Vinyl – The Fencing of the Future

If you are looking to build a fence in your yard this year, you may want to look at some of the new options available in vinyl fencing materials before going down the path of a traditional wooden fence.  Although vinyl fencing can cost more to install initially, it may be a cost-effective substitute for traditional fencing because of its durability and low-maintenance requirements.

Vinyl Fencing | Vinyl Fence MaterialsThere are many styles of vinyl fencing available through your local home improvement or Atlanta fence store.  Popular styles include picket, shadowbox, and privacy and most fencing comes in a variety of color choices.  The right style for you really depends on the reason you are installing a fence.  You may be looking to enhance the landscape of your yard and want the clean lines and boundary definition fencing can provide.  In this case, a picket style fence may be right for you.  You may be looking to provide a safe, enclosed space for children and pets to play.  For this purpose, a privacy style fence is likely to provide the peace of mind and security you want.

Vinyl fencing can be installed as a do-it-yourself project or by a professional Atlanta fence installer.  Which option you choose may come down to cost.  Hiring someone to install your fence can double the cost, but you will have a guaranteed outcome and you won’t have to spend your time on learning the tricks of the trade and then on the actual installation.  If you decide to install the fence yourself, make sure to do your research and understand the complexities of this type of fencing before you start to avoid mistakes that will cost both time and money.

If you decide that vinyl fencing is the right solution for your specific problem, there is sure to be a style and color that will suit your project perfectly.

Filed Under: Residential Fence, Vinyl Fence Tagged With: , , , , ,

Iron Gate | Benefits and Drawbacks

An iron gate is a great way to prevent intruders from coming on the property, keep kids safe from passing cars as well as family pets out of the reach of thieves or other animals that could harm them.  Yet, nothing is perfect and there are some drawbacks to an iron gate that those looking to build one should consider.  Here there will be a few of the pro’s and con’s to erecting an iron gate, but to get the full story it’s smart to consult with a professional contractor.  Not only can they shed more light on whether or not this is the best fit, but they can give estimates on what the job will cost, the warranty of labor/materials, as well as examples of the other enclosures they can build.

Benefits of an iron gate:

1)      An iron gate is installed with materials that stand up against the damage time and inclement weather cause to other structures made of wood or even brick/stone.

2)      It doesn’t have the trouble with insect damage that other materials face.

3)      Cleaning and maintenance is relatively simple and doesn’t require attention often.

4)      It doesn’t need paint, stain or other treatment which makes other building materials more expensive.

5)      The components of an iron gate don’t have to be replaced as often, if at all.

6)      These increase curb appeal and fit practically any budget and/or existing home/commercial structure.

7)      The design and flair is only limited by the imagination and/or budget.

8)      These are a fantastic security brand of enclosure which can be even safer with an automatic or manual locking mechanism.

Iron gate drawbacks:

1)      The initial construction can often be more costly than using:

-          wood

-          chain link

-          aluminum

-          vinyl

-          steel

2)      These are permanent structures that are difficult to remove when the desire arises to change the look of a structure.  Other materials are much easier to remove and replace, but with all the bonuses of an iron gate, the con’s are far outweighed by the pro’s.

An iron gate, as with all gates/fences, should be seen as an investment as they often increase the value of a home and well as boosting the overall aesthetics neighbors will surely envy.  To get started consult websites for a few ideas, but to make sure the job is done correctly the first time call a trustworthy local contractor to provide the materials and labor.  Make that “to-do list” shorter this summer by letting someone else do the labor as well as return when necessary to fix any problem areas.

Filed Under: Iron Fence, Ornamental Fence, Residential Fence Tagged With: , , , , , ,

White Picket Fence | More than a Dream

White picket fence – it’s the ideal of any homeowner who want to bring that “All-American” look to their property.  Since the 1950’s, and even before, the white picket fence has come to symbolize security, safety and happy family.  A white picket fence has a long history in this country and it’s a popular addition to many homes to increase curb appeal and resale value.  To get the perfect look it’s a bright idea to call a professional contractor who has expertise in this kind of construction and many others.  Consult websites, friends and neighbors about who they used for their white picket fence and then look at warranties and other projects in which the companies specialize.White Picket Fence

Some Historical White Picket Fence Facts:

1)      After the founding of the original 13 colonies, the weather created the need for a durable enclosure that was attractive as well as practical.

