Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about fence installation, materials, pricing, and our services in Toronto.

Installation time depends on several factors including fence length, material type, and ground conditions. A standard residential fence around 50 linear feet typically takes 2-3 days to complete. This includes site preparation, post installation with proper concrete setting time, and panel or picket attachment.

Larger projects or those requiring extensive ground preparation may take 5-7 days. We provide a detailed timeline during the initial consultation and keep you informed throughout the process. Weather conditions can affect the schedule, particularly during concrete curing.

We install a comprehensive range of fencing materials to suit different needs and budgets:

  • Wood fencing: Cedar, pressure-treated pine, redwood
  • Vinyl fencing: PVC panels in various colors and styles
  • Chain link: Galvanized or vinyl-coated options
  • Aluminum: Decorative and durable metal fencing
  • Composite: Low-maintenance wood-alternative materials

Each material has specific advantages regarding durability, maintenance requirements, and appearance. We help you select the best option based on your property needs and budget.

In Toronto, permits are required for most fence installations. The city requires permits for fences over 1 meter (3.3 feet) in height in front yards and over 2 meters (6.6 feet) in rear and side yards. The permit ensures compliance with local bylaws regarding height, setback requirements, and property line regulations.

We assist with the permit application process, including preparing necessary documentation and site plans. The permit typically takes 2-3 weeks to obtain. We ensure all installations meet Toronto municipal codes and neighborhood standards.

Pricing varies based on material choice, fence height, length, and site conditions. Chain link fencing typically ranges from $25-40 per linear foot, while wood fencing costs $35-65 per linear foot. Vinyl fencing ranges from $50-80 per linear foot, and aluminum options run $60-100 per linear foot.

These estimates include materials, labor, and standard post installation. Additional costs may apply for gate installation, decorative elements, or challenging terrain. We provide detailed written quotes after evaluating your property and discussing your specific requirements.

Toronto's climate features cold winters with freeze-thaw cycles and humid summers, which affects material performance. Cedar wood performs exceptionally well due to natural rot resistance and ability to withstand temperature fluctuations. Vinyl fencing is also excellent as it doesn't crack, warp, or fade in extreme temperatures.

Aluminum fencing resists rust and corrosion, making it suitable for areas with snow and ice exposure. For budget-conscious options, pressure-treated pine with proper maintenance can last 15-20 years. We recommend materials based on your specific location, sun exposure, and maintenance preferences.

In Toronto, fence posts must extend below the frost line, which is approximately 4 feet (1.2 meters) deep. This prevents frost heave during winter freeze-thaw cycles that can shift or damage posts. For a standard 6-foot fence, we install posts at least 3-4 feet deep, with one-third of the total post length underground.

Posts are set in concrete for maximum stability, with the concrete extending below the frost line. For taller fences or areas with high wind exposure, we may recommend deeper installation. Proper depth ensures your fence remains stable for decades.

Yes, we regularly install fencing on sloped properties throughout Toronto. We use two primary methods: stepped installation, where fence sections follow the slope in level increments, or racked installation, where panels follow the ground contour at an angle.

The method depends on slope severity, fence style, and your aesthetic preferences. Stepped fencing works well for wood and vinyl, while chain link can be racked smoothly. Sloped installations require additional planning and may involve custom panel sizing, which can affect pricing. We assess your property during consultation to recommend the best approach.

Maintenance requirements vary by material. Wood fences need annual inspection for loose boards or nails, cleaning with mild detergent, and staining or sealing every 2-3 years to prevent moisture damage and UV degradation. Cedar naturally resists rot but benefits from protective treatments.

Vinyl fencing requires minimal maintenance—just occasional washing with soap and water. Chain link needs periodic inspection for rust spots and tension adjustments. Aluminum fencing is virtually maintenance-free but should be checked for loose fasteners annually. We provide detailed maintenance guidelines specific to your chosen material at installation completion.

Storm damage typically involves fallen branches, high winds, or heavy snow loads. First, document the damage with photographs for insurance purposes. Contact us for assessment—we provide emergency repair services for significant damage that compromises property security.

Many homeowner insurance policies cover fence damage from storms or falling trees. We can provide detailed repair estimates and documentation for insurance claims. Minor repairs like replacing individual boards or tightening posts can often be completed within a few days. Our warranty covers workmanship issues but not damage from external forces or severe weather events.

