Straight Talk About Why All Fence Quotes Are NOT Equal!

Why does this subject deserve a whole conversation? Because time and time again, I see homeowner’s always pick the lowest fence bid assuming all fence bids are apples to apples comparisons and that all contractors deliver the exact quality of materials they list on the quote. It comes down to these two critical points. Unfortunately there are contractors that just do not take the time to explain your best options and why. Worse yet there are contractors that list a quality of material in the their quotes and pray the homeowner doesn’t notice that they are installing something highly inferior that can shorten a fence life by sometimes 10 years. Wouldnt you want to know that you are possibly cutting your fence bid by a few thousand dollars but you are increasing the chances of total replacement within 5-10 years?

Above all (and not a shock) WOOD MATTERS! But surprisingly its incredibly important to know what type of screws and nails are being used and where. Poorly placed and poor quality nails can lead to nails literally being pushed out by wood shift and fence that can come apart after one hard summer. Here are some good rules of thumb when comparing fence quotes and hopefully will help you come up with some good questions when you look at your upcoming fence quotes:

1. Request Detailed Quotes: When reaching out to contractors, ask for detailed quotes that provide a breakdown of the costs involved. This will help you understand what you're paying for and make it easier to compare quotes side by side.

2. Compare Materials: One of the most crucial aspects of a wood fence is the type and quality of the materials used. Ensure that each contractor specifies the type of wood they plan to use, along with any additional materials such as posts, screws, and fasteners. Compare the quality and durability of the materials offered by each contractor.

3. Check Labor Costs: Labor costs can vary significantly from one contractor to another. Take note of the estimated labor hours and rates provided by each contractor. Keep in mind that lower labor costs may indicate inexperienced or unreliable contractors, while excessively high labor costs may not be justified.

4. Understand the Scope of Work: Make sure each contractor outlines the scope of work in their quote. This includes details such as the fence height, length, and any additional features like gates or decorative elements. Ensure that all contractors are providing quotes for the same scope of work to make an accurate comparison.

5. Consider Experience and Reputation: It's crucial to consider the experience and reputation of each contractor. Look for reviews, testimonials, and references to gauge the quality of their work. A contractor with a solid reputation and positive customer feedback is likely to deliver better results, even if their quote is slightly higher.

6. Check for Insurance and Licenses: Verify that each contractor holds the necessary licenses and insurance coverage. This will protect you from liability in case of accidents or property damage during the project. Contractors who are properly insured and licensed may have higher quotes, but it's worth the peace of mind.

7. Request a Timeline: Inquire about the estimated timeline for completing the project. Consider any time constraints you may have and compare the projected completion dates provided by each contractor.

8. Seek Clarification: If you have any doubts or need clarification on the quotes received, don't hesitate to reach out to the contractors. Clear communication is essential to ensure you understand what is included in each quote.

9. Consider Customer Service: Pay attention to how responsive and helpful each contractor is during the quoting process. Good customer service can be an indicator of their professionalism and commitment to client satisfaction.

Remember, the lowest quote may not always be the best choice. Consider all the factors mentioned above to make an informed decision that offers the best value for your money. By following these tips, you'll be well-equipped to compare quotes from contractors for your residential wood fencing project.