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Frequently Asked Questions

Thinking about installing a new fence or repairing the one you have? You probably have a lot of questions — and you’re not alone. At Iron City Fence, homeowners across Birmingham, Trussville, Hoover, Vestavia Hills, and the surrounding Alabama communities often ask us about permits, costs, timelines, materials, and what to expect during installation.

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This page is designed to give you clear, honest answers to the most common fencing questions. Whether you’re wondering “Do I need a permit for a fence in Jefferson County?” or “What type of fence will last longest in Alabama’s humidity?”, you’ll find straightforward explanations right here.

We also link to our detailed service pages for wood fencing, vinyl fencing, aluminum fencing, chain-link fencing, and fence staining so you can dive deeper into the specific solution you’re interested in.

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 If you don’t see your question here, give us a call at (205) 777-7843 or request a free fence estimate. We’re always happy to help you understand your options and help you make the best decision for your property.

Do I need a permit to build or replace a fence in Birmingham or Trussville?

Yes — in many neighborhoods, you do. Permit requirements vary by city and HOA rules. For example, Birmingham and Trussville both have fence height and placement guidelines. Our team can help you check requirements, handle paperwork, and ensure your project is compliant.

What types of fence materials work best in Alabama’s climate?

Alabama’s hot, humid, and stormy weather means you’ll want materials that resist rot, rust, and warping:

Wood

Classic look, customizable, but requires staining or sealing every few years.

Vinyl

Durable, low-maintenance, won’t rot or mold.

Aluminum

Elegant, rust-resistant, great for decorative fencing and pools.

Chain-Link

Affordable, long-lasting, perfect for pets and security.

For details, see our Wood Fences, Vinyl Fences, Aluminum Fences, and Chain-Link Fences pages.

How long does a fence project take from quote to completion?

Most projects follow this timeline:

  • Free estimate: 1–3 business days

  • Installation scheduled: usually 1–3 weeks (permits & materials can affect timing)

  • Installation work: 1–3 days for most residential fences

How much does a new fence cost?

Costs vary based on:

Material

Wood, vinyl, aluminum, or chain link

Height and Length

Taller and longer fences require more materials and labor. 

Gates & Features 

Extra gates, decorative tops, or security features add cost.

Yard Conditions

Slopes, trees, and clearing can affect installation time and expense.

Finishes

Staining or sealant adds protection and longevity.

We provide free, detailed estimates so you’ll always know what to expect.

What kind of warranty do you offer?

We stand behind our work with:

  • Manufacturer warranties (where applicable)

  • 1 Year Workmanship guarantee — if something fails due to installation, we fix it

How much maintenance will my fence need?

It depends on the material, the weather, and other environmental conditions:

  • Wood – needs staining or sealing every 4-5 years

  • Vinyl – almost no maintenance beyond cleaning

  • Aluminum – minimal upkeep; rinse and check hardware

  • Chain-Link – durable, occasional tightening or rust treatment

See our Fence Staining and Fence Sealant pages for wood fence maintenance solutions.

Can you repair or rebuild an old fence?

Yes, in most cases. Condition, age, and structural integrity of the fence are the determining factors. We handle everything from replacing a few panels to complete rebuilds.

Services include:

  • Slat and board replacement

  • Post reinforcement

  • Gate and latch repairs

  • Full rebuilds after storm damage or aging

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  1. Call us at (205) 777-7843 or submit a request on our Contact Page.

  2. We’ll review your property, materials, and schedule a free estimate.

  3. You’ll get a clear, itemized quote.

  4. Once approved, we’ll schedule installation and handle everything from prep to clean-up.

What’s the first step to get started?

Ready for Your Free Estimate?

Iron City Fence proudly serves Birmingham, Trussville, Hoover, Vestavia Hills, Leeds, Moody, Pinson, and surrounding communities. Whether you’re installing a new fence or fixing an old one, our team is here to help.

Call (205) 777-7843 today or request your free estimate online.

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