Fence: Ultimate Guide To Selecting, Buying, Installing Your Dream Fence
Written by D. Hahn in FenceLast Updated January 17, 2022
In this guide, you’ll learn how to select, buy and install the best fence for your yard.
Selecting the right fence can be fun but also overwhelming if you don’t know what to look for. We have distilled the plethora of pages, posts and videos on fences – into this comprehensive guide..
So if you’re having trouble finding the right fence for you or you’re just getting started, or you’re looking to hone your skills — don’t worry.
Chain link fence is one of the most popular types of fencing for residential and commercial applications because it is affordable and easy to install.
The fence is available in different sizes, materials, and appearances.
A chain-link fence is suitable for temporary fencing or as a protective shield for restriction in a particular area.
We show you the costs breakdowns as well as detailed installation instructions, FAQs and maintenance answers so you can quickly install your own Chain Link Fence or know the full cost if you hire it out.
Paint all scratches and recoat to prevent rust. People using metal fences made with rustproof aluminum have the least maintenance work to do.
Metal Fence: Accessories
Fence posts
Your new panel won’t look ravishing the way it should if it is surrounded by old, haggard posts, so a high-quality fence post will compliment your panel aesthetic.
Apart from complimenting the external structure of your fencing, it also plays a part in environmental aesthetics.
Gate posts
You’ll need a new gate post along with your new fence post.
Gates posts are designed to hold the latches and hunches together when connecting the gates to the fence.
Most posts are wider and strong to withstand the extra weight.
Because it is the support that determines the gate strength.
So having strong, durable support is a priority.
Gravel boards
Gravel boards are positioned above the ground, below the fence panel, and between 140mm-150mm in height to protect against insect damage, wet soil effect, and debris.
Not only do gravel boards close unnecessary fencing gaps, but also improve durability and aesthetics – plus privacy.
Slats
Also called the privacy slat, a fence slat is a plastic or metal material inserted into the metal fence to optimize privacy.
Slats are made from plastic or aluminum.
In addition, slat offers more than just privacy – they are also available in different colors, design and customized branding.
RELATED POST:Metal Fenceguide for 11 Answers to must know FAQs.
Chapter 03 – WOOD FENCE
Wood Fence
Apart from beautifying the environment, wood fences provide security, privacy, and containment for the kids.
On the flip side, they’re less durable and require a bit of maintenance.
Cheaper wood is prone to shrinking, rotting, cracking, warping, or pest damage, wood fencing usually has a limited life span, especially in wet climate regions.
Apart from these shortcomings, many people love woods for their aesthetic offering, and if Installed the right way – can last for multiple decades.
Here’s where we answer all your questions about wood fencing.
RELATED POST: Check out our Wood Fence: 11 Answers You Must Know guide for extensive details on the 8 Extra Steps to complete the installation process.
Chapter 04 – COMPOSITE FENCE
Composite fences have been around for several decades now and they are popular for versatility, aesthetics, and economy.
Apart from beautifying the environment, composite fences provide security, privacy, and containment for the kids.
On the flip side, they’re less durable than wood fences and may be prone to breaking easier than wood fences.
Because they’re prone to cracking, breaking damage, composite fencing usually has a limited life span, as all fences do.
Apart from these shortcomings, many people love woods for their aesthetic offering, and if Installed the right way – can last for multiple decades.
Composite Fence: Cost
On average, a composite fence cost anywhere between $25-$50 per linear foot.
Is it cheaper to build a wood fence or vinyl or composite
Between wood, vinyl, and composite, wood is the cheapest to build.
While wood, vinyl, and composite are available in a different range of styles which can affect the overall cost, on a general note, wood fences require less upfront cost compared to vinyl and composite.
Vinyl fencing is made from synthetic plastic like nylon and vinyl.
They are easy to maintain, simple to clean, rust-free, durable, and environmentally sustainable.
The beauty of Vinyl fencing attracts neighbors and passersby.
Vinyl Fence: Cost
To clarify how much you will spend, measure the number of feet of your land and multiply the result with the national average of $28 per linear fo
What is the cost of a vinyl fence?
Homeowners may spend anywhere between $2,181- $6,089 on installation with the national average at $4,135.
To clarify how much you will spend, measure the number of feet of your land and multiply the result with the national average of $28 per linear foot.
Is it cheaper to build a wood fence or vinyl or composite
Between wood, vinyl, and composite, wood is the cheapest to build.
While wood, vinyl, and composite are available in a different range of styles which can affect the overall cost, on a general note, wood fences require less upfront cost compared to vinyl and composite.
On average, a composite fence cost anywhere between $15-$20 per linear foot installed.
Privacy Fence : Types
There are dozens of different kinds of privacy fence and several installation processes. You can buy various plastic lattice panels for around $50 each and set up a makeshift fence as well.
Privacy Fence Panels
Decorative Privacy Fence
Temporary privacy fence
4′ x 4′ 4′ x 8′ panels
6′ -8′ normal height
3.5′ – 4 varied height
Plastic or composite
various
various
Great for privacy for yard
Privacy slats available
Quick installs, removals
RELATED POST:Privacy Fenceguide for Answers to must know FAQs.
Chapter 07 – FENCE PLANNING
1. Conception
Before you plan on having a fence, you need to know what’s involved and how long it will take to finish. These are important considerations because your fence will be a long-term addition to your property.
2. Determine Your Purpose On Having A Fence
-What is the purpose of your fence,
– What do you plan to use it for?
– Do you need a fence to protect young children and pets from escaping?
– Do you need to use it for privacy?
– Do you want to use the space enclosed by your fence for animals such as chickens and goats?
