Question 1

Do fencing contractors need to be licensed?

Accepted Answer

Whether a fencing contractor needs to be licensed or not varies from state to state. For example, in California, individuals must pass a licensing exam called a C13 in order to work as a fencing contractor, while Arizona requires contractors to be licensed if jobs pay $750 or more. In Colorado, all contractors must get business licenses.

Question 2

How does someone become a fencing contractor?

Accepted Answer

Depending on city and state requirements, fencing contractors must first get a contracting license before performing fence installations and repairs. To prepare for a career as a fencing contractor, there are apprenticeship programs where individuals work alongside licensed professionals to train and learn the specifics of the trade.

Question 3

How much do fence contractors make?

Accepted Answer

On average, a fencing contractor's salary is between $21,160 and $51,800 annually. However, factors such as experience, length of time in business, and the overall amount of customers can lead to more profits for fencing business owners and higher salaries for installers.

Question 4

Are fencing contractors members of the digging community?

Accepted Answer

Fencing contractors are considered members of the digging community because they perform work that may create ground disturbances. Contractors that offer excavation services for fence installs are also part of the digging community.

Question 5

Do you tip fencing contractors?

Accepted Answer

Fencing contractors are professional service providers, and it's not customary to tip. All fence installers are paid hourly wages, and they don't require or expect tips as additional pay. Instead of tipping, it's always a good idea for satisfied customers to refer fencing contractors to other potential clients.

Question 6

How much do fencing contractors charge?

Accepted Answer

The average cost for fence installation is $2,387. Aspects such as fence size, the amount of construction required, materials, and overall project scope can affect prices. Customers should expect to pay between $13 and $50 per linear foot on materials, and labor typically runs between $30 and $80 per hour.

Question 7

How to choose a fencing contractor?

Accepted Answer

Fencing contractors are often chosen through referrals, and customers can also find contractors using online directories. When choosing a contractor, be sure to get multiple estimates, and ask for referrals and images of similar work completed for other clients. Searching online for reviews from past customers is also a good idea.

Question 8

Is a signed estimate considered a contract with a fencing contractor?

Accepted Answer

If a fencing contractor presents an estimate with both a description of the work to be done and a fixed price, it's considered a contract if both parties sign the document. If costs change during the construction process, the fencing contractor should update the existing agreement with a change order.

Question 9

Is a construction contractor required to remove silt fencing after the construction is completed?

Accepted Answer

Since silt fencing is used to prevent downstream erosion and catch sediment, it should not be removed following construction if the ground is still unstable. Silt fences can be removed once the ground stabilizes; however, in most cases, silt decomposes over time.

Question 10

What is the best fencing?

Accepted Answer

There are many fencing materials and styles available that are equally durable and aesthetically pleasing, so it is ultimately up to the consumer to determine the best option to suit their needs and vision. Popular fencing materials include wood, metal, and composite, which provide optimal durability, while top design options include picket, lattice, and scalloped.

Question 11

Can one neighbor legally replace a fence between properties if one party does not want it to be replaced?

Accepted Answer

Fencing laws vary from state to state; however, most state laws require that an agreement is reached between both parties before any construction or removal can take place. In cases where repairs or replacements are completed without one neighbor's consent, either party can move forward with legal remediation.

Question 12

Will fencing contractors move belongings?

Accepted Answer

Fencing contractors are hired to build and install fencing. Customers can request that fence installers move items that may hinder construction, but the contractor is not required to do so. It's always a good idea for customers to ensure any items that may block construction are moved out of the way prior to the start of work.

Question 13

What are types of privacy fences?

Accepted Answer

Privacy fence types include board-on-board, shadowbox, lock-board with a tongue-in-groove design, stockade with pointed, rounded boards, and tall picket fencing. Another form of privacy fencing that's popular in warmer climates is metal fencing covered in ivy.

Question 14

Are different colors of vinyl fencing affected differently by the sun?

Accepted Answer

Vinyl fences can become warped in extremely hot environments, as vinyl expands when exposed to heat. Darker colors of vinyl fencing, such as black or dark brown, attract more heat than lighter colors which can lead to faster warping.

Question 15

How long should it take to install my fence?

Accepted Answer

In general, standard fencing jobs can take one to three days to complete. However, specific time frames to install a fence can vary, based on overall size, materials, and labor involved. Additionally, rough, uneven terrain and unforeseen weather may affect the timeline of a fence install.

Question 16

What do I need to know to look for in a quality fence?

Accepted Answer

One of the most important aspects of a quality fence is longevity. When choosing a fence design, it's important to ensure that the materials are sturdy, rustproof, and able to stand up to the elements. A quality fence should also be installed so it's straight and level, and posts shouldn't be loose following installation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Introduction

Do fencing contractors need to be licensed?

How does someone become a fencing contractor?

How much do fence contractors make?

Are fencing contractors members of the digging community?

Do you tip fencing contractors?

How much do fencing contractors charge?