Fence Installation in Mansfield, TX
How To Plan For A Smooth Fence Installation In Mansfield, TX.
So you’ve decided you need a fence installation in Manfield, TX, but what do you need to do and what do you need to know in order to get the best value for your money? We hope to help you with these questions. But first, congrats on looking to install a new fence – that’s exciting!
Whether it’s for added privacy, keeping the dogs in, or boosting your home’s value, a well-planned fence project can make a huge difference. But where do you start? Don’t worry, we’ve got a handy roadmap for you. This guide will walk you through planning a fence installation in Mansfield, TX step by step, so you know exactly what to expect. From the early planning stages (like figuring out property lines and budgets) all the way to the final coat of stain, we’re covering it. With a bit of preparation, your fence build will be smooth sailing.
Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the key steps to ensure your fencing project is a success.
In a rush? Here’s the key elements in this article for you to glance so you can come back later and get the details.
Key Elements
Know Your Goals: Decide early on the fence’s purpose (privacy, security, decoration) and any community rules (HOA guidelines, city height limits) that affect your project.
Budget Wisely: Plan your budget by considering fence length, material, and features – most Mansfield homeowners spend a varied amount depending on how big the project is, but one thing we do offer is a 100% FREE Estimate so as part of your planing process feel free to call us or text us with any questions. We GUARANTEE our work and WE GUARANTEE no high-pressure sales people or techniques. We’re local and not like some of the big companies that have sales teams with quotas so when you reach out to us, you’re talking to a neighbor and fellow Texan who wants to earn your business and keep your trust. So reach out – 817-807-6367
Hire the Right Help: Consider getting a professional installer for best results. Even if you don’t choose us, we can help you answer questions. Compare quotes and check references (see our hiring a fence contractor tips).
Prep for Installation: Clear the fence line, discuss plans with neighbors, and call 811 to mark underground utilities before work begins.
Finish and Enjoy: Inspect the finished fence, apply stain or sealant if needed, and establish a maintenance routine to keep your fence looking great for years.
Table of Contents
Step 1: Define Your Fence’s Purpose and Plan
Step 2: Check Rules, Permits, and Property Lines
Step 3: Set a Budget (Material and Length Matter)
Step 4: Prepare Your Yard and Schedule Installation
Step 5: Installation Day and Aftercare
Wrapping Up: Enjoy Your New Fence
Step 1: Define Your Fence’s Purpose and Plan
First things first – what do you want from your fence? Knowing your goals will guide a lot of decisions down the road. Are you craving some privacy from that busy street or nosy neighbor? Looking to secure your backyard for kids and pets? Maybe you just love the look of a white picket fence framing your garden. Different goals might mean different fence styles or heights.
Take a moment to sketch out (even if just in your head) your ideal fence:
Location & Layout: Mark where you want the fence to go. Which parts of your property need fencing? Decide on gates and their placement (you’ll want at least one gate for access; more if your yard is big or you have multiple entry points).
Height & Style: Mansfield residents often choose 6-foot wood privacy fences for backyards. But perhaps you want a lower decorative fence in front, or a taller fence for extra security. Also think style: solid panels, picket, shadow-box, iron, etc. Browse pictures online or drive around Mansfield neighborhoods for inspiration – Walnut Creek or Heritage Estates have some great variety in fence designs.
Material: Common options are wood (cedar is popular here), metal (wrought iron or aluminum), vinyl, or chain link. Each has pros and cons in terms of looks, maintenance, and cost. If you’re not sure, list your top two and you can decide after getting some quotes (more on that later).
By defining these aspects, you essentially create a “wishlist” for your fence. It’s okay if you adjust things later based on budget or advice from a pro, but starting with a clear vision helps a lot.
One more thing in planning: talk with family or anyone who shares the space. Make sure everyone’s on the same page about the fence goals. It’s easier to iron out differing opinions now than mid-project!
