It can be challenging to know when the best time to install a fence is. While you’re probably excited to start a new project, you also have to deal with weather conditions and other practical difficulties. Waiting for the right time to install your fence will ensure you get the best results and avoid inconveniences.
Installing a fence is simple but requires several preliminary steps. The following information will prepare you for aluminum fencing services or other fence installation services.
Benefits of Installing a Fence in Fall or Winter
Most people install fences in spring and summer as the ground is soft enough to dig holes for the posts easily. However, the best time to install a fence is during autumn and winter. Unless the ground is frozen solid, a contractor can install your fence during cold weather.
There’s no need to rule out installing a fence in winter, especially in a place with mild winters like Florida. From an aluminum chain link fence to a wooden picket fence, you can get a beautiful installation that protects your property any time of year. Some other advantages of installing a fence during fall and winter include:
Save Money
A winter fence installation is excellent for saving money since contractors are often less busy with outdoor projects during the winter months. Installing a fence during the fall or winter helps you save on materials and installation costs, as many contractors charge less for off-season installations.
Do Less Damage
Installing a fence often requires relocating some landscaping, which can harm fragile plants. However, relocating plants in the winter and fall when they are not actively growing means you’re less likely to damage them. If they don’t survive relocation, you have ample time to choose new landscaping that will complement your new fence.
Convenience
You probably aren’t spending much time in your yard in the winter, so why not use this time to improve your property? If you install your fence during the fall or winter, it will be ready to go in the spring, and you won’t have to deal with loud construction when you want to enjoy your property.
Avoid Disrupting Neighbors
Installing a fence can already cause tension with your neighbors if they disagree about the location of the property line or don’t like the appearance of the fence. Like most other people, your neighbors will likely be indoors during inclement weather. Installing a fence during colder seasons avoids disrupting neighbors while they are outside.
Learning proper fence etiquette can also be helpful to ensure a smooth installation.
Save Time
A more open schedule during the fall and winter allows contractors to install your fence quickly. You can save time and avoid waiting months for installation compared to the summer months. More time for your project also gets you excellent craftsmanship.
Spring and Summer Fence Installations
While installing your fence in the spring and summer is possible, it can lead to different concerns. The following problems decrease fence longevity and introduce avoidable structural issues:
● Dry wood: Intense summer heat can cause your wooden fence boards to dry out quickly, resulting in warping, cracks, and other structural damage. Colder seasons give wood plenty of time to adjust to moisture levels.
● Water damage: While water damage can occur in all seasons, the spring and summer’s rainy weather leaves porous fences soaked, causing them to rot, warp, and even grow mold. A fence installed in winter will likely have a protective coating to prevent damage from rain and snow.
● Expansion problems: Vinyl fences can expand and contract with temperatures, which reduces durability as time goes on.
Other Things to Consider
You’ll need to consider plenty of other factors before contacting a fence installation company. A fence installation may require homeowners to get zoning permits or have professional land inspections. Without taking the proper precautions, you can hamper your installation.
Be sure to allow time for the following steps when considering what time of year you want to install your new fence.
Zoning Laws and Paperwork
Some fencing projects may require paperwork for a building permit to ensure your fence project meets all construction requirements. It’s vital to check zoning laws before hiring a contractor. Without proper preparation, you risk being fined due to legal issues.
If you find that your city or county requires permits, be sure to ask your contractor if they will pull the permit or if you are responsible for that step.
Finding Property Lines
To avoid conflict with your neighbors, you’ll need to make sure the fence is built on your side of the property. It takes specialized training to find property lines, so if you’re unsure where the property line is, you may need to hire a surveyor to inspect your property.
Locating Utility Lines
“Call before you dig” is an essential step to any residential construction project. By having your gas, power, and water lines marked before contractors begin work, you avoid them hitting these lines, bursting pipes, or creating hazardous spills. A professional utility marker can detect where lines run so contractors can work safely.
Some contractors perform property line surveys and fill out zoning paperwork on your behalf, while others require you to do it, so it’s crucial to talk with your contractor about their process. Asking different contractors about their fence installation process is a great way to choose the right one while learning about their services.
When you need a reliable fence contractor in St. Petersburg, FL, don’t hesitate to contact Gulf to Bay Fence. With over 25 years of experience installing fences in Pinellas County, we can navigate the challenges of installing a fence and follow proper procedures. Whether you choose aluminum, vinyl, or wood, we know the best time to install a fence. Contact us for fence installation and other services at 727-513-6763.