In Toronto, fences can typically be installed directly on the property line with neighbor agreement. However, we recommend installing 6-12 inches inside your property line to avoid disputes and ensure all fence components remain on your land. This also provides access for maintenance on both sides.

Before installation, we recommend obtaining a property survey to confirm exact boundary locations. If neighbors share costs, the fence is usually placed on the line. Front yard setback requirements vary by neighborhood—typically 2-3 feet from the sidewalk. We verify all local regulations during the planning phase to ensure compliance.

We provide a 5-year workmanship warranty covering installation quality, post stability, and structural integrity. This includes issues like leaning posts, panel separation, or gate misalignment resulting from installation errors. Material warranties vary by manufacturer—vinyl typically carries 20-30 year warranties, while wood products have 10-15 year warranties against defects.

Our warranty requires normal maintenance as specified in your care guidelines. It covers repairs or replacement of defective components but excludes damage from severe weather, accidents, or neglect. We stand behind our work and respond promptly to any warranty claims.

While DIY installation is possible, it requires specialized tools, physical labor, and technical knowledge. Common challenges include achieving proper post depth below frost line, ensuring posts are perfectly plumb and aligned, mixing and pouring concrete correctly, and maintaining consistent spacing and height.

Mistakes can lead to leaning fences, rotting posts, or permit violations that cost more to fix than hiring professionals initially. Our team completes installations efficiently with proper equipment and expertise. We also handle permit applications and ensure code compliance. For most homeowners, the time savings, quality assurance, and warranty protection make professional installation worthwhile.

Material lifespan varies significantly with proper maintenance. Cedar fencing lasts 15-25 years with regular sealing and treatment. Pressure-treated pine typically lasts 15-20 years. Vinyl fencing can last 30-40 years as it resists rot, insects, and weather damage without requiring paint or stain.

Chain link fencing lasts 20-30 years, with galvanized options outlasting vinyl-coated versions. Aluminum fencing can last 40-50 years with minimal maintenance. Composite materials typically last 25-35 years. Actual lifespan depends on climate exposure, maintenance quality, and installation precision. Proper installation with posts below frost line significantly extends fence life in Toronto's climate.

Before installation, mark any underground utilities by calling Ontario One Call at least 5 business days in advance. Clear the fence line of debris, plants, or obstacles within 3 feet on both sides. Remove or trim overhanging branches that might interfere with installation.

If replacing an old fence, we can handle removal for an additional fee, or you can remove it beforehand to reduce costs. Ensure our crew has clear access to the work area, including driveway space for equipment. Inform neighbors about the project timeline, especially if working near property lines. We'll conduct a final site assessment before starting work.

For effective privacy, we recommend 6-foot fencing in backyards and side yards. This height blocks sight lines from neighboring properties while remaining within typical municipal regulations. In Toronto, rear and side yard fences can be up to 2 meters (approximately 6.6 feet) without special permits.

Front yard privacy is more restricted—usually limited to 3.3 feet (1 meter) to maintain neighborhood openness and sight lines for traffic safety. Solid panel designs in wood or vinyl provide maximum privacy, while semi-private options like shadowbox or lattice-top styles offer privacy with airflow. We help balance privacy needs with local regulations and aesthetic considerations.

Yes, we can match existing fence styles for additions or extensions. We assess your current fence to identify material type, dimensions, color, and construction method. For wood fencing, we match board width, spacing, and cap style. Color matching may require staining new sections to blend with weathered existing fence.

For vinyl or aluminum, we identify the manufacturer and product line to source matching components. If exact matches are unavailable due to discontinued products, we recommend complementary alternatives or suggest replacing entire visible sections for uniform appearance. We provide samples and mock-ups before proceeding with additions to ensure satisfaction with the match.

We install various gate types to match your fence style and functional needs. Single walk gates range from 3-4 feet wide for pedestrian access. Double drive gates accommodate vehicles, typically 10-16 feet wide depending on driveway width. Gates can be swing-style or sliding for properties with limited clearance.

Hardware options include self-closing hinges, gravity latches, keyed locks, and decorative handles. For added convenience, we can install automatic gate openers with remote controls or keypad entry. All gates are built with diagonal bracing to prevent sagging and include adjustable hinges for long-term performance. Gate pricing varies based on size, material, and hardware selection.

