Fence installation in Oxford County

Fence types

• Wood privacy fence. Pressure-treated or cedar, in solid board, board-on-board or shadowbox styles. The most common backyard fence in Oxford County.
• Vinyl. No painting or staining, and it won't rot. Costs more than treated wood up front.
• Aluminum or steel. Ornamental fencing that keeps a yard open while marking the boundary. A good choice for pool enclosures.
• Chain link. The practical, lower-cost option for large yards and dogs, with privacy slats if you want them.
• Picket and decorative fences. For front yards and gardens, where height limits are lower.
• Gates. Walk gates and double drive gates, hung on posts that won't sag.

What makes a fence last

It's the posts. Oxford County's freeze-thaw cycle pushes shallow posts out of the ground and leaves fences leaning within a few years. Posts should go down close to the frost line, set in concrete or on a proper base, with the right spacing and rails sized for the panel. Ask each contractor how deep they set posts and how they keep water away from the bottom of them.

Before the fence goes in

• Know your property line. A survey or your property pins avoid arguments later. If the fence is on the line, talk to your neighbour first.
• Check the height rules. Municipal fence by-laws limit height, usually lower in front yards and on corner lots.
• Call before you dig. Ontario One Call locates buried gas, hydro and cable lines for free. Your contractor usually books this.
• Pools. A pool fence has its own rules: minimum height, self-closing and self-latching gates, and usually a permit.

More in our guide to fence rules and neighbours in Oxford County.