SMS Property Designs LLC

Twin Cities Metro, MN

Fence Installation Across the Twin Cities Metro

We install fences that last — posts set below Minnesota's 42-inch frost line, quality materials, and proper technique throughout. Wood, vinyl, chain link, and aluminum. Permits handled. Gopher State called.

Installed Right for Minnesota's Ground and Climate

A fence that looks great when installed can become a leaning, heaving problem within three winters if posts aren't set correctly. Minnesota's frost depth of 42 inches means footings must go deeper than almost anywhere else in the country. Posts set at half that depth — which is common with some lower-cost installers — will shift, heave, and fail.

We set every post in concrete at adequate depth for Minnesota conditions. We call Gopher State One Call (811) before any excavation. We review permit requirements for your municipality and handle the application. We do the job the way it needs to be done in this climate.

We offer four fence material types — wood, vinyl, chain link, and ornamental aluminum — and we'll walk through the trade-offs for your specific project so you choose the right one for your needs and budget.

Cedar and treated wood privacy and picket fences
Vinyl privacy, semi-privacy, and picket styles
Chain link — residential and commercial grade
Ornamental aluminum — decorative and durable
Permit application assistance
Gopher State One Call — utilities marked before any digging

Material Comparison for MN Conditions

Cedar wood: Natural moisture resistance, beautiful look, great for privacy fences. Requires periodic staining. A Twin Cities classic.

Vinyl: Zero rot, no painting or staining, holds up through freeze-thaw without warping. Higher upfront cost, lower lifetime maintenance cost.

Chain link: Most cost-effective. Highly durable in Minnesota winters. Not a privacy option but excellent for yards, dog runs, and property lines.

Ornamental aluminum: Elegant appearance without the maintenance of wrought iron. Excellent longevity, good for front yards and decorative applications.

From Quote to Completed Fence

Site Walk & Design

We walk the property with you, discuss material options, review your property survey or plat, and identify any site conditions that will affect the install.

Permit & Utility Locate

We review permit requirements for your city, assist with the application, and call Gopher State One Call for underground utility marking before any digging starts.

Post Setting

Posts are set in concrete at or below Minnesota frost depth. We allow adequate cure time before attaching rails and panels — this step is non-negotiable for long-term stability.

Panel Install & Walkthrough

Fence sections are installed level and plumb. Gates are hung and adjusted. We do a final walkthrough with you to verify everything is right before we leave.

★★★★★
"Got quotes from three companies. SMS was the only one who mentioned frost depth and explained why it mattered. Two winters later our fence looks exactly like the day it was installed. The cheaper quotes would have saved us $400 upfront and cost us thousands later."
Derek M.Eden Prairie, MN

Fence Installation FAQ

Ready for a New Fence in the Twin Cities?

Serving Bloomington, Minneapolis, St. Paul, and the entire metro. Free on-site estimates. We know Minnesota installation requirements.