How to Choose the Right Fence Contractor in the Twin Cities – Part 2

Once you’ve shortlisted a few fence contractors and are ready to engage with them, the conversation can offer vital clues about their suitability for your project. Here are some red flags and important questions to consider when assessing potential contractors:

Red Flags to Watch For

Urgency to Decide: If a contractor pressures you to make a swift decision, proceed with caution. A reputable contractor will give you time to consider your options.
Cash-Only Payments: While some contractors provide discounts for cash payments, insisting on cash as the only payment method is a potential warning sign.
Lack of Written Estimate: Contractors unwilling to provide a written estimate, or those who hesitate when asked, should raise concerns about transparency and reliability.

Key Questions to Ask

When you start discussing your project details, these questions can help gauge the contractor’s expertise and reliability:

Material Recommendations: What fence materials do they recommend considering your budget, the fence location, and your aesthetic preferences? You can explore some of the many options for fencing materials.
Process and Planning: For repair or replacement jobs, ask how they plan to complete the work. Inquire about the disposal of old materials and their general work process.
Budget and Timeline: Does the contractor have a history of adhering to their initial estimate and timeline?
Warranty Coverage: Is there a warranty on the installation offered by the contractor, in addition to the manufacturer’s warranty on materials?

Making the Right Choice

Don’t hesitate to ask direct questions and carefully note their responses. It’s also wise to consult multiple contractors to get a well-rounded view.

Ultimately, it’s your responsibility to conduct thorough interviews to ensure you’re informed and confident in your decision.

With nearly 70 years of experience, Midwest Fence is a trusted name in the Twin Cities for superior fence-building services. Call 651-451-2222 for a free estimate and consultation.

How to Choose the Right Fence Contractor in the Twin Cities

Your home is not just a big financial commitment; it’s a personal sanctuary. Decisions affecting its exterior, like installing a fence, are critical because they influence both its aesthetic appeal and security. Choosing the right fence contractor therefore becomes crucial, as it impacts both your home’s value and appearance.

Here are a few steps to help you find the perfect contractor for your fencing project:

1. Validate the Contractor’s Credentials

Established Business: Ensure the company is well-established. When you call, you should be greeted by a professional receptionist, not the owner’s voicemail.
Commercial Address: Verify that the business operates from a legitimate commercial space, not a residential address. You can easily check this using online mapping services.
Reputation Check: Research online reviews and ratings. However, don’t just pick the first company you see or the one with the largest ad. A high ad spend doesn’t always equal quality service.

2. Prepare Before Contacting Contractors

Research Materials and Styles: Familiarize yourself with different fence materials like chain link, wood, PVC, or composite materials, as well as styles such as privacy fencing or picket fences. Websites and magazines are great resources, and asking neighbors about their experiences can also provide valuable insights.
Design Your Layout: Consider how you want your fence to run along your property, including any gates or openings. Take measurements to get an approximation of the length you need.
Set a Budget: Outline how much you’re willing to spend on materials and labor. When interviewing contractors, share your budget and material preferences to ensure they can meet your needs and to facilitate accurate bid comparisons.

Taking these initial steps will help you screen potential contractors effectively. In our next post, we’ll guide you through the process of interviewing prospective contractors to find the best fit for your project.

Midwest Fence brings nearly 70 years of fence-building expertise to the Twin Cities, renowned for quality and integrity. Get in touch at 651-451-2222 for a free estimate and consultation.

Pros and Cons of Chain Link Fencing

If you’re considering a new fence for your home, chain link fencing might be on your list of options. It’s one of the most recognizable types of fencing in the United States, commonly found in parks, sports fields, and residential areas alike. Why is chain link fencing so popular? Let’s explore the updated pros and cons of this versatile fencing option.

The Pros of Chain Link Fencing

Affordability

Chain link fencing remains one of the most cost-effective solutions available. It’s a great option for homeowners looking to save on installation costs. While it is possible to install it yourself, hiring a professional can ensure a more secure and durable setup that will last for many years.

Low Maintenance‘

One of the standout features of chain link fencing is its low maintenance requirements. The fencing is typically galvanized, which means it has been treated to resist rust, prolonging its lifespan and reducing upkeep needs. This makes it an attractive option for those who prefer a set-it-and-forget-it solution.

Safety

For families with children and pets, chain link fencing offers a safe way to keep everyone in while maintaining visibility to the outside world. You can keep an eye on what’s happening beyond your yard without compromising safety.

Appearance Options

Chain link fences aren’t relegated to the plain metallic look anymore. Modern versions come with vinyl coatings in colors like black and green, enhancing their appearance and longevity. Additionally, California-style chain link fences integrate wooden posts and rails for a more stylish look.

The Cons of Chain Link Fencing

Residential Security

While effective for basic security, standard residential chain link fences are usually around four feet tall, making them easy to climb. While adding extra height or barbed wire can enhance security, this is often reserved for industrial applications rather than residential use.

