How far apart should posts be for a horizontal fence?

• <div><p>Posts for a horizontal fence should be no more than 6 feet apart. Wood pickets are not as strong when mounted horizontally as when mounted vertically. As such, the fence panels on a horizontal fence can’t cover the same span between posts as a vertical fence can. If you install the posts further apart on a horizontal fence, the fence will lose stability, making the boards more likely to sag. </p></div>

Get matched with top fencing pros in Dayton, IA

Q: What should I do if there is a wolf in my yard?

• <div><p>If you come face-to-face with a wolf in your yard, chances are it will be afraid of you as a human. Make eye contact and get big&mdash;waving your arms to increase your size. Use noisemakers or air horns if you have them, or throw a few rocks around to discourage them from approaching you. If all else fails and the wolf does not retreat, back away slowly while maintaining eye contact and find safe ground, whether indoors or up a tree. </p></div>

Q: What factors affect fence installation costs?

• <div><p>Costs depend on material, labor, and additional features like gates or decorative elements.</p></div>

Q: Can you use a floor jack to remove fence posts?

• <div><p>Yes, you can use a floor jack to remove fence posts. Attach a stem to the base of the fence post so you can position the floor jack underneath. The stem can be a scrap piece of wood attached with nails or a sturdy nail itself. Put the jack beneath the stem and push the lever to lift up on the fence post and remove it from the ground.</p></div>

Q: Is it better to nail or screw fence pickets?

• <div><p>Both nails and screws are common in fence construction, including on pickets. Some builders prefer to use nails when connecting the pickets to the rails and screws when connecting the rails to the posts. However, the best option usually depends on the <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/types-wood-fencing.htm">type of wood fencing</a> and the variety of wood you choose.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your fencing service project in Dayton, IA?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Fencing Service pros in Dayton, IA

*The Angi rating for Fencing Service companies in Dayton, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Fencing Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Fencing Service companies in Dayton, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Fencing Service needs.

Last update on May 06, 2026

Reviewed in May 2026
I had new vinyl windows, siding, gutters and our roof replaced. William and his crew were super friendly and polite. Work was very professional and clean up was amazing. They stuck right on to the quote also. He kept us informed of the progress daily. Would highly recommend.
1st Choice Gutters & Exteriors
Request a quote
Reviewed in January 2025
Dakota and Landon did a fabulous job putting a ceiling in my garage. Very nice polite professional carpenters . I would recommend them. Both are young but experienced workers. They work fast and efficient plus at a fair price.
Anchor Property Solutions
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2024
Kind, courteous, hard working, and upon completion he asked if there was anything else I needed done? I would definitely recommend ?
Walter's One Man Cleaning Service
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2024
Definitely recommend. Locally owned, personalized service that cares about the customer and results. Owner is very knowledgeable, pleasant, and professional. Contact this company first, you won't regret it.
KIWF Pest Control
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2023
I first hired Baker Electric of Fort Dodge in 2008 to wire our new home. Since then, they have wired my personal shop in 2016 and recently (2022) my new business building. Their experience provided some excellent advice on modifications while staying in budget on every project. I have...
Baker Electric of Fort Dodge LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2022
Great efficient work. Wish it was a little less expensive but Allen does take every bit of wood away. I highly recommend them.
Allens Tree Service
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2022
Tom the sales rep worked his magic to get me everything we needed to convert our tub to a shower. Our installer Jimmy did a top notch job. It did take an extra 1/2 day as he was working by himself. We are so happy we chose Bath Planet for this conversion. From sales rep, phone calls , &...
Bath Planet of Des Moines
Request a quote
Reviewed in March 2022
Was very pleased with my windows.
J Smith Window Cleaning
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2021
Justin was quick to respond to our job outreach & was able to complete work by deadline agreed upon.
JnS Professional Services
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2021
They worked hard. Not the most experienced.
Adams Electrical Contracting
Request a quote

Find Fencing pros in Dayton

Hampton Enterprise LLC

3.7(

)

Serving Dayton, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 1989

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"I only use James when I need some work done to my house. He responds fast, gets the work done quicker than just about anyone else I've ever used and seems very concerned with leaving his customers happy."

