Frequently Asked Questions

Our customers ask a lot of great questions. We thought we'd share some of them with you, as you might be wondering about some of these things as well.

QUESTIONS ABOUT OUR COMPANY

The pros from First Step Fence established our company in 2018 and have been providing our customers in the Richmond, Virginia area with excellent, professional service and value. We have decades of fencing experience and look forward to serving our customers for many years to come!

It's easy to get an estimate from the team at First Step Fence! You can use our Instant Quote Tool on our website or simply reach out to our office staff through our online contact form or give us a call and our friendly fence pros will walk you through the process and schedule an in-person estimate.

Our fence experts are just a quick message or call away! Reach out to us through our online Contact Us form and we will be happy to answer any questions you have. You can also call us and speak directly with one of our friendly staff during our office hours.

Yes, we do! All of our fence installations are backed by a 1-year workmanship warranty to cover our labor for your peace of mind. Manufacturer warranties are also included for most materials based on the specific type of fence and style you choose. Ask our fence experts about the fence you would like, and we can tell you if the material is covered by a manufacturer's warranty.

Absolutely! We make sure to insure our company for our protection and yours, and we always obtain any licenses needed to work in every area we install fences. You can have peace of mind knowing that you're working with a reputable company in the Richmond area!

We install fences in a wide range of styles and colors in vinyl, wood, aluminum, and chain link materials for residential and commercial properties all across the Richmond area. Visit our fence pages for details about each of the styles we offer.

QUESTIONS ABOUT ALUMINUM FENCES

We have a large supply of black aluminum fencing in stock. We also offer a variety of colors, including bronze and white; however, currently those colors are special order and can take a minimum of 10 weeks once ordered. For any other requests, please contact our fence professionals to discuss availability of the colors and the time it takes to receive each type.

Absolutely! Aluminum pool fences are very popular in Richmond, Virginia and the surrounding area.

Aluminum fences do not offer privacy the way a vinyl fence or a wood fence does, so most of our customers in the Richmond area choose to use aluminum fencing to protect and beautify the pool area, while also protecting the perimeter of their property with either wood or vinyl fencing to provide the privacy many families prefer.

Pricing on all fencing materials can fluctuate, but generally speaking, the up-front cost of aluminum fencing is often higher than other types of fencing. However, because aluminum fencing doesn't rust, or rot, or splinter, and it never needs to be painted or refinished - the total cost of ownership can turn out to be lower over the full life of the fence.

The Richmond, Virginia climate is a major factor when determining the total cost. Wood fencing (for example) will usually be less expensive than aluminum fencing, but will require continuous upkeep which, over time, will add time and money to the total cost of your fence.

Additionally, many Richmond, Virginia homeowners claim that aluminum fencing has a positive impact on the price of their home if and when they sell it down the road.

Aluminum fences are a great choice for Virginia homes and businesses. Many people love the elegant look of black aluminum fencing to enhance the look of their property.

Of course, the major reason people choose aluminum fencing in the Richmond, Virginia area is because it stands up to harsh weather wonderfully. Aluminum fences won't fade or rust or rot and they require (essentially) no maintenance, other than a squirt with a hose to remove loose dirt and debris from time to time.

We are proud to offer high-quality aluminum fencing from Hudson Fence Supply, located in Fort Mill, South Carolina.

Yes, our aluminum fences have a manufacturer's limited lifetime warranty covered by Hudson Fence Supply. We take pride in our fence workmanship and offer a warranty covering your installation by our professionals as well.

We have heights of aluminum fencing that range from 3' up to 6'. Talk to our fence experts to determine which one is best for your specific fence project.

QUESTIONS ABOUT CHAIN LINK FENCES

Generally, chain link fencing tends to be among the most affordable fencing materials, although prices can fluctuate.

Our most popular chain link fences come in 4', 5', and 6' heights. They can also come in a traditional galvanized metal as well as a black PVC-coated style. Let our fence specialists know about your project details so we can help you determine what is the best fence for you.

Chain link fences are popular everywhere, and Richmond, Virginia is no different. Chain link is a strong, durable material that is low maintenance, too. Many people prefer chain link fences for their dog yards, pool yards, and any kind of space that needs security and protection. The versatility and relatively low cost of chain link fencing make it a great choice for just about any situation or location.

It's fairly easy to secure your chain link fence from being able to be pushed out for an animal to escape. All you need to add is a bottom tension wire to reinforce the fabric and frame. Tension wire can be added in a variety of gauges just like the chain link fabric itself can be adjusted. If a tension wire is not enough, a bottom rail could also be installed for a stronger barrier.

Chain link fencing is totally appropriate for providing protection for pools in the Richmond, Virginia area and can be configured to meet pool safety regulations. We recommend choosing a PVC-coated mesh to give your chain link fence additional protection from pool water and the elements.

Chain link fencing is maintenance-free! No need to treat it or clean it, except to spray it down with a hose once a year if it builds up a little dirt. The galvanized zinc coating helps protect the steel from rust and corrosion and when you buy a PVC-coated steel fence, that adds another layer of protection, giving you a fence that will stand on its own for many years to come.

QUESTIONS ABOUT VINYL FENCES

Vinyl fences are a great choice for Virginia homes and businesses. Vinyl fencing is particularly impressive in its strength and durability, while offering a lifetime of maintenance-free privacy and beauty.

