Short answers to the questions we hear most in Clarksville. Links to the full guides on cost, permits, repairs and neighbors are at the bottom of the page.
How deep should fence posts be set?
Deep enough for the height of the fence and the wind it will face. A widely used rule is to bury about a third of the post's length, so a 6-foot privacy fence gets a hole of two feet or more, and gate and corner posts go deeper. Frost is shallow in Middle Tennessee and is not what sets the depth here. Wind and soft, wet clay are. Where rock stops the hole short, the post is cored into the rock or anchored to it, not left shallow.
Should posts be set in concrete, gravel or foam?
Concrete is the normal choice in our clay, and it is what we use for gate posts, corners and privacy fence. The top of the concrete should slope away from the post so rain runs off. Packed gravel drains well and can work for line posts on low fences. Expanding foam sets fast, but we would not hang a gate or a tall solid panel on it in storm country.
How long should I wait before staining a new wood fence?
Until the lumber has dried out. Pressure-treated pine is delivered wet and may need several weeks, sometimes longer in a humid spell. Sprinkle water on a picket. When it soaks in, the wood is ready. When it beads up, wait and test again.
How much does it cost to stain or seal a fence?
It varies with the length, the height, both sides or one, and whether old mildew has to be cleaned off first. We have no flat figure to quote. Request it as a separate line when you get your estimate.
Can I use deck screws to fix loose pickets?
Yes, provided they are exterior coated or stainless. Plain steel screws rust fast in this humidity and stain the board. Treated lumber needs fasteners rated for it, and cedar should get stainless to prevent dark streaks around each screw.
Can a faded vinyl fence be painted?
It can, using a paint formulated for vinyl, but from then on it will need repainting. Choose a color near the original, as a dark coat absorbs summer heat and may warp the panel. Wash it before deciding. In Tennessee the green or gray film on vinyl is usually mildew and algae, and it comes off.
I want a double gate for an RV or trailer but my posts are weak. Reinforce or rebuild?
Rebuild the opening. A double gate wide enough for a camper or boat puts heavy leverage on its two posts, and ordinary line posts will not hold it. We install larger gate posts in deep footings and rebuild the fence panel beside each. Check your covenants on parking a trailer behind the fence too.
Does a new fence raise my property taxes?
That is for the county Assessor of Property to say. Compared with the house and the lot, a fence is a minor item.
The only real price is one based on your yard. Call (931) 293-9766 for a free on-site estimate, or text us a photo of the fence line.