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Are you planning to install a new fence at your home or business?

If so, you’re probably prepared to pay for the materials, including the panels, gates and posts. Of course, by performing the labor yourself, you plan to save money, as compared to using a professional fencing installation contractor.

But have you considered the other potential costs of taking a DIY approach to your new fence? The process may involve some costs that you haven’t anticipated. Understanding the potential for additional expenses can help you budget for a new fence that meets your needs, but doesn’t break the bank.

Here are just a few of the factors that can affect the price of your do-it-yourself fence.

Soil Conditions and New Fence Installations

Fences appear to sit above the ground, but the underground portion of the posts is actually responsible for holding the structure in place. Installing these posts properly is critical, but it’s far from standard. Your soil conditions will determine whether the process is straightforward or more complex.

Soft soil will require you to dig deeper post holes and pour more concrete for stability. With hard soil or clay, digging holes in the ground may be difficult and time-consuming. In fact, in many cases, it requires renting special equipment. And, if you have any large, buried rocks along the fence line, you must either dig them up or configure the fence to avoid them.

When your soil conditions cause longer labor times or require additional concrete or other materials, you can expect your out-of-pocket costs to increase. These factors can also delay the installation and require extra time and effort for the DIYer.

New Fence Installations May Be Affected by Yard Slope

All yards slope to some extent. But, if you’d like to install new fencing on a hillside property, you may need to revisit your budget.

Why are fences on hills more expensive? Digging holes for the underground posts may not be much different than on flatter land, but preparing the panels and boards to fit along the slope is more complicated.

Logistically, this can also present a problem, as working on a slope can be dangerous. Plan to spend more time to properly measure and cut the materials, and be sure to take any appropriate measures to ensure your safety and that of any people or property that may be below you.

Expected Maintenance for Your New Fence

Would you invest in a brand new car and never check the oil or perform other basic maintenance?

Of course not. Maintenance is necessary to keep a vehicle functioning properly and looking its best, and the same is true for a new fence.

Some fences don’t require much maintenance. Vinyl fences, for example, can last for decades with very little care, other than occasional cleaning. Wood fencing, however, can warp, split or rot away over time. To prevent this, it’s a good idea to apply a wood preservative or stain to seal your fence every two or three years. This acts much like wax does to protect your car from the elements. Decorative iron fencing can rust, so if you choose this material, you’ll need to periodically sand and reapply primer and paint to the rusted areas.

Any anticipated maintenance requires an investment in your time and materials, and should be considered as part of your cost calculations.

Before you make the final decision to take the DIY approach for your new fence, why not consult with a professional fence installation contractor? Outback Fencing is the locally owned and operated expert in fencing installation, repair and maintenance. Serving both residential and commercial fencing customers in Utah, Idaho and Wyoming, we can provide a detailed and reliable estimate that considers these often-overlooked expenses. You might be surprised to learn how affordable a professional installation can be for your new fence.

Vinyl fence is not only beautiful and durable, but it can also protect your property and keep your family and pets safe. Many styles can also provide you with privacy.

But wood fencing offers the same benefits, and wood can be cheaper. So why should you consider vinyl? Vinyl fencing is a great long-term investment, for many reasons. Let’s take a look at some of the most important factors that make vinyl the fencing material of choice for many homeowners.

A Vinyl Fence Will Last Forever

Well, maybe vinyl fencing won’t endure until the actual end of time, but, it can withstand the elements and remain strong and sturdy for decades.

Wood fences can rot, warp and splinter over time, and bugs and other critters can eat their way through wood. But not so with vinyl fencing. This material is made using a synthetic plastic resin called polyvinyl chloride, better known as PVC. PVC is highly resistant to weather and impact damage, and it doesn’t deteriorate like wood. Plus, a fence made of PVC will never become infested with termites or other insects.

Because PVC is so incredibly durable, vinyl fencing won’t appear to age either. In fact, it will look as good as new for a very long time. Choose vinyl, and you won’t ever have to worry about replacing your fence.

Vinyl Fence Requires Virtually No Maintenance

Install a wood fence, and you’re looking at adding a bit to your “Honey Do” list.

