A good fence installation boosts your property’s security, privacy, and value. To achieve lasting results, plan and install with care. This is true for securing a yard, setting a commercial boundary, or upgrading your fence. Every step counts when building a strong and nice-looking fence. Start by choosing the right materials. Measure and map out your perimeter with precision.
We specialize in fence installation. Our services are designed to match your property’s layout and needs. We begin by looking at your space. Then, we learn about your needs. Finally, we recommend the best fencing options that fit your style and budget. We have years of experience and focus on quality. We make fencing easy, from planning to installation.
Building a fence: Where to start?
Before installing a fence, first clarify its purpose. Is it for privacy, security, or to improve your property’s look? Once your goals are set, you can select the right type, materials, and placement to suit your space. Make sure your plans follow local bylaws and municipal rules before you proceed. If the fence is on a shared boundary, talk to your neighbor. You might be able to split the cost.
Planning to determine the needs.
A successful fencing project starts with knowing its main goal. This could be for privacy, security, or marking property lines. When your goal is clear, planning becomes easier. This helps maintain a steady progress for the project. Review any local regulations before picking materials or starting the foundation. This way, you can prevent issues later on during or after installation.
Establish the purpose of the fence.
- Privacy: A solid panel or fine-trellis fence can make your backyard more private. It also helps reduce noise, especially if you live next to a neighbor or a busy road. This simple solution helps create a more secluded and comfortable outdoor space.
- Security: In busy or unsafe areas, a tall fence helps boost safety. This is especially important where kids often play outside. It adds a strong layer of protection while helping to create a more secure environment.
- Animals: Once you know how high your pet can jump, pick a fence height that keeps them safe. Avoid using designs with sharp or pointed tops, as they can pose a risk to your pet’s safety.
- Pool: In certain regions like Quebec, the law mandates pool fencing. Always check your local municipality’s height and safety standards before installing. This helps ensure compliance.
- Weather: In windy places, a good fence offers great protection if built right. Select a strong base with closely set posts. Avoid wide solid panels. Pick a design that lets air flow through. This will lower wind pressure and keep things stable.
- Pollution barrier: A tall, solid fence can block noise, dust, and fumes from nearby roads. This helps make your space more peaceful and cleaner. A double-sided wood design blocks unwanted noise and looks great, too.
Before you start your fencing project, look into local bylaws. They have rules about height limits. They specify where you can place it near buildings and which materials or designs you can use. You may also need to apply for a permit, so it’s important to verify all requirements in advance.
Determine the location.
Consider discussing the project with your neighbors to see if they’re open to splitting the cost. If that’s not possible, ensure the fence is entirely within your property lines.
First, find your property line and measure it. Then, use stakes and string to outline where the fence will go. This helps you see the total length needed. For sloped areas, measure straight across. Then, plan for a stepped installation. Be sure to factor in the placement of gates and entry points as well.
Fence Models
Fence panels have two main styles: simple straight lines and decorative designs. The decorative options include curves, arches, and light-filtering features. While both offer privacy, the latter adds a touch of elegance and visual interest.
Fence panels are available in widths of 4′, 6′, or the more common 8′. The distance between posts varies based on the landscape and weather. In windy places or on uneven ground, place the posts closer together. This will help improve stability.
Most fences are 6 feet tall. But pool fences are shorter and more open. This design helps adults keep an eye on children. In contrast, security fences can extend up to 8 feet for added protection.
Prefab fence panels make it simple and affordable to build a strong, quality fence. You can do it with minimal effort. Their ready-made design makes setup fast and straightforward.
You can find ready-to-assemble wood fence kits at local stores. They come with pre-cut pieces and easy instructions. Hardware usually comes as a separate sale.
Colour and finish
Fence colors often depend on the material. Green, brown, and natural wood tones are popular. They help to blend in with the landscape.
Wood fences provide flexibility because you can paint, stain, or varnish them. Treated wood also comes in a variety of color options to suit different styles.
Tips
On steep slopes, using narrower panels helps reduce gaps at the base of the fence. For play areas, avoid sharp spikes in designs. This helps keep children safe.
In loose soil, don’t install a fence without a strong foundation. Use anchor piles or metal posts. If maintenance is insufficient, the fence may become unstable. Choose a fence based on its function first. Then, think about how it looks.
Fence materials
Wood, PVC, and metal are popular fencing materials. Each has its benefits and features based on what you need.
Treated wood
Wood is a versatile material that’s simple to cut, assemble, and customize. It has many styles and patterns. You can choose unique shapes and add trellis tops if you want. For durability, use stainless or galvanized screws. Prefab wood sections are cost-effective, easy to install, and come in many designs.
Benefits:
- Attractive
- Inexpensive
Drawbacks:
- Requires maintenance
- Less durable than steel, PVC, or composite wood.
Maintenance
Low-maintenance and extremely durable.
Cedar
People know cedar fences for their premium quality, natural texture, and long-lasting strength. For secure installation, use galvanized or stainless-steel screws.
Benefits:
- Durable
- Attractive
- Becomes more beautiful with age.
