Installing a Fence in Cleveland, Ohio? Here are 7 thing you need to know.

Putting in a fence around your home sounds simple, but in Cleveland, it rarely is…

Between the weather, the soil, and city rules, a fence that looks great on day one can start leaning or rotting way too soon if it’s not built the right way. Before you start calling contractors, here are a few things you should know. 

1. Cleveland winters are hard on fence posts 

The ground here freezes deep — usually around three feet. If posts aren’t set below that frost line, the soil will push them up and out of place every winter. That’s why so many fences around Cleveland start leaning after just a few years.

2. Cheap lumber doesn’t last here

Northeast Ohio gets plenty of rain, humidity, and snow. Regular or cheap wood won’t hold up. Cedar posts are built to handle moisture and bugs, which is why they’re worth the extra cost.

3. You can’t build any height you want

In the city of Cleveland you can’t go past 8’ but most Cleveland neighborhoods limit fences to about four feet in front yards and six feet in back yards. Corner lots and historic areas often have even tighter rules, so it’s important to check before anything gets built.

4. Cleveland typically requires permits

Depending on where you live, the city or your neighborhood may require approval before a fence goes in. Skipping this step can lead to fines or being forced to take the fence down after it’s already paid for. We are here to help you along this important step.

5. Assumed property lines are often wrong

Old survey pins get buried, moved, or lost over time. Guessing where your line is can cause serious problems with neighbors later and can be very expensive to fix. Have your Plat of Survey ready and we can help assure you are set.

6. Water is your fence’s enemy

Some Cleveland yards don’t drain well, especially around older homes. If posts sit in wet soil, they’ll rot faster no matter what type of wood you use. Good drainage, proper concrete, and using the correct material will make a huge difference.

7. Not every fence company builds for Ohio’s conditions

A fence that lasts comes down to post depth, materials, and how it’s installed. A lot of the “cheap” fences you see around town fail early because shortcuts were taken.  

A well-built fence in Cleveland should last for years and look good doing it. Getting these details right from the start is what separates a fence that holds up from one that becomes another crooked eyesore in the neighborhood.