What to Consider Before Getting a Wood Fence Installation

Don’t have enough privacy in your backyard? Does the dog keep trying to run away? Whatever the reason, a wood fence installation is a great solution to your predicament. In addition to giving you the privacy and security you’re looking for, it adds charm and value to your home!

That said, you shouldn’t just choose the very first wood picket fence you come across. It’s essential to do some proper planning to make sure your selection is a great fit for your home and preferences. Here are some helpful factors to consider before scheduling an installation.

Purpose of the Fence

What do you want out of a wood fence installation? Identifying its purpose will be a determining factor in your other decisions, so consider your needs carefully.

Here are the primary reasons homeowners get fences installed:

• Privacy: Taller fence types will be your focus here, as they’re essential for deterring prying eyes.

• Security: Need to add another layer of defense to your home security? Posts and gates that offer strength are a must.

• Decoration: A wood picket fence or altogether custom design may be great options if you want to bolster visual appeal.

• Property Boundaries: A simple fence can mark the borders of your property and keep costs low.

When your goals are identified before planning, you’ll be able to make sound decisions about your fence’s layout, design, height, and materials. And speaking of materials…

Choosing the Right Wood

When it comes to a wood fence installation, you have material options that offer several differences. Your selection will determine anything from the aesthetic of your fence to its durability and longevity. Cedar, pine, and redwood are three common materials used in fencing.

Cedar offers natural resistance to decay and insects, which means a long lifespan! Its rich color is a nice plus, as well. Pine is a more affordable option, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t durable; it’s usually been pressure treated, but could require more frequent maintenance than other options. And finally, redwood is often selected for its strong combination of attractiveness and durability. Keep in mind, though, that it’s going to cost more than cedar or pine.

Local Regulations and Property Lines

Now to deal with those pesky local regulations! Depending on where you live, these regulations could vary. For example, take a look at this page regarding permits within Frederick. If you live in a neighborhood that has an HOA (homeowners association), that’s another layer of guidelines that need to be followed when getting a wood fence installation. Some neighborhoods place restrictions on the height, style, and placement of fences.

On top of that, property lines are important to be aware of. Otherwise, you may find yourself in the middle of a neighborly dispute. Such issues could turn into lengthy legal battles that end up costing quite a bit of money. Besides, it’s always a good idea to avoid conflict with a neighbor. They live right next door, after all. 

Maintenance Requirements

In order to stay healthy and beautiful, a wood fence requires some amount of upkeep. Don’t worry, it’s not a huge undertaking. Failure to perform this maintenance, however, could be costly. If the fence falls into disrepair early, the ensuing repairs or replacement will come with a much higher price tag than a bucket of stain and a few hours of your time.

• Reapply stain or sealant every three years to defend against rot, moisture damage, and pests.
• If any boards become damaged, be prompt in repairing or replacing them.

Budget and Wood Fence Installation Cost

Materials, labor, and permits are major determining factors in your total wood fence installation cost. It’s important to give them serious consideration when setting your budget. Wood fencing can be more affordable than other fencing materials such as metal, but there’s upkeep and replacement costs to consider.

In short, don’t rush when crunching the numbers. Otherwise, there may be costs you forget to factor in until it’s too late.

Hiring a Professional vs. DIY

We can’t prevent you from installing your own fence instead of hiring us, but keep in mind these are two entirely different experiences.

• DIY Pros: Upfront costs are lower, and there’s just something that feels great about doing a home project.
• DIY Cons: The risk of error can be much higher depending on the people working on the project. Additionally, proper tools may not be utilized and there’s a higher chance of structural issues.

Hiring wood fence installation professionals may be a little pricier on the outset, but we promise you it’s a worthwhile investment.  Professional installation dots the i’s and crosses the t’s. Safety is prioritized without sacrificing beauty or longevity.

Wood Fence Installation by the Pros

No matter what your goals are with your wood fence, it’s important to make the proper considerations before jumping into the project. What materials will you use? What’s your budget? What regulations do you need to adhere to? Identifying the answers to these questions will help you make sound choices.

If you choose the DIY approach, we encourage you to be intentional in your approach and prioritize safety. If you prefer to work with professionals to ensure expert craftsmanship, we’re here to take on the task. Get in touch with us today!