Frequently Asked Questions about fences

From your local fence company at Big Jerry’s Fencing. Frequently asked questions about fences.

Although wood fences require regular care to maximize their longevity, a properly maintained fence can last up to 20 years.

Big Jerry’s Fencing stick builds our wood fences from scratch while onsite using 4×4 posts, 2×4 rails, 1×6 pickets, 6×6 hinge side gate posts, and galvanized ring shank nails.

Although most fence styles can be installed directly next to another fence, it is uncommon because it is not the most aesthetic option.

Depending on fence style, additional spacing may be required between fences. Additionally, the direction the fence faces may be impacted by a neighboring fence as our installers will require approximately 2ft of clearance when installing wood fence pickets on the outside of the fence.

Most of our Big Jerry’s Fencing locations install all posts set in concrete, however, due to the moisture in the ground in some areas, locations may vary with the method of installation. Please be sure to clarify this with your local Big Jerry’s Fencing office.

Aluminum fence generally requires the least amount of maintenance although Vinyl/PVC is stronger and more durable than wood, never needs to be painted, resists graffiti, and usually comes with a lifetime warranty.

All vinyl fences are not the same. The vinyl/PVC fence products installed by Big Jerry’s Fencing are pro-grade tongue & groove products that are built to last and are covered under the manufacturers’ warranty

We use our our Draw Your Fence tool to give you an accurate quote online. You tell us what type of fence, draw your fence into our tool, and we can give you an actionable quote quickly without needing to send a service representative to your property.

We offer financing powered by Acorn Finance

All pressure-treated lumber will be wet when it arrives on your job site. As the lumber dries, it will shrink a little. This shrinkage is particularly noticeable in the gaps between pickets. Pickets on privacy fences spaced 0” apart during construction; can be expected to shrink to result in a 1/8” to 1/4″ gap between each picket. Let us know if you would like to know about fence styles that offer total privacy.

When the property line is obstructed by trees or other vegetation, you can either clear them or install fencing on your side of the property line. You cannot install fencing on your neighbors property.

A farm-style/split rail fence with no-climb welded wire or woven wire is a great fence for animals, especially goats.

It is between vinyl fence and aluminum fence for the longest lasting fencing. Both of these materials usually do not deteriorate in the typical lifetime of a home.

Wood and vinyl are flammable. Aluminum and steel fences are significantly less flammable.

While not the best look for the owner of the shorter of the two fences, most fence styles can be installed against an existing fence. The best look is to install the same height of fence when installing next to your neighbors.

This depends on the type of fence, and whether you request a single of double gate fence. Double gate fences are better suited for vehicles and larger openings.

No, fences are not suitable retaining walls.

Yes, we offer SimTek Fence Patented Construction. Made with proprietary Linear Low-Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) blend and is reinforced with galvanized steel in every post and every panel.

Yes, Big Jerry’s Fencing offers repairs on fences installed by us or a competitor. Depending on the situation, we may determine that a repair is not practical, and a replacement fence is needed.

Vinyl privacy fence is best because cat claws cannot penetrate the materials making it difficult for them to jump and climb the fence.

This will vary by location and is dependent on the fence type, as some fence styles allow for a quicker installation than others. Most of our crews can install approximately 150ft of vinyl & wood fences per day and upwards of 300+ feet per day for aluminum and chain link. If you have a specific timing need, please discuss this with your local Big Jerry’s Fencing representative.

Most roots are not a problem and can be handled. Larger roots can require additional tools for digging/cutting, or we may be able to span over the root system with a longer section. However, an additional fee may be charged if a jackhammer or other additional power tools are required for extra hard soil or rocks.

We ask that you meet the crew on the morning of the install to go over final details, but you do not need to remain at home throughout the installation. When possible, a final walkthrough at the time of completion is preferred so that we can ensure that you are 100% satisfied with the final product. 

It is industry standard to leave small spacing at the bottom of the fence to allow for drainage. We can install your fence as close to the ground as possible. However, in cases where it may affect the lay of the fence line, you may not want the fence installed too close in order to have the most aesthetically pleasing fence.

Aluminum, vinyl, and composite fence materials are guaranteed for life. With occasional adjustments and cleaning, aluminum, vinyl, and composite fences can stand strong and look good for 30 years or more. Wooden fences have a 10 to 20-year life expectancy.

If the installation crew runs into rocks or boulders while digging, equipment like a jackhammer or core drill may need to be used. An additional charge will exist for the extra equipment that will be needed to dig through rocky terrain.

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