Choosing the Right Fence Contractor in Bentonville: Comparing Quotes, Materials, and Warranties

What Homeowners Need to Know

The average person doesn’t know what it takes for a fence installation to be successful, and that’s okay! What makes a fence installation successful varies from location to location because each area has its own unique set of obstacles. In Bentonville, those obstacles are humidity in the summer, freezing rain in the winter, and clay soil year-round. This makes choosing a fence contractor with local experience crucial for your project. Add in all the confusing paperwork, and it would have anybody overwhelmed. A good Bentonville fence builder makes the process simple.

Fence Builder vs. Fence Contractor

You’ve probably heard these phrases used interchangeably, but they actually mean two different things. One simple way to think about things is that a fence contractor will always include a fence builder, but a fence builder is just a fence builder. More specifically, a Bentonville fence builder is hired with the sole purpose of building your fence, while a fence contractor helps with the entire process from planning your project to pulling permits. 

The Non-Negotiables

Choosing the right Bentonville fence contractor for you will look a little different for everyone, but there are some things that are simply non-negotiable. You’ll want to ensure that your potential fence contractor is licensed in your area. This means that they have passed the necessary testing to operate in your city. They should also be insured; this insurance could protect your finances if there are problems with your fence installation or if any damage is done to your property. Lastly, it never hurts to do a little investigating on a potential contractor. What local experience do they have?

Reviews & References

Playing detective doesn’t have to be sneaky. When you’re looking to hire a company for your fence project, you have every right to know what you’re paying for. That doesn’t just mean the finished project; that means the experience, too. The best way to get a sense of what working with them might be like is to peruse their reviews. You can also check out their website to see their portfolios, or ask for them directly. 

Material & Maintenance

Choosing the right material for your new fence is about more than just aesthetics; it’s about longevity. You need a fence material that will last in your climate. Keeping maintenance costs down means that you need a fence that can withstand the elements. From humidity to freezing rain, that’s a lot of outdoor features. But don’t be discouraged, you still have options. A wood fence is classic, but it will require frequent maintenance to stay in quality condition. Staining and sealing can add up fast. Aluminum and vinyl fencing are a better fit in your situation because they are non-porous materials. They won’t rot like wood. However, if you work with a company that uses low-grade materials, your aluminum could corrode, and your vinyl could fade. Working with a company that uses quality materials might cost you a bit more up front, but it will save you money later. 

Comparing Quotes

When you start shopping around for a Bentonville fence contractor, you shouldn’t just be looking for the lowest price. Low-end companies compete to offer you the lowest quote, but if their quote doesn’t include all of the fees, then you could end up paying a lot more than they advertised. Here’s a checklist of things that your fence contractor’s quote could include, so you know what to ask, and can compare quotes thoroughly. 

• Material
• Hardware: Posts, rails, pickets, brackets.
• Demolition (if you are replacing an old fence)
• Permitting
• Labor
• Warranty

Warranties

Did you know there are two types of warranties? Workmanship and material, or manufacturer. A Material or manufacturer’s warranty is provided by the material’s manufacturer; it covers issues such as manufacturing defects and premature aging. A workmanship warranty is provided by the contractor; it covers any issues arising from installation or product defects. It also covers the cost of labor for these fixes, whereas a material warranty may not. Be sure to inquire about what type of warranty is included in your quote.

5 Must-Ask Questions

Here are some other helpful questions you should as you contractor while you’re shopping around. These will help you decide if a company is right for you. 

1. What’s the timeline?

This helps you gauge how long a project will take and what the process is like.

2. How deep do you set posts?

Make sure your fence contractor knows how to set your posts to prevent them from shifting in clay soil.

3. Do you handle permitting?

A good fence contractor should help you pull permits and explain the fees associated with the process.

4. What does a warranty cover?

You should inquire about the type of warranty and its duration.

5. When do you expect payment?

Knowing their payment schedule helps you financially prepare.

The Bentonville Boom

In the last 20 years, Bentonville’s population has more than doubled. When you live in such a bustling city, you need space to call your own. A fence secures your peaceful property and can buffer any surrounding noise from downtown. Hiring a reliable fence contractor is important for mitigating weathering and keeping maintenance costs down. You don’t want to end up spending more than you bargained for, so work with a local fence professional in Bentonville today.