{
  "id": "replace-fence-panel",
  "url": "https://diy-app-beige.vercel.app/guides/replace-fence-panel.html",
  "category": "garden-and-outdoor",
  "title": "Replace a ground-level fence panel",
  "summary": "Check the posts and boundary, choose a weather-suitable panel and lift it into sound supports with help.",
  "difficulty": "intermediate",
  "duration": "Half a day when the existing posts are sound",
  "riskLevel": "check-first",
  "visualGuidance": {
    "level": "helpful",
    "format": "annotated-photo",
    "reason": "A photo helps distinguish a panel-only replacement from failed posts, awkward access or a non-standard bay.",
    "brief": "Mark the bay dimensions, post condition, ground clearance, panel orientation and lifting route visible in the supplied photo."
  },
  "materials": [
    "Replacement panel of the measured type and exterior rating",
    "Compatible clips, brackets or fasteners for the existing post system",
    "Exterior end-grain treatment or finish where the maker requires it",
    "Packers to maintain the specified ground clearance"
  ],
  "tools": [
    "Tape measure and level",
    "Hand tools or drill-driver specified for the bracket system",
    "Stable supports for holding the panel off the ground",
    "Suitable gloves and eye protection"
  ],
  "preparation": [
    "Confirm the fence position, ownership and any local restrictions before changing it.",
    "Inspect both posts, brackets and the base for rot, cracking, movement or corrosion.",
    "Measure the clear bay at top, middle and bottom and plan a two-person lifting route.",
    "Choose a calm-weather window and clear children, pets and fragile items from both sides."
  ],
  "safety": [
    "Fence panels catch wind and can be heavy; do not lift one alone or in gusty conditions.",
    "Do not dig, drive stakes or alter posts without checking underground services and the boundary.",
    "Do not reuse failed posts or brackets simply to hold a new panel temporarily."
  ],
  "steps": [
    {
      "title": "Approve the supports",
      "instruction": "Check both posts are plumb, firm and able to take the replacement panel and wind load.",
      "stopIf": "Stop if a post, base, boundary or underground-service position is uncertain."
    },
    {
      "title": "Remove the old panel",
      "instruction": "Support it on both sides, remove accessible fixings and lower it with a second person."
    },
    {
      "title": "Prepare the bay",
      "instruction": "Replace only approved hardware, clear debris and set supports for the required ground gap."
    },
    {
      "title": "Place and secure",
      "instruction": "Lift the panel together, centre it, check level and use the specified fixings without splitting the frame."
    },
    {
      "title": "Inspect both sides",
      "instruction": "Check clearances, sharp edges, movement and finish, then dispose of the old panel responsibly."
    }
  ],
  "professionalCheckpoints": [
    "Use a fencing contractor for failed posts, retaining structures, difficult boundaries, restricted access or work requiring excavation."
  ]
}