Best Fence Contractor In Mansfield, TX? Here’s 7 Tips To Help You Choose Wisely.

7 Tips for Choosing the Best Fence Contractor in Mansfield, TX

Choosing a fencing company can feel overwhelming. After all, your fence is a significant investment in your home’s privacy, security, and curb appeal—you want it done right! Mansfield has its share of fence companies, from big names to one-man operations. How do you cut through the noise and pick a fence contractor in Mansfield, TX that will deliver quality work without the headaches? Fear not! We’ve got you covered with seven must-know tips. As a local fencing team ourselves, we’ve heard all the horror stories and seen what works. Read on to ensure your choice is the best choice.

These Are The Key Elements In The Article.

• Do Your Homework: Research local contractors’ experience, portfolios, and customer reviews before inviting bids.
• Get Multiple Quotes: Compare at least 2-3 written estimates to gauge fair pricing and catch any outliers.
• Verify Credentials: Ensure your fence contractor is insured, and check if Mansfield permits or HOA approvals are needed for your project.
• Ask the Right Questions: Discuss materials, timelines, warranties, and how they handle any hiccups (like underground utilities or weather delays).
• Avoid Common Pitfalls: Don’t choose solely on price—consider reputation and quality. Steer clear of contractors with poor communication or no contract.

Table of Contents

• 1. Ask for Recommendations & Read Reviews
• 2. Check Experience and Local Expertise
• 3. Verify Insurance, Licensing & Permits
• 4. Get Multiple Detailed Quotes
• 5. Ask About Materials and Installation Methods
• 6. Understand the Warranty and Follow-Up Service
• 7. Trust Your Gut and Communication
• Choosing Your Mansfield Fence Pro: Final Thoughts

1. Ask for Recommendations & Read Reviews

The first step to finding a great fence contractor is hearing from people who’ve been in your shoes. Start by asking Mansfield neighbors, friends, or local community groups (gotta love those Nextdoor threads!) if they have any fencing company recommendations. First-hand experiences can quickly give you a shortlist of names to consider (or ones to avoid).

Next, head online to read customer reviews. Look at Google, Yelp, Facebook, or the company’s own testimonials page. Don’t just glance at the star rating—read a few reviews to see why people rated them that way. Consistent themes to look for:

• Did the contractor finish on time and on budget?
• Was the quality of work up to par (straight lines, sturdy construction, no mess left behind)?
• How was their communication? (Did they answer questions and address issues promptly?)
• Would the reviewers hire them again?

Keep in mind, every business might have a couple of less-than-perfect reviews (you can’t please everyone 100% of the time). But you’re looking for the overall pattern. Trust the Mansfield community’s word of mouth. If a company is known for going above and beyond, people will sing their praises. If not…well, Mansfield folks will be brutally honest about that, too!

Bonus tip: Check if the company has a presence on Better Business Bureau or similar sites for any unresolved complaints. This isn’t a deal-breaker if they don’t (many small businesses rely more on Google reviews), but any serious red flags might show up there.

2. Check Experience and Local Expertise

Not all fence contractors are created equal. You want someone who not only knows fences but also knows Mansfield. Why does local expertise matter? Because building a fence in North Texas has its quirks. From our expansive clay soil (which can shift fences if posts aren’t deep enough) to city regulations and HOA preferences, a local pro will be familiar with it all.

Find out how long the contractor has been in business and specifically how long they’ve served the Mansfield or DFW area. A company that’s been around for a while likely has a track record you can trust. If they’ve done dozens of fences in neighborhoods around town, they’ll understand the common challenges (like that rocky ground over in southwestern Mansfield) and have solutions ready.

Ask about their portfolio of work. An experienced fence contractor should be able to show you photos of completed projects. Even better, see if they have any fences you can drive by in Mansfield. There’s nothing like seeing their work in person. Perhaps they did a fence for a home in Britanie Ridge Estates or Walnut Creek—go take a peek (from the road, of course). Are the fences still straight and sturdy after a couple of years? That’s a good sign of quality installation.

Newer companies can also do a great job, but if you’re considering one, make sure they at least have seasoned professionals on the team. Everyone starts somewhere, but you don’t necessarily want your fence to be someone’s training ground.

In short, choose a contractor with solid experience and a proven presence in Mansfield. It’s like choosing a guide who’s walked the path many times before.

3. Verify Insurance, Licensing & Permits

This step is critical and often overlooked by eager homeowners: make sure your fence contractor is properly insured and aware of any licensing or permit requirements.

