Content Team

Ever notice how some fences use wide gaps between posts while others place them closer together? That spacing isn’t just an aesthetic choice. Contractors use specific measurements because fence strength depends on precise, calculated post placement. In this blog post, you’ll learn why spacing matters and the process professionals use to answer the question, “How far apart should fence posts be?”

Don’t settle for a contractor that throws posts in the ground randomly. Call TM Fencing LLC at (316) 218-3450 to work with a contractor who builds fences the right way.

Why Does Fence Post Spacing Matter?

Professionals calculate several factors to make sure each post holds weight, resists the wind, and supports each type of fence. The bullet points below describe common reasons proper spacing matters.

• Optimal fence post spacing keeps panels from sagging. When posts get set too far apart, the rails begin to bend under their own weight.
• Proper fence spacing improves stability and reduces stress on each post during storms. Posts placed too close together waste material, and posts placed too far apart make the fence weak.
• The recommended distance between fence posts prevents boards from warping. Even pressure across the entire panel keeps everything straight.
• Standard fence post spacing intervals help the fence follow the grade of the yard more cleanly. Uneven or irregular spacing leads to awkward dips or gaps.
• Fence post installation guidelines help support gates. A poorly spaced gate section often shifts, drags, or refuses to latch.

When you want a fence that looks clean and lasts for years, call TM Fencing LLC at (316) 218-3450 for professional installation.

Fence Post Installation Guidelines Used by Professionals

The steps below outline the process professionals follow when determining the recommended distance between fence posts.

Measure the Panel Length

Contractors begin by measuring the exact length of the panels or picket sections. This step establishes the baseline for standard fence-post spacing and prevents mismatched sections.

Review Material Strength

Different materials handle weight and wind differently. Wood panels flex more than vinyl, and vinyl flexes more than metal. Contractors review this before marking any spots to make sure optimal fence post spacing matches the material.

Evaluate Soil and Terrain

Soil density, moisture, and slope all influence how far apart posts should sit. Loose soil or sloped yards require tighter spacing to maintain proper spacing for fence stability without leaning or shifting.

Mark the Layout and Confirm Alignment

After calculating the spacing, contractors mark every post location, stretch a straight guideline, and confirm alignment. This step prevents crooked sections and keeps each panel evenly supported.

Call TM Fencing LLC To Schedule Professional Fence Installation Services

Understanding the answer to the question, “How far apart should fence posts be?” involves planning, material knowledge, and site evaluation. Don’t try to install a fence yourself. You’ll end up watching it lean or fall apart over the next couple of years. Instead, call TM Fencing LLC at (316) 218-3450 to schedule professional fence installation services.

Make sure you check out our other blog post, which goes into more detail on another important aspect of fence installation: digging post holes.

When you begin searching for a reliable fence company, you might find companies that talk confidently but never back up their claims. In this blog post, you’ll learn why fencing contractors differ in skill and reliability, along with four essential questions to ask a fence contractor before hiring.

Aren’t All Fence Contractors the Same?

Many people think ordering a fence is straightforward. However, all contractors vary in skill, communication, material options, and job quality. A dependable contractor plans carefully, answers questions directly, and manages each part of the job in a clear and organized way. Before hiring, check out these fence contractor qualifications to review to determine who actually deserves the job.

• Verified licensing and insurance documents 
• Project timeline explained in detail
• Examples of past work provided
• Warranty terms explained in simple language
• Cleanup process and yard protection outlined
• Direct, confident answers given for every question you ask

A solid checklist helps you avoid crews that overpromise, underdeliver, or leave you dealing with costly and dangerous issues later. 

How To Choose a Reliable Fence Contractor by Asking Four Important Questions

Learning how to choose a reliable fence contractor starts with understanding which questions to ask. Ask these four key questions before hiring a fence contractor to make sure you avoid crews that cut corners.

Question #1: Are You Licensed and Insured?

Ask for license details and proof of insurance. A contractor with the proper credentials protects you from liability and makes sure the project complies with local rules. Licensing also confirms that the contractor meets basic standards for training and legal compliance.

Question #2: Can You Provide References or Show Examples of Past Work?

Ask for photos and contact information from recent clients. Project examples give you a clear idea of craftsmanship and material choices. References help you verify how the contractor handled communication and job quality on previous projects.

Question #3: What Materials Do You Recommend and Why?

Ask if the contractor chooses fence types based on soil, climate, and overall layout. A clear explanation helps you understand long-term durability. Material recommendations also reveal how much practical experience the contractor has with your local conditions.

Question #4: What Warranties Apply to Materials and Labor?

