Many homeowners consider fence installation a do-it-yourself project. You lay out the fence lines, dig holes, pour cement, set posts, set boards, and there you go!
Or, so you think.
Installing a fence is not always an easy job for people who are unfamiliar with the procedures. It can be far more time-consuming and complicated for a property owner than for a professional fence contractor with the right equipment and expertise.
Security
Many variables, such as weather, temperature, geography, incline, and soil composition must be considered when building a fence in order to ensure that it secures your property. If you don’t install it properly, your fence may sag not long after you put it up. However, an experienced contractor has the knowledge to ensure that your fence will last and sufficiently protect your property, as they will know how to take all of these variables into account when constructing your fence.
Evaluation
Installing a fence that is straight and looks good can be accomplished by professionals in less time than it takes you and friends to do it. There are many contractors who can install fences, from professional landscape companies to a local experienced handyman. Take the time to explore the options for professional installation teams before you try to do it yourself.
Understand the procedures for installing a complete fence system and compare this to the price of having your fence installed by professional installers. Just mixing and pouring concrete after digging holes that are deep enough is messy and time-consuming. You will need access to a variety of specialized tools and equipment. While these tools can be purchased or rented fairly easily, they can end up costing you a great deal of money. Unless you already have the right tools for the job on hand, it could end up being more expensive to install a fence yourself than to hire a contractor to do it for you.
Permits
Something many homeowners do not realize is that they may need a building permit to construct a fence on their property. While this may seem odd considering you’re not building a structure or an addition to your house, many jurisdictions require some kind of permit to do any kind of construction on a property. Depending on your town’s zoning codes, there may also be regulations on where you can place a fence on your property in relation to your neighbours and the street.
However, a professional contractor who has worked in your area will be familiar with all of these requirements. By having a professional install your fence, they can walk you through the building process, ensuring that your finished fence is legal, as well as secure when it’s installed. This can save you additional time as the process of researching building codes and requesting permits can be lengthy.
Estimates
You need to speak with different types of installers, such as general contractors and professional landscape companies. Explain about the type of fencing you envision for your yard. A professional landscaper may suggest certain types of fencing from wood and metal to PVC vinyl fences—which are the most durable in all weather conditions.
Take the time to get three or more estimates for installing the fence, and make comparisons on the cost in relation to installation time. Look closely at the different products currently on the market and discuss your preferences with installers.
The grading of your yard is most important. A potential installer should visit your property and take measurements of the area to be fenced. Professional fence installers will know how to set posts and fencing on hillsides or lots with only a gentle slope.
Check for recommendations on different websites that evaluate service companies. This is a competitive market, and installers welcome good reviews. They are usually ready to work as soon as the weather permits. Holes for fence posts can be prepared when the ground thaws, which means your fence can be ready long before summer.
Contract Specifics
Ask a contractor how long it should take to install your fence and if installers can work in all weather conditions. Certain parts of the installation process, such as pouring cement and setting posts, should be accomplished in dry weather.
Understand the contractor’s payment procedure. A landscape company usually wants partial payment before the job starts with final payment when it is finished. Find out if the contractor offers a warranty on service; this is important since you expect that your fence will be strong enough to withstand all weather conditions.
Your contract with any installer should be in writing, and you should also have a copy of the warranty.
Oasis Outdoor Products is a leading distributor of fence materials, including PVC vinyl fencing. We work with professional fence installers and DIY property owners throughout Canada. Call us today at 1-844-932-2680!
