Fencing Services

Picket Fence

Picket fences are typically made of wooden or vinyl vertical boards attached to horizontal rails. They are known for their charming, classic look, with evenly spaced pickets.

• Provides a traditional and aesthetically pleasing appearance.
• Offers some level of security and containment for pets and children.
• Allows airflow and visibility.

• Not as effective for privacy, as there are gaps between pickets.
• Requires regular maintenance, such as painting or staining.
• May not be as durable as other fencing options.

Semi-Privacy Fence

Semi-privacy fences are similar to picket fences but with narrower spacing between the vertical boards, providing more privacy while still allowing some airflow and visibility.

• Offers more privacy compared to picket fences.
• Retains some of the aesthetic appeal of picket fences.
• Requires less maintenance than fully privacy fences.

• Still allows some visibility from outside.
• May not provide enough privacy for certain situations, such as urban environments or properties close to neighbors.
• Maintenance needs include occasional cleaning and repairs.

Full Privacy Fence

Full privacy fences, often made of materials like wood, vinyl, or composite, provide complete privacy by eliminating any gaps between boards.

• Offers maximum privacy and security.
• Blocks visibility and noise from outside.
• Can be customized in various styles and heights.

• May create a more closed-off feeling and reduce airflow.
• Can be more expensive upfront, depending on the material chosen.
• Requires periodic maintenance like cleaning and potential repairs.

Ornamental Fence

Ornamental fences are typically made of metal (such as aluminum or wrought iron) and feature decorative elements like scrolls, finials, or intricate designs.

• Adds elegance and curb appeal to properties.
• Provides security while maintaining visibility.
• Durable and long-lasting, especially if made of wrought iron.

• Generally more expensive than other fencing options.
• May require professional installation due to the complexity of design and materials.
• Limited in terms of privacy compared to full privacy fences.

Post and Rail Fence

A post and rail fence is a classic type of fencing made of horizontal rails supported by vertical posts. It's often seen in rural areas or as a decorative touch in suburban landscapes.

• Adds a nice, rustic touch to your property.
• Not too hard to put up, even if you're doing it yourself.
• You can use it for keeping animals in, marking boundaries, or just making your yard look nice.

• Doesn't provide strong security due to gaps between rails.
• Requires regular maintenance to stay in good condition.
• Might not last as long as other types of fencing, depending on materials and environmental factors.

Lattice Fence

A lattice fence is a type of fence made with crisscrossed strips, usually wood, vinyl, or metal. It's often used in gardens and yards to make them look nice while still letting some air and light through.

• Lattice fences add a decorative touch to outdoor spaces, making gardens and yards prettier.
• They give a bit of privacy by blocking views, but you can still see through them somewhat.
• You can use lattice fences in various ways, like making garden trellises or decorative screens.

• They don't block views completely, so they're not great if you want a lot of privacy.
• Lattice fences need to be taken care of to stay looking good, like painting or cleaning.
• Depending on the material and where you live, they might not stay strong and sturdy for a long time.

• Q: How to take initial measurements and rough estimate?

  Before you start, gather all the necessary tools to facilitate accurate measurements. The primary tools you’ll need include:

  • 1. Measuring Tape

    This is the most basic tool you’ll need. It should be long enough to measure the length and width of your yard or use markers to keep accurate measurements if your measuring tape isn’t long enough.

  • 2. Wheel Measure

    This is a practical alternative to measuring tape, especially for large yards. Wheel measures are simple to use and can quickly give you an accurate measurement of distance.

  • 3. Graph Paper and Pencil

    You will need these to sketch your yard layout and mark the measurements.

  • 4. String and Wooden Stakes

    These are helpful for marking out the fence line and getting a visual representation of where the fence will go. You can also use a rock or paint.

• Q: How to Measure Your Yard for a Fence?

  With all the preliminary aspects handled, here’s the step-by-step process on how to measure your yard for a fence:

  • 1. Sketch a Layout

    Start by creating a rough sketch of your yard on a piece of graph paper. Mark out where you want the fence to go, the location of gates, and any potential obstacles.

  • 2. Mark the Corners

    Using wooden stakes and string (or paint/rocks), mark out the corners of where your fence will go at a 90° angle. This gives a physical representation of the fence line and can help you visualize the finished product.

  • 3. Measure the Perimeter

    Use your measuring tape or wheel measure to get the dimensions of each side of your fence line. Record these measurements on your sketch.

