Short answers to questions we hear from homeowners in the Charlotte area. Our longer guides on cost, permits, repairs and neighbors are linked at the bottom of the page.
How deep should fence posts be set?
It depends on the height of the fence and the soil. A common rule of thumb is to bury about one third of the post. Frost is shallow in the Charlotte area, so the depth is chosen for wind and for clay that softens when wet. Gate posts, corner posts and tall solid fences go deeper.
Should posts be set in concrete, gravel or foam?
We use concrete. Red clay drains slowly, so the concrete is finished above the soil and sloped so that water runs off the post. Gravel alone does not hold well in clay that turns soft. Foam is quick, but we would not rely on it for gates or 6-foot privacy fence.
How long should I wait before staining a new wood fence?
Until the wood is dry. Treated pine comes wet from the mill. Drip water on a board: if it soaks in, the wood is ready for stain. If it sits on the surface, wait. In humid weather this can take a number of weeks, and cedar is ready sooner than pine.
How much does it cost to stain or seal a fence?
It is priced by the area and the condition of the wood, so we do not quote one figure. Ask for it as a separate line with your fence estimate.
Can I use deck screws to fix loose pickets?
Yes. Use exterior-coated or stainless screws that are rated for treated lumber. The chemicals in treated pine corrode plain steel, and humidity speeds that up.
Can a faded vinyl fence be painted?
It can, with a paint made to bond to vinyl. It will need repainting in time. Stay with light colors, since dark paint absorbs heat in a Carolina summer and can distort the panels. Wash the fence first. Mildew and dirt often make vinyl look more faded than it is.
I want a double gate for an RV or trailer but my posts are weak. Reinforce or rebuild?
Rebuild the opening. A wide double gate needs larger posts set deep in concrete, often steel. Standard fence posts will not carry it for long, least of all in clay. We set new gate posts and rebuild the sections on either side to tie in.
What about termites and carpenter bees?
Both are common here. Pressure treatment protects pine posts and rails from termites. Carpenter bees bore into bare, unpainted wood, mostly rails and caps. Stain or paint discourages them, and vinyl and aluminum are not affected.
Does a new fence raise my property taxes?
Ask your county assessor. In Charlotte that is the Mecklenburg County Assessor's Office. A fence is a small item compared with the house and land.
The only way to get a real price for your yard is a site visit, and ours is free. Call (980) 291-4187 or text us a photo of the fence line.