Choosing the right fence contractor in Lafayette, LA or surrounding areas like Youngsville, Broussard, Carencro, and New Iberia is about more than finding the cheapest bid. At Basin Fence, we know that your fence is more than a boundary — it’s protection, curb appeal, and long-term value for your property.
In this complete guide, we’ll share the crucial factors every homeowner should understand before hiring a fence contractor or fence company.
Why Choosing the Right Fence Contractor Matters in Louisiana
Looking to hire a fence contractor but not sure who to trust? We get it.
Here at Basin Fence, we’ve seen it all.
From poorly installed fences leaning within a year, to gates falling apart, and contractors ghosting customers after installation… the horror stories are endless.
Here’s the truth:
A fence is much more than wood and nails. It:
✅ Protects your family and pets
✅ Boosts your property’s curb appeal
✅ Increases home value
✅ Provides privacy and peace of mind
A professional fence contractor delivers more than a barrier. They create lasting value.
7 Critical Questions to Ask Your Fence Contractor
Hiring the right fence contractor can mean the difference between a fence that lasts decades vs. one that fails in months. Here’s how to separate the pros from the pretenders.
How Are Fence Posts Installed?
The posts are the foundation of your fence. Cut corners here, and everything else fails. We have an in depth guide on exactly what standards should be applied to your fence post installation that tells you exactly how deep your fence posts should set.
What to avoid:
Shallow post depths (anything less than 24 inches deep) Wrong hole size ( should be 9-12 inches in diameter) Not enough concrete (80lbs is not enough)
What to look for:
Posts driven deep — at least 3-4 ft in Acadiana’s shifting soils Proper concrete or no-dig post solutions (like PostMaster steel posts) Knowledge of local soil and moisture issues
Bonus tip: Concrete isn’t always best. No-dig post systems help prevent rot and shifting.
Learn about our No-Dig Fence Installation
What Materials Will You Use?
Materials matter — a lot
What to avoid: Interior-grade or untreated lumber Thin, low-grade vinyl or aluminum Cheap fasteners that rust
What to look for: Cedar is superior — especially Western Red Cedar American made vinyl and aluminum Avoid cheap lumber — it cracks, splits, and warps fast
Why Basin Fence:
We only use American-made premium materials, and our prestained fences are stained BEFORE installation for superior weather protection.
Explore our Wood Fence Installation Explore our Vinyl Fence Installation
Can I See Your Insurance Certificate?
What to avoid: Contractors who hesitate to show insurance Cash-only or handshake deals
What to look for: General liability insurance ($1M coverage minimum) Workers’ comp for installers Written proof upon request
Why Basin Fence:
We are a fully insured local contractor and provide peace of mind on every project.
What’s Your Warranty and What Does It Cover?
What to avoid: “Material only” warranties or no warranty at all Hidden exclusions Short warranties under 1 year
What to look for: Workmanship warranty Manufacturer’s material warranty Clear coverage details
Why Basin Fence:
We offer a lifetime workmanship warranty and stand behind everything we build.
Who Will Be Doing the Installation?
Many companies will sell you a fence and then turn around and subcontract out the work to whoever is available.
What to avoid: Subcontractors with no accountability Temporary laborers with no fence experience
What to look for: In-house crews Experienced installers who care On-site project supervision
Why Basin Fence:
Our skilled in-house team (no subcontractors) installs every fence we offer with expert precision.
How Do You Handle Permits, Property Lines, and HOA Rules?
What to avoid: Contractors who leave this up to you No knowledge of local regulations
What to look for: Knowledge of local codes and HOAs Assistance with property boundaries and permits Clear communication
Why Basin Fence:
We handle HOA submissions, property line verifications, and permit requirements for a stress-free experience.
What’s Your Payment Schedule?
Professional fence contractors offer transparent terms:
What to avoid: Demands for 100% upfront No clear payment terms
What to look for: Fair deposit (50%) Final payment after completion Written contract
Why Basin Fence:
We require a modest deposit and only accept final payment when you’re 100% satisfied.
Materials Matter in Acadiana’s Climate
Cedar Fencing — The Gold Standard
✅ Western Red Cedar preferred
✅ Thicker boards prevent warping
✅ Kiln-dried helps avoid moisture problems
✅ Should be properly stained and sealed regularly
Why Basin Fence:
We recommend pre-stained cedar fences for optimal beauty and durability.
Pressure-Treated Pine — Budget Friendly (But Requires More Maintenance)
✅ Ground-contact rated
✅ Must dry before staining (usually 2 months post install)
✅ Needs quality sealant applied properly
✅ More prone to warping, cracking, splitting, and checking if not maintained
Proper Maintenance is critical for any wood fence in order for it to last for decades.
Vinyl Fencing
What to avoid: Thin vinyl panels (from big box stores) Concrete footings that crack
What to look for: SCH40 steel post driven 4ft deep that is sleeved over with vinyl Thick, American-made panels
Why Basin Fence:
Our vinyl fences are stronger and require less maintenance than other options.
Aluminum Fencing
What to avoid: Poor-quality powder coating or painted panels
What to look for: Internal I-post reinforcements (300% stronger) Premium powder-coated finishes
Why Basin Fence:
Our aluminum fences are engineered for strength and style with a lifetime warranty.
