FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS – F.A.Q.
WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW BEFORE HAVING THE FENCE INSTALLED?
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How close to the property line can I build a fence?Most municipalities allow fence to be at, not on or over, the property line. Usually we step 6" away from the property line/survey stakes.
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What is the Ideal Depth for Setting Fence Posts?A common practice for setting up fences is to install a 6-foot high fence section with 8-foot high posts at a depth of 24 inches in concrete. For a 7-foot fence with 9-foot high posts set at 32 inches in concrete, and for an 8-foot fence with 12-foot high posts are commonly set at a depth of 36 inches in concrete.
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What is the best, low maintenance fence?Vinyl and Aluminum fence typically requires very little maintenance where aluminum gates are light and maintain functionality well.
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How long does it take to install a fence?It all depends. Most of the residential fences (80' to 160') that we provide are installed in one day unless there are a lot of rocks, roots or core drilling service is required.
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What is a rock charge?This is a charge per hole for exceptionally hard digging due to very rocky soil. Our rock charge is typically $75 for each post hole that requires a jackhammer.
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Do I need to get my property surveyed before my fence is installed?A few townships require a survey to issue a permit, but most don’t. A survey, however, is the only way to know exactly where your property line is, and is a good investment. We can recommend a surveyor.
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Do I need to be home during the installation?No. We just kindly request that you provide us with a contact phone number to reach you in the event of any unforeseen circumstances or issues that may arise.
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Is it normal to have different shades of cedar in my pickets?Yes, cedar is a natural product that remains untreated, allowing for each tree to showcase a distinctive color and grain pattern.
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Is Iron or Aluminum fence better?They both have positive and negative attributes. Iron if pre-galvanized and powder coated can last a long time and is very durable. Aluminum on the other hand will last forever in the weather but costs more and is not as durable.
HOW TO FIND A GOOD FENCE COMPANY IN THE FAIRFIELD, CT or WESTCHESTER COUNTY, NY
So you have decided it is time to replace that old fence around your yard or add a new fence. Whether you are replacing an old fence or building a new one for the first time, there are many things to consider when making this important decision.
Things to consider when looking for a good fencing company:
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How long has the company been doing business? How long has the company been officially registered?
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Does the company carry liability and workers’ compensation insurance?
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Get two or more recent references, which you can drive by and view their workmanship first hand or speak with the owners.
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Get at least two or three other bids, so you can compare not only price, but which one offers the most value for the money.
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Find a fencing company that will come out and take measurements and discuss options before giving you a price, because you will need to have an accurate estimate to make a good decision.
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Get a written contract so you know the total you will pay before work begins.
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What are their payment terms?
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What is their warranty?
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What is the estimated time of completion?
Where to find references:
The best place to start asking about fencing companies is your family, friends and especially your neighbors. Other good sources of references include other contractors, management companies, and HOA. Your Home Owners Association may have restrictions on what kind of fence can be built, as well as colors. It’s always best to find out this information before you begin construction. They may also require you to submit plans, colors and an estimate to their architectural committee for approval before you begin.
Good questions to ask references:
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Were you happy with the quality provided by the fencing company? Everybody has their own ideas of quality, so you should take a look at their fence and judge for yourself. Pay attention to see if the fence posts are straight. Are there visible cracks between the boards that should overlap? Do the gates operate properly?
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How does it look…visually?
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If painted or stained, does the color look consistent?
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Does it feel solid?
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Did the fencing company clean up after themselves?
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Did they remove the old fence, and leave the yard clean after doing the work? Did they pick up nails or screws from the yard? If you are left to clean up after them, this will cost you more time, money and frustration.
Were they courteous and polite?
This is a very important consideration. The entire experience, from beginning to end, needs to be as stress-free as possible. Plus if the fence builder enjoys their job, the quality and attention to details will be better. The customers attitude can and will affect the entire fencing job. Hopefully this will be the first question you ask. If the answer to this question is “no” then do not go any further, you don’t want to work with that person.
Is a warranty included?
A good fence company uses quality materials and has a high level of expertise. Most reputable fence companies carry a one year workmanship warranty.