Running a fence contracting business is tough. You’re great at building strong, beautiful fences, but getting customers to call you can feel like climbing a fence without a ladder. At FenceWebs, we’ve spent the last five years helping fence contractors like you grow their businesses through website design, SEO, local SEO, GBP optimization, Facebook ads, Google ads, and organic ranking. In this blog, we’ll break down the top reasons fence contractors struggle with lead generation and share simple tips to fix them.
Lead generation is the lifeblood of your business. Without a steady stream of leads, your phone stays quiet, and your crew sits idle. Let’s dive into the common pitfalls and how you can overcome them to keep your business thriving.
1. Your Website Isn’t Built for Leads
Your website is your digital storefront. If it’s outdated, hard to navigate, or doesn’t work well on phones, potential customers will leave before contacting you. Many fence contractors have websites that look like they were built a decade ago.
A modern website needs to load fast, look clean, and make it easy for visitors to find your contact info. It should also showcase your work with clear photos of your best fences. Without these, you’re losing leads to competitors with better online presence.
How to Fix It:
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Update your website to be mobile-friendly.
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Add clear call-to-action buttons like “Get a Free Quote.”
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Include a gallery of your past projects to build trust.
2. You’re Not Showing Up on Google
When someone searches “fence contractor near me,” do you appear on the first page? If not, you’re missing out on leads. Most people don’t scroll past the first few results on Google.
SEO (Search Engine Optimization) helps your website rank higher. Without it, your competitors are stealing your leads. Local SEO is especially important for fence contractors since most customers search for local businesses.
How to Fix It:
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Optimize your website with keywords like “fence installation [your city].”
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Claim and complete your Google Business Profile (GBP).
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Encourage happy customers to leave 5-star reviews on Google.
3. Your Google Business Profile Is Incomplete
Your Google Business Profile (GBP) is a free tool that can drive tons of leads. If it’s incomplete or outdated, you’re missing out. Many fence contractors don’t even claim their GBP, leaving money on the table.
A complete GBP includes your business name, address, phone number, hours, and photos of your work. It also shows customer reviews, which build trust with potential clients.
How to Fix It:
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Claim your GBP and fill out every section.
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Add high-quality photos of your fences regularly.
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Respond to all reviews, even negative ones, professionally.
|
GBP Element |
Why It Matters |
|---|---|
|
Accurate Business Info |
Helps customers find and contact you easily. |
|
Photos of Work |
Shows your expertise and builds trust. |
|
Customer Reviews |
Influences new customers to choose you. |
4. You’re Not Using Paid Ads Effectively
Google Ads and Facebook Ads can bring leads fast, but only if done right. Many fence contractors either don’t use ads or waste money on poorly set-up campaigns. Ads need to target the right people and use the right message.
For example, a Google Ad targeting “fence repair” in your city can connect you with homeowners who need urgent fixes. Facebook Ads can target local homeowners interested in home improvement.
How to Fix It:
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Work with a professional to set up targeted ad campaigns.
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Use specific keywords and locations in Google Ads.
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Create eye-catching visuals for Facebook Ads showcasing your work.
5. You’re Ignoring Social Media
Social media isn’t just for sharing memes. Platforms like Facebook and Instagram are great for showing off your fence projects. Many contractors don’t post regularly or engage with their audience, missing out on free exposure.
Posting before-and-after photos of your fences can attract homeowners. Engaging with comments and messages shows you’re active and care about your customers.
How to Fix It:
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Post at least once a week with photos or videos of your work.
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Share customer testimonials to build credibility.
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Respond to comments and messages quickly to show you’re reliable.
6. You’re Not Collecting Customer Reviews
Reviews are gold in the fencing business. Homeowners trust other homeowners’ opinions. If you don’t have reviews or only have a few, potential customers might choose a competitor with dozens of glowing reviews.
Many contractors don’t ask for reviews because they feel awkward or don’t know how. But reviews can make or break your lead generation.
How to Fix It:
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Ask satisfied customers to leave a review on Google or Facebook.
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Make it easy by sending a direct link to your review page.
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Thank customers for their reviews to encourage more.
7. Your Marketing Isn’t Consistent
Marketing isn’t a one-and-done deal. Many fence contractors try a tactic—like posting on social media or running ads—for a month and give up when they don’t see instant results. Consistency is key to building a steady flow of leads.
For example, posting on social media once a month won’t cut it. Neither will running ads for a week and then stopping. You need a plan that keeps your business in front of customers all year round.
How to Fix It:
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Create a marketing schedule and stick to it.
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Mix different strategies like SEO, ads, and social media.
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Track your results to see what’s working and adjust as needed.
8. You’re Not Targeting the Right Audience
Not every homeowner needs a fence. If you’re marketing to everyone, you’re wasting time and money. For example, renters rarely need fences, but homeowners with kids or pets often do.
Understanding your ideal customer helps you focus your marketing. Are you targeting new homeowners, families, or businesses? Knowing this makes your ads and content more effective.
How to Fix It:
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Identify your ideal customer (e.g., homeowners with large yards).
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Tailor your website and ads to speak to their needs.
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Use Facebook’s targeting tools to reach specific groups like new homeowners.
9. Your Follow-Up Process Is Weak
Leads are only valuable if you follow up. Many fence contractors lose leads because they don’t respond quickly or at all. Homeowners want fast answers when they’re ready to spend money.
If someone fills out a form on your website or calls you, responding within hours (or even minutes) can make the difference between winning or losing the job.
How to Fix It:
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Set up an email or text system to respond to inquiries fast.
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Call back leads within 24 hours to schedule estimates.
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Use a CRM tool to track leads and follow-ups.
10. You’re Not Showcasing Your Expertise
Homeowners want to hire fence contractors who know their stuff. If your website or social media doesn’t highlight your experience, certifications, or unique skills, you’re just another contractor to them.
For example, do you specialize in wood, vinyl, or chain-link fences? Are you licensed and insured? Sharing these details sets you apart from the competition.
How to Fix It:
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Add an “About Us” page to your website with your credentials.
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Share tips or videos about fence maintenance on social media.
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Highlight any awards, certifications, or years of experience.
Why Lead Generation Matters for Fence Contractors
Without leads, your business can’t grow. Every missed lead is a missed opportunity to build a fence, earn money, and grow your reputation. By fixing these common mistakes, you can turn your website, ads, and social media into lead-generating machines.
At FenceWebs, we’ve helped fence contractors across the country boost their leads with proven strategies. From building modern websites to running targeted ad campaigns, we know what works. The key is to start small, stay consistent, and focus on what your customers need.
Take Action Today
Lead generation doesn’t have to be a struggle. Pick one or two of these fixes to start with, like updating your website or claiming your Google Business Profile. If you’re overwhelmed, consider partnering with a marketing agency like FenceWebs to handle the heavy lifting.
Don’t let leads slip through the cracks. With the right strategies, you can keep your phone ringing and your crew busy. Ready to grow your fencing business? Start today, and watch the leads roll in.
