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Installing a new fence improves yard appearance, safety, and privacy. However, much work goes into preparation before one starts digging and hammering. Preparing your yard is like setting the stage for a big project to make everything go smoothly and save you time and money in the long run. It will lead you right from checking the rules and acquisition of permits to cleaning the yard and marking where the fence will be installed. With these tips, you shall be well-prepared to have a successful fence installation project.
Securing the Necessary Documentation Before Fence Installation
It is important to get all the legal paperwork sorted in advance before starting the physical processes involved in the installation of a fence. This requires acquiring a plat and the necessary permits.
A plat is an essential document, especially if you are not sure of the location of your property’s borders. It is a scale map displaying the demarcation of each piece of land within a region drawn by a civil engineer. This is important so that you do not construct your fence on your neighbor’s compound.
After obtaining a plat, the next requirement is to obtain the permits required for fence installation. Local zoning laws, state and local building codes, and HOA requirements, if any, should be consulted to determine if the proposed fence meets the required requirements.
Detailed Steps for Preparing Your Yard
Preparing your yard for upcoming projects, such as fence installation, involves several essential steps to ensure a smooth and successful process. Let’s find out in detail!
Clean the Yard
The process of preparing the yard begins with its cleaning. Clear out the clutter such as debris, tools, old contents, and other unwanted stuffs. This not only prepares the ground for easy installation but also assists in the correct determination of the layout of a fence. Ensure garden furniture such as chairs, tables, and toys are also removed from the work area to accommodate fast movement during the fence installation as well as provision of proper storage.
Mark Property and Fence Lines Accurately
To start with, identify your property boundaries utilizing the plat; place stakes at the boundary and run a string between them to determine the limits of your property. It will act as a reference to help you make sure that your fence is put up within your property boundary.
If the fence is not going to run along the boundaries of the property, mark this position of the fence by the same staking. Pay attention to the position of gates, as well as ensure that the fence line doesn’t violate the property or zoning laws.
Address Obstructions and Terrain Issues
Before completing fence installation, it is important to identify and resolve any issues with barriers and terrain. Survey the area by taking a walk around the fence to identify any rocks, tree roots, or slopes that might interfere with the work. Small barriers such as rocks and stumps can be easily cleared by the owner while the massive obstructions might require professional help or adjustments to the fence line.
For inclined grounds evaluate the gradient because moderate gradients may require stepped or contour fences while steep gradients may call for specialized designs or grading by professionals. Preparation helps in a better installation of the fence with reduced hindrances and also an appropriate placement of the fence around your property.
Discussing Plans with Neighbors
Even if the fence falls completely within your property, it is an act of courtesy to inform the neighbors regarding the fence installation to preserve good neighborly relations and avoid disputes in the future. This begins with setting up a meeting in person to talk about your fence installation plans, showing them the design, materials to be used in the making of the fence, and where the installation will be, to open up the channels of clear communication and respond to any concerns raised.
While you are not obligated to modify your plans according to their preferences, listening to them certainly does help when it comes to developing relationships. If the fence installed is going to be on or near the property line, discuss the shared responsibilities and costs with your neighbors. Give them a timeline for the installation of the fences and how long will it take for the completion so that they may plan accordingly.
Choosing a Competent Fence Contractor
Consult contractors with a strong background in fence installation and check their reviews from previous clients. Be sure that they have licenses, adequate insurance liability, and workers’ compensation coverage. Get an upfront detailed quote that can avoid any hidden costs.
A good contractor will be able to give a specific timeline and clearly describe the process involved, plus material and workmanship warranties. Reviewing their portfolio of past work can give you confidence in their ability to deliver a durable and aesthetically pleasing fence installation.
Adhering to Homeowner’s Association and City Regulations
Before starting a fence installation, get familiar with HOA rules and regulations, along with municipal laws in your city. These will pinpoint the height, style, material, and even the color of your fence. Breaking these laws could result in fines or forced changes to your work which is a pretty annoying setback when it comes to your timeline and budget. Do not hesitate to contact your HOA and local government for fence-related rules and obtain all necessary permits for the installation process to be smooth and legitimate.
Considering Climate for Fence Material
The climate in your area affects the choice of fence material. For humid and rainy areas, materials like vinyl that resist rot and mold are best. While wood is classic and versatile, it may need treatments and regular maintenance in such climates. In colder regions with harsh winters, consider durable materials like pressure-treated wood or metals that withstand freeze-thaw cycles. Considering the climate account will extend the life of your fence installation and reduce the need for repairs in the future.
Maintenance and Long-Term Care
Maintenance is another important aspect that should be considered when selecting a fence to determine how long it will last as well as how it will look. Various materials used in fence construction require different levels of care and maintenance routines from simple cleaning to more special treatments.
The wooden fences look beautiful but they need high maintenance due to their susceptibility to rotting and other natural elements. Maintenance involves staining or painting the wood at least twice or thrice every 2-3 years while sealing is essential to protect the wood from moisture and UV exposure.
Vinyl fencing and aluminum fences are easier to maintain as they only require simple washing with a hose to remove dirt and grime. If you have chain-link fences, do not overlook rust areas which should be coated with rust inhibitors and need touch-up paint.
Conclusion
Choosing the right fence for your home doesn’t have to be a hassle. Need not worry about the right fencing for your home. Be it to ensure privacy, keep your pets safe, or simply enhance your home appeal, All Borough Fence is ready to help in installing a new fence at your residence. As an experienced and reliable local fence contractor, we offer expert advice along with professional fence installation at competitive prices. From acquiring permits to fence installation, we handle everything for you. Contact All Borough Fence today to get a free consultation and update your outdoor space!