Finding Reputable Post And Rail Fencing Specialists

Post and rail fences have been a standard style of fencing for country homes in England for some time. However, because these fences are made from natural products they have a tendency to degrade and need repair and replacement from time to time. That leaves the home owner in a quandary because finding a reputable specialist can be a problem. Many fencing companies will say they can do post and rail fencing, but in actuality, do not have any experience with it. It is a unique process that requires a specialist and because of that, there are a few ways to find a true specialist out of those that claim they are.

Understanding the wood

The true specialist of post and rail fencing will know which wood choices are best for this type of project and will have access to these woods easily. Even a handyman with experience will know where to go to have you purchase and have the wood delivered. The lay person may know that the typical wood for one of these fences is unfinished, rough cut wood, the expert will know which woods are best and also be able to help pick the cut of wood that will best match existing fencing, or will make the property look its best.

Understanding the construction process

The other key element of constructing a post and rail fence is making sure the person claiming to be a specialist can describe the process of putting the fence together. One of the key elements of a properly put together fence of this type is the way that the rails fit onto the posts. Most of these fences use mortised joints, which if done correctly, require no glue and no nails or other fasteners. However, there are more modern designs that use nailed on pieces as well. The person vying for your money should understand which type of fence construction you want, or must be willing to replicate the existing fence structure, should your need be more of a repair need.

Obtain references

Regardless of if you are having a new fence installed or an older one repaired, obtaining references is a must. Be prepared to call those references and make sure that they actually had a similar unit installed. Many places can build a fence, but building a post and rail fence that is up to the homeowner's standards is a craft, not a mindless skill as most fence construction projects are. Checking with multiple people that have the same type of fence constructed by the specialist will verify whether they are legitimate and proper craftsmen.

Building a post and rail fence will enhance the beauty of any country home and with some research into wood choices and construction practices, the homeowner can eliminate some of the issues with contractors that claim they are specialists before even having to have them come out and get quotes. Calling references and being sure to compare the quality of previous work, will guarantee that your post and rail fencing project turns out beautifully.