Read the Summit Fence North FAQs

Do I have to be home during fence construction?

Feel free to follow your normal daily routine during the installation of your fence. The majority of the fences we build are done with no one home. Our crews are trustworthy and proficient fence builders. We prohibit them from deviating from their written instructions unless authorized to do so by a representative of the company. All of your communication should go back through the salesperson. Save your vacation time for something better than watching us work.

Does lumber have normal and expected features?

There are three main natural characteristics of the wood you may notice:
• Checking: This is a small crack that can occur in the boards, rails, or posts and is not to be considered defective.
• Shrinking: All wood can be expected to shrink. Most common fence boards may shrink ½ inch each. Shrinking is not a defect.
• Warpage: This is a natural process of wood. It is impossible to tell which piece of lumber may warp. Warpage is not a defect.

Does Summit Fence North find property pins and put the fence on the property line?

This is the most common question we are asked. We do not locate property pins. We will install your new fence where the old fence was located unless specifically instructed by you to move the fence to a different location. If you are concerned about the property pins, you will need to have a survey done.

Does Summit Fence North locate the underground utilities, or do I do that?

You are responsible for informing us about private utilities. Examples are a propane gas pipe from your tank to your house; gas lights in your yard; gas grills; underground lawn sprinklers; and swimming pool lines. If you have any of these lines, please let us know before your fence installation. We will inform the public utilities and have these lines marked.

Does Summit Fence North notify the neighbors that the fence is being replaced and when?

It would be best if you communicate with your neighbors. Our communications will be direct with you, our customer.

Does the crew trim the bushes or tree limbs that crowd the fence line?

You are asked to trim the bushes and tree limbs so we can build your fence without obstructions. Our crews are experts at fences, not landscaping; we trim using the whack-and-hack method. We need about 3 feet of access to the fenced area and a clear line to install your fence.

How can I find out how much a new fence will cost?

We will be happy to visit your home or business to determine an estimated price for your fence project. We can tell you the cost, including labor, supplies, and taxes. We provide pricing by the job, not the foot. If you want to split the cost of the fence with neighbors, we can tell you how much each side of the fence will cost.

How can I tell if my fence posts need to be replaced?

Wooden posts that appear strong and sturdy above ground may be rotten and need to be replaced. If you probe a post with an ice pick 3 or 4 inches below the ground and the pick goes in easily, the post needs to be replaced. Wooden fences usually last about 10 years.

If the neighbors share the fence's cost, who collects from them?

You do. Our agreement is with you for the total amount on the contract.

Is it normal to have various shades of color on the boards?

Yes, lumber is a natural product that varies in growing conditions and vigor. These natural conditions produce various shades of color you will see in the wood and are not defects.

What about trellises, water hose reels, electrical outlets, swimming pool controls, etc., attached to my current fence?

Your decorations or non-fence items will be your responsibility for removal and reattachment. We are not licensed to perform electrical or pool equipment-related work and ask that you handle the removal and installation of these items.

Will the fence be touching the ground?

You will notice that most fences are installed to average about 1 inch above grade. This allows natural water drainage and holds the fence off the ground. The Houston area is flat, but it is not level. The fence (especially noticeable with baseboards) often touches the ground in places and is considerably off the ground in other places. This is normal for the yards in our area.

What kind of lumber is best for wooden fences?

At Summit Fence North, we recommend cedar for wooden fences. Other wood tends to warp and twist with the heat and humidity in southeast Texas, while cedar weathers to a beautiful, natural shade and retains its original shape and strength.

What is the scheduling process?

Your fencing project will be placed on our scheduling board in chronological order upon receipt of your initial deposit and availability of materials. Weather conditions are uncontrollable variables that may affect scheduling.