How to Find the Best Custom Fence Company for Your Home

Determine Your Needs

The first step of home fence installation is to define your requirements. Consider the following factors:

• Purpose
• Fencing materials
• Budget
• Local regulations
• Timeline

Are you installing a fence for security, privacy, or aesthetic reasons? It's also possible you're using the fence to keep your fence in your yard.

The material you use will impact the fence's strength and how you maintain it. Expect stronger and more desirable materials to cost more.

California fencing laws can dictate the height of your fence and where it starts and stops. The company you hire should fully understand these laws and their limitations.

Research Local Fencing Companies

Compile a list of local residential fencing solutions. You can find these companies through online searches, word of mouth, and social media.



Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) offer reviews and ratings on a wide variety of companies. Always make sure to pay close attention to reviews with lower ratings, as they may point out important problems.

Ask friends and family members for recommendations. You can also look at social media groups that show customer experiences and referrals.

Check Their Documentation

Make sure that the company you hire has all the documentation and paperwork they need. Every professional fencing company should have:

• Proper licensing
• Insurance coverage
• Certifications

They need to meet local and state regulations for contractors. An unlicensed fencing company likely won't have insurance coverage or the experience required for the job.

Insurance coverage protects homeowners from liability in case of accidents or damages. Certifications indicate that a company has expertise and adherence to best practices.

Evaluate Experience and Reputation

A company with a solid track record is more likely to deliver quality work.

Assess their experience by asking how long they've been in business. See if they have online portfolios or galleries showcasing their work. Read customer reviews online to gauge overall satisfaction.

You can search on social media to see if anyone has had anything negative to say about their work. How they interact with people on social media can also say a lot about their customer service.

Ask About Customization and Design Options

Not all fencing companies offer custom fencing solutions. If you have specific design preferences, you'll want to take a look at their website and make sure they can manage them.

Inquire whether the company provides:

• Custom fence designs tailored to your landscape
• Various colors and finish options
• Decorative elements such as latticework or ornamental ironwork
• Gates and automated access control features

For example, redwood fences are easy to maintain and require little upkeep. You can have them installed as board-on-board style, in a lattice style, and as a classic picket fence. It's important to hire a company that can handle your requests.

Compare Pricing and Get Multiple Quotes

Always get multiple quotes before hiring a company or service. That goes the same for fencing companies, as they may have varying pricing structures. When comparing quotes, consider:

• Materials used
• Labor costs
• Warranty coverage

High-quality materials contribute to a longer fence lifespan. However, not every company has experience working with all of them. Their website should list what materials they've used in the past.

Paying a little more can mean better craftsmanship. You're also paying for the extra skills and experience.

You should also make sure they provide a guarantee for workmanship and materials to protect yourself later on.

Assess the Quality of Fencing Materials

The durability and maintenance requirements of your fence depend on the materials used. Common fencing materials include:

• Wood
• Vinyl
• Aluminum
• Chain-link
• Wrought iron

Wood is classic and attractive but requires more fence maintenance due to the risk of rot and pests. Vinyl is lower maintenance but may bring a more expensive upfront cost.

Aluminum resists rust but isn't ideal for privacy. The same goes for chain-lin, which is more affordable and durable.

Wrought iron is a premium material, as it is both strong and decorative. However, it requires upkeep to prevent rust. It has arguably the longest fence lifespan if maintained properly.

You'll know it's time to replace your fence when there are visible signs of aging, rot and decay, or rust on metal parts.

Understand the Installation Process

Ask the fencing company about their installation process. They should be able to inform you of details such as the timeline, prep work, and potential disruptions.

Take note of things like whether they'll handle permits and check utility lines. It's also important that they install the fence the right distance from your property line.

Inquire About Fence Maintenance

Does the company offer fence maintenance past the installation date? A well-maintained fence extends its fence lifespan and preserves its appearance. Some companies offer services such as:

• Staining and sealing for wood fences
• Rust prevention treatments for metal fences
• Power washing for vinyl and composite fences
• Repairs for damaged panels or posts
• If you don't want to pay for ongoing maintenance, they should at least provide tips on how to keep your fence in good condition.

Hire the Best Custom Fence Company

Homeowners should take their time when it comes to hiring a custom fence company. There are plenty of businesses that offer fencing services, but not all will provide the quality installation you deserve.

C&J Fencing installs fences, decks, arbors, and more in the San Ramon area. We work with FSC-certified lumber, which means each board in your fence comes from responsibly managed forests. Reach out today to learn more and get your free estimate.