5 Common Fencing Mistakes
1. Choosing the wrong kind of fence for your application
The process of putting up a fence can be an expensive and time consuming process if not done properly, so it always pays to do research and planning beforehand.
Two sources that need to be consulted before this journey begins.
Your city’s planning and zoning commission. Zoning laws may effect your plan, check the regulations that pertain to fence construction in your area. Building a fence that doesn’t conform to local regulations, can potentially mean having to remove your new fence.
Subdivision Homeowners associations. Do you have a home owners association and if so what restraints are on the Type, Style and Height of fence?
Local regulations aren’t the only deciding factor when constructing a fence.
Each fence style has strengths and weaknesses relating to your specific situation. Still, choosing the fencing system that works for you depends on what you are trying to achieve.
- Do you want to keep animals in, or out, or both?
- Do you want a more boundary fence?
- Do you need privacy?
- Is security of great concern with your fencing project?
- Will access control be part of the overall security fencing plan?
- What type of fences do my neighbors have?
These are all great questions: This is where an expert is needed. Fence Supply Inc. can be your guide to getting started on the right track.
2. Installing the wrong Fence Post
A fence can only be as strong as its posts. Your fence post are the foundation of your fence, these are the single most important consideration in building a great fence.
Four factors need to be considered for any good fence project success:
- The type of post material i.e. Gauge(thickness of metal), Size and material of post
- The Post setting depth. How deep will the fence post be set in concrete 24” Minimum depth, 36” is better for all types of fencing
- Size of post hole dug. Recommend 8” diameter as a common rule of thumb
- Post Spacing how far apart my posts will be set from each other.
If you cut corners with these key items you will be sorry. Setting fence posts incorrectly account for the majority of fence failures.
Fence Supply Inc. can help with specific requirements for each style of fencing.
3. Gates, a quick look
Because moving and rebuilding gates can be expensive, time-consuming and difficult, you should take the time to ensure that you install them properly and in the best location. A gate should be placed in well-drained areas, and out of the path of erosion. You should take foot traffic into consideration, and place gates where movement patterns are normal.
Proper gate size is just as important. A gate designed for foot-traffic should be large enough for a riding lawnmower, wheelbarrows, carts… etc, generally 3-4 feet is an appropriate minimum width. For vehicle traffic or livestock, a 10-12 foot gate is more suitable. For vehicles, 12 feet should be wide enough, a common mistake is to use too wide of a gate with undersized posts.
A gate will get much more wear than the rest of your fence, so it’s vital to ensure that it’s made from quality materials to keep the gate from sagging or warping. This also means that gate posts should be set with the same precautions and care that we addressed above. Typically it is a good idea to set gate posts 4′ deep.
4. Fencing someone else’s property, find your property line
When putting up a boundary fence it is critical to know where your exact property line is, even if it means talking with a surveyor. Local restrictions can also dictate how close your fence can be built to your property line.
If you want the fence to be directly on your property line, your neighbor may be willing to share the cost and maintenance with you. You should get an agreement in writing that details the specifics. This will help guarantee the arrangement if a new neighbor moves in. In the event that an agreement can’t be reached, build your fence sufficiently inside your property line, as to avoid intruding on your neighbor’s property.
5. Digging into underground utilities
Before digging in preparation for your new fence, it’s vital to ensure that all underground utility facilities are properly marked at the surface. The depth of utility lines can vary from property to property, so each state has different regulations in place for digging. To keep from risking damage to an underground utility line, harming yourself, disrupting service and/or garnering heavy fines, the best assurance is to call 811. While there are numerous call centers across the country that can manage your project, “Call 811” is the most comprehensive and effective resource for anyone beginning a digging project. Simply dial 811 from anywhere in the country a few days prior to your digging project, and your call will be routed to your local One Call Center. Detail your digging project to the operator, and the proper local utilities companies will be notified about your intent to dig. Within a few days, they will send a locator to mark the locations of your underground facilities, ensuring the prevention of possible damage, so that you can dig with peace of mind.
