Fence installation is a huge project that requires careful planning and preparation. Attempting to tackle it without the necessary knowledge can lead to costly mistakes and an unsatisfactory finished product.
The first step in the process is obtaining the appropriate permits and ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations. Then, the actual construction begins. Keep reading the article below to Learn More.
Fence installation provides homeowners with many benefits, such as privacy and security, defining property lines, deterring nuisance animals and pests from gardens and landscapes, and increasing curb appeal. However, before deciding to undertake this project yourself or hire a professional fence contractor, it is essential to identify your primary fencing needs. This will help you prioritize which materials and styles of fence best suit your goals. Taking your time to evaluate this matter can also allow you to make a sound financial decision, as you weigh short-term savings against long-term value.
Before beginning the construction of a new fence, it is important to gather all necessary supplies. This includes everything from the support posts and rails to the panels or pickets themselves. It is also helpful to make a list of any accessories or decorative features that you want your fence to include. Additionally, it is wise to map out the area where your fence will be constructed and remove any existing structures, such as trees, shrubs, or rocks, that may be in the way of the work being done.
Once you have determined your project’s basic specifications, it is crucial to speak with a fence contractor who can offer valuable insights and ensure compliance with local zoning laws. A reputable professional will provide you with a thorough estimate that details all associated costs and a projected timeline for completion of the project.
Then, you will be able to plan accordingly, making sure that all your needs are met in a timely and cost-effective manner. This will save you the hassle of addressing any potential issues later on and will guarantee that your fence meets all of your expectations for both style and function.
Obtaining Permits
Before you can dig your first hole or even order your fence materials, it’s crucial to pump the brakes for a minute and focus on local regulations. In many cases, your city will require a permit for the installation of a new fence on your property. Ignoring these rules can lead to fines and potentially having your fence taken down entirely. Fortunately, your professional fence installer will be well versed in the rules and regulations for your area and can help guide you through the process.
Obtaining a permit for your fence installation will ensure that your project complies with all zoning ordinances. This includes height restrictions and setback requirements. It will also likely involve reviewing your property survey and ensuring that the proposed fence is not encroaching on any neighbor’s property lines. If you’re in a homeowners’ association, it’s also a good idea to check with your HOA before proceeding with a fence installation. HOAs may have their own set of rules that you must follow, such as paint color guidelines.
You can submit your application for a permit in person at the Permit and License Center or online through eCLIPSE. To expedite the review of your permit, you can include a copy of your property survey and sign the application on contractor letterhead to confirm affiliation with the project. If your application is approved, you can then contact the inspection office to schedule required inspections noted on your permit. When you’re ready to get started on your fence, it is recommended that you work with a Home Improvement Contractor (HIC). You can check for an HIC by calling 311 or visiting DCA’s Instant License Check.
Identifying Your Property Lines
Before getting started on any fence installation, it’s important to know where your property lines are. This step helps to ensure your new fence is located within legal limits and avoids encroachment into your neighbor’s land.
To find your property lines, look at your deeds and/or land registry records to see where the boundaries are marked. You can also use landmarks like street lights, existing fences, or even hedges to help you identify the right spot for your new fence. If you are unsure of your boundaries, it’s best to consult a professional before starting any home improvement projects.
Identifying your property lines also allows you to plan how large of a yard space your fence will need to be. This can save you time, money, and effort in the long run. It will also prevent you from building a fence that is too tall, which could require you to obtain a permit and/or damage your neighbors’ homes or yards.
Once you’ve surveyed your property and found out where your boundaries are, it’s important to clearly mark them with spray paint or stakes. This way, you’ll have a clear idea of where your new fence should be placed and how it will look when finished.
Additionally, identifying your property lines can help you determine whether or not you need to inform your neighbor about your project. This is especially important if your neighborhood has covenants or homeowners’ associations, which may have additional guidelines about how close you can build to your property line, what materials you can use, and/or how your fence should look. In these cases, open communication with your neighbors will help to prevent future disputes.
Taking Existing Structures Into Account
Fencing offers a great deal of benefits to homeowners, from providing privacy and safety to deter unwelcome intruders to protecting plants and gardens. However, it’s important to take existing structures into account when it comes time to install a fence. Not doing so can result in damage to existing landscape features, such as trees or irrigation systems. Additionally, it can also impede the flow of water in the soil and potentially cause flooding problems.
To ensure that your fence is sturdy and safe, it needs to be firmly set in concrete. This can be done either by digging post holes and then setting them in concrete or by using metal post spikes. If you opt for the latter, be sure to use insulated tools as they are designed to prevent electrical current from passing any further than the metal head.
It is also important to be aware of any existing utility lines and any other infrastructure that may be affected during the installation process. Failure to do so could lead to costly repairs and even the need to tear down your fence. A professional can help you avoid these risks by doing the necessary research before beginning the project.
Once the posts are in place and the concrete is set, it’s time to begin installing the rails and panels that make up your fence. This is the stage where your fence begins to really come together and adds a nice aesthetic element to your property.
When building a fence, it’s important to be honest with yourself about your skill level and the amount of time you can realistically devote to the project. This includes factors like your work schedule, family responsibilities, and physical fitness. Also, don’t forget to build in some extra time for unexpected problems that will inevitably arise during any DIY project.
Thorough Preparation
If you’re building a fence, whether it’s yourself or having a professional do the work for you, being thorough is essential. You’ll need to make sure you have the proper permits, identify your property lines and take into account any existing structures you don’t want to interfere with. Then, you’ll want to prepare the area where your fence is going to be built.
This means digging the necessary post holes and adding a gravel base (if required by your local rules). You’ll also need to ensure that any posts you use are sturdy, particularly if they are not concrete. As eDecks explains, you do not want to space your posts more than about 8 feet apart. This is not only important for a good look, but it’s also crucial for structural integrity.
It’s also a good idea to call your local utility locator hotline before you begin work. This service arranges for technicians to visit your property and mark buried services with washable spray paint so that you know not to dig in the wrong place.
Finally, it’s a good idea to discuss your plans with any neighbors who live near the fence line. They may have concerns about the height or type of fence you’re installing, and a conversation in advance can prevent any issues from arising.
Once your posts and bottom rail are in place, you’ll need to install the vinyl panels and finish off the project with any decorative hardware, such as hinges or closures for your gate. You’ll want to use a level at every step of the process, especially while pouring the concrete for your fence posts, so you can double check everything is straight.