Appearance

Chain link fencing is sometimes viewed as generic or utilitarian. Without additional treatments like vinyl coatings or creative design elements, it can lack the aesthetic appeal of other fence types. Even with galvanization, the fence and posts can get scratched over time, detracting from its appearance.

Lack of Privacy

One of the biggest downsides is the lack of privacy. Chain link fences are see-through by design. While you can add slats for better privacy, this option is not commonly utilized and may not fully close off your yard from prying eyes.

If you’re looking for an affordable, low-maintenance option that ensures safety and visibility, chain link fencing could be a great fit. However, if privacy and aesthetics are top priorities, you might want to explore other options. For those set on chain link, whether you DIY or go with a professional installation, ensure it meets your specific needs.

Got questions about choosing the right fence for your home? Don’t hesitate to reach out to Midwest Fence for a free consultation. Call 651-451-2222 today!

Pros and Cons of PVC Fencing

Introduced in the early 1980s, PVC—also known as vinyl—quickly gained popularity among farmers, ranchers, and horse farm owners wanting a low-maintenance, durable fencing option. With advancements in technology, PVC fencing has evolved, making it a common choice for residential properties. But what exactly are the pros and cons of PVC fencing?

The Advantages of PVC Fencing

Durability

Advancements in manufacturing have added materials to prevent discoloration and yellowing, ensuring your fence remains attractive over time. Additionally, aluminum inserts in posts and panels enhance durability and strength.

Low Maintenance

PVC fencing is resistant to insects and rot, and it doesn’t require painting. Occasional washing to remove mold is usually all that’s needed, making it a low-cost option in the long run.

Variety and Aesthetic Appeal

Today’s PVC fences come in various styles and colors, some even simulating wood grain. Prefabricated panels make installation easier, and the lightweight material simplifies on-site work.

The Disadvantages of PVC Fencing

Strength and Security

Compared to wood or chain link fences, PVC isn’t as strong. It doesn’t fare well under direct impact and lacks the flexibility of a chain link fence. The snap-together assembly makes it less secure, as pieces can detach or break more easily.

Color Fading and Fragility

Despite improvements, PVC colors will eventually fade or yellow with prolonged sunlight exposure. The material can also appear less sturdy than other fencing types, and extreme temperatures may make it brittle, leading to cracks or breaks.

Environmental Concerns

PVC is made from plastic, and even if it contains some recycled material, it is still less eco-friendly compared to other fencing options.

If you have questions about PVC fencing, don’t hesitate to contact a professional at Midwest Fence for a free consultation. Call 651-451-2222.

Choosing The Right Fence Material – Part Two

Choosing The Right Fence Material — Part Two

In our previous post, we reviewed the reasons most homeowners build a fence and explored some common fence materials. This time, we’ll quickly revisit the reasons for fence installation and examine additional materials you might consider for your fencing project.

Reasons for Building a Fence

Homeowners typically build fences for several key reasons, including:

Protection – Enhancing security for your home by deterring intruders or wild animals.
Appearance – Adding an attractive or decorative element to your property.
Safety – Ensuring pets and children stay contained within a secure area.
Privacy – Shielding your yard from prying eyes.
Legal Requirements – Complying with local codes, such as those requiring fences around pools.
Boundary Marking – Clearly defining property lines.

Understanding why you need a fence can help you choose the best material. In our previous post, we discussed chain link, wood, and PVC (vinyl) fences. Now, let’s look at other options:

Composite Fencing

Composite fencing is a relatively new material made from recycled wood fibers and plastic resins, marketed under brand names like Trex Fencing. Known as ‘engineered wood,’ composite materials have been used in decks and outdoor structures for over a decade.

Composite fencing is solid, unlike hollow PVC panels and posts which may be reinforced with aluminum. This material resists insects and rot while remaining low maintenance. It’s a modern solution combining durability with eco-friendliness.

Trex composite fencing can withstand winds in excess of 130 mph.

Wrought Iron or Aluminum

One of the oldest fence materials, wrought iron (or modern-day aluminum) is celebrated for its appearance, security, durability, and low maintenance. Traditional designs feature thin, tall bars spaced a few inches apart, connected by rails at the top and bottom.

Ornate decorative accents can be added to create a unique look, with sharp points enhancing security. Wrought iron and aluminum fences are among the most durable, though they do require occasional painting to combat weathering.

Brick

Brick fencing is incredibly strong and durable, outlasting many other materials and weathering the elements exceptionally well. However, it’s also one of the most difficult to install, requiring skills beyond those of most DIY enthusiasts. The cost of materials and labor also makes brick one of the more expensive fence options.

Stone

Similar to brick, stone fences are durable and weather-resistant but difficult to install. The material’s expense and the expertise required for installation make it a less common choice for homeowners. However, when expertly crafted, stone fences offer unparalleled beauty and longevity.

Next Steps

Choosing the right fence material is the first step; installation is the next. While some materials are suitable for DIY projects, professional installation ensures your fence stands sturdy and lasts long.

If you have questions about these or any other fence materials, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional at Midwest Fence for a free consultation, and they can install for you. Call us at 651-451-2222.

2024