When to Use Advanced Mode
The Advanced Estimate Builder is designed for complex projects with:
- ✓ Multiple fence runs with different heights or styles
- ✓ Various gate types and sizes
- ✓ Terrain changes requiring different installation approaches
- ✓ Mixed materials (e.g., wood privacy + aluminum decorative)
- ✓ Complex property layouts (L-shapes, irregular boundaries)
Understanding Fence Runs
A fence run is a continuous section of fence between corners or gates. Breaking your project into runs gives you precise control over each section.
Example: L-Shaped Backyard
Creating a Fence Run
- Click "+ Add Fence Run"
- Enter linear footage for this specific section
- Set fence height (can differ from other runs)
- Choose fence style (if different from main type)
- Note any special conditions (slope, obstacles, soil type)
Adding Gates
Gates add significant cost and installation time. The Advanced Builder accounts for:
Single Gates
- 3' wide: Standard walk-through
- 4' wide: ADA compliant, wheelbarrows
- 5' wide: Riding mower access
Double Gates
- 8'-10' wide: Small vehicle access
- 12'-14' wide: Standard driveway
- 16'+ wide: RV/boat access
Gate Installation Considerations
- Post Sizing:Gates require larger/stronger posts (4x4" minimum, 6x6" for double gates)
- Hardware: Heavy-duty hinges, latches, drop rods for double gates
- Concrete: Extra concrete for gate posts (deeper holes, more mix)
- Labor Time: Gates take 2-4x longer than equivalent linear footage of fence
- Adjustments: Gates require precise leveling and swing clearance
Material Overrides & Adjustments
Sometimes you need to override automatic calculations for specific project needs:
Waste Factor Adjustment
Default waste factor is 5-10% depending on material. Increase for:
- Novice crew (bump to 12-15%)
- Complex angles or curves (add 5-10%)
- Lower-quality materials (known for defects)
- Difficult site access (more breakage during transport)
Post Spacing Override
Standard spacing is 8' on-center. Adjust for:
- 6' spacing: High-wind areas, heavy gates nearby
- 10' spacing: Commercial chain link (check local codes)
- Irregular: Obstacles like trees, utilities, property corners
Concrete Quantity
Default assumes 50-60 lbs per post (3' deep hole, standard frost line). Increase for:
- Deeper frost line (northern climates: 4'-5' deep)
- Sandy/loose soil (wider holes for stability)
- Wind exposure (extra concrete for lateral strength)
Terrain & Site Conditions
The Advanced Builder lets you document site challenges that affect labor and materials:
Slopes
Stepped fence: Posts stay vertical, fence line steps down
Racked fence: Fence line follows slope (limited to ~30° max)
Soil Type
Rocky: Requires rock removal, possibly drilling
Clay: Difficult digging, may need gravel base
Obstacles
Tree roots, underground utilities, irrigation systems, existing structures
Access
Limited gate width, no driveway access, steep driveway, long carry from street
💡 Tip: Document these conditions in the estimate notes. They justify higher labor rates and protect you if the job takes longer than expected.
Mixed Material Projects
Some projects combine multiple fence types for function and aesthetics:
Common Combinations
- Backyard privacy + front yard picket:6' wood/vinyl privacy fence in back, 3'-4' decorative picket in front
- Pool fence + perimeter fence:4' aluminum pool fence (code required), 6' privacy around property line
- Chain link + wood gate:Economical chain link perimeter with upgraded wood privacy gate for curb appeal
How to Estimate Mixed Projects
- Create separate fence runs for each material type
- Select appropriate fence type for each run
- Verify post count at material transitions (shared corner posts)
- Account for extra labor coordinating multiple materials
- Consider ordering all materials to arrive together (shipping efficiency)
Best Practices
1. Measure Twice, Build Once
Walk the property with customer before finalizing estimate. Confirm measurements, identify obstacles, and set expectations about terrain challenges.
2. Document Everything
Use the notes field to record site conditions, customer requests, and anything unusual. Take photos during site visit and attach to estimate.
3. Build in Contingency
For complex projects, add 10-15% contingency to labor estimate. Rocky soil, hidden utilities, and weather delays are common. Better to finish under budget than over.
4. Review Material Breakdown
Before sending proposal, review the Bill of Materials. Verify post count, concrete quantity, and hardware make sense for your installation approach.
Next Steps
Questions about complex projects?
Our team has decades of fence installation experience. We can help you estimate tricky jobs.
Contact Support