Frequently Asked Questions

Height determines privacy level—6-foot fences are standard for most residential backyards, while 8-foot options provide additional screening from two-story homes or elevated properties. Board-on-board construction alternates planks on each side of the rail for a finished look on both sides and eliminates gaps, unlike standard picket styles where boards mount to one side only.

Repair makes sense when damage affects less than 30% of the structure—typically isolated sections with rotted boards, leaning posts, or storm damage. If the fence line shows widespread rot, multiple leaning posts, or the framework itself is compromised, replacement provides better long-term value than patching failing sections repeatedly.

Pressure-treated lumber resists moisture and insect damage better than untreated wood, which matters in Tennessee's humid summers and freeze-thaw cycles. The treatment penetrates deep into the wood fiber, preventing rot from ground contact and seasonal moisture. Optional staining and sealing adds UV protection and slows the natural graying process.

Privacy slats are vertical inserts woven through the chain link mesh, blocking sightlines while maintaining airflow. Standard chain link provides security and pet containment but remains see-through. Slats come in multiple colors, cover approximately 85-90% of visibility, and add wind resistance compared to open mesh.

Vinyl material costs more to manufacture and transport than lumber, but eliminates ongoing staining, sealing, and board replacement expenses. Wood requires retreatment every 2-3 years and board replacement as sections rot. Vinyl maintains appearance without maintenance, never rots, and resists insect damage—the cost difference balances out over 10-15 years.

The workmanship guarantee covers installation-related issues like post alignment, gate operation, board fastening, and structural integrity failures caused by installation methods. It doesn't cover damage from weather events, vehicle impact, or normal material aging. Posts that shift due to improper setting or gates that sag from incorrect hanging fall under the guarantee.

Automated gate systems use electric operators mounted to the gate frame, controlled by remotes, keypads, or smartphone apps. The gate itself can match any fence material—wood, vinyl, aluminum, or chain link—but requires reinforced posts and heavier hardware to handle the motor weight and repetitive movement. Driveway gates need wider swing clearance or track space than walk gates.

Posts lean when set too shallow for the soil type, installed without proper concrete footing, or when soil erosion undermines the base. Tennessee's clay soil expands when wet and contracts during dry periods, creating movement. Standard installation sets posts 2-3 feet deep in concrete, but corner and gate posts need deeper setting due to lateral stress.

New pressure-treated lumber starts green-brown and weathers to silver-gray over 1-2 years, while existing fences have already aged. Staining both old and new sections to the same color creates immediate visual consistency. Alternatively, letting new sections weather naturally achieves a match in 18-24 months, though wood grain and board width differences may still show.

Pool code requires fence height of at least 4 feet with no horizontal rails that children can climb, and gate latches positioned above child reach with self-closing hinges. Aluminum fence sections use vertical pickets spaced less than 4 inches apart to prevent entry. Gates must swing outward away from the pool and latch automatically without manual locking.

Stain penetrates wood fibers and adds pigment that blocks UV rays, which cause graying and surface breakdown. Sealer forms a protective surface layer that repels moisture but offers limited UV protection. Combining both—stain for color and UV resistance, sealer for moisture barrier—provides the most complete protection against Tennessee's sun exposure and humidity.

Site prep removes obstacles along the fence line—brush, small trees, old fence sections, and debris that interfere with post placement or equipment access. Clearing creates a straight, unobstructed path for accurate layout and ensures posts can be set at proper intervals. Tree removal services handle larger obstacles, and full tear-down addresses existing fence removal and disposal.