Why do posts decide how long a fence lasts?
Almost every failed fence fails at the posts. North Texas clay swells when wet and shrinks when dry, over and over through the year, and a post that is not set deep enough gets worked loose until it leans or snaps at ground level. The point where a wood post meets the soil also stays damp longest, which is where rot starts.
Setting posts properly is slower, and it is what separates a fence that stands straight for many years from one you are propping up after a few seasons. Good post work means:
- Enough depth for the height of the fence and the soil.
- Concrete footings shaped to shed water away from the post rather than hold it around the base.
- Time to cure before rails and pickets are hung.
- Old footings removed, not left in the ground to cause problems with the new posts.
Which fence materials make sense in DFW?
Cedar is the most common residential choice in this area, valued for natural rot resistance and stability. Treated pine costs less but warps more. Ornamental metal suits front yards and pools, chain link suits large perimeters and dog runs, and vinyl suits owners who don’t want to stain or seal. The right material depends on purpose, budget and HOA rules.
| Material | Best for | Trade-offs |
|---|---|---|
| Cedar | Privacy fences, long life | Higher cost than pine; grays unless sealed |
| Treated pine | Lower budget privacy fences | More warping and cupping |
| Ornamental metal | Front yards, pools, open views | No privacy; higher cost per foot |
| Chain link | Large areas, dog runs, utility areas | Utilitarian look |
| Vinyl | No staining or sealing | Higher up-front cost |
We will walk you through material options at the estimate and put the material, height and gate details in writing.
Our guide to residential fencing options goes into each type in more detail.
Why do gates fail first?
Gates are the only moving part of a fence and take all the handling, so they fail first. A gate hung on undersized posts sags within a year and starts dragging. Gate posts should be heavier and set deeper than line posts, the frame should be braced diagonally, and the hinges and latch should be sized for the weight.
For a double gate wide enough for a vehicle or trailer, the span, center drop rod and latch need to be planned before the posts go in. That is much easier to get right at the start than to fix later.
What should you check before building a new fence?
Check three things before any post goes in: your property line, your HOA’s rules, and what is buried in the yard. Fences built on a neighbor’s land or against HOA rules sometimes have to come down. Many HOAs set height, material, style and which way the finished side faces.
- Property line. Your survey or plat shows where the line runs. If markers are missing, sort that out first.
- HOA rules. Get written approval where it is required. We can provide the material, height and style details your board asks for.
- Buried utilities. Call 811 a few days before digging so gas, water and cable lines are marked.
- Drainage. A fence shouldn’t dam water against the house or a neighbor’s yard.
Can fencing be done alongside other exterior work?
Yes. If you are already planning exterior painting or siding, fencing fits into the same project, and the stain color can be chosen to suit the house. One contractor and one schedule is simpler than coordinating several trades. Our residential page lists everything we handle.
To book a free fence estimate, call (817) 754-9484 or request one online. We look at the existing fence or the site, discuss materials and layout, and give you a written estimate.