That sagging section of fence, the broken post, or those boards that just won't stay put – they're a common sight around Missoula, especially after a tough winter or a few years of our intense sun. I see folks trying to fix things themselves or hiring the wrong crew all the time. And believe me, there are some pretty common mistakes that end up costing more in the long run. Here’s what you need to watch out for.
Ignoring the Root Cause
You've got a leaning fence post. Your first thought might be, "I'll just prop it up or replace that one post." But why is it leaning? Is the wood rotted at the base? Did the concrete footing fail? Or did the ground around it heave from our freeze-thaw cycles, especially in those clay-heavy soils you find in places like the Rattlesnake? Just fixing the symptom means you'll be back at it again soon. You've got to figure out what caused the problem in the first place.
A good contractor, like us at Missoula Fencing Company, will always look for the underlying issue. We won't just slap a band-aid on it. We'll tell you if it's a drainage problem, a poor original installation, or just plain old wear and tear that's spread beyond that one spot.
Hiring the Cheapest Bid
I get it. Money talks. But when it comes to fence repair, the cheapest bid is often the most expensive in the long run. I've seen countless homeowners go with the guy who gives them a rock-bottom price, only to find shoddy work, cheap materials, or a crew that disappears halfway through the job. You're not just paying for labor; you're paying for experience, proper tools, insurance, and quality materials that will last.
Ask for references. Check their online reviews. Make sure they're licensed and insured. If they're hesitant to provide proof of insurance, that's a massive red flag. You don't want to be on the hook if someone gets hurt on your property.
Not Getting It in Writing
This one seems obvious, but people still skip it. A verbal agreement is worth about as much as a broken fence post. You need a written estimate and a contract. This document should clearly outline:
- What specific repairs will be done (e.g., replace 3 posts, 10 pickets, re-hang gate).
- The materials being used (type of wood, concrete, hardware).
- The total cost, including labor and materials.
- A timeline for completion.
- Any warranties on labor or materials.
Without it, if there's a disagreement later, you've got nothing to stand on. Protect yourself and your investment.
Underestimating Material Quality
You might think all fence boards are created equal. They're not. There's a big difference between pressure-treated lumber meant for ground contact and standard untreated pine. The hardware you use matters too. Cheap screws will rust and fail quickly, especially with our wet springs and snowy winters. If you're replacing a section of cedar fence, using treated pine might look okay for a minute, but it won't match the longevity or aesthetic of the rest of your fence.
A good contractor will discuss material options with you and explain the pros and cons of each. Don't let someone talk you into using inferior materials just to save a few bucks upfront. You'll regret it when you're doing the same repair again in a couple of years.
Trying to DIY When You Shouldn't
Look, I'm all for homeowners tackling projects themselves. Some fence repairs are totally doable for the average person. Replacing a few pickets? Go for it. But when you're talking about digging new post holes, setting concrete, or dealing with structural issues, it gets complicated fast. You need the right tools, the know-how, and the physical ability.
I've seen plenty of DIY repairs that end up costing more to fix properly than if the homeowner had just called a professional in the first place. You can accidentally damage underground utilities, install posts incorrectly leading to future failure, or just create a bigger mess. Know your limits. Sometimes, paying a pro is the smartest move.
Don't let a small fence repair turn into a big headache. Do your homework, ask the right questions, and don't cut corners. It'll save you a lot of grief and money in the long run.