Step One: Evaluate the fence
Before you decide to completely tear down a fence you need to evaluate it.
- Does the fence look like it can be salvaged?
- Are there just a few pieces that need to be repaired or does it make more sense to remove the entire thing?
- Do you even want to replace the fence once you tear it down?
Sometimes a fence is just there for no reason and you may not want it up. The fence might be easily repaired and that could be a better option for you. Really think about the work and money that will go into replacing a fence and talk to fencing contractors to get an idea of what will work for your property.
Step Two: Make sure it’s your fence
If you bought your property with a fence already existing, the fence might not be yours to tear down. If the fence is on the neighbor’s property line for some reason, or if the neighbor constructed the fence and it’s between the two properties, you’ll need to get the landowner’s permission to remove it.
It’s likely if the fence is in need of repair and the landowner hasn’t made those repairs on their own that they’ll be happy you want to take care of it - especially if the reason they haven’t fixed it is cost.
Even if that’s the case, always get permission. If they say no you can build a fence on your own property instead. If they do give you permission then once you tear down the fence, if you plan on reinstalling a new one, make sure the fence will be on your property so you don’t have to ask permission in the future.
Step Three: Have a fencing contractor take a look
Although tearing down an old fence might seem easy enough, there are quite a few things that go into it. Knowing where the fence is weakest will make it easier and quicker to take down. All fences are built different from each other depending on the type of fence it is.
Chain link fences often have concrete bases in places, and a big stone or brick fence can be especially intimidating. If the fence is large it can also be dangerous to take down if you’re unsure how it was built. It could easily fall down on you if not taken apart properly.
A fencing contractor will be able to help you determine where to start in breaking down the fence. If you hire a fencing company in Colorado to build a new fence, it’s very likely they can take down the old fence for you, too.
Step Four: Get the right tools
As much fun as demolition can be, it also is hard work. Having the right tools to knock down a fence is vital in getting the job done quickly and properly.
Hiring a professional fencing company would be the easiest way to take care of the job, but do-it-yourself take down is possible.
Make sure if you’re demolitioning the fence on your own to get tools that will knock down the fence easily. With the wrong tools you can seriously injure yourself or others, not to mention waste time. Invest your money in either hiring someone to take down the fence or buying the tools that will actually work.
Step Five: Contact your utilities provider
Have you ever heard the saying “call before you dig?” When you begin taking down a fence, a lot of what you’ll have to do is dig up the base of the fence and although the fence itself may not be hitting a wire or cable, it may be close to them underground.
It’s a good idea to contact the local utility companies as well as the city office so you know what lines are buried beneath the fence. Not only will this keep you safe, but it will also keeping you from knocking out phone or cable lines in your neighborhood.
Your neighbors will be happy you’re not inconveniencing them, but you also will avoid any fees or repairs you might have to pay for if you damaged any lines. Usually the city or company will send someone out to mark where any wires are running. If they’re very close or beneath your fence, you might consider hiring a fencing company to take care of the fence and avoid any line problems.
Step Six: Follow safe removal practices
The most important part of removing a fence is to keep yourself safe and others around you safe. Fence removal can be hard work and isn’t something that can be done super quickly.
Exercise patience to avoid any injuries. Use proper tools. Call the proper authorities. Have a plan for your fence and stick to it. If you’re not confident that you can remove the fence safely and properly don’t be afraid to contact a fencing contractor in Colorado Springs to help you get the job done right.