2)      The white picket fence got its start from the look seen as far back as the medieval structures erected from locally found wood.

3)      The original use of a white picket fence was to show one’s property lines, not to project a sign of economic prosperity adopted much later in America.

4)      Today this enclosure fits the theme of almost any home while also providing utilitarian bonuses such as keeping kids in the yard, family pets out of traffic and animals not in the care of a homeowner off the property.  It’s also still a great way to show where one’s property lines end and another’s begins.  Like the Robert Frost poem Mending Wall, “Good fences make good neighbors”.

5)      There is an air of success or family unity projected today by the installation of a white picket fence.

6)      The media has picked up on this “air of success” and used it in the title of several television shows and movies over the years as well as being mentioned in classic American literature.

A white picket fence has mostly been thought to be for looks, but it does serve a purpose in security, privacy as well as an attractive look many appreciate.  These are just a few historical facts about the white picket fence, but to learn more about how to make this American Dream a reality at an affordable price, call in a professional contractor to do the best job possible.

Filed Under: Residential Fence, Vinyl Fence, Wood Fence Tagged With: , , , , ,

Fencing Materials Depend on Location

Fencing materials best suited to construct a durable enclosure really depends on one’s location.  The weather is obviously very different around the country and it’s a factor that many don’t think about before moving ahead with a building project.  To make sure that the fencing materials a homeowner is considering fit the bill, contact a local contractor who has knowledge and years of experience in this area.  Looking at the types of projects they specialize in is something to remember before picking the right team.  Not only will this help create a structure that won’t need costly repairs, they can also do all the hard work.  Yet, for those thinking of taking on this project solo, here are some tips about fencing materials.

Fencing materials come in various shapes, colors and strength.  To pick the best fencing materials think about such variables as:Fence Materials

1)      The average rainfall in an area.

2)      The extreme heat and cold seen depending on season.

3)      What are the chances of an earthquake?

4)      Likewise, if near the ocean, how likely is it that a hurricane will hit the property?

5)      Wind should also be a point of interest to those who live on the plains of the Mid-west.

Some suggestions on fencing materials:

1)      When rainfall is a common occurrence, there’s the concern of early rot.  Wood best suited to combat rot from a downpour include:

-          redwood

-          cedar

-          locust

2)      Also good against water build up or high winds there are the options of:

-          chain link

-          vinyl

-          steel

-          wrought iron

-          brick

  • It’s a good idea to keep an eye on these products for build up and remove quickly to prevent rusting.  With brick there’s the chance that mold will accumulate along the sides and likewise, to make sure the structure looks good, clean regularly when the first signs of trouble pops up.

3)      In really hot and/or dry areas practically all wood products will shrink or lose their vibrant color/texture over time.  Fencing materials that need little upkeep in these areas while also standing up well over time are:

-          metal

-          brick

-          stone

  • If using wood in hot/dry locations, make sure it is treated properly to reduce the amount of fading and shrinking over time.

4)      In locales where cold reaches into the extreme, the suggested fencing materials are:

-          wood

-          bamboo

-          wrought iron

-          steel

5)      With conditions such as earthquakes and gale force winds:

-          bamboo

-          chain link

-          steel

-          wrought iron

Fencing materials are area specific when talking about the weather.  Many don’t think about the fact that bamboo is great in almost any climate and extremely affordable.  There’s maintenance involved, of course, but to purchase new replacement materials falls well within almost any budget.  If one has more questions on the topic of fencing materials, call in a professional and talk about all the options.