Step 2: Check Rules, Permits, and Property Lines
No one likes tearing down a freshly built fence because of a technicality. Save yourself that nightmare by doing a quick check on rules and boundaries upfront:
HOA Guidelines: If you have a Homeowners Association (HOA), check their rules on fences (height, style, color) and get any required approvals before you start building.
City Permits & Codes: The City of Mansfield has fence regulations too. Generally, fences up to 6 feet tall in backyards are allowed, but taller fences will need a permit (Tharp Fencing and Staining will help you with all of this if we’re doing the work)
mansfieldtexas.gov
. Also, there are rules about not blocking visibility near street corners. Verify city requirements and secure any needed permit before building.Property Lines: You don’t want to accidentally build a fence on your neighbor’s land (talk about awkward!). Locate your property lines (using a survey if available) to avoid encroaching on your neighbor’s land. When in doubt, consider getting a surveyor – it’s an extra expense but far cheaper than relocating a fence later.
Neighbor Discussions: While not a legal requirement, it’s courteous to discuss your plans with neighbors on shared boundaries. Let them know your intentions to avoid surprises (and who knows, sometimes neighbors offer to split the cost for a shared fence!).
By ensuring you follow HOA rules and city codes and respect property lines, you’ll avoid major headaches. This step sets the legal and logistical foundation for your project. Once cleared, you can move forward confidently, knowing you won’t have to undo anything later.
Step 3: Set a Budget (Material and Length Matter)
Fencing costs can vary widely, so establishing at least a rough budget is important. In Mansfield (and generally across DFW), the cost will depend on:
Fence Length: The more footage, the more materials and labor needed, obviously. Walk your planned fence line with a measuring tape or wheel to get an approximate length in feet.
Material Choice: Different materials come with different price tags. Wood is generally moderate in cost; cedar will cost more than pine. Chain link tends to be cheaper. Ornamental iron or aluminum is usually more expensive per foot. It is important to know what your HOA allows. And keep in mind that prices vary based on so many factors such as tariffs, supply amounts, and much more. But in general you can find a little bit of info about fence costs by looking here —>angi.com
.Gates and Extras: Don’t forget to factor in gates (which cost more than straight fence sections). A standard 3-4 foot wide wood gate might add a few hundred dollars. Fancy double-wide gates or metal gates will cost more. Also, consider any extra features like a decorative top, post caps, or a rot board at the bottom of a wood fence – these will add to the cost, so prioritize what matters to you.
Once you have an idea of these factors, set a budget range you’re comfortable with. Maybe you’re thinking, “I’d like to keep it around $3,000, but I can go up to $4,000 for the right fence.” That gives you and any contractors a target to work toward.
If costs come in higher than expected, you have options: you could do the project in phases (fence the backyard now, front later), choose a less expensive material, or shorten the fence length in less crucial areas. Most fence companies can tweak the plan to help meet a budget if they know what they’re aiming for.
Step 4: Prepare Your Yard and Schedule Installation
As the installation day approaches, there are a few prep steps to handle to ensure everything goes smoothly:
Mark Underground Utilities: This is crucial for safety. A few days before digging, call 811 or submit an online request via Texas 811 to mark underground utility lines. It’s a free service. Within a couple of days, utility crews will mark where your gas, water, electric, and cable lines run. Even if you hire a contractor, confirm that this step is done. Hitting a gas or water line can turn a fence project into a disaster, so always know what’s below before anyone digs (in fact, it’s Texas law to call before digging
rrc.texas.gov).Yard Cleanup: Clear the fence line of any obstacles. Trim back bushes or low-hanging branches that would be in the way. Move lawn furniture, kids’ toys, or anything else along the path of the fence. If an old fence is there, decide if you’re removing it yourself or having the contractor do it (many will remove and haul away old fencing for an added fee). The clearer the area, the faster the install will go.
Notify Neighbors: Give nearby neighbors a heads-up about the work schedule. Building a fence will make some noise (post hole diggers, hammers, etc.), and if the fence is on a shared boundary, workers might briefly be on the neighbor’s side to set posts or attach panels. A friendly notice shows consideration and can prevent any annoyance. Most neighbors appreciate knowing the timeline and will be supportive—especially if the new fence benefits them too.
