Posts are the most vital component in any fence, and they usually dictate how long it will last. Sometimes their warranty is separate from the rest of the fence, sometimes not. People often ask if their posts are covered for labour as well, and how the coverage differs depending on the material. This post (no pun intended) aims to clear all that up.
Labour
The labour for our installations usually matches the product warranty. Two exceptions: in the case of wood (no product warranty) the installation warranty is 1 year. In the case of standard chain link with privacy slats there is no warranty (it’s not a configuration we recommend). The bottom line: the labour for your posts is usually covered for at least 1 year, but typically longer.
Chain Link
Most chain link posts are covered (along with the rest of the fence) for 5 years. As mentioned above, there is no warranty for privacy slats attached to standard chain link. We suggest a 6′ post spacing upgrade for chain link with privacy. The upgrade carries the same 5 year warranty as the rest of our chain link line.
Vinyl
Vinyl fences carry a lifetime manufacturer warranty, and it includes the posts. Exceptions: gates and fences over 6’8″ high. In these cases the warranty is 1 year.
Iron/Aluminum
Our iron/aluminum fences have a 5 year warranty, and it includes the posts. Exceptions: gates over 60″ wide and fences over 6′ high. In these cases the warranty is 1 year.
Wood
Wood fences have no product warranty as per the industry standard. Wood can change, and often does, from the moment it’s installed. Cracks and splits that are perfectly natural can appear as the fence settles in. But we do have options for folks who love the look of a wood fence and want the security of a warranty as well.
PostMaster Steel Posts
Wood fences can be built on steel posts. The cost is typically $10/ft more than the usual fence price. PostMaster posts have a 15 year manufacturer warranty. Note that this covers the posts only, not the rest of the fence. But the upgrade is wise insurance given that the life of a fence usually depends on the posts.
RotGuard Sleeves are a terrific way to extend the life of your wood fence. They’re sleeves with a liner that protects wood posts from rot and decay around the vulnerable ground line area. The weakest link in a wood fence is right where the post meets the ground. Rot isn’t usually a problem deeper down because there’s no oxygen to jump-start the chemical processes that cause decay. Above the ground line the fence is high and dry. RotGuard Sleeves target the problem area.
For more information on our warranties see here. If you have other questions we’re happy to answer them. Starting March 1, call 613-736-1122 or hit the chat button on the right during business hours.
