FENCE FAQ’s
- How long will the fence last?
The type of fence you have installed will determine how long it will last. Chain link and vinyl fences will last almost a lifetime. Wood generally lasts 12 to 15 years.
- How deep will the post holes be?
For residential fences, posts are usually 32 to 36 inches in the ground.
- When can you get started?
From the time a contract is generated, we should have your fence installed in 7-10 days.
- Which way will the gate swing?
In most instances, gates will swing in either direction.
- How long have you been installing fences?
We have been in business for over thirty years.
- How do you dig your holes- by machine or using a post hole digger?
The holes are dug by machine.
- Have you done work for anyone else in this area?
No matter where you live in the Washington DC Metro area, we have more than likely installed a fence within a stone throw of your property.
- Does the fence require any maintenance?
Chain link, vinyl, and PVC are maintenance-free. Wood fences may require minor maintenance, depending on the appearance you desire (i.e. stain or natural finish).
- Will my dog be able to get under the fence?
The behavior of your dog will determine whether it will attempt to go under the fence. Extra installation procedures can be taken to make your fence dog-proof.
- Do you need a down payment before you get started?
Typical no, however depends on the Job.
- Do you accept checks?
Cash or checks are accepted.
- Do you have liability insurance?
We have liability insurance and business license
- How far apart do you set your posts?
Posts are set no more than ten feet apart.
- Are your prices competitive?
We do an annual market analysis to determine our cost so that no matter what the competition charges, we can save you money.
- How do you determine your cost?
Cost is determined by the total number of linear feet. Chain link, vinyl-coated chain link, and P.V.C terminal and corner posts are also factored in the price
- Is there an additional charge for clearing the line?
Yes, there will be an additional charge for clearing the fence line
- Will the bottom of the fence stay along the ground?
Yes, the fence can run along the grade of the property. However you may have to compromise the height of the fence or the grade for proper appearance, depending on whether your goal is security or aesthetics
- Does the gate(s) come with a lock?
No, chain link and vinyl-coated fences do not come with locks; however, special locks are installed with wood and P.V.C fences.
- What options do we have regarding the height of the fence?
Standard fence heights are four, five, or six feet. However, you may choose to have a higher fence if you desire. May have to consult your HOA.
- Which is less expensive: wood, chain link, or vinyl?
Chain link is the least expensive of our product offering. Wood, ornamental iron, and P.V.C are our most costly products.
DECK FAQ’s
When beginning the process of deck remodeling there are many things to consider regarding the sustainability, safety, and the ability to repurpose your current deck. Here are answers to common questions about remodeling your deck.
CAN I ENLARGE MY DECK BY ADDING ONTO THE DECK I CURRENTLY HAVE?
Depending on the final design that you want for your deck, you may be able to add to your existing structure. It may be necessary to have plans approved by an engineer. The existing deck should be checked to verify that the structure and materials are sound. Rotten wood will need to be replaced. If you don’t want to have to keep replacing your wooden deck every 10 years you could choose to replace it with the highest quality of lumber. Or you could go with another option which is purchasing a more sustainable decking material such as PVC, composite, or aluminum. Regardless of what material you want, whenever thinking about renovating, you should always consider replacing your railings for safety reasons. While adding to your deck, it may be necessary to bring the entire deck up to code.
DO I NEED TO GET A PERMIT?
No you do not. Accokeek Fence & Deck will take care of getting the building permits from the city or county depending on where you are located.
WHICH DECK DESIGN WORKS FOR MY SPACE?
The type of deck you want to go with all depends on the type of house you have. The design of your house can lead to hundreds of possibilities regarding the deck you choose. If you have a two story house you have the possibility for a two story deck with stairs. If your house is only one story or you’re only able to make a porch-style deck on your bottom floor that’s fine too.
HOW BIG SHOULD I MAKE MY DECK?
The average deck size is similar to the size of the interior rooms of your house, maybe slightly larger. However, it’s ultimately up to you how big you’d like your deck to be. But you need to consider that most outdoor furniture that you find will most likely be slightly larger than the indoor furniture you own. Likely, you will limit the size of the deck to the width of your home. Be sure to check with your HOA and/or your building permit agency to get approval on the size of the deck.
DOES A DECK INCREASE HOME VALUE?
Depending on the size, condition, and weather you could get a pretty decent return on your deck once you sell your house–maybe even up to 80%. However, the investment isn’t about trying to increase the value of your home; it’s about getting a space you can enjoy with friends and family–a place to make memories that will last a lifetime.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO REMODEL A DECK?
The time it takes to remodel a deck can vary based on who you hire to do it, the weather, and the material being used. A professional group may be able to finish in less than a week while a less skilled group could take anywhere from one to three weeks.
WILL THE PRICE CHANGE ONCE THE REMODELING STARTS?
For the most part, the cost of a remodeling job will not change from the dollar amount listed on the contract unless you want to make additions to what you originally hired your deck remodeler to do.
WHEN IS A GOOD TIME TO REMODEL MY DECK?
A good time to remodel is anytime you feel you’re ready for a change in scenery regarding your current decking or if you just want an increase in your outdoor space. Another good time is if there’s any damage on your outdoor deck such as rotting, splintering, or staining on your current wood deck. When remodeling a wooden deck you could just replace it with wood, or consider the rotting lumber as an opportunity to make an upgrade to much more modern and recyclable composite decking. There is a wide range of options when remodeling your deck, from adding some new deck railings to adding an entire new story of decking to using composite decking materials. And the best part is, it’s all up to you!
CAN I ADD A FIRE PIT TO MY DECK?
Adding a fire pit to your deck may be a little more complicated than you think. If you’re planning on getting a wood burning fire pit on your wooden or composite deck there is a chance for the sparks or embers from the fire to fly onto the boards and cause it to burn. However, with aluminum decking material that problem will not be an issue, which may be something to keep in mind when deciding on which type of decking you want to use. But if you do want to have a firepit on you wood or composite deck there is an option for you. A gas fire pit might be calling your name. Gas fire pits are much easier to control, much safer, and produce far fewer emissions. Regardless of the type of decking you have, with a gas fire pit, there is little to no chance of your deck catching fire.
WHICH TYPE OF DECKING IS RIGHT FOR YOU?
There are many types of decking material to choose from such as wood, composite, PVC, and aluminum. Wooden decking gives you the classic material. Composite decking/PVC is newer and offers far more options for customization. Aluminum decking won’t burn your bare feet in warm weather and is completely recyclable. They all have different benefits regarding quality, bug resistance, sustainability, etc. Accokeek Fence and Deck will help you determine which type of decking material is right for you.