Filed Under: Chain Link Fence, Iron Fence, Vinyl Fence, Wood Fence Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

Pool Fence Code Keeps Kids Safe

Pool fence code is important when one wants to build something that provides the optimal amount of safety and privacy.  Pool fence code is clearly laid out by the Consumer Products Safety Commission and in this article those guidelines will be outlined to give a good idea of what they are.  To take out any guesswork, calling in a well trained construction professional can take out any gray areas in what these standards are.  Ask them specifically about pool fence code to ensure they are the right team.  Don’t pick a contractor blindly out of the Yellow Pages, call a few and find out how long they’ve been in business, what materials they use and the types of projects they specialize in.

The pool fence code is not enforced by law but more of a reference point to make sure that those who enjoy swimming in the hot Georgia summers are kept safe while preventing prying eyes from seeing those soaking up the sun.  More than anything these guidelines are in place to allow parents a better chance of preventing children and/or pets from drowning while their attention is elsewhere.

Pool fence code is straightforward and decided upon by the Consumer Products Safety Commission after completing research in states that would benefit most from pool fence codes due the amount of time spent close to water.  These states include:Pool Fence Code

1)      Arizona

2)      California

3)      Florida

The most important rule of thumb is to closely watch children when they play in the pool as well as keeping pets at a safe distance.  Some of these regulations are enforced by community charters in planned communities, so always consult with those before starting the work.  This will avoid trouble later as some neighborhood charters carry heavy fines for violations.

Pool fence code includes:

1)      Build a structure that reaches all the way to the ground so that a household’s kids, or those of neighbors, can’t climb beneath it.

2)      Make sure it’s high enough to keep youngsters from scaling it to gain entry.

3)      An appropriate height is at least 4 feet high.

4)      With above ground swimming the focus is not just the fence, but also installing a ladder or steps to the platform that can be disconnected and put elsewhere.

5)      If the ladder or steps are a permanent fixture, put a gate in place at the proper height and reaches all the way to the surface of the platform.

6)      For above ground the enclosure is suggest to be at least 2 feet tall to achieve the best results.

7)      Whether above or below ground, the gate is recommended to have a latch and/or lock.

8)      Per pool fence code it’s a good idea not to make the tops of the structure in any way sharp to prevent injury.

Pool fence code is good rule of thumb and will give parents peace of mind that when things get hectic the chances that pets or child wandering into the water and getting hurt or drowning is minimal.  If this is a job that seems out of the scope of one’s ability, don’t gamble on the enclosure but call a professional contractor to handle the details.  Often there is a warranty and perhaps even a few suggestions on how to make the final result look even better.

Filed Under: Fence Installation, Pool Fence, Residential Fence, Tips and Do It Yourself Projects Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Fence Construction Basics

Fence construction is a project that many around the country are thinking about as summer gets closer and more people are heading outside for fun and sun.  Yet, without the proper know-how, fence construction can be a real headache when the final product doesn’t look the way one hoped.  Sometimes the best move one can make with fence construction is call in a professional contractor to look over the landscape and maybe suggest an idea the homeowner hadn’t even thought about.  Learn a bit about several local contractors and get estimates as well as look at the warranty that comes with labor and materials.

A few things to remember with fence construction include:Fence Construction

1)      If using wood in fence construction, include a gravel board to keep water from seeping in and causing rot.  There are several options with this product but all of them are placed at the bottom to keep the enclosure lasting much longer.

2)      Make sure the grade is such that it helps water run away from the fence posts and not collect at the base.

3)      Use a quality sealant at the bottom and top of each post or even a coat of tar.

4)      Make sure the post holes are deep enough to hold the posts in place.

5)      Use concrete around the posts instead of simply packing earth.  To aid concrete stick to the posts, again using tar will be a big help.

6)      During all steps of fence construction make sure the measurements are exactly the same to ensure a uniform look that also holds up better against time and the weather.

7)      Do research into what kinds of wood are best suited for one’s purpose and those that will mesh well with the existing structure’s theme.  If there’s any question as to which kind of wood is better than the others, contacting a professional is a smart decision.  There are also local hardware stores and home improvement centers who have staff that know a bit about the subject of fence construction.