  • 4. Plan for the Gates

    Decide how wide you want your gate(s), and where you want them when planning your measurements.

  • 5. Double-Check Your Measurements

    Always double-check your measurements for accuracy before purchasing materials or beginning installation.

• Q: Precautions to be taken before taking measurements are:

  • Check for Utilities:

    Always check for underground utilities before digging for your fence posts. Most locations have a “call before you dig” hotline that will mark utility lines for you.

  • Review Property Lines:

    Be sure to confirm your property lines before setting up a fence to avoid disputes with neighbors or legal complications.

  • Consider Gates and Obstacles:

    Remember to plan for the placement of gates and any potential obstacles like trees, landscaping features, or buildings.

• Q: Factors to Consider When Measuring for a New Fence:

  • 1. Know What Type of Fence You Want Before Starting

    A vinyl picket fence versus a wood fence, chain link fence, aluminum fence, wrought iron fence, etc. are all very different types of fencing; each with differences in height, distance between posts, fence panels, etc. That’s why it’s crucial to determine what type of fence you want for your yard before you start.

  • 2. Calculate Materials

    Based on your measurements, calculate how much fencing material you will need.Based on your measurements, calculate how much fencing material you will need.

  • 3. Account for Fence Posts

    Remember to account for fence posts approximately every 6-8 feet. Depending on the type of fence, the distance between posts may vary. Have you ever considered using landscape timbers for fence posts?

• Q: Certainly! When it comes to marking property lines for fencing, there are several methods you can use. Let’s explore some options:

  • 1. Review Your Current Property Survey
    • o Check if there’s an existing land survey of your property. This survey might have been conducted when you purchased your home or as part of a transaction.
    • o Look through your home closing paperwork to see if a property survey is included.
    • o If you have contact information for the previous owner, consider reaching out to them to inquire about a copy of the latest survey.
  • 2. Use a Property Line or Plat Map
    • o Visit your local county record or assessor’s office. They typically have maps that show property lines.
    • o You may find this information available online or need to visit the office in person.
    • o There’s usually a small fee (usually under $25) to access this information.
  • 3. Surveyor’s Data and Marking
    • o If you have a surveyor’s findings, mark each corner of your property boundary with wooden stakes.
    • o Run a string line between the stakes to outline your property boundary clearly.
  • 4. Visible Markers
    • o Use visible markers at the corners of your land. These can be:
      • Wooden stakes with neon tape wrapped around the top.
      • Metal posts specifically designed for marking property lines.
    • o Set markers at all four corners of your land and periodically along the boundary, depending on the size of your lot.

• Q: How to find a property lines?

  The geometry of your property is a legal survey with boundaries defined by steel pins driven at each intersecting corner, regardless of the shape of your lot. The specific coordinates are laid out by a surveyor using specialized measuring instruments, but locating the property boundary is a much less complicated process and can quickly establish the lines needed to build your new fence.

  • Step 1

    Review the property plat survey map for your lot included with your home purchase agreement or mortgage documents, if available.

  • Step 2

    Begin at one end of the proposed fence line and locate the property boundary pin. The boundary pin is typically a 1-inch concrete-filled pipe driven into the ground, flush with the natural terrain, with a stamped metal tag inserted in the top. The boundary pin may have been covered with dirt or plant growth over time and you can use a garden trowel or shovel to explore the surface to uncover the pin. You can also use a standard metal detector to locate the boundary pipe.

  • Step 3

    Mark the property boundary corner with a wood or metal stake driven with a small sledgehammer into the ground next to the pin. Tie a short strip of colored marking tape to the top of the stake to help identify the position.

  • Step 4

    Measure or pace off the approximate angle and dimension of the property line as illustrated on the plat survey and locate the property pin for the next corner. Again, it may have been covered with dirt over time and you can explore the ground surface with a shovel to help uncover the pin, if necessary.

• Q: HOA rules for setbacks:

  To give you an idea of how narrow a margin you typically have when building a fence or deck in an HOA, here are some simple guidelines.

  • • Be rectangular in design.
  • • Be white vinyl material.
  • • Be no more than 4 feet tall.
  • • Be installed by a professional fence contractor.
  • • Not have privacy slats and have a minimum vertical spacing of 3.5 inches between slats.
  • • Not extend beyond 30 feet from the rear of your house.
  • • Be setback 20 feet from the side-yard property line if your home is on a corner lot.

