Quick answers to things Stamford owners ask us. Prices, permits, repairs and neighbor questions each have a longer guide, linked at the bottom of the page.
How deep should fence posts be set?
Below the frost line. Connecticut building departments use 42 inches as the frost depth for footings, and that is the depth we aim for. A post that stops short of it is the usual reason a fence leans after a few winters.
Should posts be set in concrete, gravel or foam?
Concrete for gate posts, corners, ends and any solid fence that takes wind. Compacted gravel drains well and can suit line posts in wet ground. Expanding foam sets fast, but we do not use it under gates or tall privacy fence.
How long should I wait before staining a new wood fence?
Wait until the wood has dried. Pressure-treated pine is delivered damp and can take weeks or a few months, depending on the season. Flick some water on a board. If it soaks in, you can stain. If it sits in beads, give it more time.
How much does it cost to stain or seal a fence?
The price follows the square footage and the state of the wood, so we do not quote it blind. Ask us to put it on the fence estimate as a separate line.
Can I use deck screws to fix loose pickets?
Yes, as long as they are coated for outdoor use or stainless. Near the Sound, choose stainless. Bare steel rusts fast, and on cedar it leaves dark streaks down the board.
Can a faded vinyl fence be painted?
It can be painted with a product made for vinyl, but then it becomes a fence you repaint. Dark colors soak up heat and can warp a panel. Try a proper wash first. Much of what looks like fading is dirt and mildew.
I want a double gate for an RV or trailer but my posts are weak. Reinforce or rebuild?
Rebuild the gate posts. A wide double gate hangs a great deal of weight off two posts, and ordinary line posts were never sized for it. We set new, heavier posts deep in concrete and rebuild the short section on each side.
Does a new fence raise my property taxes?
Ask the Stamford Assessor's office. Next to the house and land, a fence is a small item, but the assessor is the one who decides.
We only give a firm price after seeing the yard, and the visit is free. Call (203) 409-8830 or text us a photo of the fence line.