November 17th, 2014How To Tear Down an Old Fence

An ugly, broken, dilapidated fence is one of those things that makes your property look horrible, no matter how nice your home and yard is. Not only are these rundown fences unsightly, but they can also pose safety issues that can lead to injury and even lawsuits.

If you are thinking of replacing your existing fence with a new one, you can begin the process early by tearing down the old fence in anticipation of the upcoming installation of the new fence. But first, there are some things to keep in mind!

1. Is the fence yours?
   Depending on the location of your fence, it may not be within your rights to tear it down. Discuss any shared fences with your neighbours and determine whether the fence is on your property or theirs. You should also be sure that there are no issues from fences that lie on property that adjoins alleyways, roads, parks, and other city property.

2. Use the right tools
   There are some basic things that you will need in order to make your fence teardown efficient. Be sure you have heavy duty gloves, closed-toe shoes or boots, a hammer, and a crowbar if possible. You will likely also need a shovel on hand to help out with the removal of the fence posts.

3. Call before you dig!
   Always call before you begin digging in your yard. You could cause serious damage to your property, neighbourhood, and yourself if you strike a utility line or water main! The number to call is 1-800-474-6886 in BC and if you are on Telus or Rogers mobility, you can dial *6886 for free airtime.

4. Exercise caution
   Your fence is likely to have sharp pieces, nails, and other potentially dangerous components, so keep an eye out for debris and watch what you are doing. If you see a nail that is loose or that has fallen, pick it up immediately. You wouldn’t want to find it with a barefoot or a lawnmower next summer.

5. Call for help
   Properly installed fence posts will be several feet into the ground and encased in concrete and gravel. Removing them without disrupting your yard won’t be easy, so if you are in doubt, call the professionals. The team at A & G Fencing is equipped to remove old fences as well as install new ones and we would be happy to help!

6. Haul it away
   Once you’ve removed the old fence, you will want to take it away. Contact your local landfill to see if there are any restrictions or fees for the disposal of construction material. You can also consider using a junk removal company like 1-800-Got-Junk.

Tearing down an old fence isn’t easy and for many homeowners it’s one of those chores that never seems to make it to the top of the list. If you would like some help, give us a call at 1-604-794-3181 or email us at info@agfence.ca.