Getting a new fence is usually a massive headache. You’ve got the permits, the property line disputes with neighbors who suddenly care about two inches of dirt, and the endless searching for a contractor who actually shows up. If you've been looking into R and M Fence, you're likely trying to figure out if they’re the real deal or just another name in a crowded directory.
Finding the right company matters. Your fence isn't just a boundary; it's what keeps your dog from chasing the mailman and gives you the privacy to drink coffee in your pajamas without the whole street watching. People often look for R and M Fence because they want that specific blend of local reliability and professional-grade materials. Honestly, the fencing industry is full of "fly-by-night" operations that disappear the moment a post leans at a 45-degree angle. Let's dig into what sets this specific name apart and why the details of your installation matter more than the brand on the truck.
Why R and M Fence Pops Up in Your Search
There are a few companies that operate under the R and M Fence banner, most notably in regions like Winchester, Kentucky, and parts of Ohio. They’ve built a reputation over decades. It's not about flashy marketing. It’s about being the guys who have the right augers to handle the limestone-heavy soil in the Bluegrass region or the freeze-thaw cycles of the Midwest.
When you look at R and M Fence, you aren't just looking for a product. You're looking for someone who understands that a fence in Kentucky faces different stressors than one in Florida. High winds. Humidity. Horses. Yes, in this part of the world, "fence" often refers to four-board oak or black pop-up planking meant to keep a thousand-pound animal contained. That’s a high bar for quality. If they can keep a Thoroughbred in, they can probably handle your Golden Retriever.
Materials That Actually Last
Most people think a fence is just a fence. Wrong.
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Pressure-treated pine is the standard, but there's a world of difference between "big box store" lumber and professional-grade supply. A professional outfit like R and M Fence typically sources wood with higher chemical retention levels. This prevents rot. It stops the termites from turning your investment into sawdust within three years.
Then there's vinyl. Vinyl is tricky. You've probably seen those cheap white fences that turn yellow or crack when the weed whacker hits them. Professional installers use high-impact, UV-resistant PVC. It’s thicker. It has more internal ribbing. You want the stuff that can survive a stray baseball or a heavy ice storm. Aluminum is another beast entirely—it gives you that classic wrought-iron look without the constant need to scrape off rust and repaint every two summers.
The Installation Process: Where Most People Get Burned
Installing a fence looks easy on YouTube. It's not.
I’ve seen DIY jobs where the homeowner didn't call 811. They hit a gas line. That’s a bad day. Or they didn't set the posts deep enough. A fence is basically a giant sail. When the wind picks up, if those posts aren't deep in the ground—usually below the frost line—the whole thing is going to tip over.
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R and M Fence and similar high-end contractors focus heavily on the "below-ground" work. This means:
- Proper Post Depth: Usually 24 to 36 inches deep, depending on the height of the fence.
- Concrete Anchoring: Using the right PSI concrete so the base doesn't crumble.
- Gate Hardware: This is the first thing to fail. You need heavy-duty hinges that won't sag after six months of use.
If you’re hiring out, ask about the warranty on the labor, not just the materials. Materials often have a manufacturer's warranty, but if the installer didn't level the panels correctly, that manufacturer won't help you.
Dealing With the Neighbors
Let’s talk about the "ugly side" of the fence. Traditionally, the side with the rails faces in, and the "pretty" side faces out. Some local codes require this. If you’re working with a pro, they’ll know the local ordinances in places like Winchester or Lexington. You don't want to spend five grand only to have the city tell you to tear it down because it’s six inches too high or facing the wrong way.
Common Misconceptions About R and M Fence Services
A lot of people think hiring a specialist like R and M Fence is going to be double the price of a general handyman.
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Sometimes it is. But here's why: specialized tools. A dedicated fencing crew has hydraulic post drivers and specialized augers. They can finish a 200-foot run in two days, whereas a handyman might take two weeks. Time is money. Plus, the specialized guys have the insurance to cover it if a worker gets hurt on your property. Don't overlook that. If a guy with a truck and a shovel breaks his leg on your lawn, you might be the one paying for it if he isn't insured.
Also, don't assume every "R and M" is the same company. There are several businesses with similar names across the U.S. Always check the specific location and their local BBB rating. The one in Kentucky, for example, has been a staple for years, known for farm and residential work alike.
Maintenance: Don't Set It and Forget It
Even a perfect installation needs love.
If you go with wood, you’ve got to seal it. Wait about six months for the pressure-treated wood to "dry out" before you apply a stain. If you do it too early, the moisture trapped inside will push the stain right back out. It’ll look blotchy.
Vinyl and aluminum are lower maintenance, sure, but they still need a wash. Green mold loves to grow on the shady side of a white vinyl fence. A quick hit with a power washer (on a low setting!) or some simple soap and water keeps it looking new.
Actionable Steps for Your Fencing Project
- Survey First: Don't trust the old stakes. Get a professional survey if you're even slightly unsure about the property line. It’s cheaper than a lawsuit.
- Call Before You Dig: Even if you aren't doing the work, ensure your contractor has called the utility marking service.
- Check the Grade: If your yard slopes, you need to decide between "stepping" the fence (which looks like stairs) or "racking" it (where the fence follows the ground). Racking looks smoother but is harder to do with certain materials.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Even if you're leaning toward R and M Fence, get two other bids. It helps you understand the market rate and catch any red flags in the "too cheap" bids.
- Permit Check: Don't assume the contractor is pulling the permit. Explicitly ask who is responsible for filing the paperwork with the city or county.
- Walk the Line: Before the crew leaves, walk the entire perimeter. Open and close every gate. Shake a few posts. It should feel solid.
Quality fencing is an investment that usually yields a 50% to 70% return on your home's value. More importantly, it provides the peace of mind that your private space stays private. Taking the time to vet the company and understand the materials will save you from the "sagging gate blues" three years down the road.