FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Working with FBD

 Getting Started

  • FBD is small by choice—we focus exclusively on Howard County, Maryland, including Columbia, Ellicott City, Clarksville, Highland, and surrounding areas. This allows us to maintain the quality, personal service, and attention to detail that our neighbors have trusted for 40 years

  • We specialize in residential wood fencing and focus all our expertise on delivering exceptional wood fence installations. We don't install chain link or vinyl, but we're happy to refer you to trusted contractors who specialize in those materials.

    We offer paddock and estate styles, split rail, privacy, and garden fences.

  • FBD's owner, Emily, personally conducts all estimates.

  • Your free estimate includes Emily personally walking your property, measuring the space, getting to know you and your family (including furry friends!), discussing your needs and goals, and exploring material and design options. You'll receive one detailed written quote delivered via email based on your selected specifications.

  • Most quotes are delivered within 1-2 business days after your yard assessment. During busier seasons or for weekend estimates, it may take a bit longer.

    Each quote involves not just measurements, but also coordinating current material pricing with our lumber supplier, since wood prices continue to fluctuate. We'll keep you informed every step of the way, especially if we anticipate any delays.

  • Our quotes are typically valid for 21 to 30 days. After that, prices may change due to fluctuations in material costs. If your project is delayed beyond this period, we'll need to coordinate with our material supplier to provide an updated quote to reflect current pricing.

  • We’re happy to help with suggested wording and general guidance, but you’ll need to complete and submit the application yourself. If your HOA requires a meeting, it’s your responsibility to attend. FBD does not submit applications or attend meetings on behalf of homeowners.

  • Your final quote depends on several factors:

    • Total linear footage

    • Fence style and height (affects materials and labor)

    • Your property's terrain and accessibility

    • Gate size and configuration

    • Optional removal or haul-away of existing fencing

  • Our pricing fluctuates with lumber market conditions. As a small fence company, we source materials from local suppliers at current market rates rather than maintaining our own lumber yard. Like any industry, we're impacted by inflation and material cost changes. Each estimate reflects the market rates at the time we provide it, which is why pricing may differ from month to month or project to project.

  • Paddock and split rail fencing are typically our most cost-effective options. These styles use less material and require less installation time while still providing property definition and a classic, attractive look. We often describe paddock as an elevated split rail (Doug would call it the "dressed-up version")

    That said, "cost-effective" really depends on what you need your fence to do. If you need complete privacy or security, a basic solid board privacy fence might be more cost-effective for your situation than adding wire mesh to a paddock fence. If you're simply defining property lines or creating decorative boundaries, paddock and split rail offer excellent value.

    During your estimate, we'll discuss your specific needs and show you options at different price points so you can make the best decision for your family and budget.

  • We encourage homeowners to get multiple quotes—it's the best way to make an informed decision. We're always happy to discuss price differences and help you understand what you're comparing.

    As a small, family-owned company, we're limited in how much we can negotiate while maintaining our quality standards and paying our crew fairly. However, we can often point out what's driving pricing gaps: unlicensed vs. licensed contractors, material quality, installation techniques, or project scope differences.

    When you work with FBD, you work directly with me, Emily, the owner. I personally handle estimates, coordinate your project, and stay involved throughout. Many larger companies send sales reps who never return to your property after the estimate. I focus on educating you about your fence options and staying in communication from start to finish, not just closing a sale. Our pricing reflects not just materials and labor, but owner accountability and attention to detail on every project.

    Our pricing also reflects honest material costs, proper licensing and insurance, and 40 years of craftsmanship. If there's a significant price difference, it's worth understanding why. We're happy to review another quote with you to help you compare what's actually included.

Planning Your Project

  • Once you sign the proposal and submit your deposit, FBD typically schedules your installation within 1-3 weeks, depending on the season and our current workload. Keep in mind that we can't begin scheduling until we receive your signed proposal and deposit.

    This timeline accounts for factors like: 

    • Weather conditions (e.g., rain or snow may cause delays) 

    • Crew availability (our crews don’t follow traditional 9-5 schedules) 

    • Material delivery and coordination 

    • Removal of any existing fence, if needed 

    We pride ourselves on transparency and will keep you informed every step of the way to ensure a smooth and timely process. 

