The business of wood fences installation is not what it seems like at first glance, not by far. The choice that it promises is considerably bigger than what the owners of the house are willing to acknowledge. The fence that you will install will have a major effect on the appearance and presence of your home (curb appeal), privacy, and security that may last for years to come. Shortcuts and hurrying up the process can result in a fence that does not suit your needs or is not strong.
Stepping back and evaluating what is before you is a sound strategy before you order materials or start digging. What should the fence achieve? Come up with how much maintenance you are willing to undergo. What are the regulations and boundaries of the property in the city? By having the answers to these questions in favor of you before it is too late, you will be saving yourself some valuable time and money in the future.
Define Why You Need a Fence
It’s simple to get carried away with looks, but your first priority should be purpose. Ask yourself: what do you want to get out of this fence?
- If it’s privacy, solid wood panels will work just fine.
- If it’s keeping pets or children safe, height and picket spacing are more important than appearance.
- If you want curb appeal, style and finish will guide your decisions.
Understanding your fence’s purpose will make you confident in your decisions and prevent expensive changes mid-project.
Select the Appropriate Type of Wood for Your Region
Wood is not able to fit everywhere. Certain kinds of wood perform well in humid conditions, and others are very dry. These are some of the trends:
- Cedar
Resistant to rot and insects by nature. It weathers beautifully and rarely requires chemical treatment. - Pine (Pressure-Treated)
Inexpensive and readily available. It is treated for decay resistance but could require additional attention to avoid warping. - Redwood
Visually dense and extremely durable, but tends to carry a higher cost. Ideal for specialty or decorative projects.
When beginning a wood fences installation, it’s wise to inquire from your local installer about what works best in your region’s climate.
Be Familiar with Local Rules and Regulations
The majority of towns have fence height restrictions, zoning regulations, and permit needs. Skimping on this aspect may cost you money time, or even require you to take down the fence after construction.
Some things to verify:
- Do you require a permit for your new fence?
- Are there any height limitations for front or back yards?
- How close to sidewalks or property lines does the fence have to be?
An experienced fence contractor will probably know your local codes, but it’s always a good idea to double-check before construction starts.
Know Your Property Lines
Few things create neighbor strife quicker than a fence erected in the wrong location. Even if you “believe” you know where your land stops, it’s good to double-check. An official survey makes everything clear and eliminates controversies. In case your fence touches a common boundary line with a neighbor, you might have a desire to apply to your neighbor prior to commencing the project.
Preparing the Ground Is a Bigger Deal Than You Think
Even the finest materials will fail if the ground preparation is hurried. The health of your soil and the steepness of your lawn have a direct impact on how stable your fence is.
- Sandy soil is good at draining but can possibly require deeper posts.
- Clay soil retains water, and the water can cause posts to rot in the long term.
- Slopes can require stepped sections or special cuts in order to keep everything level.
A well-built base is what keeps a fence upright for decades.
Installation Hardware Matters More Than You’d Expect
Hardware and fasteners may not be very exciting, but that is what keeps the whole structure intact. Coated screws or galvanized nails are used to avoid rust stains and loose boards during the course of time. The gates that are used on a daily basis must have strong hinges and durable latches.
Saving a few bucks in this aspect translates into trouble in the future in the form of sagging gates, warped rails, or offset posts.
Finish Work = Longevity
The moment there is a fence installed, it has not been completed yet until that fence has been sealed or painted. Untreated wood will crack, warp, and rot much faster under the elements of the sun and rain.
- A stain enhances the natural grain and provides good protection.
- Paint provides bold color and a coating of weather resistance.
- A clear sealant provides a more natural appearance while still protecting the wood from moisture.
No matter what finish you use, be prepared to reapply it every several years. That small amount of maintenance goes a long way.
Why Some Projects Are Better Left to Professionals?
DIY is alluring, particularly in the interest of saving money. But fencing involves skill, equipment, and more time than many homeowners anticipate.
Professionals have the equipment to dig accurate post holes, align boards, and cut panels cleanly. They also understand things like underground utilities, zoning regulations, and tricky terrain.
Many residential fence companies also offer warranties, meaning you’ll have peace of mind long after the project is done.
Budget Beyond the First Day
When pricing out your fence, think beyond just the lumber. Include:
- Post concrete
- Hardware
- Permits
- Stain or paint
- Labor (if hiring professionals)
Most of the time, it is more prudent to spend more on materials that will last longer and require less maintenance. It could be experienced that the pricier fence initially may come cheaper in the long run.
Ready to Build? Let One of the Most Trusted Residential Fence Companies Help
At Montco Fence, we know that a wood fence is not merely about defining a yard. It’s about guarding what’s important to you. Whether you want privacy, beauty, or security, our professionals stand at your disposal to make your dream a reality.
As one of the best residential fence companies in Pennsylvania, we take care of it all – permits and prep, installation, and finish. We’ll assist you in picking the perfect materials, planning your layout, and installing with precision so you can enjoy your fence for many years to come.
Let’s begin with a fence that complements your home and your lifestyle. Contact us today for a free consultation.
FAQs
1. How quickly does a wood fence get installed?
It can be a normal job and is completed within 2-4 days, according to the terrain and size of the yard.
2. Does Montco Fence offer custom fence designs?
We have a range of custom wood designs to suit your property’s requirements.
3. What kind of maintenance does a wood fence require?
Every 2-3 years to seal, and twice a season to check the loose boards or damages.
4. Will Montco Fence deal with permits and zoning issues?
Yes. We handle permits and ensure we are in line with local laws; therefore, there is nothing to be worried about.
