When it comes to installing a new fence or making repairs, most homeowners want to find the optimal time to get the job done right while also saving money. For fence companies, the off-season months of October, November and December are ideal times for homeowners to schedule fence projects. Here’s why fall and early winter are economical times for fence work:
Cost Savings
Fence companies offer discounts and deals during their off-season to fill up the schedule. The best deals of the year will come in fall/early winter. This saves you money without sacrificing quality. Since demand declines in the colder months, fencing contractors are eager to line up projects at discounted rates. Fence material suppliers also are helping the contractor during these months by discounting the material costs to help encourage customers to get their fences repaired or replaced during October, November, and December. The savings may not seem huge on small jobs, but for long perimeter runs or full backyard enclosure projects, the dollars can really add up. Your bottom line price for materials and labor could be several hundred dollars less just by timing your project right.
Availability
Fall and winter are less busy times for fencing companies. You’ll have an easier time booking a fence pro since their schedule isn’t packed with winter storms that will blow over in January, February, or March making every fence company very busy! As well the summer is a very busy time for fence companies because people are in the backyards and see how bad a shape their fences are and call to replace them during their backyard remodel projects. During the last quarter of the year, you will have quicker access to an available crew which means faster project completion. Many homeowners want their fence work done during the warmer months when they can enjoy the finished product right away. This leads to high demand and limited availability of qualified fencing contractors in spring and summer. By planning ahead and booking a fall or winter project, you’ll get on the schedule when it’s less crowded. The company will be able to dedicate proper manpower and get your job done on time.
Weather Conditions
Fence building can still take place in cold temps and wet weather. Frozen soil can cause issues with digging post holes, but fences can be installed down to around 25°F in most cases. As long as the thermometer reads above freezing, an experienced fencing crew knows how to work efficiently in cooler weather. The right clothing and taking periodic breaks to warm up are key. Power augers make drilling post holes easier when the ground starts to harden. Rain and moisture aren’t deal breakers either. A damp work site is preferred over hot and dusty conditions. The fence materials can handle some exposure to the elements during installation. And because off-season schedules aren’t as tight, there’s wiggle room if a day or two of work needs to be paused for severe weather.
Material Delivery
Lumber, metal and other fencing materials are readily available year-round from suppliers. Off-season discounts from building supply vendors can also lead to contractor savings that are passed on to you. Fence companies plan ahead and stock up on standard fencing materials so they don’t run out. Special orders for unique fence designs or large projects are also placed by suppliers in advance. Home centers and lumber yards try to sell off inventory at discounted prices in fall/winter too, so contractors often score good deals that translate to customer savings.
Garden/Landscape Protection
Installing a fence during peak gardening or landscaping season can damage your plants. Scheduling for October-December avoids this issue completely. Your yard will be prepped and dormant for easy access and no disruption. Bringing heavy equipment, tools and materials through a mature garden or freshly landscaped area will likely cause harm. By waiting for the off season when plants die back, you eliminate this risk. The bare ground provides a clean palette for the fencing crew to work efficiently. Some soil disturbance is inevitable when digging holes, but your property will have the winter and spring to recover fully.
Privacy Restoration
Evergreen foliage and tree leaves falling off in autumn may reveal unwanted views and other privacy issues. Off-season fence installation quickly resolves this problem. As spring and summer vegetation dies back or sheds leaves, you may notice new sightlines into your yard that expose private living spaces. Fences provide important visual barriers and boundary delineation on a property. Getting your fence up in fall or early winter will bring back that seclusion when you need it most going into the cold weather months. Don’t wait until spring to restore your privacy when you can take care of it quickly in the off season.
Drawbacks to Off-Season Installs
There are a few potential drawbacks to fall and winter fence installation to consider:
Colder Weather Working Conditions
Even experienced fencing crews have to cope with harsher weather elements while installing fences in fall and winter. While no one likes to work when its cold and damp outside, our staff is experienced in working in these conditions. Additionally, many of our crews prefer the cold and damp conditions than the 100-degree days of summer that zap all the energy from anyone! Most fences are outside and we are professionals of working in all weather conditions.
Post-Installation Landscaping
If your new fence will be integrated with the immediate landscaping, the backyard landscape can look a bit bare until spring plants emerge to soften the edges. Evergreens planted alongside will maintain their visual appeal though. Just keep in mind that winter fences stand out more when greenery returns!
Can’t Enjoy Right Away
Unlike a warm weather install, you won’t be able to use and enjoy your new fence space immediately. But the cost savings make the tradeoff worthwhile. By next spring and summer, your yard will be fully outfitted to entertain and play.
In summary, fall through early winter is the optimal time for any fence repair or replacement project. Cost savings, availability of crews, favorable weather conditions, and avoiding landscape disruption make these months especially attractive. The drawbacks are minor when you consider the potential bottom line savings. Contact us today to schedule affordable off-season fence installations, repairs and upgrades! Our experienced team can answer any questions and provide a precise quote for your job. Give us a call and start planning your ideal new fence for next year’s outdoor living season.