You finally said yes to the fence. You got the quote, you picked the style, and now you’re wondering, what actually happens next? How long is this going to take? Will my yard be torn up? Do I need to be home?
These are completely reasonable questions, and most homeowners ask them. The installation process is one of those things that feels mysterious until someone walks you through it. So let’s do that.
Here is exactly what to expect when you hire Kirkwood Fence to install a wood fence on your property.
Step 1: The Free Consultation
Everything starts with a conversation. One of our designers comes to your property, walks the yard with you, and listens to what you need. Privacy? A boundary for your dog? Curb appeal for a home you’re thinking about selling? There is no one-size-fits-all answer, and we don’t pretend there is.
We take measurements, talk through material options, and help you land on the right fence for your situation and your budget. You leave the consultation with a clear proposal, not a pushy sales pitch.
Not sure what style is right for you yet? Our fence selection guide can help you think through the options before we meet.
Step 2: Permits
Most municipalities in St. Louis County require a fence permit before installation begins. We handle all of that for you. We pull the permit, submit the paperwork, and pass along the actual cost without any markup.
This step can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks depending on your municipality. We’ll keep you informed throughout so you’re never left wondering where things stand.
Step 3: Scheduling and Layout
Once the permit is in hand, we schedule your installation and do a pre-install layout of the fence line. This is where we mark post locations, confirm property lines, and call 811 to have underground utilities marked. That last step is non-negotiable — digging without knowing what’s underground is how expensive problems happen.
If you want to understand more about what goes into setting a fence post the right way, this guide from Bob Vila on fence post installation walks through the technique clearly.
Step 4: Installation Day
Most residential wood fence installations take one to two days depending on the size of the project and the terrain. Here is what happens on site:
Post holes are dug first, typically 24 to 36 inches deep depending on fence height and local frost line requirements. Posts are set in concrete and given time to cure. Rails are attached, then pickets or panels are installed. Gates are hung last and adjusted for proper swing and latch.
You don’t need to be home for most of the installation, but we do ask that someone is available at the start to confirm the layout before we break ground.
Step 5: Cleanup and Walkthrough
We don’t leave a mess. Dirt, concrete debris, and packaging are cleaned up before our crew leaves. When the job is complete, your installer will walk the fence with you, show you how the gates operate, and answer any questions.
If anything isn’t right, we make it right. That’s the Second Mile promise.
A Few Things Worth Knowing
Wood fences need a little time to settle after installation. You may notice minor shrinkage or movement in the first few weeks as the wood adjusts to the outdoor environment. This is normal. A small gap between boards is not a defect — it’s how wood breathes.
Plan to stain or seal your fence within the first few months of installation to protect the wood and maximize its lifespan. This Old House has a solid overview of how to choose and apply exterior wood stain that’s worth reading before you start.
For a broader look at how the fence installation process works from planning to completion, the Family Handyman’s fence installation guide is a helpful reference.
Ready to Get Started?
The wood fence installation process is simpler than most homeowners expect. With the right contractor handling the details, your biggest job is picking the style you love.
Kirkwood Fence has been installing wood fences in St. Louis since 1979. We know the permit requirements, we know the terrain, and we know how to get the job done right the first time.
Schedule your free consultation today and let’s get your project on the calendar.
Kirkwood Fence serves homeowners across St. Louis and surrounding communities including Kirkwood, Webster Groves, Chesterfield, Ladue, Ballwin, Manchester, Wildwood, Ellisville, and beyond.
