At Ozark Fence, we’ve built and repaired thousands of fences across Springfield, MO, and one thing we’ve learned is that even the smallest fence building mistake can cause big problems down the road. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or hiring a local fence contractor, these six mistakes are some of the most common—and the most avoidable.
1. Not Knowing Your Property Line
This might sound obvious, but it’s one of the most critical steps in fence building: know exactly where your property line is. If you accidentally build even a few inches onto your neighbor’s yard, they have the legal right to make you tear it down. That’s a headache nobody wants.
✅ Pro Tip: Call a licensed surveyor before you start digging. It’s a small investment that can save you thousands down the line
2. Skipping the Utility Call
Before you put that shovel in the ground, call 811 to have your utility lines marked. There are pipes, cables, and wires buried under your yard that you do not want to hit—think electricity, gas, water, internet, and more.
💡 Remember: Call 811 before you dig so you don’t have to call 911 after you do.
3. Shallow Post Holes
Your fence posts are the foundation of your entire fence. Digging shallow holes is one of the quickest ways to end up with a fence that wobbles—or worse—falls over during a strong Missouri wind.
✅ Rule of thumb: Posts should be set 30 inches deep and at least 6 inches below your region’s frost line for long-term stability.
4. Buying Pre-Made Panel
Pre-made fence panels from big box stores may look like an easy shortcut, but they often lead to problems:
- They’re usually made from lower-quality materials.
- They don’t follow the natural slope of your yard.
- They’re more likely to warp or sag over time.
🚫 Instead: Use individual pickets and build your fence custom. This allows for better alignment, a cleaner look, and longer-lasting durability—especially in the varied terrain around Springfield.
5. Using Wood for Gates
One of the most frequent repairs we do at Ozark Fence is fixing sagging wooden gates. Why? Because wood doesn’t hold up well to the stress and movement gates endure.
🔧 Use metal gate frames and posts instead. They’re stronger, won’t warp, and offer better long-term performance—saving you future hassle.
6. Not Staining or Sealing Your Fence
Unprotected wood won’t last long in Missouri’s climate. Between the sun, rain, humidity, and bugs, an untreated fence can start to break down in just a few years.
🌲 The Fix: Apply a high-quality oil-based stain. It protects the wood from the elements and helps your fence stay strong, beautiful, and functional for years to come.
Build It Right with Ozark Fence
Avoiding these six common fence-building mistakes can make a huge difference in how long your fence lasts—and how good it looks while doing it.
At Ozark Fence, we’re proud to help Springfield homeowners build fences that are as strong as they are beautiful. From custom designs and metal-framed gates to professional staining and long-term maintenance, we’ve got you covered.
📍 Need help building or fixing your fence? Give Ozark Fence a call today and get it done right the first time.