ATLANTA FENCING CONTRACTORS

Read our reviews on Atlanta fencing contractors

Installing fences on a grade

Fences on sloped land are typically installed using one of two methods:  raking or stepping.  In a raked fence, each section of fence is sloped so that the pickets are not square with the rails; the rails remain parallel with the ground, and the tops of the pickets follow the slope.  Another alternative for a slope is to step the fence.  In a stepped fence, the rails remain level, but each section starts at ground level so that the top of the fence looks like stair steps.  One drawback is that a stepped fence leaves an increasing gap under each section on the downhill end.  Depending on the size of the gap, a stepped fence may not keep pets in the yard.

Utility protection

Before digging work can start in your yard, the Utilities Protection Center must be contacted at 770-623-4344 to locate and mark underground utility lines.  This process should be complete within 72 yours of your call, excluding weekend and holidays. A reputable fencing contractor will not start digging until this is done.

Pressure-treated wood and CCA

Because pressure-treated wood resists rot and insect infestation, it is commonly used for fences.  Historically, most wood was pressure treated with chromate copper arsenate (CCA), which has an arsenic component.  The industry has voluntarily stopped using CCA for residential applications.  The EPA suggests that existing CCA-treated structures should be properly maintained and sealed.  More information on CCA is available from the EPA at www.epa.gov or from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Consumer Hotline, 800-638-2772.

Permits and homeowner associations

Most counties have special zoning regulations on fences and require special building permits for most fence types.   Many homeowner associations also regulate fence types, heights, and locations.  Before you sign a contract, make sure you have all required permits and approvals.

Fencing contractors

When comparing fencing quotes, make sure you are comparing apples to apples.  While one contractor may offer a better quote for what looks like the same fence, the materials and construction techniques may be inferior.  As always, you should ensure that the company you are considering has both workers' compensation and liability insurance.  The Home Reports research has identified a number of good choices for fence work.    

Next page >>>

 

More about Atlanta fences