Words and photos by Chicago North Shore Moms contributing partner, Fenceworks.
Planning a backyard project on the North Shore? Our contributing partner, Fenceworks, locally known as “The Guy on 41,” shares how this family-owned and operated backyard business delivers the highest quality and service on everything from fences to playsets, in-ground hoops, and trampolines with true white-glove service. If you’re on the fence about your backyard, keep reading!
Article Key Takeaways
- Fenceworks is a trusted, family-owned North Shore business, locally known as “The Guy on 41,” serving families since 1967.
- Fenceworks offers four core backyard services: fencing, custom-fit playsets, in-ground basketball hoops, and trampolines.
- Fenceworks provides true white-glove service: consultation → product selection → professional installation → long-term support.
- Fenceworks focuses on safety, proper placement, durability, and long-term performance for every installation.
- Fenceworks serves communities across Chicagoland
Fenceworks Backyard Projects: The North Shore’s Backyard Authority
When you start planning your backyard project on the North Shore, like a new fence, a playset,
an in-ground hoop, or a trampoline, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by options and installers. We make it simple at Fenceworks: as a family-owned and family-oriented business known locally as “The Guy on 41,” we help you choose proven products and handle everything with white-glove support.
Why North Shore families trust Fenceworks for backyard projects
Big-box retailers and national installers can be convenient, but they often leave families piecing together decisions, delivery, and long-term support on their own. We are Fenceworks, a family-owned and family-oriented business that North Shore neighbors have trusted for decades, known locally as “The Guy on 41.” Led by third-generation owner Jake Stotter, we bring a local, relationship-first approach to every backyard project.
Founded in 1967, we have supported families across the North Shore, backed by an indoor showroom in Northbrook where you can compare options, ask real questions, and get guidance that fits your property. We have served families throughout Chicagoland.
Our backyard installation services
We focus on four backyard categories, which are carefully made, professionally installed, and supported long after the work is done. Our fencing for privacy, security, and curb appeal; playsets custom-fit for real yards; in-ground hoops are built to handle Chicago seasons; and trampolines selected and installed with safety first.
We are one of the only North Shore partners offering true white-glove service across all four: consultation → product selection → professional installation → long-term support.
We install only the products we personally supply and stand behind: From fencing and custom playsets to in-ground basketball hoops and trampolines, ensuring every project meets the quality, safety, and durability standards our family has upheld since 1967.
Fence installation
If you are searching for a fence company anywhere on the North Shore, you want the same thing: a fence that looks right, lasts, and is installed properly without surprises. We guide you through materials and layout, then handle your fence installation with an experienced crew and clear expectations from day one.
Playground installation
A great playset should match your space and your kids’ ages, not a one-size-fits-all box. We handle playground installation with a planning-first mindset, focusing on placement, safety spacing, and a clean, professional setup your family can trust.
Basketball hoop installation
In-ground hoops are only as good as their base and placement. We handle basketball hoop installation with a focus on stability, precise leveling, and long-term performance so it plays right season after season.
Trampoline installation
Trampolines should be fun and thoughtfully placed. We approach trampoline installation with safety in mind, helping you choose a smart location in your yard and ensuring a secure setup that your family can feel good about.
Fenceworks Northbrook showroom support
We help you upgrade your backyard without stress with our fences, playsets, in-ground hoops, and trampolines so your kids can play safely and you can feel confident in what you choose. Our family business can help you plan and execute your backyard installation, and we guide you with white-glove support from the first consultation to long-term care afterwards.
If you want to compare options in person and get a no-pressure recommendation, visit our Northbrook showroom or reach out to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions on Our Fenceworks Backyard Projects
What is the best placement for an in-ground hoop before basketball hoop installation?
We help you choose a spot with enough playing space, safe clearance from traffic or windows, and a level area that supports a strong in-ground base. Fun Fact: No space for an in-ground hoop? We also do wall-mounted hoops!
What are the best outdoor project ideas?
The most popular backyard projects we see on the North Shore are privacy fencing, a playset that fits your yard, an in-ground hoop for daily play, and a trampoline set up with safety in mind.
Where do I start when planning backyard projects?
Start with your goals (privacy, play, aesthetic, or all the above).
Can you install a playset in a small yard?
According to our previous experiences, many playsets can be planned for smaller spaces with the right footprint and safety spacing, always with styling your small yard in your mind.
Do you need a permit to build a fence?
In many areas, permits are commonly required for fences over four to six feet, fences along property lines, or fences made from certain materials, so confirming those requirements upfront helps you avoid delays or rework.
What’s the difference between working with The Guy on 41 versus a franchise or big-box retailer?
With The Guy on 41, you’re not buying a boxed product or dealing with a rotating crew — you’re working with a family-run team that handles everything end-to-end. We help you choose the right fence, playset, hoop, or trampoline, install it professionally, and support it for years. No shortcuts, no outsourcing, and no products we wouldn’t put in our own backyard.
Ready, set go!
When you’re ready to transform your backyard into a space your family will love for years to come, trust Fenceworks to guide you every step of the way. Visit their Northbrook showroom or schedule a consultation today to get started with expert support and white-glove installation. And learn more about the family behind Fenceworks in Chicago North Shore Moms Small Business Spotlight here.
