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If you have a sloped property, you may think building a fence is an impossible task. Thankfully, the experts at TM Fencing, LLC, can help you understand how to build a fence on a slope. 

As Wichita’s premier fence company, our team can handle even the most difficult situations when it comes to fence building. We don’t fear a sloped property, and we can help you achieve the look, privacy, and security you’ve always wanted for your yard.

The Challenges of Building on a Slope

With the right installation, a fence can work just as well on a slope. The two biggest challenges involved in installing a fence on a sloped plain include keeping the posts lined and keeping them anchored.

Without anchoring the fence posts, the fence could easily tip over. The slope also makes keeping the posts aligned harder, which gives your fence a sloping or cheap look. That’s why you always need a professional to install a fence in this situation.

Measuring the Slope of Your Lawn

Measuring the slope of your lawn helps experts determine the best distance between posts and account for any other challenges the terrain might create. To measure the grade of your lawn, they’ll install two posts at either end and calculate the rise over run.

For hills with a slope less than 15 degrees, you’ll likely install a raked or racked fence. For steeper inclines, you’ll require a stair-step style design.

How Fencing Experts Build a Fence on a Slope

If you’re wondering how to build a fence on a slope, you can study the methods the experts use to gain a greater understanding. Hiring a professional helps you stay compliant with Kansas fence laws and ensures you don’t make any costly mistakes. At TM Fencing, LLC, we use the following process:

  1. Measure and mark: Sloped fences require detailed planning, so the fencing company will measure the entire length of the fence with a long string. They’ll mark where to put each post by putting a weight, called a plumb bob, every five to eight feet where a post goes.
  2. Install posts: Every post in your fence should sit upright (not slanted with the slope) and the experts must properly anchor them into the ground. Leveling the posts ensures stability and a clean look.
  3. Attach rails: Your railings should match the slope of your property unless you’re installing a stair-step fence. Rails typically sit about eight inches above the ground.
  4. Install pickets or panels: Adding the fence panels or pickets brings the look of your fence together. Your panels should sit about two inches above ground to allow water to pass underneath.

TM Fencing, LLC Builds Beautiful and Sturdy Fences

Now that you know how to build a fence on a slope, you’ll realize the importance of hiring a professional. At TM Fencing, LLC, we can help you determine the best privacy fence height and install a durable and beautiful fence. We offer a wide range of installation, repair, and removal services for fences.

Schedule a free estimate by calling (316) 218-3450.

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Property owners install fencing for many reasons — security, curb appeal, and privacy. One of the top questions we are asked when customers are interested in preserving the sanctuary of their property is, “How tall can a privacy fence be?”

TM Fencing, Wichita’s reliable fence company, provides some information and guidance on privacy fence height. 

Common Privacy Fence Heights

Residential fence heights vary widely on where they are located. Privacy fences in back and side yards are typically between 6 and 8 feet tall. Front yard fencing is shorter, typically around 3 feet tall, to maintain curb appeal and overall aesthetics and comply with legal fence height regulations.  

Factors Affecting Fence Height Selection

How tall can a privacy fence be? 

These are some of the top things to consider. 

Local Regulations

There are statewide fence regulations in Kansas, but they typically deal with the location where fences are placed in relation to property lines. Privacy fence height regulations are regulated by local county and city governments. Local planning departments generally handle fence regulations and issue any necessary permits.

Homeowners associations also often impose various fence height rules and restrictions, including those relating to height, material, and color.

Legal maximum fence height must be determined on a case-by-case basis, depending on the laws and regulations that apply to your address. 

There can be costly penalties for constructing unpermitted fences, so every project must be carefully evaluated before construction. 

TM Fencing will assist in the process of obtaining required permits for the construction of your privacy fence — however, we cannot provide legal advice with regard to compliance with other laws and regulations. You should seek legal advice if you have questions about compliance with applicable rules.

Purpose and Location

In addition to the normal privacy fence heights mentioned above, there are other considerations for fences with specialized purposes. For example, fences around pools and fences on corner lots can have special requirements. 

Pool fences often have minimum height requirements and must have self-latching gates for safety. Corner lots often have fence height limits that ensure adequate sight lines for vehicles and pedestrians. 

