A fence can serve many purposes for homeowners as long as the fence installation is done right.
Before giving a fence company the okay to sink that first post, be sure to first do any necessary research.
Here are 8 important tips to consider when having a fence contractor install a fence that can save time, money, and aggravation later!
1. Make Sure It Is Legal
Depending on location, it may be required to get approval before calling a fence company to do an installation on private property. Check with HOAs and any local zoning office about putting up fencing, what the height and material requirements are, and inquire whether a fence contractor must obtain any necessary permits to build the fence.
2. Talk To The Neighbors
Be friendly and let the neighbors know there will be a fence installation done. Discuss the type and size with them and address any concerns ahead of time. This is a good time to confirm property lines as well so there are no problems later on, once the structure has already been installed.
3. Plan Carefully
Take some time to really think about why a fence is wanted as well as what purposes and qualities it should have to serve individual needs today and in the future. Discuss the installation ahead of time with a fence company as well so they can give insight and help develop a plan that will look and function well.
4. Choose The Right Material
When choosing fencing materials, be sure to consider things like initial cost, durability, safety, appearance, and most importantly, maintenance requirements. Installed wood fences tend to be the most desirable, but they also require the most maintenance. Fortunately, there are plenty of alternatives, including low-maintenance PVC products that look like wood.
5. Set The Right Side In
There is a right side and an offside to every fence, the offside being the side that exposes the support posts and other attachments. Visually, the right side looks better, so it is ideal to face that side in for a backyard barrier; however, for a fenceline in the front of the house, it is better to show the right side out to improve the appearance of the home.
6. Have The Posts Set Correctly
Experienced fence contractors know that in most cases, it is advisable to set fence posts in either concrete or tamped gray gravel to ensure stability and make the whole installation strong. In either case, make sure the posts are correctly set and not just set directly into the soil as this could allow premature leaning, sagging, and other stability issues.
7. Don’t Skip The Extras
Along with paying to have the posts set the right way, avoid skipping other “extras” that can make the difference between having a trouble-free fence and one that will fail sooner rather than later. Top items include buying reinforced gates and gate hardware, making sure that gates and bottom rails or panels do not reach all the way to the ground, and installing post caps on wooden posts to reduce the effect of moisture getting into the cut end of the wood.
8. Plan On Proper Maintenance
No matter what type of fence installation chosen, learn what maintenance is required ahead of time, then commit to it. Fences are expensive improvements, yet with proper care including staining, cleaning, and making necessary repairs as problems arise, a fence will last for decades.
Prepare Correctly To Have A Great Fence
Putting up a fence is a big project, even when hiring an experienced fence company to do the installation.
It starts with doing the necessary research and planning from legality and neighbor consideration to materials and style choices to ensure getting what was hoped for.
Contact a local fence contractor today to discuss ideas and plan the perfect fence that will enhance a home in many ways!
