pexels-connorscottmcmanus-11988794 | | Manny's Exterior Design

Fence
Installation

How a fence is installed to stay straight and solid, the material options, what it costs, and what to know about property lines and permits.

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A fence adds privacy, security, and a clear property line, and it's one of those projects where the result comes down to how the posts are set. A fence is only as straight and solid as its posts, and posts that aren't set deep enough or anchored in concrete are what cause leaning, sagging, and gates that won't close a year later.

This page covers how fences are installed, the wood, PVC, and chain link options, cost factors, and the questions homeowners ask us most.

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Choose Your Material

Material Options

Wood

A classic, natural look for privacy and picket fences. Warm and customizable, and it can be stained or painted. Needs occasional maintenance to hold up to weather.

PVC (Vinyl)

Low-maintenance, clean look that doesn't rot, warp, or need painting. Higher upfront cost, but very little upkeep, and it holds its appearance for years.

Chain Link

The most affordable and durable option for security and containment. Great for yards, pets, and pools, and available galvanized or vinyl-coated.

We help you choose based on what the fence is for, the look you want, and your budget.

The Part You Can't See

Why the Posts Decide Everything

The posts are the backbone of a fence. Set them deep enough, below the frost line where needed, and anchor them in concrete, and the fence stays straight and the gates keep working. Set them too shallow or skip the concrete, and NJ freeze-thaw pushes them out of line over time. Post setting is the part you don't see once the fence is up, so it's the part worth getting right, and it's where we don't cut corners.

How We Install It

Our Process

1

Layout and Estimate

We walk the line, confirm where the fence goes relative to the property line, and go over material, height, and gates.

2

Locating Utilities and Lines

We arrange utility markouts before digging and confirm the property line so the fence goes in the right place.

3

Post Setting

We dig post holes to proper depth and set the posts in concrete so they stay plumb and solid.

4

Panels and Rails

We install the panels or chain link fabric, rails, and hardware, keeping the fence level along the ground.

5

Gates

We hang gates so they're square, swing freely, and latch properly.

6

Cleanup and Walkthrough

We clean up and walk the finished fence with you.

Built to Code

Property Lines and Permits

A fence has to go on the right side of the property line, and many towns require a permit and have rules on height, placement, and which side the finished face points. Getting the line and permit right up front avoids disputes and having to move a fence later. We confirm the requirements and handle the permitting where needed.

Budgeting for the Job

What Affects the Cost

Fence pricing depends on a handful of things.

Material

Chain link is generally the most affordable, PVC the highest upfront.

Length, Height & Gates

The length and height, and the number of gates.

Corners & Post Setting

How many corners and grade changes, plus post setting and any concrete.

Removal & Access

Removal of an old fence, and access.

A basic chain link run costs less than a tall PVC privacy fence with multiple gates. We give a free written estimate after walking the line.

Longevity

Maintenance and Lifespan

Wood

Lasts many years with periodic sealing or staining and occasional board or post repair.

PVC

Needs little more than an occasional wash and holds up for a long time without rot or repainting.

Chain Link

Very low maintenance and durable, especially vinyl-coated.

In every case, properly set posts are what determine how long the fence stays straight.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a fence cost?
It depends on the material, length, height, and number of gates. Chain link is usually the most affordable; PVC privacy fencing costs more upfront but needs little maintenance. We price it after walking the line.
Which fence material is best?
Wood for a classic, customizable look, PVC for low maintenance, and chain link for affordable security and containment. The right pick depends on the fence's purpose and your budget.
Do I need a permit for a fence?
Often yes. Many towns regulate fence height, placement, and permits, and have rules on which way the finished side faces. We confirm and handle what's required.
How deep should fence posts be set?
Deep enough for stability and, where needed, below the frost line, anchored in concrete so freeze-thaw doesn't push them out of line. Proper post setting is what keeps a fence straight.
How long does a fence last?
Wood lasts many years with maintenance, PVC and chain link last a long time with very little upkeep. Post setting and material quality decide the lifespan.
Can you replace or repair an existing fence?
Yes. We remove old fencing and install new, or repair sections and reset leaning posts depending on the condition.
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Ready To Get Started

Planning A New Fence?

Call us at (908) 263-8265 or request a free estimate. We'll walk the line, go over material and gate options, and give you a straight written price.

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