First, we call 811 to have your underground utilities such as cable, gas, and water located. This is required by law anytime digging is to be done, so make sure that the fence contractor you hire does this.
Once the utility companies have marked their lines and we're ready to begin, we will arrive to demolish your existing fence (if applicable) and set new fence posts. This is typically when we will request the 50% materials deposit. This process usually only takes one day based on the size of a standard residential fence.
Next we allow the concrete to dry overnight. At this point the fence posts should all be in a straight line and plumb (perfectly vertical) on both faces of a square 4x4. Be aware that the fence posts may vary slightly in height from one to the next. This is normal, as we will come back the next morning and cut all the posts to a uniform height.
After all the posts have been cut evenly, we measure and lay out the 2x4 rails. They should be evenly spaced, but have enough clearance left on the bottom rail so that it is not in constant contact with the ground. This is what makes a rotboard helpful in increasing the lifespan of your new wood fence. It's role is to raise the pickets (the most expensive part of the fence) away from ground contact, which is what causes rotting of untreated wood.
After we have installed all the rails and rotboard, we begin installing your fence pickets. If your fence installation includes a rotboard, the pickets should sit directly on top of the 2x6, never behind it. If installed properly, the rotboard acts as a guide to ensure that all the new fence pickets maintain a flat line across the top for a pleasing appearance on the finished product.
Installation of gates can take place at any point during these later steps. However, gates are one of the main areas were we try to separate ourselves from other fence companies by putting in extra time and thought into how we install them. We use a steel frame that keeps the gate from warping over time, which means that you can actually expect to have a gate that you can use properly for years to come. The gate is the one part of the fence that you will use over and over again, and we want to make sure that it isn't a source of annoyance or frustration after paying for a new fence.
At this point your new fence is complete! We do a final sweep to collect any debris and check that all the pickets were properly screwed into place. Then we will give you a chance to do a walk-through with us to address any questions you may have before asking for final payment. Simple as that!