These are short answers to questions Las Vegas homeowners bring to us. Links to the full guides on cost, permits, repairs and neighbors are at the bottom.
How deep should fence posts be set?
Depth is set by fence height and wind load. Frost is not the driver in Las Vegas. A common rule of thumb is about a third of the post below ground, with extra for gate posts and solid panels that catch wind. If caliche is in the way, the hole goes into it. A post resting on hardpan under a few inches of soil will loosen.
Should posts be set in concrete, gravel or foam?
Concrete. It is standard practice in the valley and what we rely on for gates, corners and anything solid. Hardpan drains poorly, so we shape the top of each footing to push water away from the post. Some valley soils are hard on concrete and steel, so the mix and the post coating matter. Foam sets quickly, but we do not put it under gates or tall panels.
How long should I wait before staining a new wood fence?
Wait until the boards take up finish, which happens fast in desert air. Sprinkle water on the wood. If it soaks in, stain it. If it beads, wait a little longer. Do not let a new fence go through a Las Vegas summer bare. The sun starts graying and cracking it in a few months.
How much does it cost to stain or seal a fence?
There is no set price we can publish. It depends on the square footage, the product and the condition of the boards. Have it itemized on your estimate.
Can I use deck screws to fix loose pickets?
Yes, if they are exterior-coated or stainless. Screws hold where nails back out as boards dry and shrink. Drill a pilot hole near the end of a board. Wood baked by the sun cracks easily.
Can a faded vinyl fence be painted?
Yes, using paint formulated for vinyl. Keep the color light. A dark coat absorbs heat, and in summer sun the panel can warp. Wash off the chalky film first, and expect to repaint in time.
I want a double gate for an RV or trailer but my posts are weak. Reinforce or rebuild?
Rebuild. A wide double gate is heavy and needs its own steel posts in deep footings, a center drop rod and often a wheel on each leaf. Where the opening is cut into a block wall, we set steel posts at each side of it. Check your HOA rules on RV gates and trailer parking before starting.
Can you put a steel view fence or extension on top of my block wall?
Often, but check first. The wall must be sound, the added height must stay within the city or county limit, and most HOAs must approve it. Some walls were not built to take extra height or wind load. We look at the wall and the rules before we quote.
Does a new fence raise my property taxes?
Ask the Clark County Assessor's Office. It values land and improvements. A fence is small compared with the house.
Nobody can price a fence from a desk. We come out, measure the line and write the number down, and the visit costs nothing. Call (702) 829-5267, or text photos of the yard to that number.