Make sure your contractor is licensed through the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) and carries liability + workers’ comp. Fence work requires a C-13 license not just a general license.
Why it matters: Protects you from liability if something goes wrong.
Watch out: Missing license/insurance = risky “cheap” bids. Cheap now, but more expensive in the long run.
Not all fences are built with the same lumber quality even if they look similar on paper.
Why it matters: Lumber grade, posts, and hardware determine lifespan. At Super Builders, we are slective on which lumber we use ,and mill our own boards, resulting in a higher quality fence.
Watch out: Vague terms like “standard redwood” or no hardware details often means lower quality materials.
PRO TIP: Ask your contractor if you can visit the lumber yard they source material from.
Know exactly what work is included & excluded before signing.
Why it matters: Prevents surprise costs mid-project.
Watch out: Missing items like demo, disposal, gates, hardware, warranty, or cleanup.
PRO TIP: On-site visits over phone consultations. Taking 15 minutes of your day for an in-person estimate can save you headaches and stress in the long term.
A reputable contractor provides a clear, written warranty.
Why it matters: Protect your investment after installation.
Watch out: Some companies advertise long warranties (8,10 years etc.) but haven't been in business for that long. That should raise questions about whether they'll realistically be around to honor those terms. This is above red flag
Estimates should be detailed and easy to understand.
Why it matters: Helps you budget and avoid hidden fees.
Watch out: Vague or unusually low quotes. Hidden/Surprise costs usually show up later and change the final amount.
Regularly remove dirt, leaves, and debris from the base of your fence. Buildup at the bottom rails traps moisture, which can lead to premature dry rot and deterioration over time.
Routine cleaning is one of the simplest ways to extend the life of your fence.
Make sure sprinklers/Irrigation are not spraying directly on your fence or the surrounding soil near the posts. Constant exposure to moisture is one of the leading causes of wood rot.
Adjusting irrigation can significantly reduce long-term damage.
Keep plants, vines, and bushes trimmed away from your fence. Vegetation holds moisture against the wood and limits airflow, which can accelerate decay.
Maintaining space around your fence helps it stay dry and structurally sound
Maintaining space around your fence helps it stay dry and structurally sound.
Ensure that fence posts are properly crowned with concrete so water drains away from the base. Poor drainage can allow water to pool around posts, weakening them over time. Proper installation and upkeep at the post level are critical for long-term stability.
Proper installation of the post and concrete crown is critical for long-term stability
Using a high-quality oil-based stain helps protect your fence from moisture, sun exposure, and weathering. Oil-based products penetrate deeper into the wood compared to water-based stains, providing longer-lasting protection.
At Super Builders, we apply Preserva Wood, a professional-grade oil-based stain designed for maximum protection and durability
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