Fences are an essential part of your home's exterior, providing privacy, security, and aesthetic appeal. However, homeowners often make some common mistakes when installing or maintaining their fences. These errors can lead to unnecessary repairs, shortened lifespans for the fence, and even legal issues. Let’s take a look at some of the most frequent mistakes and how you can avoid them!

1. Ignoring Property Lines

A common mistake is not properly marking property lines before installation. Installing a fence too far onto your neighbor’s property can lead to disputes, and in some cases, you may even be forced to remove the fence.

Tip: Consider hiring a professional surveyor to mark the boundaries of your property before you begin your fence project. This ensures you're building within your legal limits and can help avoid any conflict with neighbors.

2. Failing to Call Before You Dig

Before digging the holes for your fence posts, it's crucial to check for underground utilities. Many homeowners forget to call their local utility company to mark where gas, water, and electrical lines run, which can lead to serious (and expensive) accidents.

Tip: Always call Ontario One Call before digging. They will send professionals to mark the location of any underground utilities, keeping you safe during your installation.

3. Not Choosing the Right Materials

When it comes to materials, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Homeowners often make the mistake of choosing a fence material that doesn’t match the purpose of the fence. For example, wood fences are beautiful but require frequent maintenance, while metal fences are durable but may not provide as much privacy as you desire.

Tip: Think about the purpose of your fence and how much time you're willing to invest in maintenance when choosing your materials. Talk to a fencing professional for guidance on the best material for your needs.

4. Poor Installation Techniques

Proper installation is key to the longevity and functionality of your fence. A common mistake is not digging the fence posts deep enough or not using high-quality cement to secure the posts. If the posts are not sturdy, your fence will quickly start leaning, sagging, or even falling over.

Tip: Ensure that fence posts are set deep enough in the ground (usually 1/3 of the post’s total length) and secured with high-quality concrete to provide a strong foundation. This will help your fence withstand wind and weather conditions over time.

5. Neglecting Regular Maintenance

After installation, many homeowners forget about maintaining their fence. Whether it’s a wooden or metal fence, regular upkeep is essential to keep it looking good and functioning properly. Neglecting to treat wood fences for pests, not cleaning metal fences, or allowing rust to form can significantly reduce the lifespan of your fence.

Tip: Make a maintenance plan for your fence, including cleaning, staining, and repairing any damage as soon as it occurs. This proactive approach will save you money in the long run and ensure that your fence stays in top condition for years.

Conclusion

Installing and maintaining a fence is a significant investment for your home, but avoiding these common mistakes can help you protect that investment. Whether you’re installing a new fence or maintaining an existing one, taking the time to plan properly, choose the right materials, and stay on top of maintenance will ensure your fence serves its purpose and lasts for many years.

If you need professional help with installation or maintenance, don't hesitate to reach out to us! Our team of experts is here to ensure your fence is built to last and keeps your property secure.