9 Time-Saving Fence Installation Tips

Installing a fence isn’t exactly a simple task. With large panels and multiple connection points, there’s plenty of room for things to go sideways. The good news? We’ve pulled together a list of smart, time-saving fence installation tips to help the process go as smoothly as possible. Read on to take the stress out of your fence project before it even begins.

1. Check for Permits 

You might need a building permit to install a new fence on your property, depending on where you live. Every region has different regulations regarding fences, so contact a local municipality for specific requirements. 

Most areas don't mandate building permits for fences, but you still have to check. If required, pay the fee and begin your project. Building permits cost anywhere from $150 to $7,500, but a fence will almost certainly fall on the lower end of that price range. Local codes and HOA guidelines could also mandate the design, size, and post-hole requirements.

2. Contact the Utility Company

If installing the fence requires any kind of digging, take a moment to call your local utility company. Ask about underground utility lines, how they are marked, and where they are located. You don't want to accidentally knock out the power or anything else while you’re installing your fence. The company should be able to provide you with a property map that shows all of these lines so that you can tackle the project stress-free.

3. Check on Property Lines 

Property lines can get fuzzy in populous neighborhoods, so dig out the original blueprint for the home to double-check yours before installing a fence. Also, contact the neighbors on both sides to make sure their records match up and everyone is on the same page. The last thing you want is a contentious debate later about whether or not a fence is encroaching on someone else's property. 

Worst-case scenario? You'll have to tear up some of the fence and rebuild. Make sure to mark out the exact property line with paving stones or another type of marker.

4. Choose the Right Material

There are several fence materials to choose from, each with its own pros and cons. 

• Wood is by far the most popular type of fence among homeowners, but it’s susceptible to the elements and can be damaged by extreme temperature fluctuations.

• Composite is another popular choice, as this can mimic wood without the downfalls. However, it can't be painted, and the original color fades over time. 

• Vinyl is a classic option, but it's not suitable for areas with extreme heat.

• Aluminum has been increasing in popularity in recent years, but the posts can bend easily. 

• Wrought iron is a particularly striking choice, but it's heavy and often expensive. 

• Corrugated metal is a great option for the privacy-conscious, but it may rust over time, especially in wet areas.

As for hardware, use galvanized or stainless steel screws and nails as they resist rust and corrosion.

5. Check for Slopes 

Check and address any slopes or areas of elevated ground before starting the fence installation. Use a racked fence for minor slopes to keep the rail parallel to the ground across all of the fence panels. 

Steeper slopes are a bit more complicated. You can design the fence to avoid the slope if space allows, or you can opt for a stepped fence design. In a stepped fence, the finished fence will look like steps as it ascends and descends the slope. This does require the cutting of panels to follow the slope, so it’s a less challenging fence installation.

6. Consider Expanding Foam 

Keeping the posts secure is the most important part of this project, as that drastically increases the overall stability of the fence. A good product to help keep fence posts secure is expanding foam. Just spray some in each post hole immediately after installing the post. As the name suggests, the foam will expand and provide a sturdy foundation.

Another option is to use mixed concrete, but this approach is slightly more labor-intensive, as it requires mixing the concrete separately and takes longer to apply. 

7. Try Gravel for Better Drainage

Excessive moisture on a fence, especially a wood fence, can lead to mold, rot, and other issues. Prevent this by increasing the drainage of each fence post. Increase drainage by adding gravel to the bottom of the hole to provide extra drainage and help prevent stuff like frost heave. This is when winter conditions cause the underlying soil to expand, leading to all kinds of structural issues.

8. Add Extra Hinges

Extend the lifespan and increase the durability of your fence’s gate by adding more hinges. Conventional wisdom recommends the use of two sets of hinges, but we recommend three. That third set will provide more support to the gate. 

9. Call in a Pro for an Inspection 

Installing a fence is complicated, and there are a number of ways in which things can go wrong, thus impacting the lifespan of the fixture. Once you’re finished with your fence installation, call in a local fence builder to give your finished product an inspection. A seasoned pro will suss out any issues and give you advice for any upgrades or things you missed along the way.

You can also hire a pro to build a fence in the first place, saving you valuable time and effort. Professional fence installation costs anywhere from $1,860 to $4,760.