Wood fences are classic, versatile, and can add to the curb appeal of any home. If you’re considering adding a wood fence to your property, you may be considering a DIY project or wondering whether you should invest in professional installation.
Contractor or DIY?
When it comes to fence installation, you can do it yourself or hire a professional. While DIY may seem like the most cost-effective option, many things can go wrong. That’s why professional installation is the right choice for many homeowners.
Below are some things to consider when choosing your contractor:
Check reviews from friends or online: Make sure the company you hire has good reviews and specializes in fencing installations. Many general contractors don’t offer this service and will subcontract out their work.
Ask for pricing upfront: Ask for an estimate with all materials included before signing any contracts. This will help avoid any surprise costs at the end of your project.
Ensure the company is bonded and insured: You want to make sure that they are licensed and insured so if anything happens on-site, it’s covered by their insurance company rather than yours.
An experienced, skilled, reputable contractor can answer any questions and ensure your fence installation goes smoothly.
Design Considerations
Your contractor will work with you to draw up a design for your property, including the measurements and location of the fence and any gates you may want to add. The contractor will also help you select the right kind of wood.
Discuss any permits that may be necessary for your project. This is a good time to bring up fence accessories you may be interested in, such as trellises or lamps.
Fence Layout
When installing a wood fence, the layout of each fence component, including the posts and gate, should be mapped out in advance.
You’ll need to know where your property lines are located so that you don’t accidentally encroach upon your neighbor’s property.
Setting the Post Holes
Various factors can affect the quality of a wood fence installation, but few can be more problematic than improperly set posts. Post holes must be dug precisely and securely to ensure proper alignment and installation.
A professional fence contractor with experience in wood fences will understand the importance of digging a hole precisely the correct depth and width for the post, ensuring it’s set in exactly the right place at or below the frost line in soil that isn’t too soft or hard.
Your contractor will set the posts in concrete, allowing them to dry properly for at least 24 hours before attaching each section of the fence. Most contractors wait one day for every inch of post diameter.
Attaching the Boards
Sections of board will be attached to posts using screws. Boards may be pressure treated to prevent rotting, especially if placed in areas that receive more water or moisture. If desired, your contractor can cut the boards to fit different heights on a property if needed.
These details will likely be discussed during the initial meeting with your installation team, so everything goes smoothly once construction starts.
Ready to Get Started?
The expert contractors at Anderson Fence are ready to go to work. All materials used by Anderson Fence in installing your wood fence are top quality from trusted suppliers. With 50+ years in the fencing business, Anderson Fence has the knowledge and experience to give you a fence you can be proud of.
Call Anderson Fence today at (800) 722-0929 for a free estimate, or contact us, and we will be in touch as soon as possible.
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