Wood fences have traditionally been the ‘fence of choice’ for homeowners. They are less expensive than some of their heavier counterparts, provide excellent privacy, and it’s easy to replace a panel or two as opposed to an entire fence. So, if you’re thinking of getting a new fence, or replacing your old one, put a wood fence at the top of your list. To help you get started, here are some important questions and answers you should consider. How much does a wood fence cost? Budget is always paramount when it comes to any home improvement project, especially new additions. The cost of a new wood fence can vary by several factors. Wood choice – There are a few choices when it comes to wood type, with pine or white wood being the most popular as well as economical. Cypress, redwood, and cedar are also good choices, but the price does go up quite a bit. Fence length – Naturally, a smaller yard will require fewer fencing panels, and will be less expensive. Bigger yards take more fence panels so you will need to measure out your yard before you price out your wood choice. Fence height – Fences can be made to any height you require, however, most wood fences come in panels of six or eight feet high. You will need to check with your neighborhood HOA to see if there are any regulations on fence heights in your community. Fence style – There are many styles to choose from with wood fences ranging from old-fashioned picket fences, to offset panels. Each style brings it own character to your property, and each will have it’s own price, so make sure to do some research on the style you like. Once you have your measurements and have figured out what style and wood you like, it’s time to call a contractor for more detailed information. Can I install a wood fence myself? If you are Chip Gaines, or Bob Vila, then don’t hesitate, go for it. But unless you have construction experience, you may want to consider some things before you dig your first posthole. Utility lines – When digging a hole, if you hit a utility line you will be the worse for wear. Getting utility companies out to repair your line can take days, in addition to the disgruntled neighbors you will have. Anytime a fence is installed, utility companies have to be called in advance to come mark the lines, before holes are dug. Postholes – Perfectly lining up your postholes is only the first challenge. You will also need to rent equipment to dig the hole, as well as make sure the hole isn’t so big that the post will sway. Codes – Compliancy with local codes and HOA restrictions is another important factor when installing a fence. If you do attempt to install your fence yourself, make sure you have done your homework with your city and your neighborhood. Investment – Remember, that a wood fence is an investment, and should be treated as such. It might be worth your while to have a professional install your fence. After all, you most likely wouldn’t install your new dishwasher or sink yourself, so why wouldn’t you rely on a professional for your outside improvements as well? How Should I Maintain My New Wood Fence? Maintaining your wood fence isn’t rocket science, but it does take diligence, especially if your fence is stained. Here are a few pointers on preserving the look and integrity of your fence. Do a yearly check along your fence line, looking out for warped, cracked, or rotted boards. Also test your fence poles and make sure they are still sturdy. If your fence is stained, you may need to re-stain it every couple of years or so, depending on your climate. Re-staining is something you can do yourself, it just takes some stain, brushes and a sunny weekend. Keep up on fence repairs. If you see a panel or even a few boards that need replacing, a trip to Lowe’s or Home Depot can get you replacement boards and you can make those small repairs yourself. If you see that your entire fence is leaning or rotting, it’s time to call in the professionals to see if your fence, or just the posts, need replacing. Wood fences aren’t hard to maintain, and make a gorgeous addition to the exterior of your home. Before you have your fence installed, make sure to do some homework so you will get the exact fence that complements your property and keeps your family safe.
Wood fences have traditionally been the ‘fence of choice’ for homeowners. They are less expensive than some of their heavier counterparts, provide excellent privacy, and it’s easy to replace a panel or two as opposed to an entire fence. So, if you’re thinking of getting a new fence, or replacing your old one, put a wood fence at the top of your list. To help you get started, here are some important questions and answers you should consider. How much does a wood fence cost? Budget is always paramount when it comes to any home improvement project, especially new additions. The cost of a new wood fence can vary by several factors. Wood choice – There are a few choices when it comes to wood type, with pine or white wood being the most popular as well as economical. Cypress, redwood, and cedar are also good choices, but the price does go up quite a bit. Fence length – Naturally, a smaller yard will require fewer fencing panels, and will be less expensive. Bigger yards take more fence panels so you will need to measure out your yard before you price out your wood choice. Fence height – Fences can be made to any height you require, however, most wood fences come in panels of six or eight feet high. You will need to check with your neighborhood HOA to see if there are any regulations on fence heights in your community. Fence style – There are many styles to choose from with wood fences ranging from old-fashioned picket fences, to offset panels. Each style brings it own character to your property, and each will have it’s own price, so make sure to do some research on the style you like. Once you have your measurements and have figured out what style and wood you like, it’s time to call a contractor for more detailed information. Can I install a wood fence myself? If you are Chip Gaines, or Bob Vila, then don’t hesitate, go for it. But unless you have construction experience, you may want to consider some things before you dig your first posthole. Utility lines – When digging a hole, if you hit a utility line you will be the worse for wear. Getting utility companies out to repair your line can take days, in