While making any major household decision can be stressful and overwhelming, choosing the right fence for your home can be particularly nerve-wracking. Countless search results and pages of advertisements don’t always guide you to the right fence contractor to help protect your home and investment. Here are some tips to help you through the process of negotiating a contract, fence installation, and maintenance.
Invest Your Time
Before you worry about investing your money in a fence, spend time researching local fencing contractors before you ask for an estimate.
Questions to Ask Yourself
- Does the fence contractor have an online presence? Browse through their website to see what fences the contractor specializes in, how long the company has been in business, and what areas they service. Check out social media to see if the company has a positive online presence and a public portfolio of work.
- What reputation does the fence contractor have? Familiarize yourself with review websites like Angie’s List and Consumer Reports. Some charge a small fee for membership, but getting verified reviews from clients now can save you a headache later. Now it’s time to get offline—ask your neighbors, friends, and co-workers about the company. Have they heard the name before? Do they remember seeing a fence with that name installed on the side? Don’t be afraid to ask your neighbor who built the fence you’ve been coveting!
Meeting the Fence Contractor
Schedule an appointment to meet with the company, paying attention to how professional the contractor is and how they do business. Remember, your business relationship starts with the first phone call you make.
Questions to Ask Yourself
- Does the fence contractor appear professional? Any business owner knows there is only one chance to make a first impression and the contractor providing your estimate should make you feel confident in their ability to meet your needs. Do they show up on time? Are they dressed in a company uniform and armed with business cards and proper measuring materials? Do they have the skill to write up an estimate on-site?
- Does the contractor demonstrate their skill level? While the research you did will help with this question, the contractor that comes to do your estimate should fully understand the materials they’re selling and the installation process.
- Does the contractor provide a detailed estimate? If a contractor will only offer you a verbal estimate, don’t bother wasting your time. A professional fence contractor will create an itemized estimate detailing the materials and labor necessary to complete your project. Make sure you are comfortable with exactly what you’re paying for and what type of warranty the company will extend you.
It’s About More Than the Money
Don’t fall for high-pressure sales tactics like offering pricing only good if you sign a contract immediately or a forcing you to make a decision during your meeting. You should never feel rushed during the buying process. Any confident fencing contractor will encourage you to get other estimates.
Choose Hercules Custom Iron
By paying attention to professionalism and details along the way, you can ensure you end up with the right fence contractor for the job and the right fence for your home. For more information and to learn how we can meet your custom fencing needs, contact Hercules Custom Iron online or giving us a call at 1-800-331-2590. We will ensure your investment serves your family for years to come! For updates and to see projects we’re working on, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Google+, and Pinterest.