Access Arrangements: Ensure the crew can get into your yard easily. Unlock any existing gates or provide them a code if needed. If you have pets, secure them in a safe area away from where the fence is being built (perhaps keep them indoors or in a kennel during work hours). You don’t want a pet escaping when the old fence comes down or gates are left open during construction.
Weather Watch: Keep an eye on the forecast as your installation day nears. A light rain usually won’t stop a fence crew, but heavy rain or storms might cause a delay. Likewise, extremely windy days could slow work when handling large fence panels. Your contractor will usually reach out if a schedule change is needed due to weather. Be a bit flexible—better to build under good conditions than force it in bad weather.
By handling these preparations, you’ll set the stage for a hassle-free installation. Think of it like prepping a canvas before painting: a clean, ready surface helps the final outcome turn out its best.
Step 5: Installation Day and Aftercare
Fence day is here! Knowing what to expect will make the experience smoother for you:
Work Timeline: For an average yard, a professional fence crew often completes the job in one to two days. Day one typically involves removing old fencing (if applicable), digging post holes, and setting posts in concrete. Day two, once the concrete has set, they’ll attach the rails and pickets or panels, hang the gates, and do finishing touches. Larger or more complex projects might extend to a third day, but that’s less common.
Noise and Activity: There will be the sounds of construction – expect some motor noise from augers (for digging) and saws, plus nail guns or hammering. It might get a bit loud, but usually it’s confined to daylight working hours. Plan your day accordingly if you work from home (it might not be the best day for conference calls without mute!).
Your Role: You don’t need to hover over the crew (they know what to do), but be available in case they have questions or decisions for you. Typically, a good crew lead will check in at the start and maybe once during the build to confirm things like gate placement or any on-the-fly adjustments. Feel free to peek at progress, but it’s best to give them space to work efficiently.
Unexpected Bumps: Sometimes the installers encounter an issue – maybe an old concrete footing from a previous fence that’s tough to remove, or a slight slope that requires a fence panel to be “stepped” rather than level. They might run a quick solution by you if it affects the look (e.g., “We need to step this section due to the grade; are you okay with that?”). These things are normal in custom building. A seasoned crew handles most surprises without trouble, but open communication ensures you get the result you want.
Quality Check: Once the fence is up, walk the perimeter with the crew leader. Inspect everything together: Are the posts all plumb (vertically straight)? Do gates swing freely and latch securely? Is the fence line following the ground nicely without big gaps? This is the time to bring up any concerns. Good contractors want you happy and will adjust anything reasonable on the spot.
Clean-Up: The crew should leave your yard tidy. They’ll typically haul away old fence debris and excess materials. You may notice some disturbed soil or clumps of dirt from the post holes – they usually rake it back into place, but you might need to do a little additional leveling or seeding later. All in all, your yard should look as good as new, plus a beautiful fence.
After Installation – Maintenance: While you’re admiring your new fence, don’t forget about taking care of it so it looks great long-term. For wood fences, plan to stain or seal it within a few weeks if it didn’t come pre-sealed. This protects the wood from weathering (and typically Mansfield’s warm, dry fall or spring is a great time for staining). For metal fences, occasionally check for any scratches in the paint and touch them up to prevent rust. If you have a sprinkler system, try to point sprinklers away from directly hitting a wood fence to prolong its life. Simple habits like these will keep your fence looking fresh.
Wrapping Up: Enjoy Your New Fence
By following these steps, you’ve set yourself up for fence success. With your new fence standing proudly, take a moment to enjoy the added privacy and security it brings. Your home’s backyard is now truly your space, framed and protected just the way you wanted.
If you’re still in planning mode and want professional help, don’t hesitate to reach out for a free estimate. Give us a call or text at 817-807-6763 – our team at Tharp Fencing & Staining is ready to assist in making your Mansfield fence project a success.