Ask for warranty terms in writing. You want clear conditions, timeframes, and coverage details for both labor and materials. Good warranty information helps you understand what kind of long-term support you can expect.

Call TM Fencing LLC To Talk to a Professional Fence Contractor

Use the important fence contractor evaluation tips and four essential questions to ask a fence contractor listed above to guide your hiring decision. At TM Fencing LLC, we’re more than happy to answer all the questions mentioned in this blog post, along with any other questions you may have. Call (316) 218-3450 today to speak with one of our fencing experts. 

If you want more insight into how to choose a reliable fence contractor, check out our other blog post that goes into more detail about what to look for before you commit to anyone.

When it comes to security fencing, many choose between wrought iron and aluminum fences. While the materials and styles may seem similar, there are some differences to consider, making it difficult to choose one over the other. 

Working with an experienced Wichita fencing company like TM Fencing LLC can help you make the most informed decision about your fence material. Here, we explain the differences and similarities between aluminum and wrought iron fences. 

Comparing Aluminum and Wrought Iron Fences: What’s the Difference?

Aluminum fences are appreciated for their lightweight nature and rust resistance, making them a top choice among different types of fences. They’re durable enough to secure perimeters and handle various weather conditions. 

Unlike aluminum, wrought iron has a reputation for having outstanding strength and visual appeal. The iron alloy is heavy, making it a great choice for security fencing. Property owners can pick from a variety of ornamental fence styles or custom-design a style that suits their preferences. 

How To Pick the Best Fencing Material for Your Property

Still unsure where you stand on the wrought iron versus aluminum fence debate? Consider these factors to explore the differences between the materials and determine which one is right for you.

Installation

If you want a wrought iron fence for your home or business, prepare for a labor-intensive installation. Just one section could weigh up to 50 pounds, so maneuvering the fencing components can be tough. The components also require hand welding. 

Aluminum, on the other hand, is lightweight and easy to install. Sections typically weigh less than 20 pounds, and they don’t require welding. 

Maintenance

If you want to spend as little time as possible maintaining your new fence, choose aluminum. It requires very little upkeep.

Due to the possibility of rust, the maintenance requirements for wrought iron fencing are more extensive. It would need a thorough inspection at least once annually to check for rust and corrosion. Any rusty patches you find will need to be sanded down and repainted to maintain the fencing’s attractiveness.

Cost

When exploring the cost comparison between aluminum and wrought iron fences, you’ll see that the former option is more affordable than the latter, owing to the fact that aluminum is cheaper to produce and easier to install. 

Fence Durability

Wrought iron is one of the toughest fencing materials, so many people use it to secure their properties. It’s hard to damage and difficult to cut through.

Aluminum has some durability. Still, the strength and resilience of wrought iron are far superior. 

Get the Perfect Fence for Your Home or Business Through TM Fencing LLC

Whether you’re interested in an aluminum or wrought iron fence, you can find the perfect option at TM Fencing LLC. As a leading fencing company serving Wichita, Kansas, we install and replace fences using premium materials and industry-leading tactics. Our specialists also provide repairs to ensure the long-term visual appeal and stability of the fences we install. 

If you’re struggling to choose between a wrought iron or aluminum fence, or if you’re ready to start your installation in Wichita, call TM Fencing LLC at (316) 218-3450. 

Installing a fence isn’t as easy as it looks, so it’s best to hire professionals. Unfortunately, not all fencing companies offer the same services or level of care for their clients, which can lead to undesirable outcomes. Learning how to choose a fence contractor will ensure that you get the fence you want without unnecessary stress or preventable complications.

At TM Fencing LLC, we understand the importance of ensuring that contractors who work on a home are qualified. Consider our tips below to ensure that you hire the right fence company for your needs.

Research Contractors in Your Area

Your first step in finding a local fencing contractor is to research your options. Get referrals from family, neighbors, and friends, or simply browse online for fence contractors near you.

When researching your options, look for companies that offer the services you need, whether it’s a fence installation or repairs. Check their credentials, including licensing and insurance. Choosing a licensed fence contractor is ideal because it shows that they have the experience and expertise necessary to meet the local government’s basic contracting requirements. 

Check Each Company’s Reputation and Reviews Online

Part of learning how to choose a fence contractor is taking the time to read reviews and testimonials from past clients. You can learn about a company’s professionalism, ability to complete projects on time, and workmanship by reading what previous customers say about them. 

Bad reviews and poor ratings aren’t the only indicators of a low-quality contractor. A total lack of reviews and ratings is also a warning. The contractor is likely inexperienced, which may mean they cannot accommodate your needs with care and precision. 

