How Do Fence Companies Remove Old Fences?
When homeowners are ready for a new fence, one of the first questions that comes up is: do fence companies remove old fences? The answer is yes, fence companies do remove old fences, including posts set in concrete. Removal is often the very first step before installation of a new fence can begin.
Below we explain exactly how the process works, what methods professionals use, and what you can expect when hiring a fence company to handle it for you.
Do Fence Companies Remove Old Fences?
Yes. Fence companies provide full removal services for old fences, whether they are wood, chain link, vinyl, or aluminum. The service typically includes dismantling the fence panels, pulling out or cutting down the posts, and disposing of the materials properly. Most companies include this as part of the estimate for a new fence installation, though some may list it as a separate charge depending on the size and type of the old fence.
How Do Fence Companies Remove Old Cemented Posts?
Removing cemented posts is often the hardest part of fence removal, but professionals are equipped to do it efficiently. The process typically looks like this:
- Digging Around the Base
The crew loosens soil around the concrete footing to expose enough of the block to move it. - Leverage and Jack Systems
A high-lift jack, post puller, or leverage system is used to lift the post and the concrete block straight out of the ground. - Breaking Concrete if Necessary
If the concrete footing is too large or deep, contractors may break it apart with a sledgehammer or jackhammer before removal. - Filling and Leveling the Hole
Once the post and footing are out, the hole is backfilled with dirt or gravel to prepare for new post installation.
This ensures that new fence posts can be set in fresh concrete, giving the replacement fence long-term strength.
What Happens to Old Fence Materials?
Fence companies not only remove old fences but also handle disposal. Materials are usually sorted into two categories:
- Wood fences: Hauled off to disposal or, in some cases, recycled into mulch or fuel.
- Metal fences: Chain link, aluminum, or steel is typically sent to a recycling center.
- Vinyl fences: Disposed of at waste facilities, though some regions recycle PVC products.
Professional disposal saves homeowners from having to rent dumpsters or haul heavy materials themselves.
Can You Request Partial Fence Removal?
Yes, you can. Sometimes homeowners only need one section of fence removed, for example if a storm damaged part of the line or if a section is being replaced with a gate or driveway entrance. Fence companies can remove just the section you want while leaving the rest of the fence intact.
How Long Does Fence Removal Take?
The time depends on the type of fence and how the posts were set.
- Wood fence without concrete: A few hours
- Chain link fence: Several hours, including pulling up posts and rolling wire mesh
- Cemented posts: One to two days if the entire yard has posts set in large footings
Professionals bring the right tools and crew size to finish much faster than a DIY approach.
Does Removal Cost Extra?
Yes, fence removal is typically an additional line item in your estimate. Costs vary based on:
- Fence size and length
- Material type (wood, chain link, vinyl, aluminum)
- Whether posts are set in concrete
- Local disposal or dump fees
While removal adds to the overall project cost, it saves significant time and labor for homeowners.
Should You Let the Fence Company Handle It?
Yes. Allowing the fence company to remove your old fence ensures:
- Safe and complete removal of all posts and footings
- Proper disposal and recycling of materials
- A clean, level worksite for the new fence installation
- A warranty that starts with a fresh installation rather than working around old posts
Hiring professionals to do both removal and installation ensures the new fence has a strong, even foundation.
Final Thoughts
Fence companies do remove old fences, and they handle the process from start to finish including posts cemented in the ground. They dismantle the panels, pull out or break down the footings, and dispose of everything properly so that your yard is ready for a brand-new fence.
By leaving the job to professionals, you avoid the backbreaking labor of digging out cemented posts and hauling away heavy materials, while ensuring your new fence starts on the strongest foundation possible.