• Insurance: At a minimum, the contractor should have general liability insurance. This protects your property in case something goes wrong (for example, if they accidentally hit a utility line or a section of your house). If the company has employees (rather than just the owner doing the work), they should also have workers’ compensation insurance in case someone gets hurt on the job. Don’t be shy—ask for proof of insurance. Reputable contractors are not offended by this; they expect it. If someone hems and haws or says “Don’t worry about it,” consider that a big red flag.
• Licensing/Registration: In Texas, fence builders don’t need a state-issued license specific to fencing. However, some cities or counties require contractors to register or have a general contractor’s license. Mansfield doesn’t require a special fence installer license, but they do require building permits for fences over a certain height​
  mansfieldtexas.gov
  . A knowledgeable contractor will know this and handle the permit process for you. If a contractor says, “Nah, we never pull permits,” that’s a problem—permits are usually required in Mansfield for new fences or major replacements over 6 feet tall.
• Permits and Codes: Speaking of permits, clarify who is responsible for obtaining them. The best answer is “We (the contractor) will handle any necessary permits with the city.” They’re used to the paperwork and it ensures everything is on record. Additionally, a conscientious fence company will call the utility locator service (dial 811 in Texas) to mark gas, water, or cable lines before digging. You do not want surprises like a knocked-out internet line because someone skipped this step. Make sure your contractor plans to get utilities marked and build according to local codes (for example, if you’re on a corner lot, Mansfield codes might restrict fence height near intersections for visibility).

Bottom line: Protect yourself by verifying these details. A legitimate fence contractor will have no issue providing insurance documentation and walking you through permit needs. If someone tells you “we can save time/money by skipping the permit” – run the other way! Cutting legal corners today can lead to headaches (and fines) tomorrow.

4. Get Multiple Detailed Quotes

One of the smartest things you can do is shop around and compare quotes. Invite two or three reputable contractors to take a look at your property and provide a written estimate. This serves a few purposes:

• You’ll get a sense of the market rate for your fence project, so you don’t overpay.
• You can compare what each quote includes (and doesn’t include).
• You’ll experience how each contractor interacts with you during the quoting process (which often reflects how they do business overall).

When reviewing quotes, make sure they’re detailed and in writing. A good estimate should outline the type of materials (e.g., 6-foot cedar privacy fence with metal posts), how many linear feet of fencing, number of gates (and gate hardware specs), paint/stain if included, tear-out of old fence if needed, and of course, labor costs. If one quote just says “Fence install: $5,000” and another breaks everything down, you can guess which contractor is more transparent and thorough.

Be cautious of any quote that is dramatically lower than the others. As we mentioned earlier, a super low bid can be a red flag indicating cheaper materials or a contractor who might cut corners or surprise you with change orders later. On the flip side, the highest bid isn’t necessarily the best either—it might just be a busier company pricing high or using premium materials you don’t actually need. This is where comparing helps you strike the right balance.

Also pay attention to the professionalism during this stage. Did the contractor show up on time for the estimate appointment? Were they prepared to answer your questions? Did they follow up promptly with the written quote? This is essentially an audition. If a company is unresponsive or flaky when trying to win your business, it likely won’t improve once they have your deposit.

Lastly, don’t be afraid to ask questions about the quotes. If one contractor recommends something different (e.g., one suggests steel posts vs. wood posts, or one includes staining and another doesn’t), ask them why. Use their expertise to your advantage to make an informed decision.

5. Ask About Materials and Installation Methods

Not all fences are built the same. The quality of materials and the way a fence is constructed will greatly affect its longevity and performance. When interviewing potential fence contractors, dig into the details about materials and methods:

• Wood Quality: If you’re getting a wood fence, ask what kind of wood they use. Cedar is king in Mansfield for its durability and rot resistance. Will the posts be cedar or pressure-treated pine? Do they use whole cedar pickets or cheaper spruce/pine pickets? How thick are the pickets (you ideally want at least 5/8-inch thick boards for stability)? A knowledgeable contractor will happily talk wood types with you. If they shrug and say “wood is wood,” that’s not a good sign.
• Metal Components: For any fence, inquire about the posts and hardware. Metal posts (usually galvanized steel) for wood fences can greatly extend the fence’s life versus wood posts that may rot at ground contact. Will they use galvanized or stainless screws/nails (which won’t rust) instead of cheaper plain steel nails? These little things matter over time.
• Concrete Footings: Ask how deep they set the posts and how much concrete is used. In Mansfield’s soil, posts should generally go at least 2 feet deep, often 3 feet for an 8-foot tall fence. More depth = more stability. The contractor should describe their process: e.g., “We dig 30 inches, set posts in concrete, with the concrete a few inches above grade to keep water away from the post base.” This level of detail shows they know their stuff.
• Gates and Hardware: Gates are a common weak point. Ask what kind of gate hinges and latches they use. Heavy-duty, rust-resistant hardware is a must. Do they brace the gates to prevent sagging? A quality contractor might even mention small touches like adjustable hinges or adding a wheel for wide double gates.
• Staining/Painting: Will the fence be treated after installation? Some companies offer to stain or paint the fence (for an additional fee, usually). If you want this service, discuss what products they use and see examples of colors. If you plan to do it yourself later, ask if they have any recommendations or if they offer a return visit for staining once the wood dries out (typically a few weeks after install).