Vinyl fencing won't fade, rust or rot and they essentially require no maintenance, other than a squirt with a hose to remove loose dirt and debris from time to time. A powerwasher or a simple sponge and soapy water is all it takes to keep your vinyl fence looking great in the Richmond, Virginia region.

We are proud to install high quality, American made fence products from Hudson Fence Supply that are made with VMA certified vinyl fencing to meet the best standards based on the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM).

Yes! Depending on the specifics of your project, we back our work with a workmanship warranty that ensures your installation is done to industry standards. Also, our vinyl fencing is backed by the manufacturer with a limited warranty that covers the fence material. Speak to our knowledgeable staff for more details and any questions you may have.

All of our vinyl fences come in standard white vinyl and can be scheduled in our usual installation time frame. If you would like other colors that our manufacturer offers, we will special order it, which will take a minimum of 10 weeks. They have colors in white, tan, and mocha walnut with 40 more special colors to match your needs. Whatever you are looking for, speak to our fence experts for more details and information so we can help you find exactly what you're looking for.

Absolutely! Vinyl pool fences are very common in Richmond, Virginia and the surrounding area.

Many Richmond, Virginia pools are protected with a vinyl privacy fence either around the perimeter of the pool area itself, or around the larger perimeter of the property, while offering privacy and beauty while protecting your pool and your family.

Pricing on all fencing materials can fluctuate, but generally speaking, the up-front cost of vinyl fencing can be a little higher than some other types of fencing. However, because vinyl fencing never needs to be painted or refinished, the total cost of ownership can turn out to be lower over the full life of the fence.

The Richmond, Virginia climate is a major factor when determining the total cost of your fence. For example, wood fencing will usually be less expensive than vinyl fencing, but will require continuous upkeep which will add time and money to the total cost of your fence.

In the end, if you like the style and look of vinyl fencing, it's a great choice for Richmond homes and businesses.

QUESTIONS ABOUT WOOD FENCES

Depending on the specific project we design, we use professional-grade, pressure-treated pine for our wood fences in the Richmond, Virginia area. We hand-pick and customize each board that will be used for your wood fence. We don't use premade panels.

Wood fencing is a great option for many properties and nothing quite matches the look of a well-crafted custom wood fence. It's one of the most customizable and versatile fences but it does require a bit more maintenance than other fence materials. The natural, familiar look of wood fencing is always a favorite in Richmond.

Wood fencing in Virginia is one of the best-priced fencing materials available. All fencing prices can fluctuate, and it depends on the type of wood, size, and style to know exactly what the price will be. One downside to wood fencing is its propensity to warp or rot over time, sooner than most other materials. This should be factored into the overall cost as repairs and maintenance add up as well.

Wood fences do require more maintenance than some other types of fencing, but when properly cared for, they have an unmatched beauty that makes the extra effort worthwhile. To ensure the longevity of your wood fence, begin with the application of a high-quality stain or paint product and recoat every 2-3 years. We recommend that you check your fence now and then for any problem areas you may notice, like boards warping or cracking, and get the problem areas fixed right away. Regular upkeep will allow your wood fence to last longer.

We will custom-build your wood fence in styles that will give you the privacy you would like for your property. Wood fences can be built in solid panel or semi-private designs based on your preferences and needs. You can even adjust the height of your fence and the shape of the picket tops.

When treated with care and protection, wood fences can last up to 20 years. Wood fences are susceptible to rot and warping, however, if properly maintained with high-quality paint or stain and examined regularly for damage, a wood fence may last for decades. The type of wood your fence is made out of can also affect how long it will last. We use a high-quality, pressure-treated pine that will outperform traditional wood.

QUESTIONS ABOUT RESIDENTIAL FENCES

We make it easy to get an estimate from First Step Fence! Compare the pricing of different configurations, options, and styles using our Instant Quote Tool tool on our website! Or you can reach out to our office staff through our online contact form or give us a call and our friendly fence pros will walk you through the process. Be sure to have the measurements of your property and take a look at the types of fencing we have available on our website before you call. We'll be happy to help you design your fence and get the perfect solution for you!

We will always do our very best to accommodate your needs! We schedule our fence installations to be completed as quickly as we can and as soon as we have all of the materials needed for your specific fence design. Once installation day arrives, your fence will be up very quickly, usually within a day or two, though it depends on the size of your project. Speak to our team to talk about what you need and we will be happy to make a plan that works best for you!

We stand behind every one of the fence installation jobs that we complete with a 1-year workmanship warranty to cover our labor for your peace of mind. Manufacturer warranties are also included for most materials based on the specific type of fence and style you choose. Ask our fence experts about the fence you would like, and they will get you the answers you need.

The price of your fence will depend on the material you choose and the exact style you order. You can use our Instant Quote Tool or reach out to our team through our online form. You can also give us a call and our team of friendly, experienced staff will be glad to walk you through the process and plan a consultation.

Every local municipality has a separate set of requirements when it comes to building permits, and that includes fencing. If you are unsure about the permitting requirements in your specific town, you can call your town building code office or speak to our professionals. We will be glad to help you with the entire process.

There is no bad time of year to get a fence in Richmond, Virginia. There are certain times during the year when our installation schedule is busier, but our fence team always does its best to get you the fence you need right when you need it. Reach out today to find out what our current schedule looks like!

We think all of our high-quality fences can be a great choice for your home, but depending on your priorities, some fence options may be better suited to accomplish your goals than others. Whether you're looking for more privacy in your backyard, to make your pool area safer, or to add some stylish curb appeal, our expert fence team can help you find the perfect fence to meet your needs!