Drawbacks:
- Expensive
Maintenance
Low-maintenance. To improve durability, apply a wood preservative.
Synthetic wood
Manufacturers make synthetic wood from recycled plastic. It looks like natural or painted wood. It’s durable and as easy to handle as real wood.
Benefits:
- Durable
- The material is made of recycled plastic.
Drawbacks:
- Expensive
- Limited choice of colors
- Can’t be stained, painted or varnished
Maintenance
Maintenance-free
PVC
This material shapes easily. It can create different shapes and textures that look like painted wood. To boost strength, structures often use galvanized steel for reinforcement. Workers anchor the posts in or fill them with concrete to provide extra stability.
Benefits:
- Colour doesn’t fade
- Durable
- Guaranteed up to 30 years
Drawbacks:
- Limited choice of colors
- Can’t be stained, painted or varnished
Maintenance
Maintenance-free
Chain link
Vinyl-coated chain-link fences provide an affordable and durable solution. They are set in concrete bases with metal support. You can customize them for privacy by adding PVC or aluminum slats. You can also let climbing plants grow along the fence.
Benefits:
- Not expensive
- Allows good visibility in the yard and to the outside
Drawbacks:
- Ordinary and not very attractive
Maintenance
Maintenance-free
Wrought iron
Ornamental metal fences, made from wrought iron, aluminum, or galvanized steel, look sophisticated. They are even better when custom-made by skilled professionals.
Benefits:
- Elegant
- Certain models allow good visibility in the yard and to the outside
Drawbacks:
- Expensive
Maintenance
Apply anti-rust paint to wrought iron every 8 to 10 years.
Steel and aluminum are maintenance-free.
Fence Installation
To estimate materials, find out what you need for one fence section. Use the panel width and the total length to do this. Then multiply by the number of sections required. Each one includes a support post, four hangers, and the necessary hardware.
For each entrance (door and gate), you will need:
- The door or gate.
- 2 hinges
- 1 spring
- 1 handle
- 1 latch
The Foundation
You can install fences in different ways. You can set posts in the ground without any intermediary support. Or, you can use nanotubes, concrete footings, anchor piles, or metal stakes. Your choice should depend on the terrain and local weather, especially wind exposure. For more guidance, check out our detailed article on selecting the right foundation.
The steps to follow.
Putting up a fence is an easy project. It has a clear step-by-step process, from planning to finishing.
1. Determine the precise location of the proposed fence using stakes and string.
2. Dig post holes.
3. Insert posts according to the type of foundation chosen.
4. Measure the placement of the hangers on the posts, then install them.
5. Install rails.
6. Screw the boards to the rails.
7. Install accessories if selected.
FAQs
What should I do before starting a fence-building project?
Before you start building a fence, first define its purpose. Is it for privacy, security, or looks? Planning helps you pick the right fence panel design, materials, and layout. This way, your fence will follow local rules and match your property well.
How do I know where to install my fence?
Start by locating and measuring your property line. Using stakes and string can help you mark the planned layout with precision. A good fence planner considers where to place gates and how to handle sloped ground. Measuring horizontally is key to aligning the panels correctly.
What’s the best fence height for safety and privacy?
Standard fences are usually 6 feet tall. For extra security, especially in busy or less safe areas, builders can make fences up to 8 feet tall. When kids play nearby or a fence is around a pool, think about safety and visibility. These factors should influence your height and design choices.
How do you install a fence on uneven ground?
On sloped land, use narrower panels for a stepped fence. This helps close gaps at the bottom. This method ensures better alignment and improves the look and function of the fence.
What materials are best for fence panel construction?
Common materials include wood, vinyl-coated chain links, metal, and synthetic wood. Each material has its perks. Wood gives a classic look and is versatile. Vinyl and metal need less upkeep and last longer. Choose based on climate, function, and visual preferences.
Can I customize the look of my fence?
Not possible to remove the adverb. Choose decorative wood panels with trellises, or select synthetic ones that look like painted wood. There are many styles to fit your landscape. You can choose colors based on the material. This helps match your outdoor design.
How do I estimate the number of materials needed?
Use your fence planner to figure out how many panels, posts, hangers, and hardware you need. First, figure out the needs for one section. Then, multiply that by the total number of sections. This depends on your property’s length and the panel size.
Is prefab fencing a good option?
Prefab fence panels are great for quick and affordable installations. They come ready to use, need a quick setup, and come in different styles. This makes them ideal for quick fence building.
Can I share the cost of building the fence with my neighbor?
If the fence sits on a shared boundary, it’s worth discussing cost-sharing with your neighbor. If not, ensure that you install the fence completely on your side of the property line to avoid disputes.
Conclusion
To sum up, building a good fence begins with careful planning and knowing your property’s needs. Choosing the right materials and fence height is important. Proper installation and following local rules matter too. Every step helps create a strong and nice-looking boundary. Planning is key, whether you’re using a fence planner or hiring pros. A well-thought-out fence will boost security and privacy. It will also look great in your yard for years.
