A & J Fencing is well known in Contra Costa County for its custom-designed and built redwood fences and gates. The company uses high quality, thick redwood that’s pressure treated for longevity and durability. It also uses hot-dipped, galvanized nails that prevent the wood from cracking.

In addition to fences and gates, A & J Fencing specializes in retaining walls (both redwood and concrete), patio covers and decks. As with its fences, only the finest materials are used in the construction of its decks. For customers looking for a carefree alternative to wood, the company offers Trex decking. Made from 50 percent recycled plastics and 50 percent reclaimed wood, Trex simulates the look and feel of wood but is environmentally friendly and practically maintenance-free.

A & J Fencing cares deeply about its relationships with customers. “They’re our number one priority,” confirms co-owner Kasi Lena. “From the start of a project, we’re there to answer any questions. We’re a family, and we treat our customers like family. We want to make sure they’re happy.”

From the first phone call until the finishing touches, A & J Fencing tries to make the customer experience as pleasant as possible. “After a client contacts us, we send out one of our estimators–usually within two days,” says Mrs. Lena. “A sales representative will follow up within a week to answer any questions or concerns they may have. When the project is scheduled, we give a courtesy reminder call the day before the crew arrives. When the job is complete, we make another call to confirm the homeowners are pleased with the results.”

During construction, a foreman is on the job throughout the day to oversee the crew’s progress and answer customers’ questions. Payment isn’t due until construction is complete and the customer expresses their satisfaction with the finished job.

Employee longevity is another source of pride for A & J Fencing. “Many of our workers have been with us since my husband, Justin, started the company in 2000,” says Mrs. Lena. “They’re insured, and each one of them has to pass a background check before they’re hired.”

A & J Fencing is also environmentally responsible. Rather than dumping old, wooden fencing into a landfill, the company hauls it away to be recycled into compost, mulch, sawdust, wood chips, and even fireplace logs. For new construction, A & J Fencing only uses pressure-treated wood from suppliers who maintain managed forests and harvest their wood in a responsible and sustainable manner.

For any kind of outdoor construction project, look for someone who has the knowledge and expertise to design and build it right. One of the best ways for property owners to enhance the value of their home is to create beautiful outdoor living spaces. Just as you’d choose carefully when hiring someone to put an addition on your house or design your dream kitchen, it’s wise to use discernment when looking for the right outdoor contractor.

“Go to the company’s office and meet its staff,” suggests Justin Lena, president of A & J Fencing. He says family-owned companies are always a good choice. “A lot of big and small companies are family-owned and operated, so you know they’re going to last.”

Make sure the company is properly licensed and insured. Choose a contractor who always has people available to answer the questions that inevitably come up during a project. Communication is an important factor, and customers should be made to feel absolutely comfortable when it comes to questions and concerns.

Not all outdoor contractors offer the same kinds of services or products. Ask any potential candidates about their specialties and if they employ experienced crews who have the training and skills to handle complicated outdoor construction projects. The quality of the materials is something else to consider. All wood is not created equal. Ask to see samples of the fencing and decking materials, including maintenance-free wood alternatives if you feel they’d better suit your family’s lifestyle.

Inquire about the people who’ll be on the jobsite. Are the crew members employees of the company or subcontractors? Are they easily identifiable? “Make sure the company’s trucks clearly display their name and information,” says Mr. Lena. “Also, all onsite workers should be in a proper uniform.”

After you’ve done your research, choose a contractor you feel you can trust. If you narrow it down to a few candidates who are equally qualified, it may be time to get some bids—Mr. Lena suggests getting two or three.

Q: Are you licensed and insured?

A: Absolutely, and if a customer ever needs to see documentation, we’re more than happy to provide copies.

Q: What kind of warranty do you offer?

A: We offer a seven-year written warranty on all pressure-treated materials and a one-year written warranty on all gates and fence boards.

Q: Do you use subcontractors?

A: No. The people who will show up at your home are employees of our company. Some of them have been with us since we started in 2000.

Q: What time does your work crew normally arrive at the job in the morning?

A: Allowing for traffic, they’re scheduled to arrive between 8 and 10 am.

Q: I have a style in mind for a gate. Can you build it the way I want?

A: Absolutely. Show us your design and we’ll build it.