Thinking of revamping your outdoor space in Pinellas County? Fence removal might be the first step! But where do you even begin? Don't worry, Junk Rescue Pinellas is here to help. Here's our 7-step guide to removing your fence safely and ensuring proper disposal:
Step 1: Assess Your Fence
Material: Knowing your fence's material (wood, vinyl, metal) is crucial. Wood requires different tools and disposal methods compared to metal or vinyl.
Size and Complexity: Measure your fence's length and height. A small picket fence is a DIY project, while a large, complex fence might be better handled by professionals.
Post Removal: Check if the fence posts are buried in concrete. Concrete removal requires additional tools and can be very labor-intensive.
Step 2: Safety First!
Call Before You Dig: Identify any underground utilities (wires, pipes) by contacting Sunshine State One Call at 811 at least 3 business days before digging.
Proper PPE: Wear gloves, eye protection, and sturdy shoes to protect yourself from splinters, sharp edges, and falling debris.
Step 3: Fence Panel Removal
Wood Fences: Use a pry bar to remove panels from the posts. A reciprocating saw can help cut through stubborn nails. A sledgehammer can be another option for fence post that are difficult to remove. Not to many tricks to remove wooden fence post, it is very taxing and requires a lot of physical labor.
Metal Fences: Metal fencing sections typically bolt onto the posts. Use wrenches or sockets to remove the bolts. For chain link fences, detach the tension wires using pliers. Once the fence has been detached from the posts, lay the chainlink fence panel on the ground begin to roll it up. Make sure you have heavy-duty gloves on when dealing with a chain link fence.
Vinyl Fences: These often detach from the posts with a mallet and a flathead screwdriver.
Pro tip: renting a min skid or mini excuvator can save you hours on your fence demo project.
Step 4: Post Removal
Without Concrete: Use a post puller or leverage with a pry bar to remove un-cemented posts. If no concrete is found with your fence post you can expect a majority of the post to be falling down or leaning over.
With Concrete: Renting a jackhammer or hiring professionals might be necessary for breaking up concrete around the posts. Dig about a foot around the post and you can rock the post back and forworth to loosen the post.
Pro Tip: Wetting the ground around the fence post helps loosen the soil. Using a mini skid also very helpfull as it can pull the post straght up from the ground without requiring digging with a shovel.
Step 5: Sort and Stack
Separate the materials: Wood, vinyl, and metal should be disposed of separately in Pinellas County.
Stack neatly: This makes hauling or transporting the materials easier.
Step 6: Disposal Options
Pinellas County Landfill: Pinellas County operates landfills that accept certain fence materials for a fee. Check their website for specific guidelines and fees. Pressure treated lumber, you will need to contact Pinellas County Landfill ahead of time as you can not dump it at the landfill without the proper documination.
Recycling Centers: Salvaged wood or metal might be accepted at local recycling centers. Contact them directly to inquire about acceptable materials. Recycling center are perfect for chain link fence. Most chain link fences are made of steel. They will accept them even with shrubs growing into them. To recycle chain link fence you need to make sure the fence has been rolled up.
Junk Removal Services: Companies like Junk Rescue Pinellas can haul away your fence debris and ensure proper disposal based on material type.
Step 7: Enjoy Your New Space!
With your fence removed, you can now plan your dream outdoor space. Whether it's a patio, a garden, or a sparkling pool, the possibilities are endless!
Thinking professional help might be best?
Removing a fence, especially a large or complex one, can be a time-consuming and laborious task. Junk Rescue Pinellas can help! We offer:
Experienced Crew: Our team is equipped to handle fence removal of any size or material safely and efficiently.
Proper Disposal: We ensure your fence debris is disposed of responsibly according to Pinellas County regulations.
Flexible Scheduling: We work around your schedule to remove your fence quickly and conveniently.
Contact Junk Rescue Pinellas today for a free quote!
Let us take care of the fence removal, so you can focus on creating your dream outdoor space.