Blocking Fence Bottom Gaps

Keeping fences properly maintained is an important part of homeowners' responsibilities. However, over time gaps can develop along the bottom edge of fences, allowing pests, debris, and even pets to enter the yard. These underside fence holes create security risks and aesthetic issues that are best addressed sooner rather than later. Fortunately, there are many effective options for blocking fence bottom gaps.

Causes of Gaps Under Fences

Before exploring solutions, it helps to understand the common causes of low fence gaps:

• Poor initial fence installation allowing gaps between boards or posts and the ground
• Burrowing animals like gophers or groundhogs digging under the fence
• Downward erosion from rain or landscape water runoff washing away soil
• Tree roots pushing up fence boards from underground
• Loose or sandy soil subsiding over time
• Seasonal freeze and thaw cycles creating shifting soil

Gaps typically range from small cracks to larger openings 6 inches or more. While tiny gaps under 1 inch are mainly aesthetic concerns, wider spaces allow pets to escape and enable pests to enter causing landscape damage. They also create visibility issues reducing privacy. Even small gaps can grow over time, so fixing them early provides long-term benefits.

Benefits of Blocking Fence Bottom Spaces

Sealing off fence underside holes and openings keeps your yard secure in key ways:

• Prevents pets like dogs and cats from running out
• Stops pests like gophers from entering and making tunnels
• Reduces erosion that undermines fence stability
• Maintains privacy boundaries and landscape aesthetics
• Avoids the gaps expanding and fence sinking unevenly
• Saves time repeatedly applying short-term fixes

Blocking gaps also reduces conditions for weed growth and keeps leaves and debris from blowing into the yard area creating clutter.

Materials to Fill Fence Bottom Spaces

Many standard fencing materials also work well as underside fence gap fillers. Common options include:

• Concrete - Use bagged mixes for smaller gaps or order bulk concrete for pouring into larger openings. Smooth finish maintains clean lines.
• Gravel - Different sizes like pea gravel fill gaps stopping debris. Larger gravel better resists erosion.
• Landscape fabric - Heavy-duty, porous fabric prevents weeds. Can cut to fit shape of openings.
• Asphalt patch filler - A tar-based compound that fills cracks resisting moisture and burrowers.
• Steel wool - Contractors stuff coarse steel wool into openings as a pest repellent.
• Fence slat - Use an extra fence board cut to dimensions if existing material matches.

Drainage Considerations

With some fence types and soil conditions, rapid accumulation of rain or irrigation water along foundations is a risk. Leaving drainage gaps open at ground level spaced intermittently across the fence line helps prevent buildup. In regions with no drainage issues, gaps can be entirely filled. Places prone to heavy rain or yard flooding benefit from leaving an opening every several feet for controlled water flow.

Blocking Underside Fence Holes DIY Style

For ordinary homeowners, a simple DIY approach with basic materials offers an affordable fix:

Prepping the Fence Gap

• Clear away debris like old leaves, rocks and branches
• Dig out any loose soil or gravel to establish solid ground
• Measure width and depth carefully for blocker dimensions

Installing Concrete Gap Fillers

• Mix concrete to a firm, pasty texture without excess water
• Shovel or pour concrete directly into clean gaps
• Smooth the surface using a trowel for a flat finish
• Let concrete fully cure for 1-2 days before disturbing

An 80-pound bag of concrete covers roughly 8-12 average fence bottom gaps. Have extra bags available to account for any leftover spaces or future needs down the line.

Adding Gravel or Landscape Fabric

• Cut mesh fabric or hardware cloth slightly wider than the gap
• Line the gap bottom and wedge material down tightly on both sides
• Overlap different pieces if necessary to span larger openings
• For gravel, pour or shovel into place packing firmly

The simplicity of this fence gap DIY makes it accessible even for renters or those less handy. But large or complex gaps still benefit from an expert fences service assessment.

Custom Solutions for Large Holes

While small gaps have many easy fixes, holes wider than 6 inches or longer require heavy-duty blockers:

• Cut steel mesh sheets secured with landscape staples
• Heavy wooden beams or cinder blocks on end
• Sandbags filled and stacked along the bottom edge
• Chain link fence panels installed low as a base guard

Extensive deterioration compromising larger sections of fence likely indicates full replacement needs. Seek professional guidance matching your existing fence construction for long-term stability.

Preventing Future Fence Damage

Repairing current fence gaps is only half the battle - taking steps to prevent future gap problems is critical for the long run:

• Install landscape edging along the fence line
• Backfill low spots or soil erosion with added dirt
• Treat areas for burrowing pests like gophers
• Trim back tree branches putting pressure on fences
• Add water drainage pipes under fence in wet regions

During heavy storms, go out and check fences for wind damage or signs of water flowing under. Addressing minor issues promptly makes a big difference preventing costly repairs down the road.

Choosing Gap Fillers By Fence Type

The most effective gap blocker depends partly on your existing fence construction. Key considerations for popular fences include:

Wood Privacy Fences

• Concrete cracks can match wood texture well
• Space planks and use matching slats for broken boards
• Attach chicken wire or hardware cloth on fence side

Chain Link Fences

• Weave landscape fabric through chain link itself
• Attach additional chain link along bottom with zip ties
• Use concrete for securing fence posts in holes

Wire Mesh Fences

• Steel wool stuffed into small gaps deters pests
• Hardware cloth lays flush along uneven ground
• Concrete bonding between posts adds strength

Knowing your specific fence type guides adaptations blending original construction with optimal gap fillers.

Gaps wide enough for pets to squeeze through pose not only escape risks but safety hazards if animals become trapped or injured. Avoid any remaining openings wider than 1-2 inches with thorough blocking.