Questions to Ask Before Buying Fence Materials

Your Essential Checklist for a Stress-Free Fence Project

Before you dive into buying fence materials, it’s worth taking a breath and asking a few smart questions. The best fence projects—whether you’re a homeowner dreaming up a backyard makeover or a contractor managing a tight schedule—start with clear expectations.What to consider:

• What do you really need?
• How will the fence perform?
• Who’s supporting you along the way?

Here’s a friendly guide to help you gather the information that makes planning (and building) your fence so much easier.  

Before you get into style, color, or fancy gate hardware, take a moment to think about why you want this fence in the first place.

Ask yourself:

• What’s the main purpose—privacy, safety, pet containment, pool code, curb appeal, or a mix of everything?
• How tall does it need to be to meet local codes and actually do its job?
• How much maintenance am I willing to take on each year?

At AVO, plenty of homeowners come in saying they “just need a fence,” but once we chat about what they really want, the best material and design usually reveal themselves. And contractors? They love when these decisions are made early so there are no surprises onsite.

2. Ask About Material Options

Not all fence materials are created equal—not even close. Two cedar fences can look similar at first glance, but weather completely differently.

Here are good questions to ask any supplier:

• Which materials do you specialize in (cedar, vinyl, aluminum, composite)? What are the pros and cons of each for my project?
• How does your cedar or vinyl differ from big-box store products?
• Are these materials designed to survive New England’s weather—snow, wind, moisture, temperature swings?

At AVO, we’re known for having the largest selection of cedar fencing in the region, along with top-quality vinyl fence systems. We walk customers through how each material performs here over time, so you’re not just choosing something that looks great on day one—but still looks great years later.

3. Understand Customization and Design Support

A fence isn’t just functional—it’s a major part of your property’s look. If your yard has awkward slopes or unique layouts, or you’re trying to match an existing style, customization matters.

Find out:

• Do you offer custom design solutions for tricky yard layouts?
• Can you match or replicate an existing fence?
• Do you have a showroom where I can see full-size panels, gates, and hardware?

AVO offers expert custom design services. We encourage both contractors and homeowners to visit our showrooms and check out our large in-stock inventory. Seeing the materials in person often prevents the, “I wish I’d chosen something else … ” feeling later.

4. Clarify Who Will Handle Installation

This is a big one—and a common source of confusion.

Make sure to ask:

• Do you install fences, or only supply the materials?
• If you don’t install, do you have trusted installers you recommend?
• How do you coordinate delivery or pickup, so the project stays on schedule?

At AVO, we supply materials only. That means we never compete with contractors, and we can focus on quality products and expert design support. We also work closely with approved installers and connect homeowners with pros when needed.

5. Check Code Compliance and Permits

Nothing derails a fence project faster than finding out (after installation) that it doesn’t meet local regulations.

What you need to have answered:

• Can you help me understand local or pool code requirements affecting height, style, or placement?
• Which fence systems are compliant with pool or safety codes?
• Do you provide specs or drawings that towns may require for permits?

Even though homeowners or contractors typically handle the permit themselves, working with a supplier who understands local codes makes the process dramatically smoother.

6. Discuss Lead Times, Availability, and Logistics

Timing matters—especially if you’re juggling other home projects or have clients waiting.

Make sure to ask:

• What are the typical lead times for the materials I want?
• Do you keep common styles and heights in stock?
• How will materials be loaded or delivered, and is there anything I should prepare beforehand?

Clear expectations help everyone keep the project on track.

7. Ask About Warranties and Long-Term Support

A fence is a long-term investment, and you want to know your supplier will still be there down the road.

Important questions:

• What warranties come with the materials, and what exactly do they cover?
• Who do I contact if there’s an issue later on?
• Can I get matching materials in the future if part of the fence gets damaged?

Working with an established supplier—one that has been serving New England for decades—gives you peace of mind. Consistent product lines and experienced staff make maintenance, repairs, and future additions much easier.

8. Extra Questions Just for Contractors

If you’re a contractor, landscaper, or installer, a few additional questions can make your job smoother from the very beginning.

Consider asking:

• What support do you offer trade partners (design consultations, take-offs, homeowner guidance)?
• Do you offer contractor pricing or volume discounts?
• Do you pass homeowner leads to approved installers?

AVO partners with dedicated pros, providing design support, contractor pricing, and homeowner referrals. Since we don’t install, contractors can bring clients to our showrooms with total confidence—no competition, just collaboration.

Ready to Start Your Fence Project?

For more than 50 years, AVO Fence & Supply has helped homeowners and contractors build fences that look great, perform well, and stand up to New England weather. We’re the region’s leading supplier of cedar fencing, with locations in Stoughton, Hingham, and Plymouth, MA. Have questions or ready to plan your project? Call us at (781) 341-2963—we’re here to help!