Why Some Fences Don’t Last as Long as They Should
Many Louisiana homeowners invest in fences expecting them to last 15 or 20 years — but often find themselves replacing them after just a few. The truth is, most fencing problems don’t come from storms or humidity alone. They come from fencing mistakes contractors make due to poor installation practices and contractor shortcuts that weaken the structure from the start.
At Tony’s Fencing and Iron Works, we’ve spent more than three decades repairing and rebuilding fences that failed early because they weren’t built correctly. From post depth to drainage and materials, every detail matters.
The Most Common Mistakes Contractors Make
One of the biggest issues we see is shallow post installation. When fence posts aren’t set deep enough — or when contractors skip concrete footings altogether — fences begin to lean or shift as Louisiana’s soft soil expands and contracts. Another frequent problem is the use of non-galvanized nails or screws, which rust and weaken quickly in humid conditions.
Drainage is another overlooked detail. Water that pools at the base of fence posts accelerates rot in wood and corrosion in metal. Contractors who skip proper grading or fail to lift panels slightly above ground level guarantee that damage will appear within a few years.
“A fence is only as strong as the work behind it,” said Tony, Owner of Tony’s Fencing and Iron Works. “When corners are cut during installation, the homeowner ends up paying twice — once for the fence, and again when it fails.”
Cheap Materials vs. Long-Term Investment
Some fencing companies use low-grade wood or thin-gauge metal panels that aren’t suitable for Louisiana’s humidity. These materials may look fine when new, but they warp, rust, or crack much faster than high-quality alternatives.
Tony’s Fencing uses premium cypress, cedar, and pressure-treated pine for wood projects, and powder-coated steel and iron for metal fencing. These materials are selected for strength, weather resistance, and long-term appearance. The same standards apply to vinyl fences, ornamental iron gates, and farm enclosures — all built to handle local weather and soil movement.
“Down here in Louisiana, the weather tests every fence,” Tony explained. “That’s why we build ours to handle humidity, storms, and shifting soil — the right way, not the fast way.”
Built for Louisiana’s Weather and Soil
Louisiana’s heavy rainfall and clay-based soil make fence design more complex than in other regions. Fence posts must be deeply set in concrete to prevent shifting, and drainage must be properly graded so that water doesn’t collect at the base. In coastal or high-humidity zones, powder-coated or galvanized materials are critical for preventing corrosion.
Tony’s Fencing also designs fences for wind load tolerance, using correct post spacing and reinforced connections to keep panels straight during storms. Every project begins with a detailed site assessment to evaluate slope, soil stability, and drainage patterns — the kind of attention to detail that prevents premature failure.
Safety and Industry Standards
Professional-grade installation isn’t just about looks — it’s also about safety and compliance. Contractors who don’t follow proper standards risk creating fences or automatic gates that fail under pressure. For homeowners installing powered gates or access systems, following UL 325 standards is crucial to ensure safety and performance.
To learn more about these standards, visit Industrial Door Company’s guide to UL 325 standards. It provides helpful insight into how certified installers protect both property and people through regulated design and testing.
What Homeowners Should Know Before Hiring a Fence Company
Before choosing a contractor, homeowners should always ask:
How deep will the posts be set?
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Are the fasteners galvanized or stainless steel?
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What type of sealant or treatment will protect the wood?
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Does the company carry insurance and provide a warranty?
Reputable companies are transparent about their process and materials. Tony’s Fencing encourages every customer to ask these questions and to compare workmanship — not just price.
Why Choose Tony’s Fencing and Iron Works
With more than 30 years of experience, Tony’s Fencing and Iron Works has built its reputation on honesty, quality, and expertise. The company provides custom wood, iron, vinyl, and farm fencing, along with automatic gates, ADA-compliant handrails, and ornamental ironwork. Each fence is designed to match the customer’s property and Louisiana’s unique environment — durable, attractive, and built to last.
Contact Tony’s Fencing
📍 Tony’s Fencing and Iron Works
Covington, Louisiana
📞 985-703-0595
🌐 Visit Tony’s Fencing & Iron Works
