Has your fence been damaged by a storm, rust, fire, or just years of wear and tear?
Not sure whether you should repair a section or replace the whole thing?
If you want honest, upfront advice about your fence situation, send us a few photos & request an online quote.
We’ll tell you exactly what’s going on, what your options are, and what will save you the most money long-term.
If you’re seeking a bit more info first…
This article explains how Adelaide fencing experts assess and determine whether repair or replacement is the smarter option.
>> Get a fence repair quote from Calabria Fencing Adelaide <<
When Fence Damage Can Be Repaired
As a general rule,
Most fences can be repaired as long as the posts are still structurally sound.
Colorbond fence repairs usually involve replacing:
- Damaged or rusted sheets
- Bent rails
- Missing screws
- Small isolated sections
These are cheap simple repairs that don’t require digging new holes or setting new posts.
If the posts are straight & sturdy, then all that’s needed is sheet and rail repairs.
When Repairs Stop Being Worth It
If your posts are:
- Rusted at the base
- Loose in the concrete
- Leaning dangerously
- Bowed or snapped
…then you’re no longer looking at a minor repair.
Replacing fence posts means:
- Digging out the old footing
- Removing concrete
- Setting a new post
- Waiting for concrete to cure
- Reattaching all rails and sheets
This is slow, heavy, expensive work.
At that point, a full replacement is usually smarter and cheaper in the long run. After a few repairs, the total you spend often ends up close to the cost of a brand-new fence anyway.
When a Fence Replacement Makes More Sense
If nearly every post needs replacing, it’s better to replace the entire fence.
That’s the advice we give our clients.
Why?
Half the work of a new fence is digging and concreting the posts.
It makes no sense to join old rails and rusted sheets back onto new posts. We believe you may as well invest in the rest of the new fence, so you get true value for your money.
A full fence replacement makes more sense when the structure is questionable.:
- Most posts are failing
- Concrete footings are disintegrating
- The fence is very old
- Multiple sections have rust damage
- The fence is mismatched or warped
- The neighbour also wants an upgrade
If you invest a bit more, you can get a new fence with fresh materials, straight lines, better strength, and a cleaner overall look.
With this in mind, repairs are still a good, cost-effective option for small sections.
How Much Does Fencing Cost in Adelaide?
We provide all-inclusive prices tailored to your specific project.
This section provides a rough price guide for repairs vs. replacement.
For the most accurate pricing, you can always ask us for a quote.
Repair Costs
- Replace sheets: $50–$120 per sheet installed
- Replace multiple posts: $250–$450 each
- Disposal of old material cost: $200 – $500
Full Replacement Costs
- Good Neighbour Colorbond (1.8–2.1m): $180–$300/m
- Post & Rail Colorbond: $150–$280/m
- Sleepers added: +$70–$120 per bay
- Removal of old fence: $50–$90/m
For a detailed cost guide for Adelaide 2025, read the following:
Read: Adelaide Fencing Costs: Simple Pricing Guide (2025)
Read: Fence Removal Cost by Fence Type (Colorbond, Brush, Timber, Chain Link)
How to Estimate a Fence Repair (Simple Methods)
Here’s a quick way to work out whether your job is a repair or replacement.
1. Count the damaged sheets
If only sheets are damaged, it’s usually an easy repair.
It helps us to know exactly how many sheets are damaged, so we can quote the work as accurately as possible.
2. Check the posts for damage
Look for these 3 things:
- Rust holes
- Movement at the base
- Any leaning
If any of these signs are apparent, the post is probably weak and needs to be replaced.
3. Check how long the damaged section is
A small section repair is cheap.
Longer sections start to approach replacement costs.
It helps us to know the measurements of the damaged section.
Follow our simple guide below to measure your fence line accurately:
Read: How to measure your fence line | Adelaide Fencing Guide
4. Send us photos
You’ll get the most accurate answer when a fencing contractor actually sees the damage.
Go to our 30-second quote page to provide details and photos of your project <<
Is It Worth Repairing a Fence?
Here’s the honest answer.
Repair your fence if:
- The posts are still solid
- Only sheets/rails are damaged
- The fence is still aligned and straight
- The damage is cosmetic or minor
- You want a quick, low-cost fix
Replace your fence if:
- Posts are rusted or collapsing
- The base plates or footings are failing
- Multiple posts need replacing
- The fence is old and patched already
- You’re likely to need more repairs later down the line
The main question you should ask yourself is:
“Am I spending money to prolong the death of a fence that’s already at the end of its life?”
If yes, replacing is smarter.
If no, repairs are perfect.
Does Your Neighbour Have to Pay for Half a Fence in SA?
Here’s the simple answer to this very common question:
Neighbours can, and often do, split fencing costs… But only if they agree to the same work
Most people simply chat over the fence or send a “Form 1 – Notice of Intention to Erect or Repair a Fence.”
This form outlines:
- What work is to be done
- What materials
- The height
- The start date
- The cost
If they agree, you split the bill.
If they don’t, they can refuse and pay nothing.
Important note:
If the neighbour says the old fence is “fine,” or they don’t want the upgrade, they’re not obligated to contribute.
If their tree, vehicle, or actions caused the damage, they may have to pay more.
But it really depends on each specific situation.
Read: Should Neighbours Split The Fencing Cost In Adelaide? (2025)
Let Us Take a Look at Your Damaged Fence
To summarise this article:
Repairing makes sense when the structure is still solid.
Replacing makes sense when the foundation is failing.
If your fence is damaged and you’re unsure what to do next, why not let us take a look?
Here’s how we handle it:
- You send us a few photos
- We assess the damage and tell you whether it’s a repair or replacement
- We give you clear pricing for both options
- You choose what works best
We get it sorted quickly and professionally. Quotes sent within 24 hours.
Show us your fence and we’ll give you honest advice — repair or replace — and a clear quote to get it sorted fast.
>> Request a free online quote from Calabria Fencing <<
Call us on 043 999 8295
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