When it comes to home improvement projects like fence installation, many individuals in St. Petersburg want to go the DIY route. Professionals are a great way to get the job done quickly, expertly, and successfully, but some residents like to be hands-on and are excited by the challenge. We can certainly relate to that! If you choose to do it yourself, here are three tips to keep in mind.
1. Measure Once, Measure Twice, and Measure Again
The mistake we see most often with DIY fence installation projects is that people measure incorrectly. Even worse, they measure one time and cut panels, resulting in wasted materials and supplies. To prevent this, we recommend measuring three times before cutting, just to be on the safe side.
2. Use quick-setting Concrete for Fence Installation
When you have everything trimmed, aligned, and holes dug up, you are ready to set the fencing. This requires a secure, lasting bond so that wind, rain, or hurricanes in St. Petersburg don’t knock it over. Many professionals use concrete because of its hardening properties, but if you go this route, use the quick-setting kind. You won’t want to be standing around holding each post for hours or trying to prop them up and prevent them from falling over while it dries. To eliminate this issue, quick-setting bonds will move things along.
3. Weather-proof Your Fence
If you’ve chosen a wood fence then it’s important to know which wood your fence was made from. Your finish will vary based on the wood’s amount of natural oil. If the wood contains natural oils, as cedar and redwood do, the fence will do best with occasional oiling. Other woods, such as cypress and spruce, do best with a water-based finish.
Annually power-washing your fence helps its longevity by keeping it free of mildew. Make sure to fill in large holes and cracks, but stay away from clear all-over sealers as they can suffocate the need for your wood fence to breathe. Giving your fence a periodic polish with a good wax will keep it shiny and protected for years to come.
If you’ve chosen a material other than wood for your new fence, then see the manufacturer’s maintenance suggestion.
Bonus Tip
4. Hire Fence Installation Professionals!
While we may be a bit biased, we know that hiring professionals in St. Petersburg for your fence installation is a smart choice. Not only will you get to sit back, relax, and enjoy other things while we do the heavy labor, but you can rest assured knowing that your yard is being protected by sturdy, professionally installed fencing.
Professor Green Thumb has been helping St. Petersburg residents with their lawn and garden needs since 2004 and has garnered a toolbox of expertise along the way. We can do it all for you while you find more relaxing ways to spend time under the Florida sun. We’ll be happy to hear your landscaping goals and assist with your upcoming projects. To learn more about what we can do for you, or to begin exploring our fence installation services, give us a call at (727) 417-3311.
