Question 1

Is FencingOfHouston.com a fence company?

Accepted Answer

No. We are a fence and gate project referral and contractor-matching platform. Estimates, surveys, permits, installation, warranties, and project performance are provided by independent contractors. We connect you with qualified Houston-area professionals and let you compare before you authorize any work.

Question 2

How does the matching process work?

Accepted Answer

You submit one detailed project request describing your fence or gate needs. We route it to qualified, vetted contractors who serve your area and handle your project type and materials. You review their credentials, scope, and pricing before deciding who to hire.

Question 3

How much does it cost to use the platform?

Accepted Answer

Submitting a project request and getting matched is free for property owners. You only pay the contractor you choose to hire, under a contract directly between you and that contractor.

Question 4

How quickly will I hear back?

Accepted Answer

Response times depend on contractor availability and your project's urgency. Emergency and storm-damage requests are flagged for faster routing. Provide accurate contact details and project information to speed things up.

Question 5

Can you give me an exact price online?

Accepted Answer

No online tool can give a binding price. Final cost depends on field measurement, property lines, gates, terrain, access, material selection, removal of existing fence, and contractor review. Our calculator provides a rough planning range only.

Question 6

What affects the cost of a fence?

Accepted Answer

Linear footage, height, material, style, number and type of gates, terrain and grade changes, old-fence removal, staining or sealing, site access, and local permit or HOA requirements all affect price.

Question 7

Do contractors offer free estimates?

Accepted Answer

Many Houston fence contractors offer free on-site estimates, but this is set by each independent contractor. Confirm estimate terms directly with the professional you are matched with.

Question 8

Is the fence calculator accurate?

Accepted Answer

The calculator is a planning aid that estimates materials and a rough cost range. It is not a quote. Your final scope and price come from an on-site contractor estimate.

Question 9

What is the best fence material for Houston?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your goals. Cedar is the premium wood choice for privacy; vinyl and composite minimize maintenance; aluminum and ornamental iron suit decorative and pool applications; chain link is the value option. Our materials guide compares each in the Houston climate.

Question 10

How long does a wood fence last in Houston?

Accepted Answer

With proper installation and maintenance, cedar can last 15-30 years and pressure-treated pine 10-20 years. Gulf Coast humidity, sun, and drainage all affect lifespan, so sealing matters.

Question 11

Do I need to stain or seal my wood fence?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Staining and sealing protect wood from Houston sun and moisture, slow graying, and extend the fence's life. Plan to reseal roughly every 2-3 years.

Question 12

What is board-on-board fencing?

Accepted Answer

Board-on-board overlaps pickets on alternating sides of the rails, eliminating gaps as the wood dries. It provides full privacy and a premium look, using more material than a side-by-side fence.

Question 13

Can I add an automatic gate to my driveway?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Contractors design swing, slide, and cantilever driveway gates with automation, safety sensors, and access control sized to your entry width, slope, and power availability.

Question 14

What access control options are available?

Accepted Answer

Keypads, RFID, video and telephone intercoms, and smartphone or cloud-managed control are all available. The right choice depends on how many users need access and whether you manage deliveries or multiple vehicles.

Question 15

Why do gates fail before the rest of the fence?

Accepted Answer

Gates carry the most stress from daily use. Anti-sag frame construction, commercial-grade hinges and latches, and proper post setting are what keep a gate square and functioning for years.

Question 16

Who is responsible for locating property lines?

Accepted Answer

Property owners are generally responsible for confirming boundaries. A current survey helps avoid disputes. Contractors typically install to the lines you identify, so confirm boundaries and easements before work begins.

Question 17

Do I need a permit to build a fence in Houston?

Accepted Answer

Requirements vary by jurisdiction and HOA. Some areas require permits for certain heights or locations. Your matched contractor can advise, but confirm local rules and deed restrictions yourself.

Question 18

What about utility lines before digging?

Accepted Answer

Texas law requires calling 811 before digging so utilities can be located and marked. Confirm who is responsible for the 811 request in your written scope with the contractor.

Question 19

Do HOA and deed restrictions affect my fence?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. HOAs and deed restrictions can dictate height, material, color, style, and setback. Check your rules and get written approval where required before starting.

Question 20

How are shared or neighbor fences handled?

Accepted Answer

Shared fence lines can involve cost-sharing and access agreements with neighbors. Discuss responsibilities and boundaries up front, and get any cost-sharing understanding in writing.

Question 21

Can my fence be repaired instead of replaced?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. Rotted or leaning posts, damaged pickets and rails, and misaligned gates can frequently be repaired. A contractor can advise whether repair or replacement is more cost-effective.

Question 22

My fence was damaged in a storm — what should I do?

Accepted Answer

Document the damage with photos for insurance, secure any hazards, and submit a repair request. Storm and emergency requests are flagged for faster contractor routing.

Question 23

Will insurance cover storm fence damage?

Accepted Answer

Coverage depends on your policy. Photograph the damage and keep contractor documentation. Contractors can provide repair estimates that support your claim, but coverage decisions rest with your insurer.

Question 24

How do I make my new fence more wind-resistant?

Accepted Answer

Options include steel posts set deeper in concrete, wider post spacing analysis, hurricane clips, and shadowbox or spaced designs that let wind pass through. Discuss wind resistance with your contractor.

Question 25

Are the contractors vetted?

Accepted Answer

We match you with professionals we screen for the platform, but you should always review each contractor's licensing where applicable, insurance, references, written scope, and contract before authorizing work.

Question 26

What should I check before hiring?

Accepted Answer

Review credentials and insurance, a written and itemized scope with exclusions, property-line assumptions, materials and warranty terms, timeline, and payment schedule. Never authorize work without a written contract.

Question 27

Can I get more than one estimate?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We encourage comparing options. Reviewing multiple estimates helps you understand scope differences and make an informed decision.

Question 28

Who holds the warranty on my fence?

Accepted Answer

Warranties are provided by the independent contractor and material manufacturers, not by the platform. Get all warranty terms in writing before work begins.

Question 29

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve Greater Houston, including Harris, Fort Bend, Montgomery, Brazoria, Galveston, and Chambers counties, and dozens of surrounding cities and communities. Check our service areas page for your city.

Question 30

Do you cover commercial and industrial projects?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Matched contractors handle commercial security fencing, industrial gate operators, access control, and temporary construction fencing, with scheduling around active operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Getting Started

Pricing & Estimates

Materials

Gates & Access

Property & Permits

Repairs & Storms

Contractors

Service Area