Project start times depend on current schedule, material availability, and permit processing. During peak season (May through September), we typically schedule 3-4 weeks out. Off-season projects (October through April) may start within 1-2 weeks, weather permitting.

After initial consultation, we provide a quote within 2-3 business days. Once approved, permit applications take 2-3 weeks in Toronto. We order materials upon permit approval, which arrive within 5-7 days for standard products. Custom orders may require additional time. We provide a detailed project timeline during the quote phase and keep you updated on any schedule changes.

We accept multiple payment methods for your convenience: cash, checks, e-transfers to [email protected], and major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express). For larger projects, we offer payment plans with a deposit required to schedule work and order materials.

Standard payment structure includes 30% deposit upon contract signing, 40% when materials arrive on site, and final 30% upon project completion and your approval. We provide detailed invoices itemizing materials and labor. All quotes are valid for 30 days and include applicable taxes. Payment is due upon completion unless alternative arrangements are made in advance.

Yes, we provide complete fence removal and disposal services as part of replacement projects or as standalone service. Removal includes dismantling existing fence panels, extracting posts with concrete footings, and hauling away all materials. We dispose of materials responsibly, recycling metal components and wood when possible.

Removal costs depend on fence length, material type, and post installation method. Chain link removal is typically less expensive than wood or vinyl due to lighter materials. Posts set in concrete require more labor to extract. We provide separate line items for removal in our quotes so you can choose to handle it yourself if preferred. Sites are left clean and level, ready for new installation.

About Kefiku

Building secure boundaries for Toronto properties since 2012

Fence installation team at work

Our Story

Kefiku started in 2012 when three construction specialists in Toronto recognized a gap in the market. Property owners needed reliable fence installation services, but many contractors treated fencing as a side project rather than a dedicated craft.

We established our workshop on Palmerston Ave with a straightforward goal: provide fence installation services where quality comes from proper planning, accurate measurements, and skilled execution. Our first project was a 150-foot cedar fence for a residential property in North York. That client still contacts us for maintenance work.

Over twelve years, we've installed fences across Toronto neighborhoods including Etobicoke, Scarborough, and East York. Our team has grown to include eight installation specialists and two project coordinators who handle everything from initial site assessment to final inspection.

What Drives Our Work

We focus on delivering fence installations that serve their intended purpose. Whether you need privacy screening, property demarcation, or security enhancement, our approach centers on understanding your specific requirements and site conditions. Each project receives a detailed assessment covering soil type, drainage patterns, local bylaws, and material suitability for Toronto's climate.

Completed fence installation project

Our Expertise

Our installation team has completed over 850 projects ranging from simple chain-link perimeters to custom wood privacy fences. We work with cedar, pressure-treated lumber, vinyl, aluminum, and composite materials. Each material requires different installation techniques, and our specialists receive ongoing training in current methods.

We maintain relationships with three local suppliers who provide materials meeting Canadian standards. This allows us to source quality components while keeping project costs predictable. Our equipment includes post-hole augers suitable for Toronto's varied soil conditions, laser levels for accurate alignment, and concrete mixers for proper post setting.

850+
Completed Projects
12
Years in Business
8
Installation Specialists

Core Principles

Accurate Planning

Every installation begins with site measurement and assessment. We identify potential issues before work starts, from underground utilities to grade changes that affect post placement.

Clear Communication

You receive a detailed quote outlining materials, labor, timeline, and any site-specific considerations. We discuss options and answer questions before you commit to the project.

Proper Installation

Our team follows manufacturer specifications and local building codes. Posts are set to appropriate depths with proper concrete curing time. Gates receive heavy-duty hardware rated for frequent use.

Worksite Respect

We protect your landscaping during installation, clean up debris daily, and leave your property in good condition. Our team arrives on schedule and completes work within the agreed timeframe.

Looking Forward

The fence installation industry continues to develop with new materials and techniques. We stay current through supplier partnerships and industry training. Recent additions to our service include composite fencing systems that require minimal maintenance and aluminum options that withstand Toronto winters without warping or rust.

Our workshop on Palmerston Ave serves as our base for the Greater Toronto Area. We schedule consultations Monday through Friday from 9:00 to 18:00, with Saturday appointments available from 10:00 to 14:00. Contact us at +1 416 789 0123 or [email protected] to discuss your fence installation needs.