FAQs
- What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
1. Material Costs: Prices vary by material—wood (e.g., cedar or pine), vinyl, metal, or composite. For instance, stockade wood fences typically cost less upfront than vinyl but may require more maintenance over time. 2. Labor Costs: Professional installation fees depend on your location, the complexity of the project, and the size of the area being fenced. Labor usually accounts for 50%-70% of the total cost. 3. Customization: Features like decorative tops, gates, staining, or painting increase the price. A simple stockade fence will cost less than one with scalloped edges, post caps, or integrated lighting. 4. Permits and Zoning: Some areas require permits or adherence to HOA guidelines, which could involve additional costs. 5. Long-Term Maintenance: Cheaper materials may need more frequent repairs or treatments (e.g., wood staining or sealing), while pricier materials like vinyl may save money in the long run. DISCOUNTS WE OFFER 1. Volume Discounts • We like to reward customers for larger projects by reducing costs based on the total linear footage or multiple installations. 2. Referral Discounts • We provide incentives to customers who refer new clients. 3. Bundle Discounts • Combine our services like fence installation and staining or landscaping for a reduced price. 4. Cash Discounts • We also offer a small discount for customers who pay in cash, saving you on transaction fees. 5. Military, Senior, or First Responder Discounts • We show appreciation for these groups by providing project cost at a discount. 6. Repeat Customer Discounts • We reward loyalty by offering discounts on future projects or maintenance services.
- What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
When working with a new fencing customer, we typically follow a structured process to ensure their needs are fully understood and met. Here’s an overview of the steps: 1. Initial Consultation and Needs Assessment • Understanding the Customer’s Goals: we begin by asking about the purpose of the fence (e.g., privacy, security, aesthetic appeal). • Identifying Preferences: We inquire about material preferences (wood, vinyl, metal, etc.), desired styles (e.g., picket, privacy, or decorative), and budget constraints. • Site Considerations: We discuss the location of the fence, including size, obstacles (e.g., trees, slopes), and any zoning or HOA regulations that might affect the design. 2. Offering Recommendations and Design Suggestions • Based on the customer’s preferences and site conditions, we provide suggestions on materials, styles, and design features. We also discuss the pros and cons of each option, considering factors like durability, maintenance, and cost. • Customizations: We discuss potential additions, such as gates, lighting, or decorative elements. 3. Budget and Timeline Discussion • Providing a Clear Estimate: After gathering all the necessary information, we offer a detailed breakdown of costs for materials, labor, and any additional features. • Timeline: We clarify the expected time frame for the project based on the complexity of the job, material availability, and scheduling. 4. Addressing Permits and Regulations • We help the customer understand any necessary permits or permissions that may be required, especially if the project involves significant alterations or if local zoning regulations apply. • If necessary, we assist with navigating any HOA requirements or restrictions on fence height, placement, or style. 5. Providing a Formal Proposal or Contract • Once the details are agreed upon, we prepare a formal proposal or contract outlining the scope of work, pricing, timeline, and terms of service. This ensures both parties have a clear understanding of expectations and responsibilities. 6. Finalizing and Scheduling • After the customer approves the proposal, we schedule the work based on availability, material procurement, and weather conditions. • Pre-Installation Preparation: We may ask the customer to clear the area of obstacles or provide any additional information (e.g., property lines or special access requirements). 7. Installation and Ongoing Communication • During installation, we ensure the customer is kept informed of progress. If any adjustments are necessary (e.g., due to unforeseen site conditions), I communicate these clearly. • We ensure the installation is done according to agreed-upon specifications, maintaining quality and safety throughout the process. 8. Post-Installation Follow-Up • After the project is completed, we conduct a final walk-through with the customer to ensure satisfaction with the work. • We provide maintenance tips if necessary and let the customer know how to care for the fence, particularly if they have chosen materials that require upkeep (e.g., staining wood fences). • We also offer information on warranties or guarantees if applicable.
- How did you get started doing this type of work?
I originally started by helping family and friends with small repairs, flooring installs, painting, and general home improvements. Over time, people started recommending me by word of mouth because they appreciated honest pricing, clear communication, and dependable workmanship. As the demand grew, I teamed up with my business partner, who brings decades of residential construction experience, along with a crew of skilled workers who have spent most of their careers building, repairing, and improving homes. Together, we formed SAW Residential Maintenance — a company built on experience, reliability, and a shared commitment to doing high-quality work.