Fence Installation Howard County

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  • Columbia, MD
  • Elkridge, MD
  • Fulton, MD
  • North Laurel, MD
  • Dayton, MD
  • Ellicott City, MD
  • Glenelg, MD
  • West Friendship, MD
  • Woodstock, MD
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Steps for Fence Installation

  1. Check ordinances. Some towns have restrictions about the type of fencing material that can be used while homeowners associations tend to restrict the height, color and finish of fences installed throughout the neighborhood.
  2. Mark underground utilities. The last thing we want to do is cut a gas or power line in the process of installing a fence.
  3. Determine the property lines. The County assessor has maps of where property lines fall in every yard.
  4. Once the ground work has been laid, we will begin to draw out where the fence will sit in your property. We will take into account any obstructions like bushes or trees and help you determine where you would like your fence to sit relative to your home and yard.
  5. We will then measure and mark your yard and check to make sure you are satisfied with the placement of your fence and gates before installing.
  6. Installation of your chosen fence begins!

Do I need a permit for fence installation?

Howard County requires anyone installing a fence higher than six feet to first obtain a permit. This is to not only ensure the fence meets the minimum requirements set forth by county law, it also adds a layer of protection to those who are hiring a company to install a fence. If a fence contractor does not obtain a Howard County permit before beginning installation, the county can require the homeowner to move or even remove the fence. Hoco Fence is not only familiar with the permit process, we work to ensure permits are obtained quickly before any installation begins. To set up a consultation to discuss your fencing project, contact us today.

What are the Howard County Fence Installation and Repair Rules?

Howard county fence rules are different than many other areas in Maryland. Every pool is required to have a fence with a self-closing gate. Within that requirement are several rules regarding height of the fence, spacing between pickets, size of decorative work on the top of the fence, and location with relation to the swimming pool. If the fence is chain link, the mesh size cannot exceed 2.25 inches unless slats are used that reduce the openings. If the fence is composed of diagonal lattice, the maximum opening cannot exceed 1.75 inches. All aluminum ornamental fencing must be a minimum of 48” high and have a picket spacing of less than 4 inches. Fortunately, our sales staff is well-versed in these rules and regulations and can help you select a fence option that not only meets the county ordinance requirements, but also meets your design taste as well. That is why we manufacture many of our own parts in-house so you are not limited to what you might find in a hardware store or catalog of pre-fabricated materials.

Most rules for fence repair are governed by local townships and homeowner’s associations. They require that your fence be structurally sound and periodically painted, stained or washed to ensure it retains its good-as-new appearance. Those found in violation of these rules will often face fines or penalties imposed by homeowners associations or local neighborhood watches.

However, Howard County Fence rules state that fences around swimming pools must be kept in good repair in order to remain compliant with safety laws. Any time a fence around a swimming pool is in disrepair or a gate does not automatically close the way it should, it poses a safety hazard for children, adults and animals in the neighborhood. It is imperative that any fence repairs around a swimming pool be performed immediately, not only to protect anyone around the pool but also to protect the homeowner from liability should an accident occur.

What Types of Fence Repair Does HoCo Fence Offer?

HoCo Fence offers every type of fence repair imaginable. From fixing broken wooden pickets to restructuring gates so they swing easily. Our knowledgeable, experienced technicians will assess your broken fence and discuss the best possible repair options for you. In some instances, it may be necessary to replace a section of fence, a gate or the entire fence. We will make recommendations based on your needs, your budget and the style and type of your fence.

Additional Fence Installation and Repair FAQs

What if I have a Homeowner's Association?

…and are you familiar with its requirements for submitting an application for approval. Some HOA’s will require your plat with a drawing of the proposed fence, a picture of what the completed fence will look like and a completed application form. We also suggest sending in a copy of our quote as we give a detailed description of how the fence will be erected.

Where should my fence be located?

…and will you need several gates? Some customers like the ability to drive a vehicle into their enclosed area. Are you looking to do some future landscaping or construction and need the accessibility?

Which materials should I choose for my fence?

Fences can be built from several different materials. HoCo specializes in woodornamental , vinyl and chain link. In choosing the right material these are things you should keep in mind.

You can enclose your area with any of the above options and have several different choices if you are looking to stay within a specific price point.

  • Chain link is a low cost option and you can even build a chain link fence that is coated in black vinyl to add a more expensive look to your fence.
  • Wood is a very versatile material that lends itself to many different looks. From a split rail fence to a 6′ tall privacy with lattice. The possibilities are endless when using this material.
  • Vinyl is a great option for those clients not wanting to spend their summers pressure washing and staining. This material is a low maintenance solution. Once this product is installed your work is finished.
  • Aluminum is another great option for those wanting the low maintenance route. Aluminum fences can give your space a very high end look while still providing you with the security a fence brings.

Each fence has its own set of great attributes and your salesman can help you choose the right material that fits your budget and needs.

What do I need to consider if I have a pet?

Is your fence going to be used to fence in a pet? Picket spacing and height are good questions to ask your representative.

Do I need a copy of my property plat?

You either need that or you need to locate your property pins. It’s important so that we can better advise you in terms of fence location while staying within the property lines.

How Do I Know if I Need to Repair or Replace My Fence?

