Fence Installation – Making the Right Choices!

Introduction

Whether it's for privacy, security, or aesthetic appeal, fences are a valuable addition to any property. However, a successful fence installation depends on making informed decisions, from selecting the right material to choosing the best fence company to handle the project. Let's explore the process of fence installation and the choices that can lead to the best results.

Reasons to Install a Fence

The reasons to install a fence can greatly influence the type and design you select. Are you seeking enhanced security, or is privacy your primary concern? Perhaps you're more interested in the aesthetic appeal of a fence to complement your home's architecture, or you want to increase your property's value. Knowing your main objective can guide your choices in the fence installation process.

Types of Fences

There are several types of fences, each with unique characteristics. Wood fences, for example, offer a classic look and solid privacy, while vinyl fences are revered for their low maintenance and high durability. Aluminum fences blend elegance and strength, and chain-link fences are a cost-effective choice for large areas. 

To make the right choice, you need to weigh these options considering their pros and cons. Which brings us to the crucial role of a fence company. A reliable fence company can provide you with the insights and guidance you need to select the right type of fence.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fence

Your choice of fence should align with its intended purpose, local climate, maintenance requirements, and your budget. A privacy fence, for instance, will need to be tall and opaque. The local climate will also influence your choice – some materials withstand certain weather conditions better than others. 

Budget is another significant factor. While you might like the appeal of a certain fence type, you need to consider installation and maintenance costs. A professional fence contractor can help you understand these costs better, ensuring you make a decision that suits your budget.

Steps for Planning a Fence Installation

Accurate planning is crucial in fence installation. Start by measuring your property and marking the fence layout. Remember to plan for gates and access points.

Next, familiarize yourself with local regulations and Homeowner Association (HOA) rules. Many cities have specific codes regarding fence height, style, and placement, and HOAs often have their rules. 

Finally, decide whether you'll handle the fence installation yourself or hire professionals. DIY might save you some upfront costs, but hiring a reputable fence contractor ensures the job is done correctly and efficiently, which can save you time and money in the long run.

Mistakes to Avoid When Installing a Fence

Some common mistakes can derail your fence installation. One of the most common is not properly measuring property lines. This can lead to disputes with neighbors and even legal trouble.

Ignoring local zoning laws and HOA rules is another common mistake. Before you start the installation, ensure you are fully aware of and compliant with all relevant regulations.

Choosing the wrong materials for your climate or needs can also lead to issues down the line, such as premature wear or inadequate functionality. Partnering with a reliable fence company can help you avoid these pitfalls.

Maintenance Tips for Your Fence

Regardless of the type of fence you choose, regular maintenance is necessary to keep it in the best condition. Cleaning, painting or staining, and checking for damage should be part of your routine. A fence contractor can provide professional advice on how to best maintain your fence.

Conclusion

In conclusion, fence installation is a significant project that requires careful planning and execution. By understanding your needs, researching options, avoiding common mistakes, and partnering with a reliable fence contractor, you can ensure your new fence serves its purpose effectively and adds value to your property for years to come. So start planning your fence installation today, and soon you'll be enjoying the many benefits of this smart home improvement decision.

Understand Texas Boundary Laws Before Putting Up A Fence!

A fence creates a boundary around someone’s personal property to keep certain things in and other things out.

Unfortunately, many people do not understand how boundary laws are applied prior to hiring fence contractors to put up their fences.

These tips can help homeowners understand how to handle boundary issues ahead of the arrival of a fence company or when there are questions about an existing fence.

  • Property Line Disputes - Whether hiring fence services to install a new fence or repair an existing one, it is essential that homeowners confirm their property lines to ensure the fence is on the right side. Since there are many factors involved in determining where along a property line a fence can be placed or who owns a fence that is across the property line, it is important to have surveying done before any changes are made. 
  • Who Owns The Fence? - An existing fence is owned by the owner of whichever property the fence is set on. If the fence is directly on the property line and used by both property owners, both parties own the fence and are equally responsible for its upkeep and repair by a fence contractor. However, a fence on the property line that is used by only one neighbor is technically owned by them alone. 
  • Who Repairs A Damaged Fence? - Based on the above points about ownership according to boundary lines, the person responsible for having repairs done to a damaged fence by a fence company is the one that is considered the owner per the location of the fence as well as who gets use out of the fence being there. For example, in residential neighborhoods where fences separate small yards, it is assumed that both neighbors own the fence that separates their yards, so they should both contribute to its upkeep, repair, and eventual replacement by fence services when necessary.

Boundary disputes related to fence services are common, especially in residential areas where many homeowners have fences close together.

When property line disputes occur, the first thing that any property owner should do is have a survey done to confirm boundaries, preferably before a fence company puts in a fence.

If the issue concerns an existing fence, the property owners will need to come to some kind of agreement such as assuming boundaries for the purpose of the fence or sharing responsibility for it.

Any agreements made should be recorded in writing.

Ideally, homeowners can avoid these issues by making sure their fence contractor installs the new fence on the right side of the property line.

Prepare Correctly for a New Fencing Installation!

When having a new fence installation done, it is important to do a few preparations ahead of time to eliminate the possibility of problems that could make it a bad experience.

Though homeowners can leave all the heavy work to a dependable fence company, there are still a few pre-installation details that should be handled beforehand to make their job easier.

Whether putting in a brand new fencing installation or replacing an old one that is coming down, these easy preparation tips will ensure a smooth installation and a worry-free fence to enjoy for years to come.

  1. Let The Neighbors Know - Before making any changes, let the neighbors know about the new fence installation. Explain what type of fence will go in, where it will be located, and answer any questions. If there are any issues or concerns, this is the time to deal with them, as opposed to after the fence company has already completed the installation and it is too late to make any changes.
  2. Mark Off Property Lines - When doing a fencing installation along a property line, be 100% positive of where those property lines are to eliminate the possibility of accidentally putting the fence on the neighbor’s property. If there are no markers already present, this could mean having a professional survey done just to be sure.
  3. Stake Corners and Gates - After property lines are marked, put in some wooden stakes to mark where the fence corners and both sides of the gates will go. Homeowners can estimate these markers ahead of time to remind the fence company where these elements should go, which they can use as a guideline before measuring and putting in their own markers.
  4. Call The Utility Company - Next, call 811 in Texas and tell them of the upcoming fence installation so someone can be sent to locate power, gas, and sewer lines and mark them. A mistake made without clearance from the utility could be a costly mistake for a homeowner. If the utility company miscalculates, the cost is on them.
  5. Mow and Clear the Fencing Area - Mow the grass the day before the fence company arrives to do the installation and clear away any debris, furnishings, yard equipment, or anything else that might be in their way while they work.

Doing a new fencing installation involves careful planning and a lot of hard work.

By handling these small but critical details ahead of time, homeowners can make the job much easier and faster for a fence company that will appreciate the effort.

These tips are especially important for preventing neighbor problems later down the road, so do take the time to handle these five easy steps!