Short answers to things Pittsburgh homeowners ask us most. Links to the longer guides on cost, permits, repairs, slopes and neighbors are at the bottom of the page.
How deep should fence posts be set?
Below frost depth, and deeper for gates and for the downhill side of a slope. Around Pittsburgh builders commonly use 36 inches as the frost depth. Check the figure with your municipality's code office, since each one sets its own design values. A common rule is also to bury about a third of the post. Where rock stops the hole early, the post is anchored into the rock instead.
Should posts be set in concrete, gravel or foam?
Concrete is the standard for gate posts, corners, ends and any solid fence. In our clay, put a few inches of gravel in the bottom first so water does not sit around the post end. Packed gravel alone can work for line posts in ground that drains poorly. Expanding foam sets fast and is handy where concrete is hard to carry in, but we would not use it for gates or tall privacy fence.
How long should I wait before staining a new wood fence?
Until the wood has dried out. Pressure-treated pine can need several weeks to a few months, and longer in a shaded, damp yard. Sprinkle water on a board. If it soaks in, the wood is ready. If it beads up, wait.
How much does it cost to stain or seal a fence?
We have no set figure to quote. It turns on the length, the height, both sides or one, and the state of the wood. Ask us to show it as a separate line on your estimate.
Can I use deck screws to fix loose pickets?
Yes, if they are exterior-coated or stainless. Plain steel screws rust and stain the boards. Use stainless in cedar, because other fasteners react with the wood and leave dark marks.
Can a faded vinyl fence be painted?
It can, using paint made for vinyl, but from then on it needs repainting. Keep to a color near the original. Darker colors absorb heat and can distort the panels. Wash it before deciding. In shaded Pittsburgh yards a green or grey film is usually algae, not fading.
I want a double gate for an RV or trailer but my posts are weak. Reinforce or rebuild?
Rebuild the gate posts. A wide double gate puts a heavy, constant load on two posts, and fence line posts are not made for that. New, larger posts go in deeper with bigger concrete footings, and the panels beside them are rebuilt. On a sloped driveway, we also work out which way the leaves can swing.
Does a new fence raise my property taxes?
That is decided by the Allegheny County Office of Property Assessments. A fence is a minor item compared with the house and land.
The only real price is one based on your own yard. The estimate is free and done on site. Call (412) 851-6524 or text us a photo of the fence line.