So you’ve come to the conclusion it’s time for a fence. Not any fence, mind you, but something sleek, contemporary, and maintenance-free. That’s where vinyl is good to go. But here’s the catch: the vinyl fence itself should be good quality, and so should the individual or business putting it up.
Selecting the proper vinyl fence contractor is not about who quotes you the cheapest price. It’s about someone you can trust to get it right the first time, no hassle, no corners cut. Let’s go step by step on how to identify that individual and what to look out for along the way.
Know What You’re Looking For in a Fence
Before you even go looking for a contractor, decide what you want your vinyl fence to accomplish:
- Do you want to keep pets in?
- Increase curb appeal?
- Gain privacy from neighbors?
- Protect a pool?
Not all vinyl fences are created equal. Some provide complete privacy with solid panels, and some are picket-style so you see through them. The kind of fence you require will determine cost, placement, and the qualifications needed to install it properly.
A quality contractor will do this at the onset. If not, you have reason to worry.
Begin with Referrals and Internet Searches
Ask neighbors, friends, or relatives who they hired. Local knowledge matters particularly when you’re dealing with property lines, HOA regulations, and township permits.
If you’re checking online, don’t just skim the top search results. Dig into reviews. Look for patterns, not just star ratings. One or two bad reviews? That’s life. But if five people are all complaining about poor communication or project delays, pay attention.
Visit contractor websites too. A professional, updated site says a lot. Look for:
- Photos of real projects (not just stock images)
- Clear process explanation
- Physical address and phone number (steer clear of PO boxes or general contact information)
Check Licensing and Insurance
Any reputable vinyl fence contractor will be appropriately licensed and insured. That keeps you safe if something goes wrong, be it an employee getting hurt or damage to property on the job.
Don’t believe everything they tell you. Demand evidence. A contractor who becomes defensive or evasive when you ask? More than likely, not someone you need fixing things on your property.
Ask the Right Questions
When you begin to call or meet with prospective contractors, approach it as an interview. Below are a few questions you should ask:
- How long have you been installing vinyl fences?
- Do you do all work in-house, or do you subcontract?
- Will you obtain the permits I’ll need?
- What’s your guarantee on materials and installation?
- Can I see some recent vinyl fence work that you’ve done?
The responses will indicate a lot. For instance, Montco Fence has been operating since 1971 and never hires subcontractors; that’s the type of thing that instills confidence.
Compare More Than Just the Price
It’s easy to take the lowest bid. Don’t.
Price does come into play, but it shouldn’t be the sole factor in your decision. The lowest bid may skimp, use inferior vinyl, or create a problem for you to clean up later. Find out what the price includes:
- Removal of existing fencing?
- Permit fees?
- Cleanup and hauling?
- Rock clause (if they strike rock down below)?
An affordable fence company will quote you a fair price with no surprises, won’t bait you with a low price only to nickel-and-dime you down the road.
Get It All in Writing
Before you pay a deposit or sign anything, ensure that you obtain a full contract. It needs to be detailed:
- Fence style, height, color
- Number of gates
- Estimated start and finish dates
- Payment schedule
- Warranty terms
This shields both parties and keeps everyone on the same page.
Don’t Ignore the Gut Check
Sometimes it’s about how the contractor makes you feel. Did they arrive on time? Answer your questions directly? Treat your property with care?
You want someone professional, yet comfortable to communicate with. You’ll be working with them for days, perhaps weeks, depending on your project.
Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, keep looking.
Why Montco Fence Gets It Right?
This is where experience and values come into play. At Montco Fence, we’ve been assisting homeowners throughout Eastern Pennsylvania with selecting and installing vinyl fences since the early 70s. We don’t hire out our work to fly-by-night crews. The same individuals you meet are the ones arriving on your property. That continuity manifests in their workmanship and in how they treat their clientele.
We don’t mess with pricing games either. No rock clause provides for no unexpected fees when we encounter rocky soil. And with a 5-year warranty on workmanship, we stand by our work. Just be sure to see what’s included under that warranty.
CTA – Work with an Affordable Fence Company That Treats You Right
You’re not merely purchasing a fence; you’re investing in your property. That entails hiring a contractor who will not cut corners, leave you hanging in the middle of a project, or give you something to regret.
If you’re willing to hire an affordable fence company founded on trust, quality workmanship, and flat-out honesty, call Montco Fence for a free estimate. No hard sell, no runaround, just genuine people who are committed to fencing.
Let’s build something great.
FAQs
1. What is the best grade of vinyl fencing?
Montco Fence installs professional-grade, American-made vinyl fencing that holds up to Pennsylvania’s seasons. It’s thicker and stronger than the stuff you’ll find at big box stores, with better UV resistance and long-term durability.
2. What are the negatives of vinyl fencing?
Vinyl fencing isn’t excellent for extreme impact (like falling trees) and can cost more upfront than wood. But it balances out by being nearly maintenance-free, no painting, no rot, no termites.
3. What is the life expectancy of a vinyl fence?
A properly installed, high-quality vinyl fence can last 20 to 30 years and often much longer. Montco Fence backs their work with a solid warranty, so you’re covered.
4. Do vinyl fences easily break?
Not a chance. Good vinyl fencing is durable and made to last with normal wear and tear. It will not break easily unless struck by something heavy or sharp, and even then, it can be fixed.