Fence construction can be an exciting learning experience for those who enjoy getting their hands dirty.  It is rewarding, but without a guide to make sure it all goes off without a hitch it can quickly end in shambles.  Contact a local contractor with years of experience and fair prices today to find out how they can do all the dirty work and come back later to address any issues that may crop up.  Summer is coming and fence construction can truly give one’s home a fresh look and keep pets safe from traffic or kids close to watchful parents.

Filed Under: Fence Installation, Residential Fence, Tips and Do It Yourself Projects Tagged With: , , , , ,

Fence Building | Steering Clear of Mishaps

Fence building is an exact science not to be rushed into without a few helpful hints.  If done right, fence building has the potential of increasing the value of one’s home.  Depending on the size of the project one might do well to call in an Atlanta contractor to do all the work and provide the best materials.  Do a little homework on the subject and find out how to avoid mistakes many make by tackling a job beyond their skills. Complete some research on a few building professionals and see examples of what they can do in order to bring in the right team.  With the right know-how, or honest contractor, fence building can be a rewarding experience.

Some of the things to consider before beginning a project like fence building are:Fence Building

1)      Post placement

2)      The best materials to compliment the home

3)      The correct way to install slats

4)      Railing, if it applies, which will stand the test of time

5)      Other materials that won’t need replacement soon and add up to a huge bill later

Fence building ideas when starting the job:

1)      If wood is the chosen material with fence building, purchase only materials that have been treated.

2)      Space the posts out approximately 8 ft.

3)      Post holes are recommended to be approximately 2 ft deep.

4)      Before inserting the posts, use environmentally safe chemicals to cap the top and bottom against rot caused by time and the elements.

5)      Coat the portion of the post to be placed in the earth with tar to help concrete adhere to the base.

6)      Level each before allowing to set.

7)      Once the posts are in place and concrete poured, allow 24 hrs for it to dry.

8)      When fence building with rails it’s preferable to go with three rails between posts.  This will increase the strength and thus reduce cost of repairs later.

9)      Put first rail along the top of each post in a horizontal fashion.

10)    Use this rail to measure the placement of slats.

11)    Measure the middle and lower rail exactly between posts, and maintain the same space between the rails themselves, for uniformity.

12)    The bottom two rails are recommended to be installed in a vertical fashion to improve strength.

13)    When fence building don’t place slats any higher than 8’’ higher than the top railing.

Fence building is a good idea to increase curb appeal of one’s home and could increase the resident’s worth if looking to sell.  Yet, taking the basics of fence building lightly can quickly lead to an eye sore.  If the project appears too complicated, bring in the pro’s and not only get fast service and superior materials but a warranty to take care of any repair issues.

Filed Under: Fence Installation, Residential Fence, Tips and Do It Yourself Projects Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Fence Cleaning | What’s the Best Way?

Fence cleaning is something on many “Honey-Do Lists” as the weather heats up and spring cleaning reaches outside the home. Fence cleaning greatly depends on what kinds of materials were used to build it.  If the tips found here don’t seem to fit the job at hand, contacting an Atlanta GA fence contractor with a great deal of experience is a good idea.  When one contacts a professional be sure to ask what projects they specialize in and the warranty that comes with labor/materials.  Within this article there are three types of materials addressed in regards to fence cleaning:

1)      VinylFence Cleaning

2)      Wood

3)      Chain link

4)      Steel

5)      Aluminum

Fence Cleaning – Vinyl

The Right Tools:

1)      Water

2)      Chemicals appropriate for this material

3)      A rag

4)      A brush with softer bristles to take away stains without damaging the vinyl

These fences require little effort to wipe clean of dirt and/or other debris.  It’s a good idea to take care of this every 60-to-90 days in order to make the time spent on this chore far less.

How-To Tips:

1)      Use a hose or other applicator such as a spray bottle to thoroughly wet the surface.

2)      Use either water and soap or other debris-removing chemical to take away build up with the help of a brush with soft bristles.