Every two or three years, you’ll need to add another coat of paint, stain or wood preservative. You must also inspect wood panels regularly for signs of rot damage or degradation. And, of course, the aged or damaged wood panels and posts must be promptly repaired or replaced, to preserve the integrity of the fencing.

Vinyl fencing, on the other hand, is virtually maintenance-free.

You may need to hose it down occasionally to rinse off dirt and grime, but no other work will be necessary. As it won’t rot or attract termites, repairs are only needed if something external (falling tree, runaway tractor) damages a panel or post.

And, since the color finish is integral to the vinyl material, you’ll never need to repaint or stain.

Vinyl Fence Customization Options

Many different types of wood can be used for fencing, including cedar and redwood. You can also select from a range of post and panel styles, as well as different wood stains and finishes, to create a uniquely beautiful look.

But vinyl is every bit as versatile as wood, offering a seemingly endless variety of design options for fencing.

You can choose from several fade-resistant colors and patterns, and an array of attractive fence styles. You can also add interesting details, like decorative picket and lattice toppers or transition panels that step the fence from one height to another.

The possibilities are endless. Your vinyl fence can be customized to match your home’s architectural design, to showcase your style and to boost the curb appeal of your home.

Outback Fencing offers free estimates to homeowners and business owners throughout Idaho, Utah and Wyoming. Contact us to schedule your consultation today, and let us tell you more about the advantages of vinyl fence.

How much will it cost to install a privacy fence at your home? For most homeowners, pricing is one of the most important factors when considering a home improvement project.

The easiest way to determine how much to budget is to contact a professional fence company, like Outback Fencing, for a free estimate. But, to give you a rough idea of what your costs may be, we have put together this handy guide.

Step 1: Determine How Much Privacy Fence You Need

How much land do you plan to enclose? The larger the property area, the more your fence will cost, as more fence panels and posts will be necessary to enclose the area.

If you live in a planned development or subdivision, determining the amount of fencing you need is simple. When you bought your home, you likely received a plat (survey map) drawn to scale, that shows the property divisions. If you can’t find yours, contact your realtor or the title company for another copy. Or you can check to see if your County tax records provide online access to your property’s plat map.

If you don’t have access to your home’s plat, you can rent or buy a measuring wheel and walk the distance of your planned fence installation to figure out how much fencing will be needed. As an alternative, you may be able to download a smartphone app that can assist you in measuring the perimeter as well.

Step 2: Choose a Material for Your Privacy Fence

Most privacy fences range between 4 and 6 feet in height, and the height you choose will help determine the cost. Your pricing will also vary depending upon the material you choose.

Metal or chain link fencing is typically the most affordable option, but that won’t give you any privacy. Wood is likely the most economical fencing material. However, keep in mind that certain types of wood, like redwood, cedar and cypress, are more expensive than others, such as pine or spruce.

Your other material choice for privacy fencing is vinyl. Vinyl fencing usually costs more; however, it is highly durable and requires less maintenance over time than wood fencing. Even though you pay more for vinyl fencing upfront, that investment will likely make sense in the long run.

Step 3: Consider Other Privacy Fence Cost Factors

Many homeowners forget about pricing out the fence posts, which can be the most expensive part of a fence.

Depending on your lot and the type of material you select, you’ll need a post every 6 to 8 feet. Gates will also increase the cost of privacy fence installation.

Do you want to customize the look of your fencing? Adding a decorative latticework top or applying a stain can give you a beautifully unique look, but you will pay a bit more for extras like those.

When you are ready to determine exactly how much it will cost to fence your property, give us a call. Outback Fencing offers free privacy fence estimates to homeowners in northern Utah, Idaho and Wyoming. Contact our West Jordan office to schedule an appointment today for a cost breakdown and more information about adding a privacy fence.

Any one of the most popular wood fence choices, including Douglas fir, southern yellow pine, spruce, cypress and redwood, can be used to create an attractive border for your property. However, for many homeowners and fencing contractors alike, cedar is the preferred choice.

Why is cedar so popular? Is it the right building material for your fence?

Cedar Makes for a Highly Durable Wood Fence

You want your fence to have a long lifespan, right? Cedar is a strong and durable wood – so your fencing will stay in place, sturdy and straight, for many years into the future.

