When It Makes Sense to Bring in a Fence Expert for Your Project
If you are planning deck building and wondering whether you should hire a fence contractor, the short answer is this: yes, in many cases it makes sense. Fence contractors work with posts, footings, property lines, and outdoor structures every day. Those skills often transfer well to building a strong, safe deck. The key is knowing what to look for and how to choose the right crew for the job.
Quick Decision Answer
Hiring a fence contractor for deck building projects can be a smart move if the contractor has real experience with framing, permits, and structural work. Fences and decks both rely on solid post setting, spacing, and outdoor materials. If your project includes railing, privacy walls, or a combined fence and deck layout, a fence contractor may be a great fit.
Option a Vs Option B Criteria
When choosing who should handle your deck building project, you usually have two options:
- A general deck builder or remodeling contractor
- A fence contractor who also builds decks
A deck-focused contractor may have more design options and experience with multi-level or covered decks. A fence contractor may excel at post installation, ground prep, and clean property line layouts. The best choice depends on the size and style of your project.
Pros and Cons of Hiring a Fence Contractor
Here is a simple breakdown to help you compare.
- Pros:
- Strong knowledge of post setting and concrete footings
- Experience with outdoor lumber and composite materials
- Often skilled at building railings and privacy features
- May offer bundled work if you also need fencing
- Cons:
- May not specialize in complex deck designs
- Less experience with covered or second-story decks
- Design planning may be more basic
Ask to see photos of past deck building jobs. Not just fences. Look for framing details, stairs, and finished surfaces.
Best Fit by Project Type
A fence contractor is often a good fit for:
- Ground-level decks
- Simple rectangular layouts
- Deck and fence combo projects
- Adding railing or privacy screens to an existing deck
A specialized deck builder may be better for:
- Raised or second-story decks
- Custom shapes or curves
- Built-in seating and outdoor kitchens
- Projects requiring advanced structural engineering
If your deck building plan is straightforward and close to the ground, a skilled fence contractor can often handle it with no problem.
Mistakes People Make When Choosing
One common mistake is hiring based on price alone. A low bid can mean corners are cut. Posts may not be set deep enough. Hardware may not be rated for structural loads. That can lead to sagging or movement later.
Another mistake is not checking for permits. Deck building often requires permits and inspections. Ask who will pull the permit and schedule inspections. Get that answer in writing.
Some homeowners also forget to ask about insurance. Any contractor, whether focused on fencing or decks, should carry liability coverage and workers comp.
Final Decision Checklist
Before hiring a fence contractor for deck building projects, go through this checklist:
- Ask for at least three recent deck building references.
- Review photos of completed decks, not just fences.
- Confirm permits and inspections will be handled properly.
- Get a written estimate with clear materials listed.
- Verify insurance coverage.
- Discuss timeline and cleanup plan.
Taking these steps helps you avoid delays and costly fixes later. A well-built deck should feel solid under your feet and last for many years.
Serving Homeowners With Practical Solutions
We help homeowners in Benton, AR plan safe and durable outdoor projects that match their space and budget. At SR Fencing, our team is experienced in deck building as well as fence installation, so we can handle projects that combine both features. If you would like to talk through your ideas or schedule a site visit, call us at (501) 213-3350 and we will be glad to help you move forward with confidence.