When you ask these questions, you’re not only gathering information, you’re gauging the contractor’s willingness to educate you. The best contractors explain things in plain language and make sure you’re comfortable.

If someone gets annoyed or dismissive about your curiosity, that’s a bad sign.

6. Understand the Warranty and Follow-Up Service

A fence is a long-term addition to your home, so you want assurance that your contractor will stand behind their work. Always ask about the warranty and what kind of support you can expect after the fence is installed.

Key points to clarify:

• Workmanship Warranty: This covers the installation quality. For instance, if your fence starts leaning or a section falls over because posts weren’t set correctly, or a gate quits latching properly due to frame issues, a workmanship warranty means the contractor will come fix it. Many good contractors offer something like a 1-year or even 5-year warranty on workmanship. Some might say “satisfaction guaranteed” – get specifics. What does that mean? Will they fix issues at no charge within a certain timeframe? Get it in writing.
• Material Warranty: The materials (like the wood or the metal) often come with their own manufacturer warranties. For example, many metal post manufacturers provide a warranty against rust-through for X years, or a wood supplier might guarantee against termite damage for a certain period. Ask if the contractor passes along those material warranties or provides documentation for them.
• Follow-Up Policy: Find out how they handle any call-backs or minor adjustments. It’s not uncommon that after your first big Texas storm or after a month of use, you might notice a gate latch needs a tweak or one section has a slight give. Will they come back to adjust if needed? Good companies will do a courtesy visit if there are any settling issues shortly after installation.
• Exclusions: Understand what isn’t covered too. For example, if a gigantic windstorm (tornado, yikes) knocks down the fence, or if a careless driver plows through your fence, that’s not on them. Also, lack of maintenance (like never staining a wood fence and it rots years later) isn’t the contractor’s fault. Reasonable wear and tear or acts of God are usually excluded, which is fair.

Importantly, gauge the contractor’s attitude about this topic. If they confidently say, “We provide a 2-year warranty and if anything comes up, just call us—we’ll take care of it,” that’s gold. If they’re vague or try to change the subject when warranties come up, be cautious.

You can also do a quick check: is the company likely to be around in a few years if you need them? A long-standing local business with a good reputation likely isn’t going anywhere. A fly-by-night outfit might vanish when you need them most.

7. Trust Your Gut and Communication

Last but certainly not least: trust your instincts. Throughout the process of getting estimates and asking questions, you probably have a “feel” for which contractor is the right fit. Don’t ignore that inner voice.

Pay attention to communication dynamics:

• Are they listening to what you want? A good fence contractor will tailor their recommendation to your needs—whether that’s extra security, a certain style, or working within a budget. If someone is pushing you to a more expensive option or a style you’re not keen on, that’s a red flag. It’s your fence, your home—your preferences should lead the way, with the contractor providing guidance.
• Do they answer your questions clearly, without jargon or evasion? You have every right to understand what’s happening with your project. The best contractors explain things in plain language and make sure you’re comfortable.
• How’s the responsiveness? If you call or text with a follow-up question, do they reply in a timely manner? Communication delays now could signal delays later when you’re trying to schedule or resolve an issue.
• Professionalism and courtesy matter. You should feel respected in all your interactions. If a contractor is rude, dismissive, or makes you feel like you’re a bother, imagine dealing with that attitude for a project that might span a week or two. No thanks!

Consider doing a quick “gut check” after meeting each contractor: Could you comfortably have this person and their team working on your property for days? If the answer is an emphatic yes for one and a so-so for another, that’s valuable insight.

At the end of the day, numbers and credentials aside, you want to hire people you trust. Trust leads to peace of mind, and that’s priceless in any home improvement project.

Choosing Your Mansfield Fence Pro: Final Thoughts

Hiring the right fence contractor might take a little effort upfront, but it pays off big time when you end up with a smooth project and a fence that exceeds your expectations. To recap the essentials: gather recommendations, do your research on experience and reputation, verify that the business is legit (insured and by-the-book), compare a few quotes, and make sure you’re comfortable with their communication and expertise.

By following these 7 tips, you’re stacking the odds in your favor that your new fence will be a source of pride, not frustration. In Mansfield, where our neighborhoods are tight-knit and word travels fast, quality and integrity go a long way. Choose a contractor who values their customers and community, and you’ll be in good hands.

If you’re reading this and feeling a bit more confident about the process, great! And if you need any further guidance or have questions specific to your fencing project, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Tharp Fencing & Staining. We’re always happy to help our Mansfield neighbors make informed decisions—whether or not you ultimately choose us (though we certainly hope you’ll consider it!).

Ready to take the next step? Once you’ve done your homework, the final tip is simple: take action. Reach out for those quotes, ask those questions, and get the ball rolling on your fencing project. And remember, we’re just a call or text away at 817-807-6763 if you’d like a free, no-pressure estimate from a team that checks all the boxes we discussed above.

Good luck with your fencing project, a