  Homeowners must sign a binding maintenance agreement to maintain the fence and surrounding landscaping and attach it to their application.

• Q: HOA approval for Fence:

  Getting your fence project approved by your HOA might be easier than you think, especially if you follow the rules. Follow these steps when creating your proposal.

  • • Check local zoning regulations.

    Zoning laws vary based on location, so make sure you're familiar with your city's or municipality's before you begin your proposal. Your fence will have to comply with any local zoning restrictions while also meeting the requirements of the HOA.

  • • Read the Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs).

    Every HOA has a set of CC&Rs. The CC&Rs cover various topics, from what color you can paint your front door to the types of holiday decorations you can put up. They'll also likely lay out the type of fences that are and aren't allowed by the HOA. The CC&Rs will also tell you if you need to submit a formal proposal before beginning a project or if you can start work on it, as long as you follow the rules. Give the CC&Rs a read before you do anything else, so you don't fall in love with a fence material that's off-limits. Knowing the rules also increases the likelihood of the HOA approving your project.

  • • Talk to a fencing company.

    Once you know the rules and zoning regulations, schedule a consultation with a local fencing company. Ideally, you'll work with a fence company that understands your local area's HOAs. During your consultation, a representative from the company can review your fencing options with you and help you decide which type of fence best suits you and complies with your HOA's rules.

  • • Decide on the fencing style you want.

    After meeting with a fence company, you should feel ready to pick a style that you like, whether it's a vinyl, aluminum, or wood fence and whether it's a privacy or semi-privacy fence.

  • • Detail your plans for the HOA.

    Now's the time to put together your proposal if your HOA requires one in writing. Along with writing a proposal, you might have to present it, in person, to the HOA. The more detailed and supporting documentation you provide with the proposal, the better. Include details about the fence, such as its materials, height, and location. Provide a site plan that shows where on your property the fence will be. It can also be a good idea to include information about the fence company you plan on working with.

• Q: Utilities Marking during installation:

  When installing a fence, it’s crucial to safeguard underground utility lines to prevent accidents and disruptions. Here are some essential steps to follow:

  • 1. Contact 811

    Before digging any post holes, call 811. This service will help you request underground utility line marking. Once you make the request, utility companies will spray paint lines or place flags to indicate the location of buried pipes or wires on your property.

  • 2. Leave the Markings in Place

    After the utility lines are marked, do not remove any flags or painted marks until the fence installation is complete. These markings serve as vital indicators, helping you avoid digging in areas where utilities are present.

  • 3. Visual Inspection

    Conduct a visual inspection of your property. Look for above-ground signs of underground utilities, such as utility poles, meter boxes, or manhole covers. These indicators can provide clues about the presence and location of buried lines, allowing you to map out utility paths and plan your fence layout accordingly.

  • 4. Collaborate with Your Contractor

    Work closely with your fence contractor. Both you and the contractor should do your due diligence to mark all underground infrastructure at the installation site. This collaborative effort ensures that everyone is aware of utility lines and takes necessary precautions.

• Q: Fence Installation Process:

  The process for installing a fence can vary based on the type of fence you choose. However, here are some common steps:

  • 1. Marking Locations

    Mark the planned post-hole locations using spray paint.

    • Digging Post Holes: Dig post holes with a wider width at the bottom.
    • Concrete Placement: Mix and pour concrete into each hole.
    • Setting Posts: Set the fence posts in the wet concrete to dry.
    • Attaching Panels or Rolls: Attach fencing panels or rolls to the posts.
  • 2. Types of Fencing Materials

    Consider the materials for your fence. Common options include.

    • Natural Wood: Durable and ideal for traditional-style homes.
    • Metal and Chain Link: Durable and cost-effective.
    • Vinyl: Weather-resistant and low maintenance.
    • Composite: Strong and suitable for designer-inspired homes.
  • 3. Fence Height and Permits:

    The height of your fence matters. Some factors include:

    • Permits: Check local regulations. Some areas require permits for certain fence heights.
    • Materials: Different materials may have varying permit requirements.
    • Protected Zones: Avoid touching environmentally critical areas like wetlands.
    • Setbacks: Some locations may have setback boundaries near streets.
  • 4. Cost of Fence Installation:

    The average cost of a fencing job in 2023 was around $6,700. Factors affecting cost include yard size, materials, style, labor, and location.