Cedar fencing lasts for such a long time due to the wood’s natural oils. These oils help make it resistant to rot, decay and the effects of weather. And, because of the oils, this wood is also naturally less vulnerable to insect infestations than many other types of wood used in fencing.

Cedar is a Beautiful, Yet Versatile Wood Fence Material

The natural oils found in this species of wood offer more than protection from the elements; they also help preserve its appearance. Cedar fences age nicely, keeping a beautiful look year after year without the need for much maintenance.

The texture and grain of cedar is gorgeous on its own. But, as this wood is free of pitch and resins, it can accept a wide range of finishes. A light-colored bleach could give an aged patina look to your wood fence. Or, you could consider a traditional solid color or an elegant dark stain.

Cedar is ideal for holding finishes and stains, and many different treatments are available that can embellish or enhance the wood to provide a unique look. And, some many types of treatment offer further protection, prolonging the life of your fence.

Cedar Makes Your Wood Fence Eco-Friendly

Are you environmentally conscious? If so, this may be the material for you.

Cedar has a low carbon footprint, as it is a sustainable resource. It is sourced from responsibly managed and certified forests located in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington and British Columbia. These forests are replanted immediately after the lumber is harvested. According to the Western Red Cedar Lumber Association, about 8 million cedar seedlings are planted every year.

In addition, for Idaho, Utah and Wyoming fence projects, this wood can be less costly to transport than some other fencing products, as the source of the material is close by, geographically. Cedar is also relatively light weight, meaning fewer fossil fuels are used in delivering and handling the fencing.

Is cedar the right choice for you? Contact the experienced professionals at Outback Fencing today to learn more. We serve both commercial and residential customers throughout Idaho, Utah and Wyoming. Contact us today to schedule a consultation to discuss our plans for a new wood fence.

You may be considering new fencing to keep your children and pets safe. Or, maybe you’re looking for more privacy. But, if you’re like most folks, you may not live in your current home forever.

And that’s why the fencing choices you make today could affect how your home sells in the future.

A nicely designed, professionally installed fence will boost your home’s curb appeal and increase your property value. How much (or how little) your property value is affected depends upon several factors.

How Will Your New Fencing Fit Your Neighborhood?

Take a look around your neighborhood. How many homes are fenced? What type of fencing materials have other homeowners chosen?

If your fence will be one of the first in the neighborhood, your home could be more attractive to buyers. However, if many other homes already have fencing installed, it’s important to consider their fence styles when selecting yours.

After all, you want your fence to be noticed because of its beauty – not because it is an eyesore. So, if most people have cedar fencing, for example, you won’t add much to your home value by installing a chain link fence. In fact, you may decrease its value if potential buyers wish to remove or replace your choice.

How Your HOA May Affect Your New Fencing Choices

You may not have total control over what type of new fencing you can install.

If you live in a planned neighborhood development be sure to check with your homeowners association (HOA). In many cases, the materials and heights for fencing are regulated by the CC&Rs or Design Guidelines. This is common for HOAs to do, to help standardize the community’s appearance and to help maintain property values.

Whatever types of fences are allowed, you may have some leeway in your choices to more closely match your home’s architectural style and color scheme.

Other Considerations for Your New Fencing

The fence material you choose can make a big difference in how appealing it is to future home buyers. Wood fences are often among the most aesthetically pleasing. This type of fencing requires the most maintenance, but it can be easily repaired.

Vinyl fencing, which has many of the same aesthetics as wood, can last a lifetime with very little upkeep.

Well-constructed fencing can attract home buyers, but the opposite is also true.

Professional fence installation will give you the quality you want. Going the DIY route can be iffy and, if the results aren’t up to par, potential buyers may turn away. You also run the risk of spending more money on a do-it-yourself project.

Nothing beats the finished look, safety and privacy that new fence can offer. Not only will your new fencing improve your family’s life and enjoyment at home, but it will serve you well when the time comes to sell your home to the next family.

The experienced team at Outback Fencing designs and builds customized fencing of all types for customers throughout Idaho, Utah and Wyoming. Call us today to schedule a site visit and complimentary estimate for your new fencing.

The natural warmth of a wood fence can certainly enhance the beauty of any home. Traditional stains and finishes provide a gorgeous background for your yard and garden.

But, while plain fencing can be quite attractive, it doesn’t necessarily reflect your personality.

