Scaling New Heights: How Fence Contractors Can Grow Their Business with Deck and Railing Services

Jessica L. Burton

President

Poly Vinyl Creations, Inc. 

In the dynamic landscape of fence contracting, the key to success lies not just in the quality of your work, but also in how you set yourself apart. With competition as tight as fence knots, it's essential to look beyond the traditional boundaries. Whether you're just hammering in your first post or you're a seasoned contractor with years of experience, adapting to the changing times is critical for business growth.

The good news is that the horizon of opportunities extends far beyond the realm of fencing. Enter the world of decking and railing services – a promising frontier for expanding your business. It's about complimenting your fencing expertise with new, in-demand services. And for those who may find the idea of venturing into unknown territory a bit daunting, remember that collaboration is key. Partnering with specialists in decking and railing can not only enhance your portfolio but also open doors to new client relationships. So, let's embark on this journey to explore how diversifying your services and building strategic partnerships can be the next step in evolving your business.

Deck resurfacing is a lucrative way for fence contractors to expand their offerings. Replacing old deck surfaces with materials like vinyl, composite, or wood — each with unique advantages like low maintenance or durability — aligns well with contractors' skills and responds to homeowner demands for refreshed outdoor areas. Basic carpentry knowledge enables easy integration of deck resurfacing, boosting revenue and client satisfaction.

Deck maintenance services, including staining and pressure washing, are equally vital. These not only preserve and enhance a deck's look and lifespan but also position contractors as full-service outdoor specialists, a crucial edge in a competitive market. These services require simple tools and training, making them a feasible addition.

For those hesitant to delve into deck remodeling or need assistance with full deck building, partnering with deck professionals offers a solution. Such alliances expand your service range without in-house skill development, ideal for comprehensive projects needing both fencing and decking. Networking with deck builders through business groups and events leads to shared referrals and projects, offering a well-rounded client experience. Highlighting successful partnerships between fence contractors and deck builders demonstrates these collaborations' value and business growth potential.

Railing installation and repair offer fence contractors a valuable opportunity to expand their business. Integrating railing services, particularly for ground-level projects, aligns well with the skills and tools familiar to fence contractors. This service is increasingly sought after in both residential and commercial sectors, making it a practical addition for contractors. However, they should note that some railing projects, particularly above-ground ones, might need extra licensing.

Forging partnerships with railing specialists can be beneficial, especially for more complex installations. These collaborations enhance a contractor's offerings and can lead to broader market reach through cross-promotion and joint projects. For example, a fence contractor working with a railing expert can provide comprehensive exterior solutions, tapping into new customer segments. These alliances not only drive business growth but also build industry relationships, showcasing the mutual benefits and customer satisfaction that come from such partnerships.

Fence contractors have a wealth of opportunities to provide a turnkey solution for clients by branching into landscaping and hardscaping services. By integrating offerings like custom pavers, arbors, trellises, and other outdoor structures, they can create cohesive and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces that complement their fencing projects. This expansion is not just about adding new services; it's about crafting complete outdoor environments. Teaming up with landscaping professionals opens doors to comprehensive project handling, where the fencing part of the project seamlessly transitions into broader landscape design. Such collaborations enable fence contractors to offer a one-stop solution, covering everything from the initial fencing to the final touches of landscape design, which can significantly enhance client satisfaction and project value.

Moreover, the integration of outdoor lighting and decorative features represents another lucrative avenue. The trend towards integrated outdoor lighting solutions, for instance, adds both functionality and allure to outdoor spaces. Fence contractors can capitalize on this by cross-selling these services, either by developing the skills in-house or by partnering with specialists in outdoor lighting and décor. This not only broadens the scope of their business but also caters to the growing demand for comprehensive outdoor living solutions. By offering a range of services from fencing to lighting and decorative features, fence contractors can position themselves as the go-to experts for complete outdoor transformations, thereby elevating their market presence and business prospects.

As we reach the end of our exploration into the vast potential of expanding your fencing business, I encourage you, fellow fence contractors, to seize these opportunities with enthusiasm and vision. Embracing new ventures in decking, railing, landscaping, and beyond is not just about business growth; it's about evolving with the market and meeting the ever-changing needs of your clients. Remember, we at PolyVinyl Creations, a certified Woman Business Enterprise and a proud multi-generational company, have thrived by focusing on specialty outdoor products for the trade. Our journey is a testament to the success that awaits when you dare to diversify and innovate. So, take that bold step forward, expand your horizons, and watch your business flourish in ways you never imagined. For insights, collaborations, or just a friendly chat about the endless possibilities, feel free to reach out to me at jessicab@polyvinylc.com, or visit our website at www.justpolyit.com. Together, let's build not just fences, but futures.