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Get startedNola Fence Solutions is a New Orleans–area fencing business led by owner Mike Cappo, and the work lives at the intersection of speed, quality, and real-world constraints. The company is trusted by residential property owners and specializes in residential fencing, providing tailored solutions for homeowners seeking quality and reliability. Every fencing project has its own property conditions, site access issues, and materials choices that can swing costs fast. Mike’s goal wasn’t to become “the cheapest.” It was to become the company people trust when they want a fence built right, with clear scope, clear price, and clear accountability. Nola Fence Solutions meets all necessary licensing and insurance requirements, ensuring compliance and protection for every client.
When Mike first got rolling, the market was in a unique place. After Hurricane Ida, demand was intense and the work came quickly, so the estimating side of the business could be rough and still keep the team busy. Mike’s first estimating efforts were simple emails—quick descriptions, quick costs, and a fast “let’s go.” In that moment, the estimation process didn’t need polish to land jobs, because customers were trying to move fast.
As conditions normalized, the pace changed and competition changed with it. Suddenly, clients were comparing multiple companies and asking detailed questions about materials, quality, how a fence would actually be built on their property, and the costs and options associated with different types of fencing. For fencing contractors, that’s the shift from “availability wins” to “clarity wins.” Mike needed estimating that could keep up, because the same fast approach that worked before could now create confusion, errors, and lost profitable work.
Fence pricing isn’t only “feet times price.” A fencing job can include demo, haul-off, post depth, gate hardware, corner bracing, concrete quantities, slope adjustments, and site cleanup. When estimating is vague, the costs show up later as change orders, miscommunication, and wasted materials. Mike wanted a process that reduced errors before the team ever put equipment on a trailer or ordered materials.
Mike’s target was straightforward: deliver complete and accurate estimates quickly, with enough detail that clients felt fully confident and crews felt aligned. He didn’t want estimating to be time consuming, and he didn’t want a proposal that looked like a rushed note. He wanted a repeatable workflow that made estimating faster over time, helped protect costs, and supported consistent quality across every project.
A fence feels simple until you quote it. The same “250 feet” can mean different materials, different gate layouts, different post spacing, and different installation methods. That’s why fencing contractors who stand out explain scope with detail and show how materials affect price. Mike’s approach was to make the detail visible in the proposal, so clients could understand what they were buying and why the costs were what they were.
At a certain size, the business needs a system that doesn’t rely on memory and late nights. Mike started looking at estimating software not as a nice-to-have, but as a way to protect margin and save time. For him, it had to be a platform designed for the realities of fencing, not a generic tool that ignores how fence work is actually built. He needed a platform he could access easily, update quickly, and rely on when the week got hectic.
Even though Mike specializes in fencing, he’s operating inside the construction world. Clients compare him to other contractors, and some opportunities involve general contractors who expect clean proposals, clear scope, and predictable costs. That’s where construction estimating software becomes practical: it supports construction-level presentation while still serving a trade-specific estimating workflow. Mike wanted construction estimating software that didn’t slow him down.
The biggest change was shifting from one-off estimates to templates. With templates, Mike could build a strong base once, then reuse it across project after project with consistent detail. Templates helped the team reduce errors because the structure was already proven, and the estimation work became editing instead of rewriting. That’s how a fencing business starts handling more volume without chaos.
Mike also needed the numbers to match reality. A customizable database matters because fencing materials, hardware, and local supply patterns vary by city and by company. Mike wanted the database to match what his team actually buys—posts, pickets, panels, hinges, latches, concrete, and fasteners—so estimating stayed accurate. When the database matches the company’s world, the costs stop surprising you.
Not every fencing job comes with drawings, but more clients share digital plans, photos, and measurements than ever. Mike wanted to keep those details connected to the estimate, because access to that context improves decision making. Over time, the real advantage is project data: every completed project teaches you something about labor, materials waste, and installation pacing. That’s the backbone of data driven estimating.