If your fence is no longer meeting your needs, if it is not placed on the correct property line, if it is too short, if the pickets are too far apart, if you have sections that are in bad shape, or if you are simply tired of looking at the same boring fence, it is easy to see that it may be time to change out your fence entirely.

Some fences can be fixed with simple repairs such as changing hinges, repainting or staining, replacing pickets, or pressure washing. In this case, repairing a fence is a much more economical approach than an all-out replacement.

There are instances that are not so cut and dried. Repeated repairs can sometimes eclipse the cost of replacement. But there are a few rules of thumb when it comes to deciding whether to repair or replace your fence. If you have to replace more than 20 percent of your pickets, panels or post, it is time for a new fence. Likewise, if your fence is more than 20 years old, repairing it is an exercise in futility. Most fences can weather well, if properly maintained, for between 20 and 50 years. Older fences that are in need of repair will require more and more repairs year after year until the whole fence is eventually overhauled. Why not enjoy a new fence all at once?

What is the Difference between Residential and Commercial Fencing?

Aside from the obvious difference in where the fence is located, residential fencing and commercial fencing also vary in the types of materials that are used, their placement and the permit process required to install a commercial fence.

For instance, residential aluminum fence panels are ideal for most homes, yards, pools, or gardens. Commercial aluminum panels are sturdier than residential panels with larger pickets, larger rails, and a thicker gauge metal material. In some cases, homeowners opt for commercial fencing around pool areas because they offer added security in high traffic areas.

Commercial fencing panels have pickets that are wider and thicker than residential panels. Some come with spear tops for an added level of security while others can be manufactured to include decorative panels.

What Types of Commercial Fencing Do We Offer?

HoCo Fence offers a variety of commercial fencing options that are designed for safety and security around your office or business. If you want a fence that we don’t have, we will manufacture it in house in order to ensure you are pleased with the result. Among our most common types of commercial fencing are:

  • Commercial chain link fencing – Unlike residential chain link fencing, commercial chain link fencing is generally 6 foot or taller with heavier gauge material and a smaller mesh. It is one of the least expensive fencing options that offers maintenance free wear and decades of security.
  • Commercial aluminum ornamental fencing – Commercial aluminum fencing is durable, low maintenance and can be color treated for additional style appeal. Typically made from a higher gauge material than its residential counterpart, slats and panels are placed closer together for additional security.
  • Industrial steel ornamental fencing – Industrial steel fencing is high strength, low maintenance and aesthetically pleasing. When you want a fence looks great and will meet the highest security standards nothing compares to powder coated iron fence.

What Should I Look for in a Commercial Fencing Company?

One of the most common questions we get is, “What do I look for in commercial fence contractors near me?” Most people want to hire a commercial fence company that is locally owned and operated. Not only does this help infuse money back into the local economy, a locally owned company will be familiar with the rules, regulations and laws that govern Howard County and the surrounding areas.

You want a commercial fencing company that is backed by extensive experience in the business. At HoCo Fence, our owners and professional installers have more than 15 years of experience in commercial fencing. We never use subcontractors to complete the work on your commercial property and instead use only our own employees who are licensed and insured to the fullest extent possible. We take our commitment to customer satisfaction one step further by having our company owner personally inspect every job site for quality craftsmanship and job completion. You will receive the fence you selected in the timeframe you were promised, with the workmanship you have come to expect.

What is Commercial Fence Repair?

Commercial fencing is different from residential fencing. Made from a higher grade of materials, commercial fencing is generally more secure, spaced closer together and installed with protections that offer added security to a home, business or other space. When it comes time for this type of fencing to be replaced, it is not enough to hire a residential fence company in Maryland. In order to have repairs completed with the same type of material, spaced in the same manner, offering the same security, it is vital to contact a commercial fence repair contractor.

How do I know whether I need a Commercial Fence Repair or Replacement?

There are some times when it is obvious that a commercial fence needs to be replaced instead of repaired. Most fencing can last between 20 and 50 years if it is properly maintained and periodic repairs are made. If your fence is in need of repair and has been guarding your commercial property for more than 20 years, it may be more economical to simply replace it rather than attempt to repair it. A good general rule of thumb is, if you need to replace more than 20 percent of your fence’s panels, posts or pickets, it will save you money in the long run to replace the whole thing.

Other times, it may surprise you what can be repaired. If a portion of your fence was damaged by an accident, if certain panels are damaged or the chain link cut in some areas, it can be repaired without going to the time, expense and hassle of replacing the whole thing.

What is the Difference between HoCo Fence and other Local Fence Contractors?

Many local fence contractors specialize in “fence installation” but their expertise does not go beyond purchasing pre-fabricated materials and putting them in the ground. At HoCo Fence, our professional installation experts have a minimum of 15 years not only installing high-quality commercial fences, but manufacturing them in-house as well. If you do not find what you are looking for in our list of materials, we will gladly create it for you.

We also specialize in a customer service experience beyond compare. From initial bid to completion of the work, you will only encounter our employees, never a subcontractor. You will also have an opportunity to speak with our company’s owner as he inspects every job for quality assurance, customer satisfaction and job completion.

Best of all, HoCo Fence is not only locally owned and operated, it is family owned and operated. Our owners and employees live in and around Howard County, and just like you and want to ensure Howard County is safe and beautiful.