DIY Fencing – Is It Worth It?

fence

A fence can serve many purposes, providing privacy for your yard, security against intruders and burglars, and safety for your children or pets. Fences come in a variety of materials and styles, each with its own advantages. However, not all fences will serve the same function or will fit your home’s needs. Therefore, it’s important to consult with a professional fencing contractor. But what if you want to take on the project alone? While this may save you money, consider the following points.

Do It Yourself

There are many build-it-yourself fencing kits available from home improvement stores. For the most part, the fences offered in the kits are vinyl, as this is the easiest type of fence to install. However, installing a sturdy fence may be a very lengthy process. A fence is a big investment that, if installed correctly, can raise the value of your home and last a very long time. Therefore, without experience and knowledge of construction and fence installation, you may get in over your head and end up wasting time and money.

Post Holes

Almost all fences need post holes. It’s essential that the holes be evenly spaced in the ground and leveled before installing your fence posts. If this painstaking task is not performed correctly, the result will be a crooked, unsteady fence. If you’re intent on installing a DIY fence, it may be a good idea to hire a contractor at least to dig the post holes. Not only will a professional be able to do the task quickly and efficiently, he'll know how to avoid tree roots, plumbing pipes and wiring, and how to keep from intruding on a neighbor's property line. 

Layout

The layout of your yard has a major effect on your fence. If there are areas that drop or become elevated in height, you’ll want to adjust the length of the fence posts and/or the height of the fence accordingly. This means you’ll need different-sized posts and fences, something not available when you purchase a DIY kit, and difficult to estimate if you buy the materials on your own.

Laws and Regulations

Most cities have laws regarding the building of fences – how high, what kind of material and how close they can be to a neighbor’s property. They may require a permit, as well. Before installing a fence it’s essential to clarify these laws or hire an experienced contractor who is familiar with them.

If you lack experience with building fences it’s highly recommended that you contact a professional. Building and/or installing a fence on your own can end up being much more costly than if you had hired a professional to do the job. There are many factors to take into account, including fence regulations, the time and money you will need to invest, and the type of fence that is right for your home’s needs and climate. Consult with a professional fencing contractor and ask for estimates and advice on installing a fence on your property.

Updated May 27, 2018.

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