3)      Use the brush to remove tougher stains.

4)      Take a clean rag to dry it off and reapply the cleaner if there are stains/build up remaining.

5)      Hose off the area again and allow it to dry naturally.

Fence Cleaning – Wood

The Right Tools:

1)      Garden hose or pressure washer

2)      Desired stain if that’s part of the job

3)      Environmentally safe cleaning products

4)      Plastic if one wants to keep chemicals off the ground

Whether one is simply washing the structure or reapplying stain it’s suggested that one does either one every few years.  It suggested not to wait longer than 5 years to maintain optimal appearance.

How-To Tips:

With wood like cedar it will begin to fade if left untreated.  Even if paint or stain is applied, that too will begin to become lackluster without proper maintenance.  No matter what type of wood is used there’s the chance that mold will accumulate over the year.

1)      To start, put down plastic to keep stain or cleaning chemicals from killing the grass.

2)      Mix the desired chemicals and water as directed on the label.

3)      Ask a professional what kinds of stain/chemicals are best at a home improvement outlet store.

4)      Apply the appropriate chemicals to the wood and allow it time to really absorb into the surface.

5)      Use the garden hose or pressure washer to remove the chemicals.  Hold both about a foot away while in use.

6)      Give the wood plenty of time to naturally dry.

7)      One can consider fence cleaning complete at this stage unless one wishes to apply stain.

8)      If so, apply the stain.

9)      It is a much better decision to use stain rather than paint on wood.

Fence Cleaning - Steel/Chain Link/Aluminum:

The Right Tools:

1)      Garden hose

2)      The appropriate environmentally safe cleaning chemicals

3)      Brush for necessary scrubbing where needed

4)      Water in a receptacle of the desired size with soap if necessary

Fence cleaning with chain link, steel and aluminum the process isn’t hard much as with vinyl.  The effort and time required is minimal.  It’s good to complete this process once a year to keep the materials looking their best.

 How- To Tips:

 1)     Use the garden hose and soak the whole surface.

2)      Bring in the scrub brush to get rid of rust or other debris accumulated from grass cutting or the weather.

3)      Use warm water in a container mixed with soap or other cleaners.  (There are chemicals available that actually slow the process of rusting and those that speed the process.  Again, ask a professional which is best.)

4)      Take a brush again and work in the cleaner for best results

5)      Spray again with the garden hose and allow it to dry naturally.

Filed Under: Atlanta Fence Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Commercial Fences in Atlanta

Commercial fences in Atlanta come in all shapes and sizes but the vast majority come in one of these 2 styles:

  1. Chain link fences
  2. Wrought iron

Atlanta Chain Link FenceThese are popular due to the fact that they are durable and need very little upkeep to perform the desired function.  They can both be built high enough to be nearly impossible to scale and able to be improved with a gate.  There are also benefits such as adding an electric charge to deter trespassers.  It’s a safe bet that in highly trafficked areas there is a higher chance that someone could sneak inside a complex and move about freely without a commercial fence to make the job harder.  Before building the fence, or having someone else do it, the best first step is to ask about the local zoning laws that may prohibit the types of materials used, or installing a commercial fence at all.  Paying for a great fence is a prudent business cost.  Paying to have the fence taken down because of zoning laws is painful.

Using an electric gate is more costly, but a trustworthy Atlanta GA fence contractor can show just how affordable it can be.  The gates can be as simple as someone inside buzzing in approved individuals to those that need a pass code or key card.  The limit is only set by a company’s budget.  There are things to consider when choosing between chain link and wrought iron like how long the fence will stand and the threat to the personnel inside.  For construction sites a chain link fence may be the best fit.  This option can be taken down without much trouble and materials reused on another site.

Contact a fence installer today and find out more on commercial fences in Atlanta.  There is new technology and stronger materials being manufactured all the time.  There may be something better than wrought iron or chain link.  No one knows until they make that call.

