Frequently asked questions

Answers to some of our frequently asked questions. If we have missed something, give us a call or drop us an e-mail. We'd be more than happy to answer all of your questions.
  1. Why is pressure treated wood less expensive than cedar?
    Pressure treated wood is an inexpensive alternative to cedar. It is made from spruce that has been treated with a green or brown micro sienna coloured chemical called Alkaline Copper Quat. This wood now has the rot resistance of cedar (due to the chemical treatment) but lacks the crack, warp and split resistance. It also lacks the beautiful natural colour and smell.
  2. If the fence boards or posts crack, split, twist or warp, is it covered under warranty?
    Because natural wood is just that - "natural" - and it is not controlled by ingredients of manufacturing, there is no warranty on wood cracking, splitting, warping, twisting or rotting.
  3. What is involved in the maintenance of the fence/gate/deck?
    Like any other outdoor investment, wood should be cleaned and maintained on a regular basis. To maintain the natural colour of your new wood product, and to reduce the cracking, splintering, warpping and splitting, it is recommended that a UV resistant stain is applied once every 3 years. Gate hardware maintenance are typically needed once every season. Tightening lose screws, bolts, oiling hinges & latches.
  4. Do I need a permit to build a fence, gate or deck?
    Although most fences and gates, in most areas, do not require a building permit it is always a good idea to confirm local bylaws with your local municipality. Please check your local bylaws for deck heights and sizes. Permits may need to be issued based on size and height requested. *Permits must be acquired by homeowners.
  5. How do I know if my posts are installed correctly?
    We start by trying to install the ideal post hole but, since we are often installing fences in less than ideal ground conditions, it is our special combination of tools and experience which enable us to know how to adapt to each application. Regardless of the application, every post hole we install at Toronto Fence is covered under Workmanship warranty for 1 year.
  6. Typical Municipal Bylaws regarding fence height?
    The "maximum height" includes lattice or other toppers is 6'4 feet. This legal height limit changes for the front yard fences, houses on street corners, houses that are beside or back onto an alley, a road, a school and a park. Please check your municipal bylaws for details.
  7. Choice of Materials.
    Toronto Fence uses top Grade Materials, including Red Spruce Pressure Treated Wood, Red Western Cedar, and Knotty Cedar.
  8. What is Ontario One/Call before you dig?
    We contact Ontario One on behalf of the homeowner. It takes between 1-3 weeks (depending how busy they are) to have them come out and mark out the utilities on your property. Ontario One is a service that make underground utilities on your property. **They are not a land survey company.**
  9. Toronto Fence is not a Survey Company.
    We can look at a copy of your land survey and determine where the fence line is. We can build the fence on the existing fence line if the homeowner and neighbours are in agreement. If however, you have an issue with your neighbour and the division of property is in question. We strongly recommend you getting a professional land survey company to come out and determine the legal property lines.
  10. Do you do estimates?
    We do offer free estimates, estimates are done weekends between 9am - 3pm. To book a free estimate please contact us at 416-738-7254 or by email at [email protected]