Two fences can look identical on install day and age completely differently. The difference is almost always craftsmanship: how deep the posts go, how they’re set, how the line handles slope and drainage, and how the gates are hung. At 76 FENCE Main Line, we install fences for homes and businesses across the Main Line and nearby Chester, Delaware and Montgomery County communities, and we build them for the ground and weather we actually have here.
This page explains what goes into a professional installation, so you know what to expect and what to ask any contractor you’re considering.
Before we dig: planning and layout
Every installation starts with a walkthrough. Most customers meet Andrew Taylor, our General Manager, who measures the fence line, looks at grade changes, trees, drainage, existing structures and gate locations, and talks through how you use the yard.
- We confirm permit, HOA and historic review requirements for your property. See fence permits.
- We submit the PA One Call (811) utility locate request at least three business days before digging.
- We plan gate widths for how you’ll use them, whether that’s a mower, a wheelbarrow, a trash can or a car.
- We decide how the fence should follow the ground on sloped lots: stepped panels or racked to follow the grade.
Posts: the part you’ll never see
Posts are the foundation of a fence, and in southeast Pennsylvania they have a lot to resist. Our winters freeze and thaw repeatedly, and water-logged soil expands as it freezes. A post set too shallow gets lifted a little each season until the fence leans or gates stop latching.
That’s why we set posts below the frost line, which is typically 30″–36″ in our area (local code governs). Post size, spacing and setting method depend on the material and the fence height, and gate posts get extra attention because they carry the most load. For details, read our frost line and post depth FAQ.
Digging in Main Line soil
Much of our region has clay-heavy soil, and many neighborhoods sit on rocky schist. Older lots, especially in places like Gladwyne, Villanova and Bala Cynwyd, often have mature trees whose roots run right where the fence line wants to go. None of that stops a good installation, but it does mean:
- Crews come prepared with the right equipment for rock and dense clay.
- We work carefully around significant roots, sometimes adjusting post positions to protect a tree.
- We think about drainage so water doesn’t pool around posts in heavy spring rains.
We’ll point out anything on your lot that could affect the install during the walkthrough, so there are no surprises on install day.
Installing by material
Wood
Rails, boards and hardware chosen to limit warping and rust, with gaps and ground clearance that let the wood dry. Wood fencing.
Vinyl
Panels set level and plumb with room for seasonal expansion and contraction, and reinforcement where gates need it. Vinyl fencing.
Aluminum and steel
Rackable panels to follow slopes smoothly and secure, aligned posts for a crisp line. Aluminum and steel.
Chain link
Fabric stretched tight between terminal posts with proper bracing so it doesn’t sag. Chain link.
Ready for a fence you'll love?
Book a free, no-pressure estimate. Zero dispatch fees — and we handle permits, HOA paperwork and the 811 call.
Install day
Most residential jobs take about a day or two on site once materials arrive. Weather can shift schedules, and if a storm rolls in we’ll keep you updated rather than rush the work. Our crews show up on time, keep the site organized, and respect your landscaping and your neighbors.
If we’re replacing a fence, tear-out and haul-away of the old one is part of the job. When we’re finished, we walk the fence with you, test every gate and latch, and clean up before we leave.
Book your free estimate
Call, text or book online. Share your address, rough footage and photos if you have them.
Walkthrough & quote
We walk the property with you, talk through materials and styles, and send a clear written estimate.
Permits, HOA & 811
We check township and HOA rules, help with approvals, and schedule the PA One Call utility locate.
Installation day
Layout is confirmed with you, old fence removed if needed, posts set and panels hung — usually in a day or two.
Final walkthrough
We test every gate, clean up, and walk the finished fence with you before we call it done.
Backed by manufacturer warranties
We offer and honor manufacturer warranty coverage on every fence we install. We’re licensed and insured, and we accept ACH, debit, credit and even cryptocurrency. Financing through our partner Wisetack is available as well; check your options online in minutes on our financing page.
Where to go next
Compare materials on our materials page, browse fence styles, or see finished work in the gallery. When you’re ready, call or text 484-779-6307 or book a free estimate.