Filed Under: Chain Link Fence, Commercial Fence, Fence Installation, Security Fence Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

Commercial Fence Considerations

Commercial fences in Atlanta GA perform three functions:

1)      Safety

2)      Protection

3)      Ease visibility from the road.

The best commercial fences keep not only business offices safe but also sites under construction, jails, factories, and any number of other projects where valuable merchandise is left unattended at night.  When the budget can’t pay for security guards, a quality fence in Atlanta GA is a fantastic substitute.

Safety:

Commercial Fences in Atlanta GAFor high profile business and political buildings, it’s important to keep the employees safe inside against intruders.  The best way to do this is to keep trespassers out altogether.  These fences are high, made of wrought iron (typically) and have security gates that monitor those who come in and go out.  It’s not just a matter of keeping property safe when everyone goes home.  There are also business secrets to keep safe and employee files to keep from prying eyes.

Protection:

There is a need for fencing to protect the materials inside a work area.  If for construction there are tools and machines left at night that are very expensive.  One of the easiest things to pawn are tools since they are much harder to track.  Rival construction businesses might look to slow a competitor’s progress by stealing tools.  Nothing can be left to chance with so much money on the line.  These fences can be temporary but durable with an Atlanta commercial fence option like chain link.

Easy Visibility Inside

It may sound strange, but it helps police to see through the fence in order to witness a break in.  Wrought iron and chain link are great Atlanta commercial fence ideas where this is concerned.  It doesn’t obstruct the view from police outside while being hard to scale.

Great commercial fences in Atlanta GA are a sound investment for a business.  Though it costs money to install one, a fence contractor with years of experience can offer installation at an affordable price.  It’s a wise idea to talk about the best kind of fence and whether or not it would benefit from an electric gate.

Filed Under: Chain Link Fence, Commercial Fence, Fence Installation, Tips and Do It Yourself Projects Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
« Older Posts

About Fence Works DIY Fence Information Suwanee, GA Fence Stone Mountain, GA Fence
Warranty Program Guide to Chain Link Fences Cartersville, GA Fence Cumming, GA Fence Georgia Fence Articles
Why Choose Us Guide To Wooden Fences
 Marietta, GA Fence Canton, GA Fence Sitemap
Photo Galleries Guide To Commercial Fences
 Lawrenceville, GA Fence Smyrna, GA Fence Privacy Policy
Prodcucts and Service Area Custom Fence Design Decatur, GA Fence Dahlonega, GA Fence Atlanta Fence Company | FenceWorks of Georgia | FacebookAtlanta Fence Company | Twitterfence works project galleries on flickrFence Works on YouTubereachcast page for fence works of georgia
Customer Reviews Cost Estimator - Coming Soon Duluth, GA Fence Jonesboro, GA Fence
 
 
Alpharetta GA | Athens GA | Atlanta GA | Auburn GA | Bethlehem GA | Bishop GA | Bogart GA | Boman GA | Braselton GA | Buckhead GA | Buford GA | Canton GA | Cartersville GA | Chamblee GA | Clarke County GA | Clermont GA | Comer GA | Commerce GA | Conyers GA | Covington GA | Crawford GA | Cumming GA | Decatur GA | Dacula GA | Dekalb GA | Duluth GA | East Point GA | Flowery Branch GA | Gainesville GA | Good Hope GA | Greensboro GA | Gwinnett County GA | Hartwell GA | Homer GA | Jackson GA | Jefferson GA | Kennesaw GA | Lavonia GA | Lawrenceville GA | Lilburn GA | Loganville GA | Mabelton GA | Madison GA | Marietta GA | McDonough GA | Monroe GA | Nicholson GA | Norcross GA | Oakwood GA | Pendergrass GA | Powder Springs GA | Roswell GA | Rutledge GA | Sandy Springs GA | Scottdale GA | Smyrna GA | Snellville GA | Social Circle GA | Statham GA | Stockbridge GA | Stone Mountain GA | Suwanee GA | Tucker GA | Walton County GA | Watkinsville GA | Winder GA | Woodstock GA