Fences (click here for more) give a sense of security, privacy and structure. They’re great for keeping children and pets from escaping, and they can even be used to separate your property from that of a neighbor. But the process of installing one takes planning and careful consideration, and it starts with choosing a good fence contractor.
Here’s what to look for in a fence contractor.
Define What the Fence Needs to Do
Before calling fence companies for quotes, consider why you want to install a fence in the first place. Is it to keep your pets from escaping? To create privacy? To mark the property line? A fence’s purpose will determine the type of material and height of the fence, as well as where the gates should be placed. Here are some common reasons to install a fence:
- Create privacy
- Keep children or pets inside a fenced area
- Increase the visual appeal of your property
- Create a property line
- Limit access to pools, gardens or machinery
- Replace a fence that is broken, damaged, fallen down or leaning
You should also consider how you plan to use your property for years to come. Maybe your current gate is too narrow and won’t accommodate larger pieces of lawn and garden equipment, outdoor furniture or building materials.
Compare the Full Scope, Not Just Price
A quote should contain the information needed to understand what is being quoted and how much it will cost, rather than just presenting the final price. Two quotes can look almost identical in terms of the bottom-line price while actually representing completely different levels of work. Ask the fence companies about the type of materials they’ll use, whether they’ll dig the holes for the posts, remove the old fence, supply the gate hardware, include trim, perform final cleanup and haul away debris. Also, mention any unique circumstances of your yard, such as uneven terrain, multiple corners, slopes, or landscaping.
A lower quote isn’t always a bad quote, but it should be scrutinized more closely. Perhaps the quote uses less expensive materials or omits necessary steps, such as digging holes for the posts or removing the old fence. The quote could also leave out potential charges, such as disposal fees, which will likely appear as additional costs on the final invoice. A detailed, itemized quote will help you evaluate the company’s proposal more accurately.
How Will Material Shape Maintenance and Appearance?
There are many types of fencing, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. Wooden fences look nice and can be built in several styles, but they require regular maintenance. Vinyl fences offer a clean look and don’t require as much maintenance, and metal fences allow for good visibility and don’t create a closed-in feeling. This is overkill when the goal is a small, temporary enclosure for a short-term need. In that situation, investing in premium materials and complex features may not make financial sense. For a long-term installation, consider:
- Exposure to elements (water, sun, wind)
- Desired level of privacy
- Maintenance needs
- Existing architecture and landscaping
- Potential for future repair of a section
- Gate location and usage
A reputable fence company will be able to walk you through the pros and cons of various materials.
Account for Site Conditions
A flat, open yard is easy to work with. But if your yard has trees with roots, water drainage issues, retaining walls, underground utilities, rock or significant elevation changes, your fence contractor must account for these obstacles. Whenever possible, walk the proposed route of the fence with the contractor. Bring attention to any irrigation lines, light fixtures, large tree roots, flower beds or other barriers that may interfere with installation.
If a gate would be located near a hill or steep slope (https://www.genieai.co/en-us/define/steep-slope), or along an access path, you’ll want to know that ahead of time. One thing you may not have thought of: Where will the crew stage the fence and store materials during the installation process?
Questions and Final Checks Before Installation
A professional fence contractor should be more than happy to answer your questions. Ask about how the posts will be set, if a permit or HOA approval is required, how changes will be handled, and what the expected timeline will be. It’s also a good idea to ask about the warranty on workmanship and how the company handles unforeseen issues. The answers to these questions will help you avoid complications later on.
To prepare for the project, make sure you’ve confirmed the location and have signed off on a written scope of work. Make sure your property is accessible to the installer and move items out of the way. If there are any questions about property lines or community rules, address them before construction begins. Have a copy of the agreed-upon quote and mark on it where gates will be installed or any other details.