  • Once you sign our proposal and submit your deposit (digital payment or check), we get to work. We'll order materials, coordinate our crew and delivery schedule, and arrange removal of any existing fencing. We'll keep you updated on timing and confirm your installation date once materials arrive.

  • Yes, we do not begin work without a signed contract with agreed upon project layout, design, and payment terms. This is not only our business requirement, but outlined by the Maryland Home Improvement Commission.

  • We understand that sometimes changes are needed after signing. Any modifications to the original contract will require a written change order that clearly outlines the scope of work, additional costs, and any timeline adjustments. We'll work with you to accommodate reasonable changes while ensuring transparency about how they affect your project.

  • FBD requires a deposit (to order materials) that can be paid via credit card (add 3.5% to total cost), check, cash, or other payment app (Venmo, Zelle, etc.). The remainder of the cost will be due at the end of the job.

  • Yes, we partner with a third-party financing provider to offer flexible payment options for your fence project. We can discuss the available plans during your estimate.

  • Yes, preparing your property helps us work efficiently and protects your belongings. Here's what we need:

    Clear the fence line: Remove any brush, debris, lawn furniture, planters, toys, or other items along where your fence will be installed. This gives our crew safe, clear access to work.

    Secure pets: Keep dogs and other pets inside or in a separate area during installation for their safety and to allow our crew to work without interruption.

    Mark any concerns: If you have irrigation systems, landscape lighting, or specific plants you want us to avoid, let us know during the estimate so we can plan accordingly.

    We'll discuss any specific site considerations during your estimate and let you know if there's anything unique to your property that needs attention before we arrive.

  • Yes, we always call Miss Utility in advance of digging.

    Note that the fence may need to be adjusted based on where utilities are for the safety of our crews.

  • Yes, we include standard black vinyl post caps with all applicable fence styles.

    Want something fancier? We can offer decorative options from our supplier, or you can purchase and supply your own. Keep in mind that decorative post caps cost more than the standard black vinyl caps we include.

Installation Day

  • The installation timeline depends on factors like your yard’s layout, the length of the fence, and crew availability. Typically, most fence installations are completed within 1-2 days. 

  • Generally, we schedule installations about a week out to allow time for coordinating with our crews, ensuring material delivery, and confirming you'll be home and available.

  • Generally, crews will start between 7-8 AM. Getting started entails walking the yard, preparing and marking.

  • Building fences is an art form, and it can be inspiring to watch the process unfold. You're welcome to observe our crews at work, as long as you maintain a safe distance and don't interfere with the construction process.

  • Absolutely! Our crews always appreciate thoughtful gestures, especially during hot summer days or long installations. While they come prepared with their own supplies, offering cold water, Gatorade, or snacks is always welcomed and never expected. It's one of those small kindnesses that makes everyone's day a little brighter and shows the community spirit we love to see.

  • Yes. We ask that at least one homeowner be present during the installation. While we do our best to prepare for unforseen circumstances, sometimes installation day can bring surprises. Plus, we want to be able to walk the yard with you and show you your new fence!

  • FBD proudly installs fences year-round, but does not work during active precipitation or weather events (e.g., rain, snow, excessive heat, extreme winds). We have experience installing with snow on the ground and can continue to do so, provided we can clear the fence line with a snowblower to ensure a safe and accurate installation.

  • We do our best to stay informed with the latest forecasts, but sometimes, even our go-to weathermen let us down. Weather delays are normal and can be expected. If a weather event impacts your installation day, we will work with you and our crews to schedule a new date.

  • Yes! We remove all of our debris and this fee is included in your final cost. Dirt removed during excavation will be relocated to a place in your yard.

After Installation

  • Your fence is guaranteed against defects in material and workmanship for one (1) year. FBD's gates are built to last and remain functional for 20-25 years. In Doug's own words, "I believe in building my fences right the first time and do not rely on a multi-year guarantee to sell my work."

  • It is normal for gates to settle a bit following installation. Sometimes in winter, freezing and thawng can also shift the ground which causes misalignments. FBD provides free gate adjustments, don’t hesitate to reach out!

  • While many of our fences and gates last 20 years and beyond, repairs are a normal and necessary part of wear and tear. Whether a storm rolls through, a pet gets a little too excited, or time has warped a board, our trusted repair specialist can evaluate and assess what your fence needs. Simply submit a repair request through our online form.