How to Make Sure That Your White Picket Fence Is a Dream and Not a Nightmare
The popular definition of success is to own your own home surrounded by a garden and a "white picket fence" and many young people may have this picture in their mind's eye, as they dream about their future. However, you may already have arrived at that magical date and are the proud owner of your home and garden. All you need to do now is to install that picket fence, so how do you go about this?
Planning It out Properly
Before you dive headlong into such a project, make sure that you plan carefully so that you don't leave any important details out.
Firstly, you need to find out exactly where the boundary of your property is and don't just assume based on any indicator that may be there. Delve into your county records to determine the proper position. While you're doing this, have a word with your new neighbours and tell them about your intentions. For the fence to be erected properly, access will be needed to their land to a certain extent and you don't want to get off on the wrong footing by just assuming that this is okay.
Next, make sure that you are aware of the underground utility lines that may be beneath your property. You may have to get the relevant companies to come out and mark the location, but should never proceed with any excavation until you are sure. You will also need to get permission from the local government in certain cases and may need a zone permit before you can begin. Finally, make sure that the homeowner's association in your area (if you have one) is okay with this particular type of fencing. Most will be, but once again it's better not to assume before you begin.
Following an Installation Procedure
While the fence may look as if it's fairly simple to install, there is nevertheless quite a process involved. You need to choose the type of fence that best suits your eye and then refer to the exact installation instructions. You need to determine where the posts should be placed and mark those spots very precisely. Each hole has to be particularly wide at the bottom, so that the base may be set properly.
The next step will be to mix the cement and pour it carefully into the hole at each point, before giving it at least 24 hours to dry and set in place. Once this is done, you will be able to attach the fence panels and secure the gate with the necessary hardware at the end. Of course, you will soon find out if those posts were precisely situated when you come to attach each panel!
Letting the Experts Do It
You may decide that it's better to get professional contractors to install your picket fencing instead, once you've done all your research and gathered the necessary permissions.