We repair wood, vinyl, chain link and metal fences in Chicago and the nearby suburbs. Send a photo by text and we can usually say whether it is a repair or a replacement.
Chicago fences fail at ground level first. Clay keeps the base of a wood post damp for months, and meltwater mixed with road salt collects along alleys and gangways where steel posts stand. By the time a section leans, the post has usually rotted or rusted through just under the surface. Our repair is to take out the post and its old footing, dig the hole to 42 inches and set a new post in concrete. If the boards or the mesh are still good, they go back on.
Wind does the rest. A solid 6-foot fence between two buildings acts like a sail when a gust funnels down the gangway, and one loose post lets a whole run rack over. After a storm we often find the panels intact and three or four posts snapped. Summer storms also drop limbs from old parkway and yard trees across fence lines. Chain link can often be pulled straight and given a new top rail. Wood and vinyl sections that have cracked are replaced, matched as closely as current stock allows.
Gates take the most wear on a city lot. The alley gate is opened for bins, bikes and cars, and the gangway gate is slammed a dozen times a day. When a gate drags or will not catch, the hinge post has usually moved. We reset that post deeper, square the frame, and fit new hinges or a latch where needed. One thing to know in Chicago: maintaining a fence by replacing limited damaged parts does not need a building permit, but rebuilding a fence over 5 feet does.
Fence repair in Chicago: common questions
Do I need a permit to repair my fence in Chicago?
Not for ordinary upkeep. The Department of Buildings lists painting a fence or replacing limited damaged elements as work that needs no building permit. Putting up a fence over 5 feet, including a full rebuild, does need one. Landmark properties follow separate rules.
Can you replace a few posts and keep my panels?
Yes, when the panels are sound. We test each post by hand, replace the ones that move, and rehang the existing boards, vinyl or chain link. If most posts in the run are loose, we will tell you that a new section is the better use of the money.
My fence is right against the neighbor's garage. Can you still fix it?
Usually. Tight gangways and garage walls are normal here. We dig those holes by hand and may need to work from your neighbor's side for an hour or two, so it helps to let them know before we come.
How it works
- Free estimate: Call, text or book online. We visit, measure and talk through options.
- Written quote: Clear pricing with material choices side by side.
- Permits & planning: We check local rules and help with permits before we dig.
- Install & clean-up: Our crew installs, cleans up and walks the finished fence with you.