Mike didn’t want gut-feel estimating; he wanted data driven estimating that gets sharper with repetition. The more fencing projects run through the same templates, the more the team can refine quantities, labor assumptions, and production expectations. That’s how accurate estimating becomes routine instead of luck. The benefits show up as fewer surprises, tighter costs, and better outcomes for clients.
Fence estimating is often linear feet first, but accurate estimating requires thinking in quantities. A simple quantity takeoff mindset forces clarity: posts, concrete, panels, pickets, gates, hardware, and disposal. When quantities are right, the costs get more stable and the team’s workflow gets smoother. Mike used this approach to reduce errors and keep the estimation consistent across jobs.
Materials change, and those shifts can erase margin if you don’t respond. Mike’s work lives in a world where lumber, hardware, and concrete costs can move quickly, so real time pricing becomes a useful discipline even when you can’t update every line instantly. The key is keeping pricing visible and editable, so the company can stay accurate. For fencing contractors, controlling materials costs is as important as controlling labor.
Mike learned that clients don’t only buy fencing; they buy confidence. A clean proposal with detail feels safer than a spreadsheet with a single price. It also helps clients compare companies fairly, because the scope is clear and the materials are clear. When a proposal shows the construction approach and not just the number, it becomes a selling tool, not just a quote.
As clients asked sharper questions, Mike leaned into quality. When someone asks why the price is higher, he can point to materials grade, post depth, gate framing, and installation choices. That’s where detailed estimates matter: they make the quality visible and defensible. The detail also protects the team because the job scope is documented before the project begins.
Mike described the moment the system proved itself. He put together one combined set of proposals across four properties, and the total exceeded $770,000. With templates in place, he wasn’t rebuilding from scratch—he was adjusting the project specifics while keeping the same estimating structure. He sent those proposals in about 20 minutes, and the speed came from preparation, not shortcuts.
Sending that scale of proposal in 20 minutes doesn’t mean sloppy estimating. It means the estimation process was already built: line items, materials, quantities, and scope detail were organized, so he could edit quickly and stay accurate. For a fencing business, that’s the difference between “I can’t take this on” and “Yes, we can price it and deliver it.” It also shows why the best construction estimating software is the one that turns repeat work into repeatable work.
Fence clients change their minds—height, style, gate layout, wood choice, hardware, and timeline. Manual estimating makes every revision time consuming and increases errors. With estimating software, Mike can revise a custom fence proposal without losing control of costs or scope. That saves time, improves accuracy, and keeps the workflow calm even when the pipeline is full.
Custom fence work is where many fencing contractors lose margin, because special details get missed. Mike used templates as a baseline and then added custom fence scope cleanly—unique gates, special transitions, unusual property lines, or upgraded materials. That improved accurate estimates because the custom elements were priced deliberately. Over time, the custom fence line stopped being a risk and became a reliable offering.
Clients don’t always know what they want until they see options. When a proposal spells out custom fence choices in detail, it supports decision making and reduces back-and-forth. Mike found that clearer scope drives faster yes/no responses, because clients can see what they’re paying for. That clarity helps the business spend less time chasing confusion.
Mike also benefited from knowing when clients were engaging with proposals. If a client opens the proposal repeatedly, it signals the project is being considered, compared, or reviewed. That turns follow-up into a service: “Do you have questions about materials, costs, or timeline?” Instead of guessing, the team focuses energy where it matters.
When a proposal never gets opened, it often means the client isn’t serious, isn’t ready, or is price-shopping without urgency. Tracking engagement helps Mike determine where to invest effort, which protects valuable time. In a busy season, that keeps the team focused on profitable work and reduces the drag of dead leads. It’s a quiet but powerful efficiency gain.
