Should My Fencing Company Prepare the Ground for Installation?
Understanding Your Role and your Fence Company in Fence Installation Across DFW
Thinking about installing a new fence but unsure about who should handle the ground preparation? If you’re a homeowner in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, this question might have crossed your mind. Let’s clear up the confusion so you know exactly what to expect and how to prepare for a smooth fencing project.
Who Is Responsible for Ground Preparation?
When it comes to fence installation, proper groundwork is essential. However, the responsibility for clearing and grading the terrain typically falls on the homeowner, not the fencing company. Here’s why:
What Fencing Companies Typically Do Not Handle
- Land Clearing: Removing trees, heavy brush, or large rocks.
- Grading the Terrain: Adjusting the slope or level of the land.
- Major Excavations: Any extensive digging beyond post holes.
Fencing companies are not equipped with land clearing or heavy grading equipment. Their expertise lies in designing and installing your fence, not preparing the land on a large scale, specially for commercial jobs.
Your Role in Preparing the Site
Clear the Area of Obstacles
Before the fencing crew arrives, ensure that the area where the fence will be installed is free from:
- Vegetation: Remove any shrubs, plants, or overhanging tree branches.
- Debris: Clear away rocks, old fencing materials, and any other obstacles.
- Structures: Relocate outdoor furniture, toys, or equipment that might be in the way.
Why This Matters
- Efficiency: A clear site allows the fencing team to work efficiently, reducing installation time.
- Cost-Effective: Avoid potential additional charges for the crew to remove obstacles.
- Safety: Ensures a safer working environment for everyone involved.
Can Fencing Companies Assist with Minor Clearing?
While major land clearing isn’t part of a fencing company’s services, we can assist with minor clearing tasks in residential fencing, upon request:
Minor Grading and Cleaning Services
- Weed Removal: Eliminating small plants or weeds along the fence line.
- Light Debris Clearing: Removing small rocks or leftover materials.
- Surface Leveling: Minor adjustments to the ground to ensure fence alignment.
If you need assistance with these tasks, let us know in advance, and we can provide a quote for these additional services.
What Does the Fencing Company Handle?
While we don’t perform major ground preparation, we do take care of essential tasks to ensure your fence is installed correctly:
Utility Checks
- Safety First: We coordinate with local utilities to mark underground lines, preventing accidents. For more information on utility marking, visit Call 811 Before You Dig.
- Legal Compliance: Ensuring we meet all regulations and avoid fines.
Mapping and Alignment
- Fence Layout: Planning the fence path to match your property’s boundaries.
- Slope Adjustment: Designing the fence to accommodate the natural slope of your land.
Digging Post Holes
- Precision Digging: Using specialized equipment to dig post holes at the correct depth and width.
- Stability Assurance: Proper post installation is crucial for the fence’s longevity.
Learn more about our meticulous fence installation process and how we ensure top-quality results.
Tips for Preparing Your Site
Hire Professionals for Land Clearing
If your property requires significant clearing or grading, consider hiring a professional land clearing or landscaping company before scheduling your fence installation.
Plan Ahead
- Schedule Accordingly: Allow enough time for site preparation before the fencing crew arrives.
- Consult with Us: We’re happy to offer guidance on what needs to be done.
Communicate Special Requirements
- Access Points: Ensure there are clear entry points for our team and equipment.
- Pets and Children: Keep pets secured and inform family members about the work schedule for safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if there’s a small tree or shrub in the fence line?
A: Please arrange to have it removed before installation. If it’s a minor obstacle, we might be able to remove it for an additional fee upon prior agreement.
Q: Do you provide stump removal services?
A: No, stump removal typically requires specialized equipment that we do not possess. We recommend hiring a professional stump removal service.
Q: How do I know if the ground is adequately prepared?
A: The area should be level (unless the fence follows a slope), free of debris, and accessible. Feel free to contact the fence company for specific guidelines.
Ready for a Smooth Fence Installation?
A successful fencing project is a team effort between the homeowner and the fencing company. By preparing your site ahead of time, you help us focus on what we do best—installing a high-quality fence that enhances your property’s beauty and security.
At Kodiak Fence Company, we’re dedicated to providing exceptional service to homeowners across DFW. Let’s work together to bring your fencing vision to life.
We hope this article clarifies any confusion about ground preparation for fence installation. Our team is here to assist you every step of the way.