Choosing the appropriate materials – There are a number of reasons for choosing a fence – most notably security, durability and aesthetics. Homeowners can choose between a number of materials – metal, wood, vinyl, brick or stone to name a few – to meet their particular needs. A good fencing contractor can work with any of these materials and also provide a good recommendation for the one that is best suited to your purposes.

Building a solid foundation – The extremely wide-range of temperatures experienced in the Cook County area means that there is a lot of seasonal upheaval in the soil surrounding any home. This movement can rapidly deteriorate a fence unless the foundation is built below the “frost line” – that is, the area blow which the ground does not freeze and is therefore not susceptible to movement when the Spring thaw occurs.

Ensuring the proper installation – On level ground, a fence installation is relatively straightforward – use the proper hardware and in the right amounts and keep everything level. On a landscape that undulates, however, there are a couple of other considerations. First, the fence should be “stepped” rather than just built to follow the slope of the ground. It takes some experience and expertise to accomplish this task but, in the long run, it is well worth the effort and expense.

Considering the neighbors – By Cook County law, a homeowner must face the nicer side of a fence towards his neighbors yard. Of course, you are free to finish the side of the fence that faces your side as well but it significantly increase the cost of the installation. Do not overlook this requirement or you may be required to dismantle and rebuild the fence or even completely demolish it. The new fence must also be set back a certain amount from the property line depending on which neighborhood where the house is located.