• Apply a quality wood sealant or stain within the first year of installation, then every 2–3 years
• Keep sprinklers aimed away from fence posts
• Maintain 4–6 inches of clearance between the bottom of the fence and the ground
• Trim vegetation away from the fence line to promote airflow
• Address leaning posts immediately before they pull adjacent sections down

Planning to Sell? Your Fence Matters

A well-maintained fence significantly impacts your home's resale value. Learn more in our guide to 5 home repairs that boost your Cedar Park home's resale value.