The Most Common Fencing Mistakes
Whether you’re looking to add privacy and safety to your property or you want to keep livestock in, fences are a great way to achieve these goals. But, like any other construction project, putting up a fence isn’t a foolproof process. In this article, we’re going to go over some of the most common fencing mistakes that people make. By the end of this post, you’ll know what to avoid.
Not Knowing Your Property Lines
When fencing, it’s easy to forget to check your property lines. This can lead to problems later on, including misunderstandings with your neighbors and legal disputes. Fortunately, there are several ways to know your property lines without needing to hire a professional surveyor. If you haven’t done so already, take a look at the deed for your home and request a plot plan. These documents can provide you with your property lines and are often used by realtors and lawyers.
Not Buying Quality Materials
One of the most common mistakes made when fencing is not purchasing the highest quality material for your buck. A shoddy fence may be less durable than you expect, which can lead to costly repairs and replacements in the near future. The best way to avoid this quagmire is to do your research and shop around for the lowest price possible on the best material available in your area. It’s also a good idea to check your local building supply stores regularly to see if they have any special offers or sales on their shelves. The best time to do this is before you start your project in the first place.
Not Setting Posts Deep Enough
Setting posts deep enough is important for the stability of your fence. The minimum depth for fence posts should be 2 feet deep, but it can also depend on the type of post and soil conditions. If the post supports panels or crossbars, it’s especially critical that it’s set deep. In addition, you should dig one-third to one-half of the post’s height underground.
Not Taking Care of the Posts
The fence may be the centerpiece of your property, but the posts that hold it up are also important. Check that they are firmly packed and set at an angle to avoid future bowing and bending. Having the best quality wood and applying CCA (chemically controlled application) will help you a great deal in the long run, but you should do your part to keep your posts looking their best by removing dirt, moss and mildew with the proper tools. It is also a good idea to have a few quality fence cleaning products on hand in case of emergencies. Taking care of your posts will mean they last you for years to come.
Not Using Anchors
Using anchors when fencing is an excellent way to keep your posts in place and make the fence more stable. They can help stop the posts from falling and also prevent strong winds from blowing them up. The type of anchor you use depends on the material you’re fastening it to and where you plan to install it. It’s important to use a high-quality anchor that is capable of holding its load capacity. Ideally, the fence post should be set at least 18 inches below ground level to be properly supported by the post anchor. If it’s not, your fence will likely break or sag.