Time to remove your fence? Whether you want to open up your property or install a new fence, there is more to fence removal than just tearing it down. The process requires a skilled knowledge of fencing structure, careful planning, and thorough follow-through to make sure your property is safe after the fence is gone.
Here are four things to know about fence removal before you start:
- Consider repairs first. All fences have an ultimate expiration date, but that doesn’t mean you can’t prolong their life through maintenance and repairs. It’s worth having an expert evaluate your fence to see if repairs can restore it back to its former glory before tearing it down. You may also be able to keep some of the elements (such as posts, footings, or decorative tops) to incorporate on a new fence.
- Know your fence. Fencing materials, designs, and installations will require various tools, equipment, and techniques to properly remove. A professional fencing team will be able to tear down your fence the right way to prevent excess debris or safety hazards.
- Disassembly is better than demolition. It may be tempting to simply take a sledge hammer to your old fence, but proper disassembly will ultimately make fence removal much more efficient, not to mention safer.
- Remember the lines. Property lines and utility lines are important to keep in mind during a fence removal. Always double-check property lines before you make any changes to the fencing. Most fences have some kind of underground footing that may need to be dug up and removed, so making sure you don’t disrupt any buried utility lines is essential.