Vent: A customer in Bellingham asked me a simple question that changed how I look at posts.

I was finishing a cedar fence install yesterday when the homeowner asked, 'How long until these posts will need to be replaced?' I gave my usual answer about proper concrete and drainage. He just nodded and said, 'Right, but you're setting them for the next guy, not for me.' It hit me that I was thinking about the 10-year warranty, but he was thinking about the 30-year lifespan. Made me realize I should always spec for the long haul, even if it costs a bit more upfront. Anyone else had a moment that made you shift your standard specs?

2 comments

2 Comments

spencer_thomas419d ago

Most people sell before it fails" is exactly the short term thinking the post is about, @the_sean. That next owner gets stuck with a failing fence and a big bill. Building it right the first time is about respecting the property itself, not just the current owner's wallet. It costs more now but saves everyone trouble later. That's just doing a good job, not being over the top.

the_sean19d ago

Sounds a bit over the top. Most people sell their house before a fence fails. You're just building to the current owner's budget and timeline.