
FAQ · Elko, Nevada
Straight answers.
What people ask before they hire us. If yours isn't here, call and ask. We don't mind.
Planning your project
Do you give free estimates?
Yes. We come out, walk the property with you, and put the price in writing. No charge and no pressure.
What areas do you serve?
Our fencing and landscaping team is based in Elko, Nevada, and does most of its work in Elko and Spring Creek. We also take jobs in Lamoille and Carlin. Call about anything farther out.
What kind of fences do you build?
Cedar and wood, vinyl, chain link, ranch and hog wire, corrugated steel, and ornamental iron, plus gates for all of them. We also build decks and pergolas and do landscaping.
When is fence season in Elko?
Spring through late fall is the main season. The ground freezes hard in winter, which makes post holes slow, but we do take winter jobs when conditions allow. Book early for spring.
How long does a fence take?
A typical residential fence is one to three days once materials are on site. Bigger acreage jobs and full yards take longer. We'll give you a schedule with the estimate.
What should I have ready for an estimate?
A rough idea of what you want, where the fence or project will go, and any photos you like. Exact measurements aren't required to start the conversation. Craig can walk the property with you and work through the details.
Who finds the property line?
You're responsible for knowing where your line is, but we'll help you find pins and we can work off a survey. On acreage the old fence isn't always on the line.
Do you take out the old fence?
Yes. Tear-out and haul-off can be included in the estimate.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. Babb's Fence and Landscape is a licensed Nevada contractor and carries insurance. Ask and we'll send you the paperwork.
Do you do commercial work?
We do. Chain link and steel for shop yards, storage lots, and equipment areas, plus fencing and landscaping for small commercial properties.
What happens to my sprinklers and utilities?
We call in utility locates before digging and work around sprinkler lines. If a line has to move, we'll tell you up front.
How do I get started?
Call or text (775) 455-6190, email craig@babbsfence.com, or send the estimate form. Tell us roughly what you're thinking and we'll set a time to come look.
Cedar & Wood
How much does a cedar fence cost in Elko?
It depends on height, style, gates, and how much old fence has to come out. We quote by the job after walking the property, and the estimate is free and in writing. Call (775) 455-6190 or send the form and we'll come look at it.
How long will a cedar fence last?
With posts set right and a stain every few years, twenty years is realistic in Elko's climate. Left natural it still lasts, it just goes silver.
Do you stain or seal new fences?
We can. A lot of customers let cedar weather for a few months first, then stain. We'll tell you what makes sense for your fence.
Can you match the style of my home?
Yes. Bring photos or show Craig the look you have in mind. We'll talk through board direction, height, finish, and gate details to find a style that fits your property.
Vinyl
Does vinyl fence hold up in Elko wind?
Yes, if it's installed for it. We use heavy-wall panels, tighter post spacing where the fence is exposed, and reinforced posts at gates and corners.
Is vinyl more expensive than cedar?
Usually more up front and less over time, because there's nothing to stain or replace. We'll quote both if you're deciding.
Will white vinyl turn yellow?
Quality vinyl has UV inhibitors mixed into the material and is warrantied by the manufacturer against yellowing. The yellowed fences you've seen are older or bargain product.
Can you match an existing vinyl fence?
Often. Send our Elko vinyl fence team a photo or bring a panel and we'll match color and profile as closely as the manufacturers allow.
Chain Link
How tall can a chain link fence be?
Four feet is common for front and side yards, six feet for backyards and dog runs, and eight feet or more on commercial sites. Local height limits apply and we'll check them.
Can you add privacy to chain link?
Yes. Privacy slats go in during or after installation and come in several colors. They cut visibility and block a good amount of wind.
Is chain link cheaper than wood or vinyl?
Chain link is usually one of the most affordable fences our Elko crew installs. Height, coating, gates, privacy slats, and site conditions affect the final price.
Do you do commercial chain link?
We do. Shop yards, storage lots, and equipment areas around Elko. Call for a site visit.
Ranch & Hog Wire
What is a hog wire fence?
Welded wire panels with a rectangular grid, framed in wood or hung on posts. It's strong, see-through, and works for dogs, goats, and horses with a top rail.
Will it keep deer out?
Standard four-foot hog wire won't. For gardens and orchards we build taller woven wire deer fence.
How far do you travel for ranch fencing?
We're based in Elko and cover Spring Creek, Lamoille, and Carlin. Call about anything farther out.
Can you build gate pillars that match my house?
Rock-filled gabion pillars are our specialty, and we can match stone to your foundation or landscape rock.
Metal & Ornamental Iron
Does corrugated metal fence rust?
Galvanized and painted panels resist it for decades. We seal cut edges and use gasketed screws so there's no place for rust to start.
Is metal fence loud in wind?
Properly screwed to a rigid frame, no. Loose panels rattle. Ours are fastened tight to steel rails.
Do you do wrought iron?
We install ornamental iron and aluminum picket fencing. For custom forged work we'll tell you straight whether it's something we can source.
Can metal fence be combined with wood?
Yes, and it's one of our favorite looks: corrugated panels framed in cedar.
Gates
Why do gates sag?
Usually an unbraced frame or a gate post that's too small or too shallow. We brace every gate and set gate posts deeper than line posts.
Can you replace just my gate?
Yes. We match the fence style and hang it on new hardware.
Do you install automatic gate openers?
Ask us. We'll tell you what we can do and, if it's outside our scope, who in Elko to call.
How wide should a driveway gate be?
Twelve feet works for most trucks. Go wider if you back a trailer or equipment through it.
Decks & Pergolas
Can you design a deck around how I use my yard?
Yes. Tell Craig how you want to use the space: outdoor dining, a place to relax, or easier access to the yard. We'll talk through the layout, stairs, railing, materials, and shade options with you.
Cedar or composite decking?
Cedar offers a natural wood look and typically costs less up front. Composite needs regular cleaning but no staining. Our Elko deck builders install both cedar and composite decking and can price both for your project.
Can you build a pergola over my existing patio?
Yes. We'll check what's under the patio and set footings so it doesn't move.
How long does a deck take?
A typical backyard deck is a few days to a week once materials are on site.
Landscaping
What does full lot development include?
For your outdoor space, it can include lot preparation, grading, drainage, fencing, sprinkler systems, patios, retaining walls, sod, and decorative rock. Craig walks the property with you to agree on the work your lot needs.
How tall can a retaining wall be without an engineer?
Generally up to about four feet. Taller or surcharged walls need engineering, and we'll tell you if yours does.
Will pavers heave in winter?
Not on a proper base with drainage. Frost heave comes from water under the pavers, so we build the base to drain.
Do you do lawn maintenance?
Our Elko landscaping company focuses on projects: clean-ups, installations, and hardscaping. Ask about seasonal clean-ups.
What do you have in mind?
A new fence. A better backyard. A project you've been putting off. Let's talk about it.