Measuring Fence Height

Compliance with laws and regulations can come down a matter of inches. Accurate measurement is critical to compliance and we urge property owners to take a conservative approach when making sure your fence is within applicable limits.

To correctly measure a fence’s height, begin at the ground level on the finished grade where it meets the post base. Measure up to the highest point of the fence, including top latticework or ornamental tops.

Contact TM Fencing For Your Fencing Needs in South Central Kansas

How tall can a privacy fence be? If you are considering installing new fencing and have additional questions about height, building a fence close to a property line, or any fence construction issues, our experts are the team Kansas trusts for the process. 

Call the Wichita experts at TM Fencing today at (316) 218-3450 for more information and a free estimate for your project.

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Know How To Determine Whether Fence Repair or Fence Replacement Is Right for You

Though wooden and vinyl fences make excellent additions to yards, enhancing the space’s visual appeal and security, they won’t last forever. If your fencing’s best days are long gone, you’ll need to take prompt action to restore its beauty and performance. So, should you repair or replace fences at the first signs of trouble?

As Wichita’s leading fence company, TM Fencing, LLC has years of experience providing various services like fence renovation and repair. Here, we explain which factors to look for in your fence to determine whether fence restoration or repair services are best for your individual situation. 

Severity of Fence Damage

When assessing your fence, you should first note whether the damage or problem with your fence is cosmetic or severe. A total fence upgrade is usually unnecessary for surface-level damage like fading or peeling paint. To remedy that problem, you can simply repaint the fence. 

Serious problems that would require fence replacement include:

  • Broken posts or panels
  • Extensive rot
  • Mold

Repairing those problems is usually expensive, so it might be best to replace the fencing to restore its beauty and structural integrity. 

Typical Problems Associated With Specific Fencing Materials

Some problems with fences are specific to the fencing’s materials. For instance, natural wood fences are more porous and prone to rot, moisture, and other environmental conditions than engineered or pre-treated wood.

Before you repair or replace fences consisting of natural wood, check for discoloration, splintering, and warping. Wood filler can repair minor damage, like small cracks, but replacing boards and rails with severe damage is usually ideal.

Vinyl is a more weather-resistant fence material. Still, the material is vulnerable to cracks from heavy snowfall and direct impacts from debris or vehicles. Avoid fixing cracked vinyl; replace the damaged picket or the entire fence panel for the best results. 

Fence Age

Even if you maintain your fencing well, time will eventually take its toll. Wooden fences are the most susceptible to natural wear and tear; their average lifespan is about 15 years. Aluminum and vinyl fences can last up to twice that long. Before your fence nears the end of its lifespan, consider upgrading the structure.

Current Financial Status

Your current financial status will also determine when to repair or replace fencing. Getting a fence permit and investing in an entirely new fence will require higher costs upfront. Repairs and ongoing maintenance are more cost-effective options, yet they’re not always the best long-term solutions.

Should You Fix or Replace Your Fence? Contact TM Fencing, LLC Today for More Help

Sometimes, knowing when to repair or replace fences isn’t obvious without professional help. Thankfully, the experienced professionals at TM Fencing, LLC in Wichita, KS, can advise you on everything from fence maintenance to the cost of building a privacy fence. 

As one of the top fence contractors serving residential and commercial clients throughout the area, we employ skilled, experienced fencing professionals. We offer in-person consultations, top-of-the-line fencing materials, and custom fencing options. Schedule your free on-site estimate today—call (316) 218-3450 to speak with us.

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Practice Proper Fence Etiquette to Avoid Disputes

Fences might be fantastic property assets to increase the function, security, and curb appeal of your home, but they’re also a touchy subject between neighbors. “How close to the property line can I build a fence?” you ask.

Locally, the etiquette surrounding fence installations means following Wichita regulations regarding landscape construction. In doing so, you should establish good relationships with your neighboring homeowners and avoid building code violations. Wichita’s top-rated fence company, TM Fencing LLC, explores etiquette and local fence laws below.

Survey Your Property for Fencing Accuracy

First, determine the precise locations of your property boundaries–hire a professional surveyor to map out the boundaries. 

An official property survey has the advantage of precision. That way, your new fence won’t encroach on someone else’s turf by accident.

