A new fence is a significant investment and will be an exciting addition to your property. When getting ready for the fence installation, you can make the process go smoothly and avoid headaches in the future by making the right preparations.

Do:

Double-check your property lines.

You need to be 100% sure about your property lines unless you want to end up possibly moving your new fence. Making a mistake could be very costly and time-consuming. To recheck your property lines, you can go to your local assessor's office or find the legal description of your lot on your property deed.

Contact the local zoning department.

It's common for zoning departments to have rules regarding fences. For example, sometimes only certain types of fencing are allowed. Other times, there is a strict height limit. In addition to the zoning department, make sure your HOA doesn't have any regulations regarding fences.

Select the right fencing material.

When getting a new fence, you'll need to choose the right material for your property. Wood fences are attractive and affordable; however, they require more maintenance. Vinyl fencing is durable and can provide a lot of privacy, but it is also more costly than wood and can crack in extreme temperatures. Steel fencing is strong and lasts a long time, but it's heavy and might be impractical for family use.

Don't:

Forget to tell your neighbors.

It's a good idea to inform all your neighbors that will be impacted by the fence installation. Sometimes, a neighbor will agree to chip in for the cost of the fence if it's mutually beneficial. At the very least, you'll clear up any disputes before the installation begins.

Overlook gate placement.

You should select the number of gates you want and their exact locations before any work is done. It's much more challenging to add a gate after a fence is complete and could cost you quite a bit of money. Don't forget about the gates you may want on the back or the side of your property.

Let your pets wander around the site.

Once the installation begins, keep your outdoor pets away from the worksite. A pet may inadvertently slow down progress or may even be injured. Consider boarding your outdoor pets during the process, as that could make life easier for everyone involved -- including your pets.

If you are looking to install a new fence around your property, contact the experts at A & B Fence in Newark, OH. This trusted fencing company has been serving residential and business customers throughout Licking County since 1969. They offer high-quality, affordable fence installations using today's top brands. Call (740) 344-7943 to set up an appointment or visit their website for more information.