Fix a loose fence rail
A loose fence rail, the horizontal board the pickets hang on, has usually pulled off the post because its nails rusted or the wood shrank. Propping it level and fastening it back with galvanized nails or exterior screws, plus a metal rail bracket, makes it as strong as it was, or stronger. A cracked rail can be reinforced with a second board alongside it, and a rotted one replaced. Fix the post first, then the rail.
How a fence rail is held up
A wood fence has posts set in the ground, two or three horizontal rails running between the posts, and pickets nailed to the rails. Rails are attached to the posts by nailing or screwing through their ends at an angle, or by sitting in a notch or a metal bracket.
The joint between rail and post takes the weight of the pickets plus every gust of wind against them. Nails rust, wood shrinks away from them, and the rail sags or drops out. Rails also crack where a knot weakens them, or rot where water sits on top of them.
Why fence rails come loose
The joint lets go.
The rail pulls away from the nails.
A knot gives way under the pickets.
Water sits on a flat rail.
The rail follows the post.
| You notice | Likely cause | Start at |
|---|---|---|
| Rail end dropped off the post | Nails let go | Step 2 |
| Rail sags in the middle | Cracked rail | Step 5 |
| Rail soft or broken | Rot | Step 6 |
| Post moves too | Loose post | Step 1 |
Let's fix it
- Check the post firstPush on the post next to the loose rail. If the post wobbles, leans or is soft at the ground, the rail isn't the real problem, and fixing the post comes first. If the post is solid, go on.
- Prop the rail levelLift the rail back into place and prop it with a scrap block or brick so it's level and tight against the post. Check it with a level. Pull any rusted nails sticking out of the joint.
- Refasten it to the postDrive two galvanized nails or exterior screws at an angle through the end of the rail into the post, one from the top and one from the side if you can reach. Screws hold better in old, dry posts; predrill near the end of the rail so it doesn't split.
- Add a bracket or cleatScrew a galvanized fence rail bracket under the rail end and into the post with the screws or nails the bracket maker lists. If you don't have a bracket, screw a short pressure-treated 2x4 block to the post right under the rail so it rests on it.
- Sister a cracked railIf the rail is cracked but solid, cut a pressure-treated 2x4 to run between the posts, set it right beside or below the old rail, and fasten it to both posts and to the old rail every foot or so. Nail the pickets to it if they've come loose.
- Replace a rotted railIf the rail is soft or broken through, pull the picket nails along that rail with a pry bar, take out the old rail, and cut a new pressure-treated 2x4 to the same length. Fasten it to the posts the same way, then nail the pickets back on with galvanized nails.
Watch it done
- The rail is level and tight to both posts
- The section doesn't sag when pushed
- Pickets are firmly nailed
Still sagging? The post may be loose or rotted at the ground.
If it's a picket or a gate
If a single picket is broken, see the guide for replacing a fence picket.
If the gate sags, see the guide for fixing a sagging gate.
What a pro typically charges (a rough estimate; prices vary by area): A fence contractor or handyman typically charges $100–$300 to repair a section with loose or broken rails, more if posts need replacing.
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Loose fence rail questions
How do I fix a loose fence rail?
Prop it level, fasten it to the post with galvanized nails or exterior screws at an angle, and add a metal rail bracket or a 2x4 block under the end.
Should I use nails or screws on a fence rail?
Either works if it's rated for exterior and treated wood. Screws hold better in old, dry posts.
How do I fix a sagging fence rail?
If it's cracked but solid, fasten a new 2x4 alongside it between the posts. If it's rotted, replace it.
What holds a fence rail to a post?
Nails or screws through the rail end, a notch in the post, or a metal fence rail bracket.
Do I need to fix the fence post first?
Yes. If the post wobbles or is rotted, a new rail won't stay put.