Extreme heat and fence materials
Fresno summers are extremely hot; National Weather Service records show 69 days at or above 100°F in 2021. Heat and sun are the main forces aging fences here. Wood boards dry out, crack and cup, and the south and west sides gray first. A quality penetrating stain or sealer, reapplied periodically, protects wood. Vinyl should be a quality product with UV inhibitors; low-quality vinyl can become brittle and discolor, and dark colors can distort in the sun. Metal fences heat up but don't degrade from heat; their coating protects against rust.
Post rot and irrigation
Freezes are uncommon in Fresno, with only about 10 freeze-thaw cycles in an average year according to NOAA's engineering weather data, so frost heave isn't a major concern. Rot is. Wood posts in irrigated soil stay wet much of the year. Ground-contact-rated posts, gravel at the bottom of each hole, concrete or tamped gravel sloped to shed water, and sprinklers aimed away from the fence all help. Winter rain and tule fog keep fences damp for long stretches, adding to the problem.
Pool barriers
Backyard pools are common in Fresno, and pool barriers are subject to safety requirements such as minimum height, limited gaps, and self-closing, self-latching gates with latches out of children's reach. Check local requirements before building. Ornamental aluminum and steel are popular because they're durable and let you see the pool.
Wind
Valley winds can push on solid privacy fences. Board-on-board designs, closer post spacing and stronger end and gate posts improve wind resistance.
Security
Many Fresno homeowners want fences that improve security as well as privacy. Ornamental steel with spear tops, taller privacy fences where allowed, and lockable gates are common choices. Check height limits first.
Permits and HOAs
The City of Fresno and Fresno County limit fence height in front yards and near corners, and taller fences may need permits. Check homeowners association rules too.
Before you hire
Ask Fresno fence contractors which materials hold up best in extreme heat, how they'll set posts to resist rot, whether a pool fence meets local rules, whether a permit is needed, and what the warranty covers. Ask them to call in a utility locate before digging. Look up the contractor's California license with the CSLB.
Maintenance
Re-stain wood fences every few years, more often on the sunny sides. Check posts for rot at ground level, especially where sprinklers hit. Clean vinyl with a hose and mild soap. Touch up chips in metal fence coatings promptly, and lubricate gate hinges and latches.
Neighbors
Talk to neighbors before replacing a shared fence, agree on the style and cost in writing, and confirm the property line.
Gates
Set gate posts deeper and larger than line posts, brace wood gates diagonally or use a steel frame, and use heavy-duty hinges and latches rated for outdoor use.
Stain and sealer
Apply stain in the cooler part of the day, when boards are dry but not hot, so it soaks in evenly.