Recommended by60%of homeowners

Request Quote

Big Time Movers

New to Angi

Serving Dayton, IA and surrounding areas

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

* 5 star ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ \n White glove Movers / transport /freight / junk removal *\nWe offer the best service ‼️\n⚫️Furniture \n⚫️ Packing\n⚫️Assemble\n⚫️ Car hauling\n⚫️Affordable prices\n⚫️Provide Packing\n⚫️Free Qoutes\n\nTreat each member as family?\n\nLocal & Long distance?\n\nNo Job to Big or Small ‼️\n\nCall Now ? 863-266-1850\n\n\nThe big time movers are here to make your moving experience peaceful in calm ? -Any assembly, dissassembly, all moving pads straps, dollys & travel time ALL INCLUDED IN PRICE\n-NO HIDDEN FEES\n-We offer "free haul away", we will take any unwanted furniture at NO ADDITIONAL COST TO YOU!!\n-We do both residential & commercial moves\n-Proffessional & Honest\n-Punctual & Reliable\n-We offer furniture protection (you only pay extra for supplies)\n-We move apartments, homes, offices, warehouses & even malls!\n-We offer junk removal services (enough to fill a pick-up truck, van, or box truck)\n-Long or short distance moves

Request Quote

Fencing questions, answered by experts

If you come face-to-face with a wolf in your yard, chances are it will be afraid of you as a human. Make eye contact and get big—waving your arms to increase your size. Use noisemakers or air horns if you have them, or throw a few rocks around to discourage them from approaching you. If all else fails and the wolf does not retreat, back away slowly while maintaining eye contact and find safe ground, whether indoors or up a tree.

Costs depend on material, labor, and additional features like gates or decorative elements.

Yes, you can use a floor jack to remove fence posts. Attach a stem to the base of the fence post so you can position the floor jack underneath. The stem can be a scrap piece of wood attached with nails or a sturdy nail itself. Put the jack beneath the stem and push the lever to lift up on the fence post and remove it from the ground.

Posts for a horizontal fence should be no more than 6 feet apart. Wood pickets are not as strong when mounted horizontally as when mounted vertically. As such, the fence panels on a horizontal fence can’t cover the same span between posts as a vertical fence can. If you install the posts further apart on a horizontal fence, the fence will lose stability, making the boards more likely to sag.

Both nails and screws are common in fence construction, including on pickets. Some builders prefer to use nails when connecting the pickets to the rails and screws when connecting the rails to the posts. However, the best option usually depends on the type of wood fencing and the variety of wood you choose.

The Dayton, IA homeowners’ guide to fencing services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Scott Dylan Westerlund
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does Composite Fencing Cost? [2026 Data]
Find composite fencing costs based on fence type, labor, and more in this guide. You can expect your project to cost $11 to $45 per linear foot.
Paige Bennett
•
May 2, 2026May 2, 2026
How Much Does Temporary Fence Rental Cost? [2026 Data]
Renting temporary fencing will protect your property during construction or even a party. Fence type, material, and security features impact the cost.
Lyle Hendriks
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does a Split Rail Fence Cost to Install? [2026 Data]
Looking for that rustic charm only a split rail fence can provide? Use this split rail fence cost guide to get an idea of what your fence will total.
Sophie Yalkezian
•
May 2, 2026May 2, 2026
30 Beautiful Garden Fence Ideas for Any Outdoor Space
Fences come in a variety of materials and serve many purposes in a garden. Discover some inspirational garden fence ideas to elevate your outdoor space.
Taylor Freitas
•
Apr 9, 2026Apr 9, 2026
12 Types of Fences and How to Choose the Right One
Fences make great neighbors. Here's how to choose the right types of fences for privacy and security in your yard.
Nick P. Cellucci
•
Apr 9, 2026Apr 9, 2026
8 Types of Metal Fences for Yards, Pools, and More
There are enough types of metal fencing out there to make your head spin, so how to tell which is the best metal fence type for your property? Keep reading to find out.