How Hard Is It to Replace a Fence?

Is your current fence letting you down? Needing a fence replacement can be frustrating — you feel stuck between the time commitment and cost of the installation and the annoyance of putting up with your existing fence for another day. 

If you’re at this crossroads, you’re probably wondering just how hard it is to replace your fence. Learn about the steps of replacing a fence — it’s not as complicated as it sounds! 

Do You Need a Replacement? 

Many homeowners jump to a fence replacement when they could go with the more cost-effective solution: fence repair. This isn’t always the best move, since there are many circumstances where the fence isn’t worth saving.  

Check first for signs of damage, like rot or rust. Consult with a fencing professional if you notice anything — they’ll have the background to give you advice on how to move forward. However, if your goal is simply to upgrade to something that aligns more with your design aesthetics, that’s a perfectly good reason for a replacement. 

A Step-by-Step Walkthrough for Replacing Your Fence 

You can see for yourself just how easy or hard fence installation is when you break the process down into pieces. Here’s what most new fencing projects look like from start to finish. 

Removing the Old Fence 

Removing a fence can be a labor-intensive process, depending on the type of fence and where it’s located. There’s no easy way to do this yourself. Always contact a professional fencing contractor to ensure it’s done right. 

Preparing the Area 

Once the old fence is gone, you can clear the way for the new one. Homeowners can take part in this process by removing debris from the area and cleaning up any landscaping elements that might get in the way. If the space is uneven, it will likely require additional preparation, like leveling the ground or adding gravel for better drainage. 

Choosing Your New Fence Material 

This step can happen before or during the other two, but it has to happen at some point. Each material has its own set of advantages and challenges, so make sure to review them so you can make a wise decision when you get to this stage. 

Pressure-Treated Pine Wood Fences 

This type of fence is a timeless classic that also happens to be incredibly durable. You can also paint or stain it to match your home’s exterior. 

Vinyl Fences 

Many homeowners opt for vinyl because it’s low-maintenance and versatile in design. These fences are also resistant to fading and don’t require painting, making the barrier of entry to installation a lot smaller. 

Chain-Link Fences 

Chain-link fences are among the most affordable and functional choices for fencing materials. Homeowners often add slats or other decorative elements to give them extra flair and visual interest. 

Installing the New Fence 

You’ll need to hire professionals to install your new fence if you want a quality installation. The process is simply too involved for the average homeowner to take on alone. Hiring a professional makes this part relatively easy on your end — you won’t have much to do once you’ve selected your contractor and decided on the finer details of your new fence. 

Adding the Finishing Touches 

Some homeowners like to add a finishing touch to their fence to make it their own. This usually means staining or painting.  

However, choosing vinyl or pressure-treated pine gives you a lot of flexibility with appearance, and there’s plenty of opportunity to add these elements before the installation begins. 

Helpful Tips for a Smoother Fence Replacement 

Here are a few final tips for homeowners looking to upgrade to a new fence: 

  • Look into local regulations and your HOA to ensure the project is compliant 
  • Discuss your construction plans with your neighbors as a courtesy 
  • Consider the weather before you schedule, especially in Georgia! 
  • Add a cushion to your budget for unexpected costs 
  • Don’t hesitate to ask your contractor for clarification during construction 

Expert Fence Replacement in Georgia 

If your fence is beyond repair or you’re ready for something new, count on East Georgia Fence to help with fence installation and replacement. Reach out to us today to learn more about our process or schedule a consultation.