Fences do a lot for your property. They help to keep pets and children safe, provide a barrier to people trying to get in, block noise pollution, enhance the look of your property, and more. But sometimes the fence you have just isn’t working. When this happens, you need to remove it. On the surface, this seems pretty simple, but in truth, it can get a bit complicated. To help you navigate this task, check out our three tips for removing an old fence below.
Why Remove an Old Fence?
There are many reasons you might want to remove an old fence on your property. If it’s in poor shape, it might be more effective to replace it rather than attempt repairing it. Another possibility is that you need a fence that offers a different function; perhaps you have a lovely picket fence but what you need is something that offers privacy. Also common is just wanting a different look, especially if you’ve revamped the overall design of your home. Finally, sometimes homeowners’ associations change their standards for exterior items and your fence may no longer meet code. But no matter your reason for removing the fence you have, our tips are sure to help you.
Tip One: Make Sure the Law is On Your Side
No matter where you live, the first step you need to take is to make certain you actually own the fence. While you might think it’s on your property, unless you’ve had your property surveyed and were explicitly informed that the fence lies within the boundaries of your property, you should not move forward based on an assumption. Take the time to consult with a surveyor to be certain.
Other aspects to consider are if your city requires permits for installing a new fence. Since you will want to get the new fence up quickly, you should prepare for this before taking the old one down. Finally, if you are part of a homeowners’ association, check the bylaws to make certain that you are abiding by them both while taking down the old fence and installing the new one.
Tip Two: Contact Your Utility Companies
When fence posts are installed, they are placed several feet into the ground for stability. Also several feet under the ground are at least some of your utilities. This is a major concern both when removing and installing a fence. Check with all of your utility companies before you get to work. If you do not, you are risking a lot—everything from broken sewer pipes to a gas leak. Additionally, you will be heavily fined by the company for the repairs. Even if your utilities are marked, we recommend you take the extra step of consulting the companies.
Tip Three: Know Your Options for Saving Money
The hardest—and most dangerous—part of removing an old fence is removing the fence posts. However, if the fence posts are undamaged and they work with the new fence you want to install, you might be able to keep them. Other options to consider are recycling some of your fencing materials at a local recycling center for cash that you can put towards your new fence and teaming up with your neighbor to split some of the cost of the fence.
Need Professional Help? Call All Counties Fence and Supply.
If you would prefer to put your fencing jobs in the hands of experts, our team is here for you. We can plan and execute both installation and removal of any type of fence on any property. To get an estimate and to go over your options, simply give us a call.
