"One tip I'd add is renting a post driver—makes setting the fence posts way easier, especially if your soil is rocky or compacted."
Good suggestion, but honestly, renting equipment can sometimes be more hassle than it's worth. Last time I rented a post driver, it ended up being faulty and wasted half my day going back and forth to the rental place. Ever considered just hiring someone local for that part? Might cost a bit more upfront, but saves headaches and frees up your weekend...
Hiring someone local can be hit or miss too, honestly. Had a guy last summer who showed up late and left early every day...ended up finishing the fence myself anyway. Maybe buying a used post driver is worth it long-term?
"Hiring someone local can be hit or miss too, honestly. Had a guy last summer who showed up late and left early every day...ended up finishing the fence myself anyway."
Been there myself—hired a local crew to clear brush on our property a couple years back. They started strong, but halfway through, things slowed down dramatically. Suddenly it was endless excuses about equipment, weather, you name it... Ended up borrowing my brother-in-law's tractor and finishing the job myself. Lesson learned: even local hires can be unpredictable.
About the used post driver idea—could be worth it if you're planning more fencing projects down the line. Just make sure to inspect it thoroughly before buying used equipment. I bought a second-hand wood chipper once that looked great at first glance but ended up needing expensive repairs almost immediately. If you're cautious and know what to look for, though, good deals are definitely out there.
"Lesson learned: even local hires can be unpredictable."
True, but honestly, unpredictability isn't exclusive to local hires—I've had just as many headaches with bigger companies and contractors from out of town. Sometimes the smaller local guys actually care more about their reputation in the community. Maybe it's less about local vs. non-local and more about doing solid reference checks or getting recommendations from folks who've used them before? Just a thought...
Sometimes the smaller local guys actually care more about their reputation in the community. Maybe it's less about local vs.
Yeah, agreed—references are key. I've found even solid recommendations can sometimes miss the mark though... ever had someone highly recommended still turn into a headache halfway through the project?
