Undertaking a fence installation project for your property can be a thrilling endeavor that not only enhances your privacy but also adds to the aesthetic appeal of your home, and even raises its market value. However, the success of this project majorly depends on finding the right fencing contractor who can construct sturdy and durable boundaries at a reasonable cost. Our comprehensive guide provides you with all the necessary information to help you choose a reliable and trustworthy fence broker who can deliver high-quality results for your yard boundaries.
Defining Your Fencing Needs and Budget
Before calling brokers, envision how you’ll use your outdoor space and determine must-have fence features. Do you need total seclusion or a classic picket aesthetic perhaps? How large of an enclosure for pets or children? Wood, vinyl, chain link? What entrance points and gates? Run through lifestyle factors to create a fencing wishlist.
Mapping out your property perimeter using an online tool gives you the linear footage necessary to estimate costs. Expect to budget roughly $10-30 per linear foot installed depending on materials and local rates. Remember that opting for cheaper chain link now might mean pricier upgrades later when patterns or posts become misaligned. Investing more initially brings longer-lasting returns.
Researching Local Fence Companies in Your Area
Now armed with particulars for your dream fence and ballpark budget, turn online to identify licensed fencing outfits near you. Search “[city] fence company” or “fence contractors near me” and browse the results. Visit company websites evaluating project galleries. Do their previous installs match your preferred material and designs? Crosscheck Better Business Bureau profiles and internet reviews. How long have they been operating? How is their customer rating? Are recent comments mostly positive? Flag promising fence brokers to call for quotes.
Assemble a list of 5-10 fence companies in your region that construct the fences you want within your budget based on initial findings. Jot down names, contacts, and websites to dig deeper.
Interviewing Fence Brokers with Focused Questions
Scheduling on-site consultations with your top contenders is prudent before awarding such a significant home improvement project. Prepare a list of questions for each broker addressing their credentials, process, materials, warranty, gates, timeline, and contract terms. Here are key items to inquire about:
Licensing and Insurance
- Do you have a local business license and carry liability insurance? May I see copies?
Materials and Durability
- What materials do you use? How long will they last?
Customization
- Can you match my desired height, color, and style?
Installation Process
- Do you obtain needed permits? What about site prep and debris removal?
Gates and Accessories
- Can you incorporate custom gates or finishes I want?
Warranties
- What fence parts and labor do you guarantee and for how long?
Timeline
- How soon could my project be completed from contract signing?
Pricing
- What is the total quote for my fence installation? Break down parts versus labor.
Ask fence brokers to visit your home and provide a written proposal detailing specifications, materials, timeline, warranty, itemized pricing, and payment terms.
Comparing Fence Company Quotes and Credentials
With quotes in hand from your in-person consultations, compare figures line-by-line alongside intangibles like professionalism and capabilities. Make sure all bids encompass exactly the same fence footprint, components, and specifications first. Then assess:
- Pricing – How do total costs compare? Get itemized breakdowns on parts versus labor.
- Materials – Do they all use the same quality and thickness of materials?
- Installation – Are permits, site prep, removal and gates included consistently?
- Timeline – Who can start and complete the job soonest while doing quality work?
- Warranties – Who provides superior guarantees on workmanship and materials?
- Credentials – Which outfit has the best standing with licensing, insurance, reviews, experience, and rapport?
Don’t automatically choose the lowest estimate without weighing additional dimensions that affect long-term satisfaction.
Selecting Your Fence Company and Signing a Contract
After careful comparison, select the fencing company that best fulfills your needs at a competitive price. Before signing an agreement and issuing any deposit, ensure the contract specifies:
Materials and Specifications – Type, grade, height, linear footage and placement
Project Scope – Site preparation, permits, debris cleanup, accessories
Timeline – Start and completion dates (weather dependent)
Payment Schedule – Deposit amount and progress installment due dates
Warranties – Length and coverage details for materials, labor, and workmanship
Schedule a pre-construction meeting to verify site plan logistics and reaffirm start times and completion target. Keep communication open during the build process should any issues arise. Don’t issue final payment until the fence install meets specifications.
Optimize Satisfaction Through an Informed Selection Process
Constructing reliable, attractive yard enclosures entails an investment of thousands. But equipping yourself to analyze proposals and credentials allows you to choose the right fencing company at a fair price to transform your outside living area. Taking time on the front-end prevents frustration down the road. Soon you’ll relax privately in your own outdoor sanctuary thanks to an informed broker selection!
Frequently Asked Questions
What should be included in a fencing quote or estimate?
Reputable fence brokers will provide quotes that detail costs for materials, labor, site preparation, permits, gates, removal, cleanup and more. Make sure all bids cover the identical project parameters.
When should you pay your fence company?
Most require 10-30% down with progress payments scheduled throughout install. But don’t issue final payment until the job meets contract specifications.
How long should a quality wood or vinyl fence last?
When properly maintained, you can expect 15-25 years from wood and 20+ years from vinyl before replacement needs arise. Much depends on climate and upkeep.
Can you DIY install a fence?
Homeowners possessing construction skills can tackle simpler fence projects, but complicated builds often demand professional equipment and experience, plus brokers handle permitting.
What questions should you ask fence companies?
Inquire about licensing, insurance, costs, materials, installation process, warranties, timelines, accessories, gates, and customization capabilities to compare providers.
Last Words
Choosing the ideal fencing company entails defining project parameters, researching regional fence brokers, interviewing contenders, comparing bids in detail, verifying credentials, assessing intangibles, and securing an adequate contract. When choosing a new garden fence, consider factors such as durability, design, maintenance, and local regulations. The effort invested in this selection process pays dividends for decades in enhanced aesthetics, functionality, and privacy that your new yard boundaries deliver. With an attentive selection process, you’re sure to find the right fencing partner to bring your property dreams to life.
