Fencing your property is a big investment, and you have to make a choice that not only ensures privacy and security but adds to your home’s curb appeal. Concrete remains the foremost choice of many homeowners in Boise, primarily because of its durability and low maintenance. The strength of a concrete fence is incomparable, but a lot also depends on how the contractor does the job. In this guide, we will discuss common mistakes customers make when choosing an installer for concrete fencing in Boise.
Mistake #1: Hiring the Cheapest One
Concrete fencing has a high upfront cost, especially when comparing the prices with wood and vinyl. That’s the reason the estimates you get are likely to be higher. Many homeowners just choose the lowest bid, only to regret it later. Contractors often offer low prices by cutting corners, which means there will be compromises on many fronts. It could be something like poor materials or unskilled labor, or the team is probably handling ten different projects at the same time, which will translate into rushed and unfinished work.
Mistake #2: Not Checking Licensing and Insurance
People just assume that all contractors are legit, which is unfortunately untrue. Many companies are not even licensed or insured to work in Idaho. Unlicensed work could mean violating local codes or even HOA rules. Also, if the contractor has no workers’ comp insurance, any injury on your property could mean you would be liable for the medical bills.
Mistake #3: Skipping the Research Phase
If you are looking for a fencing contractor, the first thing you shouldn’t do is choose someone because you found an ad. You have to read beyond the basic things and ask the right questions. It is common for many customers to just hire the first contractor they find, often without reading reviews or ratings. You have to see what a contractor has done so far if they have credible concrete fencing projects, and whether they have a long-standing reputation in the industry.
Mistake #4: No Written Contract
No matter what a contractor tells you verbally, you should insist on a written contract that outlines every detail. The contract should include the scope of the project, final price, possible contingencies, timeline, and any discounts promised to you. Many homeowners will just accept everything on the phone or during the site visit, only to deal with hidden charges later.
Mistake #5: Not Clarifying What’s Included
Besides the things we just discussed, there are also other aspects to check in the estimate or contract. For instance, does the price include the cost of removing the old fence? Will the contractor take care of the debris? Will they clean the site after installation? The last thing you want is an unwanted surprise during or after the project. Don’t make the mistake of assuming things.
Takeaways
When teaming with a fencing contractor, you have to be careful about each detail. Ensure you have a list of questions ready for the site visit. If you don’t understand the terms and conditions or have doubts about certain words in the contract, feel free to ask more. A good fencing expert will ensure you know every aspect from start to finish. There are a few things, such as the weather, which can delay a project, but a competent contractor will ensure you have a fair idea of all that.
Take your time to find a fencing contractor in Boise, and before they start the work, ask them about seeing some of their recent concrete fence projects. You deserve to know what to expect when assigning the work.
