MIKE FENCE AND GATE | Local Fence Builders in Boise, ID

The clay-rich soil in Boise expands when wet and contracts when dry, which can loosen fence posts over time. This is especially common after the freezing and thawing we see each winter. At MIKE FENCE AND GATE, we address this by setting posts deeper than standard (often 48 inches) and using gravel or concrete to stabilize them against our local soil movement.

That sign—a gate sagging or scraping the ground—often means the hinges or the post have shifted due to soil movement. In Boise, we see this frequently near the Boise River Greenbelt where the ground is more moisture-prone. Our solution typically involves re-setting the gate post on a wider concrete base and installing heavy-duty hinges. If the wood has rotted from ground contact, we'll replace the affected sections with pressure-treated lumber.

Absolutely. We use wood and composite materials rated for temperature swings between 100°F in summer and below freezing in winter. For example, we leave a small gap between fence boards to allow for expansion and contraction, and we set posts below the frost line. If you live near the Foothills or the Bench, we also recommend a concrete footing with a gravel collar to drain water away from the wood, preventing rot and frost heave.