3. Walk and determine the installation location
Before choosing a fence, you need to walk around your property and figure out where it will be installed.
Take measurements of the space available and make a list of your priorities.
4. Building Permit or HOA permit
Before you start any work, make sure to check with your city or HOA for restrictions and permits. They may require you to go through a certain process before you can officially begin your fence construction.
5.Fence Budget
One of the most important considerations is your budge
Check With A Neighbor:
Another important factor to keep in mind is how your fence will impact any neighbors. It’s important to let your neighbors know that you’re planning on installing a new fence.
Call 811 To Locate Utility Cables Before Digging:
Before digging, call 811 to have underground utilities located. This is important to prevent any damages to cables or the pipes that go with them.
Once you know where the cables and pipes are, you can plan accordingly.
Tools
It’s important to have the right tools before you start your installation. Here is a list of some basic tools you should consider having in your arsenal before you start your fence installation:
Tape Measure – if you’re installing an electric fence, this will be one of the most important tools required for the job.
Saw – you’ll most likely need to cut your fencing material to fit the area where you want them.
Drill – in some cases, your fence may have screws that you’ll need to drill into place.
Hammer – when installing fencing material, this is one of the most common tools used. This is also a tool that’s required for almost any DIY project at home.
Screwdriver – most fencing material is installed with screws. This will be another important tool you’ll need for the job.
Screws – these are used to attach your fencing material to posts or other fixtures.
Shovel – if you plan on digging holes to place your posts, you will need this tool.
Posthole digger – if you plan on digging holes by hand, this is a very helpful tool to have.
Saws-All – these are used to cut your fencing materials. These will be a little more heavy-duty than a standard saw, but they’ll still have the same basic features.
Stakes – you will most likely use stakes when installing your fencing material. This is the best way to keep them in place while you drill or screw them into place.
String – string can be used to attach your fencing material to the stakes you’ve installed.
These are some of the essential tools that you may need for this project.
Check out the complete list of 19 Steps To Plan Your Fence on the Fence Planning link below.
Fence maintenance comes in all different shapes and sizes. You perform different maintenance on a vinyl fence compared to a wood fence. Chain-link fences have very little maintenance.
Step 1. Assess the fence. Determine the maintenance needs (Is it still straight? Is it dirty? Is it twisted? Are there broken boards? Are there termite issues? Are the panels still secured to the posts? Is there mold? Is it rotting?) These questions will help you determine the type of maintenance you need to perform on your fence.
Pro Tip: Examine each secton of your fence. Chances are you will find your fence needs more TLC than you originally thought.
Step 2. Prep.
Step 3. Clean.
There are 2 good options.
Power wash with fence cleaner.
Manual spray with fence cleaner. There are several good fence cleaners that you can choose from.
The one that fence installers recommend is “30 Second Outdoor Cleaner”.
You spray it on your dry wood fence. Let it set for 5 minutes to get the best clean. Use a scrub brush to scurb off any hard to remove mildew or mold. Then spray off.
Make sure to thoroughly water down the grass where the cleaner was rinsed off onto. It is biodegradeable but does recommend that it be rinsed into the soil with plenty of water.
Step 4. Straighten leaning fences
Can it move? Determine if the fence posts rock more than 1″ back and forth. If they do then they need to be reinforced so they do not become weaker over time.
Yes, a fence can be financed. In fact, fences are one of the most common items that people finance.
This is because putting up a fence can be a great way to enhance the look of your yard and make your property more secure.
There are different ways that you can finance a fence, but most people choose an installment loan.
This is when you make monthly payments on your loan until it’s paid in full.
The following are a few things to consider when financing a fence:
Thecost of the fence
Your personal finances
What does the fence cost include?
Some other expenses also contribute to the price of fence installation.
According to Home Depot, labor and material costs can contribute to over 50% of overall fence costs.
The size of the fencing area also affects cost.
Is There A “Buy Now, Pay Later” Fence Financing?
Yes, there are a few different companies that offer “Buy Now, Pay Later” fencing. This option lets you spread the cost of your fence over a longer period of time, making it more affordable for you.
Keep in mind that you’ll likely have to pay a higher interest rate for this type of financing.
You should also be sure that you’ll be able to make the monthly payments, and that you won’t let them go into default.
Much like other types of buy now pay later financing, this will often lead to a higher total cost for the fence.
Klarna is one of the most popular “buy now, pay later” companies, offering to finance a variety of home improvement projects.
You can use it to finance your fence, whether it’s a wooden fence, vinyl fence, or any other type of fence.
Is There an Interest-Free Financing Fence?
Yes, you can get interest-free financing for your fence.
This type of deal is often referred to as a deferred-interest offer.
With this type of financing, you won’t have to pay any interest on your loan for a certain period of time.
However, if you don’t pay the loan back in full, then you’ll have to pay interest on the remaining balance.
What type of fence do you recommend for my yard and why?
How long with the project take? What will the end date be?
Are there any lumber or supply issues with the fence we are planning to use?
Will you handle permitting and utility inspections or will I be required to do that?
What do you expect of the customer while you are installing the fence? Should I be inside the house or do you mind if i watch up close?
How is payment scheduled?
Do you remove the old fence and dispose of it?
Is that included in the price? If not, how much extra is it?
What are the most common problems with fences you install?
How did you resolve the problems?
FAQs
Can you Repurpose old fences?
Yes, you can repurpose old fences. Many pieces of furniture, crafts, garden fences and art have been made with repurposed old fence slats. Make sure to clean off the mildew, mold and any dirt before you use it to craft new furniture or art. It is a good idea to remove any nails as well.
What are the common problem in selecting suitable types of fencing?
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