Ensure the Contractor Offers Transparent Pricing, a Warranty, and Guarantees

Hidden fees are a problem with many fence contractors. That’s why it’s important to research local companies to find those that offer detailed, written, upfront quotes. They should also provide warranties or guarantees on their workmanship and products to ensure your satisfaction. 

Define the Scope and Timeline for Your Project

Once you hire a contractor, be clear with your project expectations. The more detailed you are, the less likely you are to encounter misunderstandings. Before the work starts, discuss the following with your fence contractor:

• Material choice
• Work hours
• Site preparation
• Project timeline
• Payment terms and warranties
• Post-project cleanup

Finally, make sure you get all the parameters of your project in writing. Contracts aren’t just for payment terms.

Get a Professional Installation for Your New Fencing in Wichita From TM Fencing LLC

Ensure your new fence adds value by learning how to choose a fence contractor. Everything from ensuring material quality for installations to providing written estimates highlights a contractor’s professionalism. 

You can find the qualities and characteristics of a trusted fence contractor at TM Fencing LLC in Wichita, Kansas. Our team has years of experience providing comprehensive fencing services at competitive prices. Whether you need a fence replacement for your home or repairs for your commercial fencing, we can do the job right the first time.  

Call TM Fencing LLC today at (316) 218-3450 to request a free quote.

Building a fence around your property will secure your yard while adding to its visual appeal. While it may not seem difficult to install one with minimal experience, it’s not as easy as it looks. Unfortunately, the belief that building a fence is easy leads many property owners to make fence installation mistakes with lasting consequences.

As a trusted fence company in Wichita, KS, TM Fencing LLC knows what it takes to build a beautiful, long-lasting fence. Here, we explore some of the most common mistakes people make during DIY fence installations. 

Overlooking or Ignoring Property Line Rules

One of the most common fence installation mistakes doesn’t involve the actual construction of the fencing. It’s the location. 

It’s crucial to install fencing on or within your property lines. Placing it outside your property line infringes on your neighbor’s land, which can lead to legal trouble. 

Before installing anything, take the time to review your property survey or schedule one if necessary. It’s also a good idea to speak with your neighbors about your plan to build a fence before starting the project, so they’re aware of the work you’ll be completing around your yard.

Failing To Check Soil Conditions

Did you know that the soil on your land directly affects how smoothly a fence installation can go? Soft, sandy soil doesn’t provide decent fence post stability. Digging deeper holes would be necessary to anchor the posts properly. 

Digging Shallow Holes

Speaking of fence posts, shallow holes are another problem to be aware of. The ideal fence post hole depth is 30 to 36 inches. If you don’t dig deep enough, the fence could easily blow over.

Choosing the Wrong Fence Material

People sometimes forget about fence material durability and instead choose something that may require more maintenance and care than intended. Materials like wood are vulnerable to moisture, rot, and insects, which can affect how wood fencing looks and how long it lasts. 

It’s important to research different fencing options to find the one that best suits your aesthetic preferences, environment, and maintenance requirements. Don’t just settle for what looks good. Fencing should also be stable, long-lasting, and durable enough to secure your property if security is a priority.

Installing Gates Incorrectly

When installing a fence with a gate, you must ensure proper gate alignment to prevent it from sagging or dragging along the ground. The best way to avoid this issue is to use heavy-duty hinges and line them up evenly. You also need a sturdy gate post and enough room for the gate to swing without hitting anything. 

Avoid the Pitfalls of DIY Fence Installation With Professional Services

The best way to avoid common fence installation mistakes is to leave the work to the professionals. At TM Fencing LLC, we have years of experience building fences for residential and commercial properties throughout Wichita, Kansas. Customer satisfaction is our guarantee, so we ensure that everything goes smoothly with every fence installation, replacement, and repair we perform. 

Ready to get started on your new fence? Call (316) 218-3450 to request a free, no-obligation quote from TM Fencing LLC.

Having a fence company install metal fencing around your property is a good way to ensure your border is sturdy and stylish. Unfortunately, metal fencing has a significant drawback: It can rust and corrode over time.

To protect your fencing’s appearance and structural integrity, it’s good to learn the best way to remove rust from metal fences. As a premier fence contractor, our team at TM Fencing LLC uses industry-leading rust-removal methods. Learn the basics of corrosion removal for metal fencing in our guide below. 

