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DIY Fencing vs. Hiring a Professional: What You Need to Know About Privacy Fences in St. Louis County, MO

by Brent Price - Posted 2 weeks ago


Installing a privacy fence may seem like a straightforward DIY weekend project—just a few posts, some panels, and a little elbow grease, right? Not so fast. While the idea of saving money and taking pride in your own work is appealing, building a durable, level, and code-compliant fence involves far more than it appears at first glance.

At Sandy Creek Landscaping, we've worked with many homeowners in St. Louis County, MO, including Oakville, Ballwin, Kirkwood, Mehlville, Affton, Manchester, and Lemay, who either started a fencing project and gave up—or worse, finished a fence that quickly failed. In this blog post, we'll explore the common pitfalls of DIY fencing, the advantages of hiring professionals, and why it's worth investing in a team that gets the job done right the first time.


Common DIY Fencing Pitfalls

1. Improper Post Installation

Fence posts are the foundation of your entire fence. Without proper placement and depth, the structure will shift, lean, or collapse over time.

Pitfall: Shallow or uneven posts result in instability, especially during high winds or storms.

Professional Advantage: We use proper tools and techniques to ensure posts are deep-set, level, and reinforced with concrete for maximum durability.

2. Uneven or Sloping Panels

DIYers often underestimate the complexity of aligning fence panels, especially on sloped or uneven terrain.

Pitfall: Gaps under the panels, inconsistent heights, and an unprofessional appearance.

Professional Advantage: Experienced crews know how to adjust for terrain using techniques like stepped or racked fencing to ensure a smooth, level finish.

3. Failure to Follow Local Codes or HOA Rules

Each city or neighborhood may have specific regulations regarding fence height, materials, and placement.

Pitfall: Non-compliance can lead to fines, forced removal, or conflicts with neighbors.

Professional Advantage: At Sandy Creek Landscaping, we handle all local permitting, zoning requirements, and HOA approvals as needed.

4. Low-Quality Materials

Buying cheap fencing materials from big-box stores may seem cost-effective, but they often don’t hold up over time.

Pitfall: Warping, cracking, mold growth, and premature replacement.

Professional Advantage: We use premium-grade wood, vinyl, and composite fencing materials built to last through Missouri’s seasons.

5. Lack of Tools or Equipment

Building a proper fence requires more than a hammer and nails—you’ll need post-hole diggers, levels, augers, saws, and cement mixers.

Pitfall: Borrowing or renting tools drives up costs and increases the chance of error.

Professional Advantage: Our team brings all necessary equipment, ensuring safe, fast, and accurate installation.


Benefits of Hiring a Professional for Privacy Fencing

1. Experience & Expertise

Fencing is what we do. Our team is trained to work with all types of terrain, fence styles, and installation techniques, ensuring a flawless outcome.

2. Proper Planning & Layout

We begin with a detailed consultation to assess your needs, measure your space, and create a plan that ensures even spacing, optimal height, and maximum privacy.

3. Durability & Long-Term Performance

From pressure-treated posts to weather-resistant fasteners and finishes, our fences are built to endure heavy rains, snow, wind, and heat.

4. Custom Fence Design Options

Whether you want a classic wood fence, a low-maintenance vinyl alternative, or a natural privacy screen using plantings, we’ll help you design a fence that suits your property and style.

5. Time & Labor Savings

Why spend days—or weeks—digging holes and measuring panels when our team can complete the job efficiently and correctly the first time?

6. Peace of Mind

With warranties on workmanship and materials, you can rest easy knowing your fence is secure and backed by a trusted local company.


Types of Fencing Services Offered by Sandy Creek Landscaping

  • Wood Privacy Fencing – Traditional, customizable, and naturally beautiful.

  • Vinyl Privacy Fencing – Durable, low-maintenance, and long-lasting.

  • Composite Fencing – Eco-friendly and weather-resistant.

  • Natural Privacy Barriers – Hedges, evergreens, and vine-covered trellises.

  • Custom Fence Design – Decorative elements, lattice tops, hybrid materials, and more.


What Makes Privacy Fencing a Smart Investment?

  • Enhanced Property Value – Boost curb appeal and make your home more attractive to potential buyers.

  • Added Privacy & Security – Keep your family and pets safe while creating a more private outdoor experience.

  • Noise Reduction – A sturdy fence helps block out street noise and neighbor activity.

  • Wind & Weather Protection – Fencing shields your outdoor space from harsh winds and drifting snow.

  • Clear Boundaries – Avoid disputes with neighbors by clearly marking property lines.


Final Thoughts: Invest in Peace of Mind

While building your own fence may seem like a rewarding DIY challenge, it’s often a time-consuming, labor-intensive project that can lead to costly repairs or do-overs. When it comes to something as important as privacy, safety, and long-term durability, trust the professionals.

At Sandy Creek Landscaping, we’re committed to helping St. Louis County homeowners build better fences—ones that last and look great doing it.


Contact Us to Schedule Your Privacy Fence Installation

📍 Located at: 195 Richarz Dr, Fenton, MO 63026
📞 Call us today: (314) 698-1228
🌐 Visit our website: saintlouislandscaping.com

Don’t leave your fence to chance—call Sandy Creek Landscaping and get it done right.