addition to the disgruntled neighbors you will have. Anytime a fence is installed, utility companies have to be called in advance to come mark the lines, before holes are dug. Postholes – Perfectly lining up your postholes is only the first challenge. You will also need to rent equipment to dig the hole, as well as make sure the hole isn’t so big that the post will sway. Codes – Compliancy with local codes and HOA restrictions is another important factor when installing a fence. If you do attempt to install your fence yourself, make sure you have done your homework with your city and your neighborhood. Investment – Remember, that a wood fence is an investment, and should be treated as such. It might be worth your while to have a professional install your fence. After all, you most likely wouldn’t install your new dishwasher or sink yourself, so why wouldn’t you rely on a professional for your outside improvements as well? How Should I Maintain My New Wood Fence? Maintaining your wood fence isn’t rocket science, but it does take diligence, especially if your fence is stained. Here are a few pointers on preserving the look and integrity of your fence. Do a yearly check along your fence line, looking out for warped, cracked, or rotted boards. Also test your fence poles and make sure they are still sturdy. If your fence is stained, you may need to re-stain it every couple of years or so, depending on your climate. Re-staining is something you can do yourself, it just takes some stain, brushes and a sunny weekend. Keep up on fence repairs. If you see a panel or even a few boards that need replacing, a trip to Lowe’s or Home Depot can get you replacement boards and you can make those small repairs yourself. If you see that your entire fence is leaning or rotting, it’s time to call in the professionals to see if your fence, or just the posts, need replacing. Wood fences aren’t hard to maintain, and make a gorgeous addition to the exterior of your home. Before you have your fence installed, make sure to do some homework so you will get the exact fence that complements your property and keeps your family safe.
Wood fences have traditionally been the ‘fence of choice’ for homeowners. They are less expensive than some of their heavier counterparts, provide excellent privacy, and it’s easy to replace a panel or two as opposed to an entire fence. So, if you’re thinking of getting a new fence, or replacing your old one, put a wood fence at the top of your list. To help you get started, here are some important questions and answers you should consider. How much does a wood fence cost? Budget is always paramount when it comes to any home improvement project, especially new additions. The cost of a new wood fence can vary by several factors. Wood choice – There are a few choices when it comes to wood type, with pine or white wood being the most popular as well as economical. Cypress, redwood, and cedar are also good choices, but the price does go up quite a bit. Fence length – Naturally, a smaller yard will require fewer fencing panels, and will be less expensive. Bigger yards take more fence panels so you will need to measure out your yard before you price out your wood choice. Fence height – Fences can be made to any height you require, however, most wood fences come in panels of six or eight feet high. You will need to check with your neighborhood HOA to see if there are any regulations on fence heights in your community. Fence style – There are many styles to choose from with wood fences ranging from old-fashioned picket fences, to offset panels. Each style brings it own character to your property, and each will have it’s own price, so make sure to do some research on the style you like. Once you have your measurements and have figured out what style and wood you like, it’s time to call a contractor for more detailed information. Can I install a wood fence myself? If you are Chip Gaines, or Bob Vila, then don’t hesitate, go for it. But unless you have construction experience, you may want to consider some things before you dig your first posthole. Utility lines – When digging a hole, if you hit a utility line you will be the worse for wear. Getting utility companies out to repair your line can take days, in addition to the disgruntled neighbors you will have. Anytime a fence is installed, utility companies have to be called in advance to come mark the lines, before holes are dug. Postholes – Perfectly lining up your postholes is only the first challenge. You will also need to rent equipment to dig the hole, as well as make sure the hole isn’t so big that the post will sway. Codes – Compliancy with local codes and HOA restrictions is another important factor when installing a fence. If you do attempt to install your fence yourself, make sure you have done your homework with your city and your neighborhood. Investment – Remember, that a wood fence is an investment, and should be treated as such. It might be worth your while to have a professional install your fence. After all, you most likely wouldn’t install your new dishwasher or sink yourself, so why wouldn’t you rely on a professional for your outside improvements as well? How Should I Maintain My New Wood Fence? Maintaining your wood fence isn’t rocket science, but it does take diligence, especially if your fence is stained. Here are a few pointers on preserving the look and integrity of your fence. Do a yearly check along your fence line, looking out for warped, cracked, or rotted boards. Also test your fence poles and make sure they are still sturdy. If your fence is stained, you may need to re-stain it every couple of years or so, depending on your climate. Re-staining is something you can do yourself, it just takes some stain, brushes and a sunny weekend. Keep up on fence repairs. If you see a panel or even a few boards that need replacing, a trip to Lowe’s or Home Depot can get you replacement boards and you can make those small repairs yourself. If you see that your entire fence is leaning or rotting, it’s time to call in the professionals to see if your fence, or just the posts, need replacing. Wood fences aren’t hard to maintain, and make a gorgeous addition to the exterior of your home. Before you have your fence installed, make sure to do some homework so you will get the exact fence that complements your property and keeps your family safe.
