
Our advice for success
Choosing the right fencing company is about more than just price
A fence is a long-term investment. While many quotes may look similar on paper, the difference is often hidden in the details — the materials used, the installation methods, and the experience behind the job.
At Crawfords Fencing, we believe homeowners should understand exactly what they are paying for before choosing a fencing contractor.
A cheaper quote is not always a better fence.
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1. Ask What Type of Posts Are Being Used
The posts are the foundation of your fence.
Many homeowners compare the visible parts of a fence but overlook the materials supporting it underground.
Ask your fencing contractor:
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Are you using hardwood, cypress or steel posts?
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What conditions suit this post type?
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Why have you chosen this material for my property?
Different posts suit different situations.
For example:
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Hardwood is a proven and reliable choice for many timber fences.
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Cypress has termite-resistant qualities but should be selected carefully.
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Steel posts provide premium strength and are excellent in demanding conditions.
The right choice depends on your property, not just the cheapest option.
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2. Ask How the Posts Are Installed
The footing system is one of the biggest differences between fencing companies.
Ask:
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How deep are the posts installed?
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What footing material is being used?
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Why is that method suitable for my property?
Different contractors may use:
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GP wet mix cement footings
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Concrete footings
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Rapid set products
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Dry packing methods
Understanding what is being installed below ground can help explain why quotes can vary.
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3. Understand Why Fence Quotes Can Be Different
When comparing quotes, make sure you are comparing the same thing.
A fence quote can vary because of:
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Timber quality
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Post type
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Fence height
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Removal and disposal of old fencing
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Site access
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Ground conditions
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Footing methods
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Workmanship
A lower price may mean different materials or a different installation method.
Always ask what is included.
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4. Check Who Is Actually Building Your Fence
Some companies quote the job but subcontract the installation.
Ask:
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Who will be installing the fence?
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Are they experienced fencing professionals?
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Does the company stand behind the workmanship?
The quality of the installation often determines how the fence performs over time.
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5. Look Beyond Photos of Finished Fences
A finished fence can look good on day one.
The real test is how it performs years later.
Look for a company that understands:
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Why posts rot
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Why fences lean
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Why gates fail
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Why fences move in wind
Experience repairing failed fences is just as valuable as experience building new ones.
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6. Ask About Local Conditions
Melbourne’s eastern suburbs have many different environments.
Consider:
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Wind exposure
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Damp soils
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Sloping blocks
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Older properties
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Tree roots
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Drainage issues
A good fencing contractor should recommend a solution that suits your property.
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7. Make Sure Communication Is Clear
A professional fencing company should clearly explain:
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What is being installed
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How long it will take
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What preparation is required
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What happens if unexpected issues are found
Good communication prevents problems before they start.
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Crawfords Fencing Advice
The best fence is not always the cheapest fence.
A quality fence starts with:
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The right materials
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The right installation method
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The right advice
At Crawfords Fencing, we believe homeowners deserve to understand the differences before making a decision.
An informed customer can choose the fence that is right for their property, budget and expectations.