Decorating your fence is a great way to add color, creativity and life to your back yard. Our easy and fun tips can help you turn your ordinary fencing into a unique work of art.

Get Creative by Painting Your Wood Fence

Paint is a great way to add dimension to your backyard. And it gives you the option of showing the understated elegance of a solid color fence to the outside world, while creating a colorful wonderland inside.

Instead of choosing one stain or paint color for your wood fencing, try using a few different shades. You can go for a striped look or randomly alternate colors every few fence posts for an effortless artistic effect. Choose tonal colors for a subtle look or bright primary hues if you prefer to be bold.

A mural — such as a painted sunflower garden, forest scenery or an abstract design — can also give your fence a stylish, one-of-a-kind appearance.

Not that skilled at wielding a paintbrush? Hire a local artist to draw and paint your mural. Or, use stencils or painter’s tape to create a pattern on your wood fencing. Later, if you decide you want a new look, wood fence is easy to repaint.

Add Shadow Boxes for Wood Fence Shelf Space

Why not use the vertical space of your wood fencing for storage or decor?

Shadow boxes, or simple open boxes that can be mounted to your fence posts, add shelf space to your fence. You can use the shelves to display small flower pots, garden sculptures or other decorative objects. Or use them as a handy and accessible way to hold your garden tools.

Shadow boxes can be a decorative element by themselves.

They can be painted to match the fencing or in contrasting shades to provide a touch of color. The boxes can also be made out of materials other than wood, including metal sheeting or plastic. And, to add interest, you can hang boxes in different sizes and shapes.

Make a Statement with Sculptural Art on Your Wood Fence

You probably display framed pictures and other artwork on the walls inside your home. Think of your fencing as outside walls that can also be decorated to express your personality.

Consider adding metal sculptural art to your wood fencing. Garden centers and local artists sell a variety of designs, such as flowers, butterflies, stars and animals. Or, compose your own metal art using recycled items like hubcaps, pipes and hardware.

Found objects can also give your wood fence a sense of life. Old wagon wheels, window frames, shutters, birdhouses and lanterns are fun ideas, but the possibilities are endless. So grab the kids and get creative this summer, and decorate your fence in whatever way you like!

Outback Fencing, serving customers throughout Idaho, Utah and Wyoming, sells, installs and repairs all types of residential and commercial fencing and gates. As a locally owned and operated fencing contractor, we guarantee you’ll be delighted with our work and our pricing. Contact us today for an estimate on your new metal, vinyl or wood fence.

Vinyl fence is not only beautiful but extremely durable and easy to maintain.

In fact, this versatile type of fencing will keep its color and pristine beauty for years, even with exposure to adverse weather, never fading, rotting, rusting or looking dated.

However, vinyl fencing typically costs a bit more than wood fencing.

It can be tempting to save a bit of money and take the do-it-yourself route, especially if you have previous experience installing wood fencing material. But, a professionally installed vinyl fence is more practical and can actually save you money. Here’s why.

The Truth abut “Big Box” Store Vinyl Fence Sales

Sales flyers from the big box home improvement stores frequently advertise discounts on vinyl fencing. These appear to be good deals, but many are misleading.

What you typically see in the sales ads are price discounts on the vinyl fencing panels themselves. But that’s not all you need to install a fence. You also need fence posts, caps and concrete (for anchoring the posts). And, if you want to have an entry point along the fence, you must also purchase a gate kit.

In most cases, big box store sales do not include discounts on these other materials, and the costs can add up to more than you might expect because the panels are the least expensive components.

With a professional installation, all materials and expenses are included.

Consider the Quality of DIY Vinyl Fence Materials

Not all vinyl fencing is created equal.

To avoid denting and premature sagging or yellowing, you need a high-grade vinyl material that is accompanied by a comprehensive manufacturer’s warranty.

Unfortunately, many consumer-grade fencing systems are made of recycled plastics, which can make them less durable. Home improvement stores do not always offer the strongest, professional grade materials. Or, if they do, they aren’t the ones on sale.

DIYers may not have the skills to judge vinyl quality. Consequently, you may end up a low-grade material that won’t stand the test of time.

Professional fence contractors use commercial-grade vinyl, which is heavier and tougher than most fencing available to consumers. It may cost a little more initially, but it is designed to last.