Speak With Your Neighbors Before Finalizing Fence Installations

Have you talked directly to your neighbors about your fence installation plans? Keeping everyone in the loop prevents confusion and resentment. 

Why not show them the survey so they can see where you’ll build? They might appreciate that you made the effort to protect their interests and return the favor.

Double-Check Fence Rules and Regulations

There’s no question about it; your fence must comply with all local regulations regarding fences and similar structures. Some municipalities have permit requirements (you can’t build without this permit). However, even a municipal permit isn’t always enough.

Do you have neighbor agreements or HOA guidelines in place? These rules often stipulate detailed restrictions when it comes to outdoor structures. 

Choose a Professional Fence Company

How close to the property line can I build a fence? Hiring an experienced local fence service provider could provide the answer.

For example, local companies like TM Fencing LLC will build you a durable fence from high-quality materials and that complies with all those regulations and rules in Wichita. These types of guidelines cover factors like:

  • Height specifications: Can backyard fences be taller than front yard ones? Such regulations ensure that passersby can see the front of a property.
  • Permissible materials: Does your municipality allow barbed or razor wire on top of residential fences? For safety reasons, many do not. 
  • Fence maintenance responsibilities: Does your area say anything about how you must maintain the fence? Regular maintenance makes for a durable fence, but it also prevents a dangerous or dilapidated structure in the community.

How Close to the Property Line Can I Build a Fence? Ask TM Fencing LLC To Verify Wichita’s Specifics

Your fence’s legal proximity to the property line depends on your state, city, and neighborhood. Your fence builders can help you navigate the particulars, like how any legal language about fences affects your unique setup, repairing or replacing your fence, or privacy fence cost. The safest bet usually involves building the new fence just within your property boundary so that you don’t risk it touching a neighbor’s property.

How close to the property line can I build a fence in Wichita, Kansas? Call TM Fencing LLC at 316-218-3450 to find out. Get your free estimate on your residential fencing project and our team can handle the rest.

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When you want to create an oasis of calm and tranquility in your Wichita backyard — or at the very least keep your family safe and block your neighbors’ view into your property — a privacy fence is the perfect solution. But how much does it cost to build a privacy fence, and is it in your budget?

Homeowners can expect to spend at least several thousand dollars for a high-quality, professionally built fence. However, pricing for privacy fences can vary significantly depending on a range of factors. TM Fencing, a Wichita Fence Company offers this guide to expenses to keep in mind while planning your project.

Factors That Affect the Cost of Erecting a Privacy Fence

Contractors estimate privacy fence installation cost by the linear foot, which can range from about $10 per foot to up to $50 or more. The larger your yard, the more expensive the project will be.

Determining the answer to how much does it cost to build a privacy fence also depends on the following factors:

Material

What you choose to construct it from is the most significant factor in your budget for building a privacy fence. True privacy fences require a solid material, so most homeowners choose wood or vinyl.

In general, vinyl fencing is the most expensive, but it also requires the least maintenance and is the longest-lasting option.

Height

In addition to the length of the fence, their height also affects fence building expenses. Taller fences cost more; adding to the standard six-foot fence height can add up to 35% to the final bill for constructing a privacy fence.

Labor

The cost per linear foot of your new fence will also include charges for labor, which can account for up to 50% of the bill. If the installation process requires dealing with a significant slope, trees, rocks, or other obstacles that the crew has to work around, the labor costs will increase.

Extra Services

A quote for a new privacy fence may include charges for extra services, such as acquiring permits in accordance with fence laws in Kansas, removing an old fence, , or dealing with other issues in your yard, like stump removal, or improperly marked underground lines.

Additional Features

Adding features like gates will also mean paying more for your new fence. Other features, like lighted post caps and decorative elements, can drive up the cost.

Get a Quote for Privacy Fence Construction Pricing From TM Fencing

If it’s time for a new vinyl or wood privacy fence on your Wichita, Kansas property but want to know, “How much does it cost to build a privacy fence?” reach out to TM Fencing for a free consultation and quote. These local fence-building experts will help you select the perfect fence materials and design to give your family maximum privacy and security without breaking your budget.

To request a quote, call (316) 218-3450 or (316) 285-8392 and speak with one of the friendly team members.

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