Chain Link (Hurricane Fencing)
What to avoid: Thin walled 16Gauge posts
What to look for: SCH40 posts
✅ Welded gates
✅ Vinyl-coated options available for aesthetics
Red Flags to Avoid When Hiring a Fence Contractor
🚩 Quotes way below market value
🚩 Pushy sales tactics or vague estimates
🚩 No business address or insurance proof
🚩 Poor communication or “disappearing acts”
🚩 Lack of references and bad reviews
👉 See our Google Reviews
Why lafayette Chooses Basin Fence
With our engineer backed techniques and years of fence building experience, we know what it takes to deliver a fence that will last
✅ Local experts who understand Louisiana’s humidity and soil
✅ Prestained and no-dig fence options for better durability
✅ Fast and clean installation with no subcontractors
✅ Lifetime workmanship warranty
✅ Excellent customer reviews
Why Basin Fence Is Lafayette’s Trusted Fence Company
✅ Engineer backed installs
✅ No-dig post options to avoid rot
✅ Premium-grade materials
✅ In-house professional crews
✅ Lifetime workmanship warranty
Ready for a Fence You’ll Love for Decades?
Your fence should add beauty, security, and value — without problems in a few years. That’s exactly what Basin Fence delivers.
From Lafayette’s trusted chain link (“hurricane fencing”) contractor to custom cedar privacy fences, we’re ready to help you design and build the perfect fence.
FAQs About Hiring a Fence Contractor in Lafayette, LA
How long will a professionally installed fence last in Lafayette’s climate?
When installed properly with the right materials, fences in Lafayette should last:
- Cedar fences: 15–20+ years with proper staining and sealing
- Pressure-treated pine fences: 10–15 years, but they require frequent maintenance and sealing to avoid warping or cracking
- Vinyl fences: 25–30+ years, with minimal maintenance
- Aluminum fences: Lifetime with little to no maintenance
- Chain link fences: 20–30 years, depending on coating and installation
Acadiana’s heat, humidity, and heavy rains make choosing the right materials and contractor essential for long-lasting results.
When is the best time of year to install a fence in Lafayette?
Fencing can be installed year-round in Louisiana thanks to mild winters. However, fall and early spring (October–April) are ideal because:
- There’s lower humidity and rainfall
- The ground is easier to work with
- Contractor availability tends to be better
Our expert teams at Basin Fence work efficiently year-round regardless of season.
Do I need a property survey before installing a fence in Lafayette?
You should consider a survey if:
- Property lines are unclear or not marked
- Neighbor disputes could arise
- You don’t have a recent or accurate plot plan
We can help you determine if a survey is necessary and guide you through the process.
What’s the difference between a handyman and a professional fence contractor like Basin Fence?
Choosing a professional Lafayette fence contractor ensures:
- Specialized knowledge of local zoning, soil, and weather
- Professional tools and installation techniques
- Fully insured crews with years of experience
- Permits and HOA approvals handled for you
- A real warranty backed by an established local business
- Better materials through vetted suppliers
Cheap handymen or unlicensed contractors simply can’t offer this level of expertise or protection.
Should I remove my old fence before getting a quote?
No. In fact, we recommend leaving the old fence up until we visit. Seeing the existing fence helps us:
- Evaluate potential site challenges
- Identify re-usable components (like posts, if applicable)
- Provide a more accurate and transparent quote
We’ll also handle safe removal and disposal of your old fence.
What kind of deposit should I expect to pay?
A reputable fence contractor typically requires:
- 50% deposit upfront (to cover materials)
- Remaining balance upon completion and your approval
We will never ask for 100% payment upfront or pressure you into cash-only deals. Transparency is part of the Basin Fence promise.
How do I prepare my yard for fence installation in Lafayette?
To help us work efficiently:
- Mark or point out sprinkler heads and underground utilities
- Remove large debris and obstacles from the fence line
- Keep pets and children inside during work hours
- Designate where you want gates and access points
Our crews will handle everything else — including any necessary adjustments during install.
Can I install a fence myself instead of hiring a pro?
While DIY fence installation is possible, consider:
- Lafayette’s soil requires specialized post-setting techniques (no-dig or deep-set posts)
- Mistakes can cause leaning, rotting, or early failure
- Professional installers can complete in 1–2 days what may take weeks on your own
- Our warranty protects your investment — DIY does not
Hiring Basin Fence means peace of mind and long-term performance.
What is the biggest mistake homeowners make when hiring a fence contractor?
- Choosing based only on price.
- Not verifying experience, insurance, and references.
- Ignoring vague contracts with missing material and warranty details.
Cut-rate contractors often cut corners, leaving you with costly repairs in just a few years.
When you hire Basin Fence, you get licensed, insured professionals who care about doing the job right the first time.
How does Basin Fence handle payments?
- Detailed written proposals and contracts
- Flexible payment methods — including financing options
- No surprise charges or hidden fees
- Final payment ONLY after you are 100% satisfied
We pride ourselves on honesty and transparency from start to finish.
Final Thoughts
Don’t gamble on a cheap fence contractor — your property deserves better.
Basin Fence combines premium materials, expert craftsmanship, and outstanding warranties to ensure your fence looks great and lasts. Ready to get started?