Common Fence Installation Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Thinking of installing a fence around your property in Reno, Carson City, Sparks, or Winnemucca? Well, you must know that even a small mistake can lead to big headaches later. 

Considering it without professional assistance can lead to misaligned posts, ignored property lines, and many other issues. Fence installation mistakes can cost you time, money, and peace of mind. 

So, if your plan is to install the fence yourself with the help of some top YouTube videos, it’s time to pause and think again. Here we’ll explain some of the most common fence installation mistakes that you might make if you rely on DIY methods, YouTube, and TikTok videos. This blog not only points out the mistakes but also suggests some important fencing installation tips. Stay tuned!

Why is Proper Fence Installation Important?

A fence isn’t just a boundary. It plays an important role in securing your property, adding property value in Reno, and keeping your kids and pets safe.

But if it’s not installed properly, it can be unsafe or get damaged quickly. Just think for a while – Would you spend on fencing to feel unsafe? No, you won’t!

That’s why it’s important to get the installation right. You must avoid common DIY mistakes and hire an experienced fence installation service in Carson City to get the best results. 

Need Fence Repair or Installation in Reno, Winnemucca, Carson City, & Sparks? Call Now!

10 Fence Installation Mistakes That Can Ruin the Purpose of Fencing

1. Skipping the Property Line Check

Are you 100% sure where your property begins and ends?

One of the biggest and most common fence installation mistakes is not verifying property boundaries. Guessing or assuming where your property line is can lead to legal disputes with neighbors and potential fines. 

In some cases, you might even be required to tear down the fence and start over.

How to Avoid It?

Hire a professional surveyor or check your property’s plot map to confirm your boundaries. An experienced fencing service in Reno or Carson City will always recommend confirming this before starting the installation process.

2. Ignoring Local Codes and HOA Rules

Did you know that different cities and HOAs have specific fencing regulations? Usually, no one is going to tell you about this. 

Every locality, including Carson City, Sparks, and Winnemucca, may have different rules of fence height, materials, and placement. Ignoring these can cause you major trouble post-installation.

How to Avoid It?

• Before buying materials or digging holes, check with your city’s zoning office or your Homeowners Association (HOA). 
• A trusted fencing service in Sparks or Winnemucca can also help you explore and understand these rules. 

3. Poor Planning and Measurement Errors

Not all yards are flat or even. Did you consider slopes, curves, or garden features?

Many people underestimate these minor points during fence planning. Getting the measurements wrong or forgetting to plan for the gate can mess up the entire project.

How to Avoid It?

• Use a measuring wheel and double-check all your dimensions. 
• Create a layout or design plan before you dig. 

However, hiring professionals who offer top-quality fence installation service in Carson City is the best way to avoid it.

4. Incorrect Post Depth or Spacing

Posts are the foundation of your fence. If they’re not strong and properly placed, the whole fence can become weak and unstable.

• If you set the posts too shallow, they might shift or fall over.
• If they’re too far apart, the fence panels won’t have enough support and can sag or break over time. 

In places like Reno, where the soil and weather change throughout the year, these issues could be even more damaging, causing your fence to wear out much faster.

How to Avoid It?

• Posts should generally be buried at least one-third of their length into the ground and spaced according to the fence type (typically 6 to 8 feet apart). 
• Use gravel for drainage and concrete for stability.

5. Using the Wrong Materials for the Environment

Are you choosing a wood fence just because it looks good?

Well, not all fence materials are suitable for every environment. For example –

• If you choose untreated wood in an area that experiences a lot of rain or snow, the wood can start to rot quickly. 
• On the other hand, metal fences that aren’t coated can rust over time when exposed to moisture or harsh conditions. 

Choosing the wrong material for your local climate can lead to damage, more maintenance, and a shorter fence lifespan.

How to Avoid It?

You can consult local fencing professionals who understand the Reno and Carson City climate and help you choose durable, weather-resistant materials suited to the climate of your area.

6. Forgetting to Plan Gate Movement and Access

Have you thought about how your fence gate will open in winter snow or on a slope?

People often forget to plan for the gate, but it’s just as important as the fence itself. If your gate is placed in the wrong spot or is hard to open, you’ll soon get frustrated with your fence.

How to Avoid It?

• Plan the gate location carefully. 
• Consider the ground slope, width for equipment or deliveries, and gate swing direction. 
• Ask your fencing service in Carson City or Sparks for suggestions based on your needs.

7. Inconsistent Fence Height

Your fence may look like a roller coaster if you’re not careful. 

If you install fence panels without adjusting for hills or uneven ground, the fence height will look uneven. This not only affects how your fence looks but also reduces its ability to give you proper privacy or security.

How to Avoid It?

• You can use a string as a guide to keep your fence straight, and adjust each panel’s height to match the slope of your yard. 
• You may also need to install the fence in steps or curves, depending on how uneven your ground is.

However, doing all this yourself with accuracy is extremely difficult. It requires proper skills and teamwork that only a professional fence installer can provide.

8. Forgetting About Utilities

You might be planning to dig. Do you know what’s underneath?

Digging without checking for underground utility lines can lead to serious accidents, service outages, or expensive repairs. Pipes for gas, water, or internet may be buried where you plan to install your fence. That’s why it’s important to find out exactly where they are before you start digging.

How to Avoid It?

Always call 811 before you dig, or let professionals handle it for a safe and smooth installation.

9. Overlooking Maintenance Needs

Fence up? Great. But how long will it last? Have you thought about that?

Failing to consider how much maintenance your chosen fence material needs can lead to faster wear and unexpected costs.

For example, some fences need regular painting, sealing, or cleaning to last. If you skip this maintenance or choose a high-maintenance material without realizing it, your fence might get damaged more quickly. This could lead to repairs or replacements you didn’t plan for.

How to Avoid It?

Ask about maintenance before choosing materials. Vinyl and metal typically require less upkeep than wood, which needs regular sealing or painting.

10. Doing It Yourself Without Enough Experience

If you think, oh, fencing looks easy after just watching 1 video on YouTube. Think again.

While installing a fence yourself might seem like a budget-friendly option, the truth is, it’s actually a difficult and detailed job. It involves a lot of physical work and careful planning. 

If you make even a small mistake, like not aligning posts correctly or using the wrong materials, it could cause the fence to fall over or look uneven. In the end, fixing these errors could cost you more than hiring a professional from the start.

How to Avoid It?

Hire a professional fencing service in Reno, Winnemucca, Carson City, or Sparks. With Artistic Fence, you get an expert team, local experience, and peace of mind.

Bottom Line

Sometimes, small mistakes can lead to big problems. After all, you’re installing a fence to protect your home and family, so why risk their safety over common misconceptions or DIY errors?

Fence installation may seem straightforward, but a lot of things can go wrong if you’re not careful. 

If you want a strong, attractive, and long-lasting fence, it’s best to leave the job to the experts. A professionally installed fence not only looks better but also lasts longer and keeps your property more secure.

Need Help Installing a Fence the Right Way? Get Expert Solutions at Artisic Fence Co.

At Artistic Fence, we’ve helped thousands of Nevada homeowners install high-quality, long-lasting fences without the stress. With over 60 years of hands-on experience and local expertise, we’re the most trusted fencing company in Carson City, Winnemucca, and Reno.

So, if you want to avoid all the common fence installation mistakes, don’t take chances. Let us help you get it right the first time. 

Contact us today for professional fencing service in Reno, Carson City, Sparks, or Winnemucca. We’ll guide you every step of the way!