Mike shared a pain point that contractors everywhere recognize. A client said they would pay by check, so Mike removed card fees, then the client paid by card anyway and Mike “ate” 3.3% on the balance. That’s a real cost, especially on larger construction work where the dollars add up. He wanted control, because payment costs should be a deliberate choice, not a surprise.
Payment rules affect net costs, and that affects how a project performs. Mike wanted the budget conversation to be clean and upfront, so clients understood what was included and what payment choices meant. When the platform supports that, it helps produce more profitable work and reduces awkward disputes later. It also helps companies avoid “hidden” losses that don’t show up until the end of the job.
Mike’s story wasn’t only about estimating speed; it was about reliability. On a Friday, he noticed invoices weren’t reaching clients, which can disrupt cash flow fast. He called, reached Nadia, and within about three hours he had clients texting that the invoices came through. That experience felt like great customer service because it protected the business when timing mattered most.
For contractors, support isn’t a chat bubble—it’s whether problems get solved before schedules slip. Mike valued support that was accessible and fast, because a project week doesn’t pause for software issues. Good support also protects relationships with clients, because delays and confusion hurt trust. In a construction environment, responsive support is one of the key features that separates tools that help from tools that frustrate.
There are lots of tools in construction, but not all tools fit trade reality. Mike needed tools that reduced admin time, not tools that created extra steps. He wanted an all in one solution where estimating, proposals, payments, and client communication stayed connected. When tools are connected, the process stays consistent and errors drop.
Fencing contractors often think estimating is “simple,” until they scale. Construction estimating software brings structure: templates, quantities, pricing, and professional proposals that clients and general contractors can understand. Mike’s story shows how construction estimating software supports a trade business without turning it into paperwork. The payoff is accurate estimating with less time spent rebuilding the same work.
Mike’s environment requires fast access and quick edits. He wanted construction estimating software he could use from a device, not only at a desk, because the job lives on properties, not in an office. Access matters when a client calls with a question about costs or materials while the team is on site. Practical access keeps the workflow moving.
Even the best estimating software depends on basics like a stable internet connection. When you need to access proposals, update estimating detail, or send a revised project scope, connection stability becomes a real operational factor. Mike valued being able to access the same information from different devices. That flexibility supports efficiency when the day gets scattered.
For fencing contractors, expanding your range of services is a proven way to unlock more profitable work and stand out in a crowded market. By offering additional options—like custom gate design, outdoor lighting, or even security features—you can attract a wider variety of clients and increase your average project value. The key to making diversification work is having the right construction estimating software in place. With robust estimating software, you can quickly and accurately estimate costs for new services, build detailed proposals, and ensure every aspect of the job is covered.
This approach not only helps you win more jobs, but also ensures those jobs are profitable by reducing errors and saving valuable time on manual calculations. As you add new services, the software adapts with you, making it easy to manage multiple offerings and keep your workflow efficient. The result? More profitable work, less time spent on admin, and a fencing business that’s ready to grow—no matter how the market shifts.
In today’s fast-paced construction environment, fencing contractors need the flexibility to estimate and manage projects wherever the job takes them. Mobile accessibility is a game-changer—cloud-based construction estimating software lets you access project data, create accurate estimates, and update proposals from any device with an internet connection. Whether you’re walking a property, meeting with a client, or coordinating with your team, you can keep the estimation process moving without being tied to a desk.
Mobile-friendly estimating software also streamlines your workflow by allowing you to use digital plans and quantity takeoff tools on-site, reducing errors and saving time. This real-time access means you can respond to client questions instantly, make adjustments on the fly, and deliver great customer service every step of the way. For fencing contractors, mobile accessibility isn’t just a convenience—it’s a competitive advantage that keeps projects on track and clients satisfied.
The fencing industry is evolving rapidly, shaped by trends like the rise of custom and decorative fencing, new materials, and a growing focus on sustainability. Fencing contractors who want to stay ahead need to embrace these changes by leveraging the best construction estimating software available. Modern estimating software enables contractors to create detailed estimates, manage project data, and collaborate with clients using digital plans and data-driven estimating.
