Brief answers to what San Francisco owners ask most often. Our longer guides on cost, permits, repairs and neighbors are linked at the foot of this page.
How deep should fence posts be set?
It depends on the fence height and the ground. San Francisco has no frost line. A widely used rule is roughly one third of the post length below ground. Gate posts, tall solid fences in the wind, loose sand and the low side of a slope all call for more depth.
Should posts be set in concrete, gravel or foam?
Concrete, for nearly every post in this city. Sand does not grip a post packed in gravel, and wind and gates put real load on the footing. Finish the top of the concrete so water runs off the post. Foam is quick, but we would not use it for a gate post or a 6-foot solid fence.
How long should I wait before staining a new wood fence?
Until it is dry, which takes longer here than inland. Test it by dripping water on a board: absorbed water means the wood is ready, beads mean wait. Treated lumber arrives wet and may need weeks or months. In the fog belt, pick a dry spell in September or October if you can.
How much does it cost to stain or seal a fence?
There is no set price, because it depends on the area to be covered and the condition of the boards. Have it written as a separate line on the fence estimate.
Can I use deck screws to fix loose pickets?
You can, provided they are stainless steel or coated for exterior use. Ordinary steel screws rust quickly in salt air and fog. With redwood and cedar, plain steel also leaves black streaks down the boards, so stainless is the better choice.
Can a faded vinyl fence be painted?
It can be done with a paint formulated for vinyl. The paint will not last forever, and dark shades absorb heat that can distort the panels. Wash off the salt film and mildew first, since that alone often brings the color back.
I want a double gate for an RV or trailer but my posts are weak. Reinforce or rebuild?
Rebuild them. A wide double gate needs dedicated heavy posts in deep concrete footings, and standard fence posts will not carry it. The gate posts are replaced and the fence beside them is rebuilt to tie in. On a sloped driveway, check that the leaves can swing without hitting the ground.
Will an earthquake knock my fence down?
Shaking by itself rarely topples a sound wood or metal fence, because a fence is light and flexible. The fences that fall are the ones with posts already rotted or loose. Brick and concrete block walls are heavy and behave differently, and they should be designed by an engineer.
Does a new fence raise my property taxes?
The county assessor decides what counts as new construction. In San Francisco that is the Office of the Assessor-Recorder. Compared with the house, a fence is a small item.
We measure the line and give you a written quote at no charge. Call (415) 888-9244 or text us a photo of the fence.