Our Most Frequently Asked DIY Questions and Answers!

At Frederick Fence, we love it when DIYers choose to take on the task of building their own fence.  In fact, sometimes the most rewarding thing you can do as a home owner is take personal pride when you step into your yard and see the outcome of your own handiwork!

Sometimes, however, a DIY enthusiast needs a little help.  Even though fence installation seems like a relatively easy process, we often get the same questions time and again from folks looking to build their own fence.  To help you with your next DIY fence project, we’ve assembled our most frequently asked questions and answers!  Hopefully seeing them here will help you should you decide to take on the great outdoors and build a fence for your home!

arch topHow wide is the gate?

With the exception of a split rail style gate, all of our gates are made to fit an opening.  The gate itself is not the size listed.  For example, an aluminum 4’ wide gate Is actually 46.5”, which is designed to fit in an opening of 48”.

Do you sleeve a vinyl post over a wood post?

Not only is it not necessary, it’s also not recommended.  Our vinyl posts are structural and do not need reinforcement.  The only time you might need them are for gate posts, which use metal inserts.  Putting a wood post inside a vinyl sleeve makes it more vulnerable to problems as the wood post is likely to bend, twist, or warp inside the vinyl sleeve.

Do I need to call utilities?

Yes, before you dig any hole for your DIY fence post installation! Failure to do so may result in some expensive repair damage that any county will force you to pay for, along with some hefty fines.  Don’t risk it at all!  Call before you dig!

vinyl pool fenceWhat do I need to do in order to make my fence meet pool code?

Typically, with the exception being Montgomery county, swimming pool fencing should be at least 48 inches above the side of the barrier, facing away from the swimming pool. Some states have pool fence regulation indicating the fence needs to be at least 60 inches.  Openings in the pool fence should be no larger than 4 inches wide.

There should be no more than 4 inches of space between the pool surface and the bottom of your fence.  When a fence is comprised of diagonal rails, the maximum opening between diagonal pieces should be no more than 1 ¾ inches.  Swimming pool fence gates should be self-latching, and open away from the pool. The gate should also be self-closing.

Why don’t you sell cedar posts?

Cedar is not recommended for ground contact.  It is susceptible to rotting.  We use pressure treated pine posts that are treated for in ground contact.

Is your aluminum painted?

No.  We use aluminum fencing that comes with a Dupont certified powder coating that surpasses a salt spray test of 10000 hours.  We use an Alumiguard product, which we feel is the industry best!

How tall should my deer fence be?

On average, a deer fence is 8’ tall.  However, deer can jump really high, so don’t be surprised if a deer ends up on your property from time to time!

How do you keep rabbits out of your yard?

It is often suggested that you install a wire fence, and “trench” or bury about 4-6” of the bottom of the fence.

fence contractor securing a fence

Planning on starting your own fence project? Stop by our showroom on Tilco Drive in Frederick, Maryland to get fencing information and everything you could possible need to build your own fence! Our fence installation experts are always on hand to answer your questions in person!  You can also use our online chat feature during regular business hours for a quick answer!