DIY Fencing Tips

Planning for Your New Fence:

1. Did you check your cityᾦtrade;s code requirements for permissible heights, styles and specifications?
Each and every city has its own specific set of codes and guidelines for commercial and residential fencing. Specific regulations exist for pool settings, corner lots, fence placement (how close to lot lines you are able to place your fence), etc. Always check with your local building department prior to purchasing fencing.

2. Do you know your property lines?
A current boundary or staked survey is always a good idea. You can use a plot map of your property which is usually found in your mortgage papers, but please keep in mind that these plot maps are generally plus or minus footage. If your property lines are not clear, having a new staked survey of your land is always a good idea to prevent any future problems when it is time to sell your home.

3. Are there any obstructions such as trees, shrubs or boulders within the proposed line of the fence?
Keep in mind that large trees may be boxed in or out of your line of fence. Objects such as shrubs or boulders should be removed prior to installation to ensure the nicest finished product.

4. Are there any underground utilities or privately installed lines on your grounds?

- Local public agencies generally mark any public utilities which may lie beneath the ground. These utilities may include public electric lines, public phone lines, public gas lines, cable lines, etc. Please check with your local agency prior to digging to eliminate unnecessary costs or possible injury.

- There are many private agencies that can be hired to locate and mark privately installed lines such as those lines which were installed on your property by a private contractor.

- For sprinkler or pool lines, contact your pool or sprinkler company to have underground lines marked prior to digging.

5. What is the grade of your land?
Is it rolling, flat, slightly rolling or uneven? Fencing works best if there is less than a 10% change in grade. If more than a 10% change in the grade of your land exists sections may be racked or stepped.

6. Do you have the proper tools for installation?
Useful tools include a post hole digger, wheelbarrow, shovel for mixing concrete, a tape measure, level and string line.

Please feel free to contact us by email or give us at call at 1.800.510.8325 (Monday-Friday 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST) if you have any questions or need assistance.