Fencing serves an important function in property management by demarcating boundaries, providing security, and enhancing aesthetics. When considering installing or replacing fences, homeowners often debate whether to hire professional fencing contractors or attempt DIY fencing projects. While the DIY route seems attractive from a cost perspective initially, it comes with several downsides. Professional fencing contractors offer expertise, efficiency, quality workmanship and materials that make them a better long-term investment over DIY projects.
The Complexity of Fencing Projects
Fence installation is complex, requiring accurate site planning, measurements, excavation, and placement of posts and panels. Proper assessments need to be conducted to determine:
- Boundaries
- Underground pipes/cables
- Soil conditions
- Zoning laws
- Neighbor disputes
Several fencing materials like wood, PVC, metal, and chain link come with their own sets of advantages and installation challenges.
- Wood requires staining/painting and protection from termites
- PVC/vinyl needs concrete reinforcement of posts
- Metal/wire involves risk of corrosion and conductivity
- Chain link demands tensioning of wires
Inaccurate measurements or assessments can lead to crooked fence lines, weak structure, and property disputes further down the line.
Expertise and Experience
Fencing contractors possess specialized knowledge from extensive training and hands-on experience.
Case Study 1: Homeowner DIY fencing collapsed after 6 months due to improper installation of posts leading to disputes with neighbor. Professional contractor was hired to rebuild.
Case Study 2: Contractor created customized fence solution for sloped terrain using angled metal posts and adjustments in panel heights tailored to the property’s unique needs.
Professionals stay updated on the latest fencing trends, materials, and regulations to provide customized solutions suited to the client’s preferences.
Benefits include:
- Expert planning for complex installations
- Identifying appropriate fencing solutions
- Accurate cost and timeframe estimates
- Advice on permits, laws, and negotiations
Quality of Materials and Workmanship
High-quality fencing materials certified to British and European standards ensure structural integrity and longevity.
Contractors use thick gauge metal wires, marine-grade woods, and reinforced posts
DIY stores often stock lower-grade materials susceptible to corrosion, mold, and termites.
Professional workmanship creates robust foundation, wiring, and panel/post assembly following established best practices.
Precise excavation and concrete reinforcement of posts and footings
Tensioning and alignment of wires/rails
Use of protective layers and braces at stress-points
This leads to fences that can endure weather, wear-and-tear, and altercations without compromise.
Time and Efficiency
Installing fences involves extensive physical labor across measuring, digging, lifting, and assembling materials onsite.
- An average wooden fence can take 20-35 man hours for DIYers according to HomeAdvisor.
The complex logistics lead to most DIY projects stretching over weeks or months.
- Sourcing materials, coordinating equipment rentals, and managing waste disposal is time-consuming
Professionals streamline the process with:
- Access to wholesale material supply chains
- Availability of required equipment/manpower
- Strategies for swift and clean executions
- Average project completion in 3-5 days
This saves clients time which can be invested elsewhere.
Legal and Regulatory Compliance
Fencing projects must abide by:
- Boundary and encroachment laws
- Planning permissions and community approvals
- Health and safety regulations
Professional contractors remain updated on such policies to ensure legal compliance.
- Case Study: DIYer fined £800 for non-compliant fence height blocking sightlines for traffic
Key considerations in the UK include:
- Adhering to the Party Wall Act
- Respecting right-of-way access points
- Noise and vision obstruction rules
Attempting DIY projects without sufficient expertise can lead to irreversible legal troubles.
Cost Considerations
Upfront costs of DIY seem smaller with basic materials and equipment rentals.
- But tools, waste disposal and multiple supply trips add to expenses
Professional quotes appear inflated but account for:
- Labor, operational overheads
- Sourcing high-grade materials
- Import duties, taxes
Seemingly affordable DIY jobs often end up requiring professional help for fixes or rebuilds.
Long-term costs of professional projects are offset by:
- No maintenance charges for 5-15 years
- Saving future expenses on repairs
- Increasing home valuation from enhanced curb appeal
So quality professional installations provide better return-on-investment.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Can I save money by doing my own fencing?
While DIY seems like an affordable option, full costs accumulate to exceed professional quotes in most cases due to:
- Multiple supply trips and tool/equipment rentals
- Waste removal and landfill charges
- Eventually needing to call experts for fixes and rebuilds
- Opportunity cost of investing significant time and physical effort
Are professional contractors insured?
Reputable fencing contractors carry public liability insurance and employee accident coverage.
- This protects clients and contractors themselves against onsite mishaps.
- Insist on checking insurance certificates before appointing contractors.
How do I choose the right fencing contractor?
Key considerations for selecting professional fencing contractors include:
- Industry qualifications and training certificates
- Years of experience and sample projects delivered
- Reviews and testimonials from previous clients
- Comprehensive portfolio covering types of fencing solutions
- Licensed, insured and accredited with trade organizations
- Detailed quotes without hidden charges
What are the common mistakes in DIY fencing?
Some common DIY fencing mistakes to avoid:
- Inadequate post depth and reinforcement leading to instability
- Insufficient tensioning of wires resulting in sagging
- Crooked post alignment resulting from inaccurate measurements
- Ignoring slope/drainage patterns causing runoff issues
- Attempting complex miters, lattices or staircases without experience
- Using low-quality permeable material without treatment
- Not checking property line markers or permitting needs
Are there specific regulations for fencing in the UK?
Common UK fencing regulations to review before installing fences:
- Adhering to standard fence heights and avoiding vision obstructions
- Permits for front garden fences under Article 4 Direction
- Party Wall Act requiring neighbor notifications
- Right-of-way, drainage, access path easements
Consult reputable fencing contractors on guidelines relevant to your area early in the planning process.
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