A fence can function in a variety of capacities, from minimizing street noise to containing children and pets. It’s important to ensure the chosen fencing contractor is qualified, cognizant of local fence rules and ordinances, and that individuals have some idea of what type of fence they want.

It’s never a good idea for a fence to become a DIY project. It can conceivably require the better part of the summer to complete, while a qualified fencing company can perform the required work in a day or so, depending upon the area to be fenced. There are a myriad of steps individuals can take to facilitate the process.

1. Reason for Fencing

Clients should know why they want a fence. It could be for privacy, security, beautification, to minimize road noise, establish boundaries, or safety. Those factors will impact the type of fencing and materials selected.

2. Type of Fencing

Individuals have a wide range of fencing options and innovative materials from which to choose. Some are better for specific uses, while others are multi-functional. The fencing should blend with existing architecture, features, and aesthetic concerns.

3. Multiple Estimates

Don’t agree to the first estimate received. Optimally, individuals should obtain three estimates. It will allow clients to select the combination of pricing, quality, materials, and installation that best fits their individual needs.

4. Estimators

Even with an online estimate, at some point an estimator will make an on-site visit to view the area to be fenced. Make the estimator aware of any slopes, obstructions, adjoining fences, and access to the work site that could affect cost and installation time.

5. Pertinent Questions

It’s essential that clients ask if the company will obtain needed permits, knows local zoning regulations, and any setback requirements. The company should also be responsible for contacting utility companies to identify underground lines.

If the area has a slope, clients need to know if the fencing will be uniformly the same height or if it will vary according to the slope. Make sure any hardware is included in the price, the installation timeline, and the fine details of warranties and guarantees.

6. Red Flags

Once individuals have performed their research and narrowed their contractor choices to three, there are some red flags of which individuals should be aware. Pass on a contractor that:

• Refuses to provide a written estimate
• Utilizes pressure tactics for clients to make an immediate decision
• Requires cash payments only

Fencing is a safety precaution and it will also be a beautification project for your home that increases its value. There’s a myriad of factors to consider when installing a fence that will make the difference between being a happy homeowner or one experiencing buyer’s remorse.

Why Do You Want One?

The reason you want a fence can impact the type of fencing you choose. People typically install a fence for safety, security, privacy, to minimize road noise, conceal unattractive features, or establish boundaries.

Cost

Some barriers are more expensive than others. Others are relatively inexpensive and can be installed quickly. Certain types can be more expensive, but are far more durable, available in multiple colors, and can even withstand hurricane force winds.

Maintenance

Depending on the type of fencing, it may require regular inspections, painting or staining. Others only need to be rinsed off with a hose. You need to know how much time you realistically have to spend on maintenance duties, or if you want a minimal maintenance set-it-and-forget-it solution.

Climate Concerns

There’s a wealth of options available for fencing and some react differently to ordinary and extremes in climate conditions. Homeowners can choose wood and metal or revolutionary new materials that can be recycled at the end of their considerable lifespan.

Contractors

Choose your contractor carefully and don’t be afraid to ask for references from former clients. They should be cognizant of local rules and regulations governing fencing in the community and be able to obtain any required permits. Homeowners should expect a professional to answer the phone, not a recording.

Always obtain a written estimate, ensure the materials and work are under warranty, and don’t hire a contractor that pressures you to make immediate decisions or pay in cash. The contractor should be willing to provide information and make recommendations, but the ultimate decision is yours.

Fencing is beneficial for a multitude of uses. It provides privacy, safety, and aids in reducing noise. There’s more to erecting a fence than simply getting it upright. There are laws and ordinances governing the installation of fencing, along with permits that may need to be obtained. Failure to comply with any existing codes or regulations could result in an order to tear down or move your newly installed fence.

Fences are great for marking boundaries, but it’s absolutely essential that you know exactly where your property line actually is. You’ll need to have the property surveyed if it hasn’t been recently. It’s just one of the reasons that the services of a professional fence installer are so beneficial. They know the laws and are able to obtain any needed permits.

A fencing professional will also know if there are any setbacks. In some locations, fences are required to be set back off the property line. That can range from 2 inches in some places to several feet in others to allow for maintenance. Fences can’t be built on an easement under any circumstances and a neighbor can’t paint or make other changes to a fence that you’ve had erected.

In other locations, you can erect a fence and half of the upkeep and cost will be attributed to your neighbor when they have what’s deemed a substantial building on their property. It also means that your neighbor can cut any tree limbs or bushes that infringe on the fence. In other areas, you may or may not need your neighbor’s permission to install the fence in the first place.

Fences serve a variety of purposes, but laws can vary widely in regard to their installation. It’s always best to have a professional perform the installation since they’re familiar with local ordinances. Before beginning any fencing project, ensure you have a recent survey to establish property boundaries. Property lines aren’t always straight and physical features can create installation difficulties that only professionals are able to accommodate properly.