Wrought Iron Fence Restoration in Five Steps

Wrought iron is one of the most popular types of metal fences. However, untreated steel and iron can corrode over time due to moisture exposure. Follow these five steps to learn the best way to remove rust from metal fences.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

The first step in restoring your rusty fence is collecting the supplies you’ll need to tackle the job. Here’s what you’ll need: 

• A wire brush 
• Sandpaper with coarse and fine grits
• A commercial rust neutralizer
• Primer and paint suitable for metal surfaces
• Safety gear, including a dust mask, gloves, and safety goggles

Step 2: Prepare the Metal Surface

Next comes the metal surface preparation step. You must clean the entire fence manually to remove loose rust and debris. Sanding and wire brushing the surface may be necessary to address severe rust buildup. 

Don’t forget to wear your safety gear for this step. The mask and goggles will prevent you from inhaling fine particles, and the gloves will protect your hands from injuries.

Step 3: Apply a Commercial Rust Neutralizer

The best way to remove rust from metal fences is to add a rust neutralizer. A rust converter application is essential for preventing rust particles you can’t see with the naked eye from spreading and causing massive damage to the metal fencing. 

To apply the chemical solution, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. You may simply need to wet a brush with the neutralizer and re-scrub the fencing, but different products may have varying instructions. 

If you prefer not to use a commercial solution, you can make one. Apply a thick layer of jelly to rusty areas, let it sit for at least 15 minutes, then scrub it with a wire brush. Always rinse well with water. 

Step 4: Apply a Primer

After removing most of the rust, you must apply a primer to the metal surface. This is essential before re-painting to ensure the paint sticks. 

Step 5: Paint Your Fence

After applying the primer, apply the protective paint coating. You’ll likely need about two coats to ensure a smooth, even finish.

Keep Your Wrought Iron Fence Looking Its Best With Professional Assistance

Now you know the best way to remove rust from metal fences. If you’re still experiencing complications, though, we can help. TM Fencing LLC offers top-tier fencing solutions for residential and commercial properties throughout Wichita, Kansas. 

For professional assistance with your metal fence, contact TM Fencing LLC at (316) 218-3450.

When installing a fence, you can’t overlook the importance of digging holes at the right depth. Incorrect hole sizes can jeopardize the fence’s structural integrity. If you want your fence to look its best and remain structurally sound for many years, you must dig each post hole to the correct depth.  

How deep should a fence post be? TM Fencing LLC, a leading fence company in Wichita, KS, outlines the ideal depth of fence posts in the guide below.

Why Digging the Right Fence Post Depth Is Important

After choosing a fence post style, you need to know how deep to set the posts. This information is important because it directly affects the longevity and stability of your property’s barrier.

Shallow holes won’t deliver adequate support around the posts’ concrete footings. The barrier’s panels and posts may develop a noticeable lean from strong winds, soil upheaval, and ground saturation. If you want to prevent your fence from leaning, falling, or weakening over time, you can’t ignore the importance of fence post depths. 

The Ideal Depth for Fence Posts 

Are you asking, “How deep should fence posts be?” Here’s what you should know about the proper hole depths for different kinds of fence posts. 

Wood Posts

Holes should be about four inches wider than the diameter of the wood posts. The holes’ depth should be half the finished fence’s height, minus six inches. In frost-prone regions, the bottom of the hole should be wider than the top to prevent heaving.

Steel Posts

The post depth requirements for steel posts aren’t the same as those for wood posts. For example, an appropriate hole width for steel fence posts is four times the post’s diameter.

The ideal depth starts at 24 inches, though you should add three inches to the depth for every foot over four feet of the fence’s height. Follow the same frost-line rule as wood posts. 

Driven Posts

The deeper the holes are with driven posts, the longer the fence will last. Use the same hole depth rule that we went over for steel posts, but add six more inches.

Factors Contributing to Post Hole Sizes and Depths

Knowing the average depth for fence posts is helpful. Still, you should be aware of the following factors that could impact those figures:

• Fence height: It’s usually good to bury at least a third of the fence posts’ length in the soil.
• Frost line: The frost line depth is essential in regions with cold winters. Posts must be below that line to prevent them from shifting due to the ground’s freeze-thaw cycle. 
• Gravel drainage: If you want space for a gravel base for drainage, dig the hole about six inches deeper. 

Get Expert Fencing Installation Solutions in Wichita Today

If you’re still unsure after learning the answer to “How deep should a fence post be?” contact TM Fencing LLC for help. Our technicians understand the importance of having sturdy fence posts. Rest assured that we’ll go the extra mile to ensure your fence is installed correctly based on soil type, frost line, and every other factor.

Call us at (316) 218-3450 to get started.