Not Checking Property Boundaries
A major costly mistake when installing a fence is failing to confirm the exact property boundaries. Many tend to assume they know where their land begins and ends, only to find later that the fence has been built on their neighbour’s property or even along a shared boundary. This leads to disputes, legal issues, and the expense of moving or replacing the fence.
It is important to check official documents such as deeds or site plans before you begin any work, as these show the boundary lines clearly. If these are not available, or if there is any doubt, consider hiring a professional surveyor. This makes sure your fence is installed in the correct position and avoids future disagreements with neighbours.
Clear communication is also key. Talking to your neighbours before building the fence helps prevent misunderstandings and maintains good relationships. In some cases, neighbours may even be willing to share the cost of a new fence if it benefits both parties.
Using the Wrong Materials for Your Fence
Another mistake many people make when installing a fence is choosing the wrong materials. While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, the type of material you use has a big impact on the fence’s strength, appearance, and how long it will last.
If the material is not suited to the local climate, the fence may wear out much quicker than expected. For example, untreated wood can rot your fence or cause it to warp when it is exposed to damp conditions, while metal that is not coated properly can rust. Choosing the wrong type of wood, metal, or plastic could mean you end up paying more for repairs or even a full replacement.
It is important to think about what you want from your fence. If privacy is your main goal, solid panels may work best. If you want something decorative, pick materials that give the right look while still being durable. For homes near busy roads, stronger, noise-reducing materials may also be worth considering.
Before making a decision, research the options carefully and speak to suppliers if you are unsure. Investing in the right materials at the start will give you a fence that looks better, lasts longer, and saves you money over time.
Ignoring Ground Conditions and Drainage
A mistake that is often overlooked when installing a fence is failing to take ground conditions and drainage into account. The type of soil and the way water drains in your garden can affect how stable and long-lasting the fence will be.
For example, loose or sandy soil may not hold fence posts firmly, while clay soil can expand and contract based on the conditions of the weather, which puts extra pressure on the posts. Areas that collect water or have poor drainage can cause wooden posts to rot and metal posts to rust much faster. This weakens the fence over time and may lead to it leaning or collapsing.
To avoid these problems, check the ground conditions before starting work. In wet areas, you may need to use concrete or gravel as a foundation to improve stability and drainage. Selecting types of materials that resist moisture, such as pressure-treated wood or galvanised metal, would be wise, as these also help to protect your fence from damage.
Failing to Check Local Rules or Permissions
Another mistake many make when installing a brand-new fence is not checking local rules or getting the right permissions. Plenty of areas have regulations that control the height, style, and placement of fences. Some neighbourhoods also have agreements or shared boundaries that set limits on what you can build. Ignoring these rules or agreements can lead to fines, legal issues, or being forced to remove your fence altogether.
Before you start, contact your local council or planning office to find out what rules apply in your area. Sometimes, you may need formal permission from a board if the fence on a particular site is above a certain height or if your property is in a conservation area. It is also important to check whether the fence could block shared access or affect the safety of drivers and pedestrians.
If you live in a housing estate with shared rules or a homeowners’ association, you should review their guidelines too. This avoids problems later and makes sure your fence fits in with the rest of the community. Taking the time to check local rules and permissions may seem like a small step, but it helps you avoid future expensive mistakes and will make your fence project run much more smoothly from start to finish.
Poor Quality Fixings and Finishes
Even if you choose strong fence panels and sturdy posts, using poor-quality fixings and finishes can shorten the life of your fence. Nails, screws, brackets, and other fittings hold the structure together; if they are weak, they can loosen over time, causing the fence to wobble or collapse. Cheaper metal fixings may also rust quickly, which not only weakens the fence but can also leave unsightly stains on the panels.
Finishes are just as important. A fence that is left untreated is more likely to suffer from rot, warping, or fading due to weather conditions. Without proper protection, wood can absorb water and split, while paint or stain that is poorly applied may peel away within months.
When trying to avoid these issues, invest in galvanised or stainless steel fixings that resist rust and corrosion. When it comes to finishes, choose only the best wood treatments or paints made strictly to protect your fence against rain, sunlight, and insects. Reapplying these finishes every few years will also keep the fence looking good and performing well.
At Welcroft Lee Logistics, we're here to provide customers with a range of timber services, including fence installations, repairs, and much more. If you're looking for a team of people who can help install and offer guidance for those undergoing fencing projects, give us a call today.
