Not hiring a professional crew is an effective way to reduce the overall aluminum fence cost since the labor will not be part of the equation. Unlike other home improvements, fence installation is not off-limits to non-pros. Do-it-yourselfers could draw the plan themselves, apply for the necessary permit, shop for their own materials, and get started.
However, just because the job does not require experienced installers does not mean anyone could be an expert in fence construction overnight. Believe it or not, this project has lots of moving parts. If you underestimate the complexity of it, you are bound to commit regretful errors that could inflate its cost and delay its completion.
Want to learn the lesson from the mistakes of others? Avoid the following:
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Forgetting to Check Relevant Laws and Regulations
First of all, you ought to know the legal parameters of your project. Contrary to the popular myth, you can’t do anything you want with your property.
Zoning ordinances exist to regulate the construction of structures in residential areas. Installing a fence may be allowed in your area, but its design should conform to the specifications stated in the law.
Consulting homeowners’ association before your project allows you to not only identify your property lines but also determine how far inside them you could build a fence. Getting the nod from the HOA is key to resolve any possible dispute with unhappy neighbors.
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Skimping on Materials
Using sweat equity to lower your fence installation cost, but buying low-quality products is another. Fencing options are not equal in price for a reason. Other than aesthetics, mechanical properties separate one material from another. Some of them resist weather damage better while others require less upkeep.
The price tag can be a good indicator of fencing material quality, but do not let it fool you. Sometimes, a relatively economical product could last longer when used properly. If you want to minimize your expenses without sacrificing quality, pick the best grade of the material you prefer.
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Picking the Wrong Fence Design
It is not uncommon for a non-professional to pick an incorrect fence design to achieve the project’s goals. An experienced installer will take into account how the fence would coexist with the rest of the property. In the end, the addition of a fence should improve how your home works and looks, not introduce new features at the expense of existing ones.
A good case in point is the misuse of a privacy fence. If you have a finished outdoor space like a patio or a deck, erecting solid walls could make the yard feel more like a prison than a living room extension. The installation of picket fencing instead could raise privacy without rendering the outdoor area claustrophobic.
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Failing to Secure the Posts
Fence installation is a skill. The slope of the yard, soil condition, and drainage are some of the factors that must be considered to ensure the stability and longevity of posts. One workmanship error could lead to premature damage.
Give fence installation the respect it deserves. There is nothing wrong about DIYing the construction, but be honest with your skills and accept when the job is better left in the hands of professionals to guarantee its success.
