Top 5 Common Fencing Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

By Fence-In and gates | Cape Town, South Africa

Introduction

Installing a fence might seem straightforward, but small mistakes can lead to big headaches down the line — from sagging panels and rust to loose posts and wasted money. At Fence-In and gates, we’ve seen (and fixed) just about every fencing issue you can imagine across Cape Town and the Western Cape. To help you avoid those costly errors, here are the top 5 common fencing mistakes and how to do things the right way.

1. Skipping Proper Post Foundations

One of the biggest mistakes in any fencing job is not setting posts deep or solid enough. Fence posts act as the backbone of your fence — if they move, the whole structure weakens.

Common problems:

• Posts set too shallow (less than 600mm deep)

• No concrete used around the base

• Poor soil compaction
  

Fence-In Tip: Every fence post should be set in concrete footing at least 600–800mm deep depending on fence height and soil type. We use galvanised steel posts for long-term strength and corrosion resistance — especially in Cape Town’s coastal conditions.

2. Using the Wrong Materials for Local Conditions

Not all fences are built to handle South Africa’s sun, wind, and coastal air. Using untreated steel or low-grade wire often leads to rust and premature failure.

Common problems:

• Fences rusting within months

• Paint or coatings peeling off

• Posts bending in strong wind

Fence-In Tip: Choose PVC-coated diamond mesh with galvanised steel posts. This combination resists corrosion, looks neat, and offers strong protection even in coastal areas like Table View, Blouberg, or Somerset West.

3. Ignoring Fence Alignment and Levels

A fence that leans or steps unevenly across the yard doesn’t just look bad — it also compromises security.

Common problems:

• Uneven post spacing

• Fence line not level due to uneven ground

• Gate misalignment

Fence-In Tip: Always use a string line and level before setting your first post. At Fence-In, we survey and mark every layout carefully to ensure a straight, uniform fence line with proper alignment for gates and corners.

4. Forgetting to Plan for Gates and Access

Many homeowners only think about gates after the fence is installed — leading to awkward entry points or gates that don’t fit the space.

Common problems:

• No access for vehicles or garden tools

• Gates too narrow or too heavy

• Hinges and locks poorly aligned

Fence-In Tip: Plan your pedestrian and vehicle gates before installation. We offer custom gate designs — single, double, and sliding options — to match your fence style and ensure secure, easy access.

5. Overlooking Security Extensions

In areas where safety matters, some property owners forget to include barbed wire or razor wire extensions until it’s too late. Adding them after the fence is built can cost extra time and money.

Common problems:

• No space or brackets for wire extensions

• Weak fence tops not designed for security add-ons

Fence-In Tip: If you need a secure boundary, consider adding barbed or razor wire from the start. Our team installs welded extensions directly onto your galvanised posts for a clean, secure finish that meets safety standards.

Conclusion

A well-built fence starts with good planning, quality materials, and expert installation. By avoiding these five common mistakes, you’ll save money and get a fence that lasts for years — even in Cape Town’s tough weather.

For expert advice, site inspections, and professional fencing installation:

👉 Request a Quote or contact us at quotes@fence-in.co.za | Tel:

021 9333103 | Whatsapp: 067 381 3801