Tips for MCM Fence Installation

We Do A Deep Dive on Fences for Mid Century Modern Homes

This Fence for Mid Century Modern home echoes the deck and overhang.

Did a winter storm take out your fence? Is your fence falling down because it is the same age as your mid century home? There are numerous reasons to replace your fence and it is one of the questions we receive most often:  Do you know anyone who can replace my fence and what questions should I ask them?

In this article we give tips for planning for your fence replacement and give resources to contact. If you have replaced your fence — let us know who you used and send a photo!

Two types of fences in this yard show the difficulty of dealing with neighbors when building fences. A very modern horizontal wood fence on the left contrasts with the traditional vertical “good neighbor” fence on the right.

What style of fence works best for my mid century home?

A clean, minimalist style complements the architecture of mid century homes. Consider horizontal wood planks with steel or wood posts. Custom steel fencing can also complement your home as well as a mix of wood and steel. Fences topped with a traditional lattice work look out of place.

Should I use wood posts or metal posts for my fence?

Select metal if possible. Rotting wood posts is one of the many reasons for fence replacements. Metal posts are also more resistant to pests, high winds, fire and have lower long-term maintenance.

This custom fence was built by the Streng Bros homeowner. It combines solid block vertical structures to hold up the narrow vertical slat fence. This fence is many years old, but is super solid because of the construction.

Are there height and material requirements I need to know about?

California requires fences to be no taller than 6 feet tall in backyards and 5 feet in front. But each city and county can have their own requirements for height as well as materials so you should check with your city for additional regulations. If your home is part of an HOA they might also have their own regulations for height, materials and style.

Placing the fence boards horizontally has a very clean, modern look that goes well with mid century modern homes.

Do I need a permit from my city to install a fence?

Again, each city has different requirements so don’t assume a permit is not required. Some cities will send out inspectors and some don’t. Don’t rely on your installer for this critical information.

What is the Good Neighbor Fence Law and Why Should I care?

In California the Good Neighbor Fence Law dictates that shared property line fences are considered shared structures and as such both neighbors share equally in the costs of construction, maintenance and replacement unless one neighbor can prove they derive no benefit or prove financial hardship.

Any plans for maintenance, replacement or other work must be communicated to both parties at least 30 days in advance.

Communication is key as this can easily become an area of disagreement with your neighbor.

This fence mixes two different heights of boards placed horizontally for extra interest.

What is the best time of year to install a fence?

Best time of year is the spring as the ground is still soft which makes installation easier. But this is also the time of year when many installers are booked so keep this in mind.

How long does it take to install a fence?

Timing depends of course on how big your yard is and if you are implementing a complex design into your fence. We spoke to contractors and homeowners who said it took as little as one day to a week to install.

What is the typical cost range for a fence?

Again this can vary depending on materials and size but typically ranges between $3,000-5,000. If possible, get a couple of quotes from several installers to compare.

A brand new redwood, traditional vertical slat fence with solid posts and a treated wood base to hold the dirt from the back yard that is higher than the sidewalk.

Does my fence installer need to be licensed and insured?

In our research we found installers who were well thought of that were not licensed or insured and some that were. So if that is important to you make sure you ask. Many landscape companies offer fence installation services and tend to be insured and licensed.

How should I maintain my fence after it is installed?

You should stain and seal the fence once it is installed. If possible, keep plants from growing on the fence and don’t pile dirt against it — try to keep the fence line clear.

This simple vertical slat fence mimics the siding on the house and gets the job done.

In our research, we came across the following installers whom homeowner’s recommended:

Rob’s Gardens - 916-719-2336

Classic Fence Company — 916-330-1144

Cali’s Finest Landscaping — Peter Murza — 916-757-7200

Strauch Construction — Michael Ray Strauch — 916-796-6551

Fencebldr — 916-903-2267

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A new fence uses narrower vertical slats and gets creative with the gate.

This traditional fence is simple and by alternating the boards looks the same from both sides. The painted circle adds a little personality.

A block fence with metal posts provides privacy for the pool and hot tub.