By adopting these tools, contractors can improve their workflow, reduce errors, and provide more accurate quotes—helping them win more projects and build stronger client relationships. Staying current with industry trends also means using online platforms to showcase your work and connect with new clients. As materials and client expectations change, the contractors who invest in accurate, efficient estimating and embrace new technology will lead the way in the future of fencing.
Success in the fencing business goes beyond just having the right equipment and materials—it’s also about tapping into the right resources and support. Construction estimating software offers fencing contractors a suite of tools, from customizable databases and real-time pricing to quantity takeoff and support services, all designed to streamline the estimation process and improve profitability.
Beyond software, online communities, forums, and social media groups connect you with other professionals for advice, troubleshooting, and new ideas. These resources help you stay up-to-date with industry developments, learn about new features, and share best practices. By combining quality tools, reliable support, and a strong professional network, fencing contractors can build a resilient, future-ready business.
As the fencing industry becomes more digital, ongoing training is essential for contractors who want to stay competitive. Learning how to use construction estimating software, create digital plans, and leverage data-driven estimating can transform your workflow—leading to more accurate estimates, fewer errors, and better client communication. Investing in your team’s skills through online courses, webinars, and workshops ensures everyone is equipped to use the latest tools and deliver high-quality services.
With the right training, fencing contractors can confidently adopt new technology, streamline their estimation process, and provide clients with the accuracy and professionalism they expect. Support services and educational resources make it easy to get up to speed, so you can focus on growing your business and delivering outstanding results. In the digital age, the contractors who invest in their skills and embrace new tools will be the ones who thrive.
With templates and structured estimating, accurate estimates stopped being a “good day” outcome and became the standard. Mike could create accurate estimates faster because the structure guided the process. That reduced errors, improved client confidence, and made scheduling smoother for the team. When accurate estimates are repeatable, the business becomes easier to run.
Scaling a fencing business isn’t just about taking on more jobs—it’s about building a foundation that can handle growth without sacrificing quality or profitability. By implementing a repeatable estimating engine powered by construction estimating software, fencing contractors can transform their estimation process from a bottleneck into a business advantage. With digital plans and data-driven estimating tools, contractors can quickly generate accurate estimates, manage project data, and deliver detailed estimates that inspire client confidence.
A streamlined estimation process means fewer errors and more time to focus on what matters most: delivering great customer service and building lasting relationships. Quantity takeoff tools help ensure every post, panel, and gate is accounted for, while support services keep the workflow running smoothly. By connecting project data and estimates in one platform, fencing businesses can make smarter decisions, respond faster to client needs, and stay ahead of the competition. The result? A fencing business that grows on the strength of its process, not just its hustle.
Profitability in fencing isn’t just about winning more jobs—it’s about winning the right jobs, with the right numbers, every time. Smarter estimating, powered by the best construction estimating software, gives fencing contractors the edge they need to create accurate estimates, manage costs, and deliver more profitable work. With a customizable database and real-time pricing, contractors can tailor every estimate to the specific needs of each client, ensuring the perfect fit for every project.
An all-in-one solution streamlines the entire workflow, reducing errors and freeing up valuable time that can be spent on more projects or growing the business. By automating the time-consuming parts of the estimation process, fencing businesses can focus on delivering quality, completing projects on time, and building a reputation for reliability. The right estimating software isn’t just a tool—it’s the key to doing more profitable work, project after project.
Mike didn’t build Nola Fence Solutions on gimmicks. He built it on clarity, quality, and a system that makes estimating faster without turning the work into guesswork. Templates and structure helped him save time, reduce errors, and protect costs, while detailed proposals helped customers understand what they were buying and why the price matched the quality. Add responsive support when it mattered most, and the result is simple: a fencing business that can take on bigger projects, move faster, and win on trust—board by board, property by property.
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