There’s more to building a fence than simply putting some stakes in the ground. But what if you’ve never attempted it before? How can you be sure that you’re making the right choices and following the right blueprints? Before you break out the hammer, here are just four steps for building a long-lasting fence.

1. Have a Vision

What do you want your fence to look like? Something that goes around the entire farm will be quite different from something that surrounds a backyard bird fountain. Don’t be afraid to pull out your sketchbook and draw a little bit; you don’t have to be Picasso to create a picture that details what you want.

2. Choose Your Materials

Fences can be made from many different materials, including wood, iron and chain link. There’s no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing the right type for you; what works for your neighbor might be entirely wrong with your own yard. Do some research to figure out the correct decisions for yourself.

3. Create a Budget

It might not be fun to think about, but this is one of the most important factors of building a fence. You don’t want your new yard feature to put you in the red. Make a budget before you buy a single nail, and do your best to stick to it. Resist the temptation to buy any unnecessary upgrades or add-ons.

4. Talk to Fencing Contractors

If you’re having a bit of trouble with the technical side of building a fence, it can help to reach out to a fencing contractor in Lake County IL. Not only will they be able to answer any questions that you might have about stakes and posts, but they can also provide the services and skills needed to get it done.

These are just a few things to keep in mind as you build a fence. Whether you want to protect your entire yard or simply keep the rabbits out of your garden, these tips can help you erect something that will last a long time.