Vinyl Fence DIY Installation Considerations

Have you thought about building permits and local ordinances? Do you know the exact location of your property line? What about submitting to your homeowners’ association design review committee for approval?

Without the proper design, permits and approvals, you may end up with a costly mistake on your hands. You may even be forced to more – or remove – your fence, if you violate building codes or HOA design guidelines.

It is the responsibility of a professional fence contractor handles these issues for you, making your installation headache-free.

Another consideration for DIYers: Do you really want to put in all the labor, transportation and heavy lifting that a vinyl fence installation requires? The process can take hours or days for a professional contractor, so you can imagine how long the job can take for someone without experience. Even the smallest mistakes can result in damaged materials that cost money to replace.

A licensed fence contractor can also provide a custom design, giving your yard a stylish, professional look.

The experienced professionals at Outback Fencing offer free estimates to consumers throughout Idaho, Utah and Wyoming. We handle every aspect of your project and all of our labor and materials are fully guaranteed. Call us to schedule your vinyl fence estimate today.

Fence installation can become a challenge when trees interfere with the desired location.

You could, of course, remove those trees that interfere with the placement of your fence. But, if you’d like to save your trees, you’ll need to plan carefully. Otherwise, you may eventually end up with a dead tree or a broken fence – or both.

Let’s explore some professional fence contractor tips for working around those precious trees.

Working Around Trees in Your Fence Installation

If a tree is growing in or near where you’d like to place your fence, the simplest design option is to angle the installation path to avoid the tree.

But what if the tree is situated squarely on the property line?

You could leave the tree outside of the fence, in which case you lose a bit of property to the neighboring yard. Or you could enclose the tree, which means encroaching on the neighbor’s property. For many of our customers, neither option is ideal.

If the trees are located on a property line that you share with a neighbor, we recommend inviting the neighbors over for a barbecue or a cold glass of lemonade to discuss the situation. You might be amazed at how easy the decision can become when you brainstorm with your neighbors.

After all, they will benefit from your new fence almost as much as you will!

Remember also to consider the future growth of your trees as you make your decision. Building too close to trees can result in damage to the fencing materials, if trunks, roots or branches grow into them.

Fence Installation Between Trees

If you prefer not to angle the fence or box around the trees, you can choose to allow the trees to interrupt the fence. With this option, you’ll have a straight line installation, but you may also have gaps between the fencing and the tree trunks.

In some cases, depending on the size and shape of the trees, fencing between them can be a bit complicated.

We must stop the fencing as close as possible to the trunks, while still allowing for future trunk and root growth. We must also ensure that posts or stakes don’t damage the root system, as this can impair healthy growth or otherwise harm the tree.

Experts warn against attaching anything directly to the tree, as screws and nails can injure the bark. This may make your trees more vulnerable to pests and diseases.

Accommodating Trees in Your Fence Installation

We have found that the best answer often involves a little creativity.

In this case, rather than letting trees get in the way of your fencing materials, we simply incorporate them into the design.

For example, we can create an interesting effect by creating a window (of sorts) in the fence to allow for future growth of trees and branches. Later, when the tree outgrows the space, you can enlarge or move the window.

Depending on the type of fencing you select, we can also assist you in designing other creative solutions, customized for your needs – and your trees.

Outback Fencing, serving residential and commercial customers throughout Idaho, Utah and Wyoming, understands the importance of tailoring every job to the site and the customer’s needs. As a locally owned and operated fence contractor, we are committed to providing individualized attention and an exceptional level of customer service.

Contact us today to learn more, or for a customized quote for your fence installation.

Adding a vinyl picket fence is one of the most worthwhile investments you can make in your home.

The stately beauty of a picket fence has long been a favorite of homeowners and, in fact, this fencing style has come to symbolize the “Great American Dream.” For decades, wood was the only option available for creating this iconic fencing style.

Today, vinyl picket fencing offers the same visual appeal with none of the labor-intensive upkeep.

The Many Benefits of Vinyl Fencing

When compared to other options, vinyl picket fence is the material of choice for today’s savvy homeowner.

Composite vinyl fence features all the beauty and rich texture of natural wood, but requires very little maintenance or upkeep. Vinyl also withstands the weather and climate challenges of the Intermountain West. Impervious to moisture and intense sunlight, it will never rot, fade or peel.

Vinyl picket fencing is available in classic white, of course. But if you prefer another color to coordinate with your home’s existing design palette, you can choose from a variety of shades.

Even better, you’ll never have to scrape, patch or paint vinyl fencing. Its integral color remains vivid and true for many years. You can even select color options that mimic stained wood.

Choosing a Vinyl Fence Style

Wood picket fencing offers few variations in design. Vinyl fence, on the other hand, offers a countless array of options to suit your style.

For the individual pickets, you can select from the traditional pointed style as well as straight, rounded or dog-eared versions. You can choose to have the pickets spaced close together – perfect for keeping pets in and pests out – or wide apart for better views and more open feel. As for the vinyl fence panels themselves, you can select from straight or concave designs, such as you might see in the Cape Code architectural style.

To accessorize your vinyl picket fence, you can select from a variety of post cap styles and gate configurations. And as for height, you can choose a low or tall fence, or somewhere in between.

Choose a Local Fence Contractor for Maximum Value

Although many homeowners attempt to purchase and set their own vinyl picket fence, consider the benefits of using a professional contractor to design and install your fencing.

Fencing contractors have the specialized tools and equipment to create a professional installation that looks great and lasts for decades. Even handy homeowners with tons of DIY experience can struggle to create the level and plumb perfection that a professional fencing contractor can achieve.

Plus, when you use a local, licensed contractor, you have the peace of mind that comes with a full labor and materials warranty.

In Utah and Wyoming, Outback Fencing offers a full range of fence sales, service and installation for commercial and residential customers. We offer a variety of options, from wood and chainlink to ornamental metal fencing, as well as gates and automatic gate openers.

Contact us today to learn more about adding a vinyl picket fence to your home.

Did you know that a fence contractor can help you create the outdoor living spaces you crave, for much less money than other alternatives?

The demand for outdoor living space is growing by leaps and bounds. The friendly climate and beautiful scenery of the Intermountain West are especially perfect for enjoying life outdoors.

With summer right around the corner, wouldn’t you like to enjoy life outdoors a little more often?

The Growing Demand for Outdoor Living Space

Today’s homeowner is spending a lot of time at home. Whether it’s cooking out with the family or having friends over for game night, entertaining space is what we all want right now.

And the more of that entertaining space we can take outside, the happier we are.

Home buyers want a seamless transition from indoors to outside. Where once stood a solitary barbecue grill, they want full outdoor kitchens. No more patio tables from the home warehouse. Instead, they want the full dining room experience, but outside. Courtyards, Zen gardens and reading nooks are also on everybody’s wish list this year.

Aren’t they on yours?

How Wood and Vinyl Fencing Can Create Outdoor Living Space

You could spend a ton of money with a contractor to build pavilions, pergolas or structures to create these outdoor living areas. Or, for a fraction of the cost, time and hassle, you could call on your local fence contractor to create those spaces for you.

Both wood and vinyl fencing can help you achieve your goals. Vinyl fencing is especially versatile for this purpose, as you have dozens of styles and configurations to choose from. From tall privacy fences to half-height view fence, you can create dazzling visual interest while defining your outdoor spaces.

If wood is your preference – as it is for many customers – your fence contractor can create custom wood fence options to achieve the same goals.

Ornamental Iron Fence Enhances the Beauty of Your Yard

Once you have defined the various living spaces, why not allow your fence contractor to add a few decorative elements?

Ornamental iron fencing provides the perfect option for accenting your outdoor living spaces without blocking the view. For example, you can use an ornamental fence to define and separate your outdoor kitchen from the dining area without losing the open-concept feel that you love.

For peaceful seating areas or reading nooks, iron fence can help you distance yourself from the world while still allowing you to see and enjoy it!

You can also use ornamental iron fences and gates to create off-limits areas. This can help you keep pets out of your garden or children within reach of your watchful eyes and ears.

Outback Fencing has all the ideas and options you need for creating your outdoor paradise this summer. We are located in West Jordan, but we serve commercial and residential customers throughout Utah and Wyoming.

Remember Outback Fencing whenever you need a premier, locally owned and operated fence contractor.