Month: April 2021

Make sure you have an understanding of privacy slats before you purchase them.

Chain-link fences aren’t exactly known for their privacy. If you have one of these fences yourself, you likely know this already. You should be able to enjoy your yard without the concern of people leering through your fence. Fortunately, this can be accomplished if you invest in privacy slats for your fence. Before you do, though, there are a few things you should know about them. Make sure you have an understanding of privacy slats before you purchase them.

Not All Privacy Slats are Made Equally

All fences are different, and just like fences, privacy slats come in all sorts of varieties. Some are cheaper to purchase, but they are often made out of cheap material that is prone to cracking and fading. It’s best if you put the extra dollar forward to guarantee that the privacy slats you get are worth your while. You’ll ultimately save money because you won’t have to continue purchasing new slats when your old ones fail.

Privacy Slats Aren’t Difficult to Install

What’s great about these slats is the simplicity in the installation process. Many will slip right into your chain-link fencing without any trouble. This makes the process quick and easy, which also means you won’t have to put aside a hefty chunk of time to get the job done.

You Can Purchase Them in Bags

You will usually be able to buy these slats in bags. The number of slats you get will often be enough to cover roughly ten feet’s worth of fencing. You will typically end up spending only a couple of dollars for every foot’s worth of slats, so it’s a fairly cost-effective way to add some privacy to your chain-link fencing.

Privacy Slats Come in All Kinds of Heights

You can get privacy slats that are anywhere from three feet in height all the way up to ten feet or even higher! For chain-link fencing, it’s usually enough to go with slats that are between four and six feet. This height range is considered to be standard. It’s easy to cut slats if necessary, which allows you to trim them down to precise sizes if you deem it necessary.

Let Hercules Fence Help Set Up The Perfect Fence For You

Hercules Fence takes pride in being experts in residential, commercial, and high-security fencing. We have been serving our clients since 1955, with only the most knowledgeable of staff. Our staff is ready to serve you from Maryland and the Washington Metropolitan area. Our branch offices are in Manassas, Richmond, Newport News, Norfolk, Virginia, and Maryland.

Visit our website to see how we can be of service to you. Also, follow us on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and Linkedin to stay up to date with our latest news.

The post Privacy Slats for Chain-Link Fences: What You Need to Know appeared first on Hercules Fence.

Here are questions you should ponder when you’re getting a fence gate installed.

People have all kinds of reasons for installing fences on their properties. They help promote privacy around the yard. They make your house more secure. They can also raise your home’s overall curb appeal. It’s a whole other situation when getting a fence gate installed, though. There are all kinds of questions you have to ask yourself. Fences are great to have, but if you can’t get through your fence, all you’re doing is locking yourself within your yard. Here are questions you should ponder when you’re getting a fence gate installed.

How Difficult Is It To Get Through the Fence Gate?

The fence gate is the point on your fence that is easiest to bypass. This makes sense because it is the spot that is intended to be breached. How difficult it is to get through your fence gate influences how secure your property is. The kind of fence gate you get will be influenced by who needs to be kept in the yard and who has to be kept out.

As an example, you don’t need a gate that’s hard to bypass if you’re only trying to keep pets and small children from getting out. Just use a latch and keep it out of their reach, and you should be fine. Locked gates are better if you want to keep potential intruders away.

Are You Going for Appearance, Function, or Both?

A fence gate can become a focal point of your yard, or it can simply blend in with the other parts of your outdoor landscape. You can get all sorts of designs for your fence gate. They can have symbols on them, such as your initials, or you could keep them plain, among other options. Gates in the front yard tend to benefit from a little extra aesthetic appeal because passersby will see the gate more often. For the backyard, however, you likely won’t get a lot of attention for your gate, so blending it in with everything else in your yard can be a great idea.

Think About Your Natural Surroundings

Your fence gate is going to be outside, and the greenery isn’t going to stay the same over the years. Therefore, you have to be ready for change. Trees and bushes can start off not being intrusive, but they could get in the way later. You’ll have to stay on top of trimming if you want to keep plants from swallowing up your fence gate. It also helps to ask a professional fencing company about what to do to keep plants at bay.

Let Hercules Fence Help Set Up The Perfect Fence For You

Hercules Fence takes pride in being experts in residential, commercial, and high-security fencing. We have been serving our clients since 1955, with only the most knowledgeable of staff. Our staff is ready to serve you from Maryland and the Washington Metropolitan area. Our branch offices are in Manassas, Richmond, Newport News, Norfolk, Virginia, and Maryland.

Visit our website to see how we can be of service to you. Also, follow us on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and Linkedin to stay up to date with our latest news.

The post What to Ask Yourself When Getting a Fence Gate appeared first on Hercules Fence.

Here is how to keep your wood fence safe from wind damage.

A fence is much more than something you install in your yard to look nice. It also plays a valuable role in keeping your house and aspects of your yard protected. If your fence is made from wood, however, there are certain vulnerabilities it will have that fences made from different materials won’t have. In some instances, it takes more than standard maintenance procedures to keep your wood fence safe, and protecting it from wind damage is one of those situations. Here is how to keep your wood fence safe from wind damage.

Trim Any Trees Nearby Your Wood Fence

Branches and limbs that are looming over your wood fence serve as catalysts for potential damage down the road. Only a tiny gust of wind is needed for these branches to be snapped off of trees, causing them to come crashing down onto your fence.

Since wind threatens to blow these limbs and branches off your trees, you should take a proactive approach and get them down yourself. Eliminating a threat to fence damage before it has a chance to do any harm is always recommended. If the branches/limbs you want to trim are from your neighbor’s trees, you need to ask them for permission before you go trimming them.

Remove Any Large or Loose Objects From Your Yard

It’s not just tree limbs and branches that threaten your wood fence; you also have to worry about objects around your yard being blown into it. If you have objects around your yard that can be moved with ease, you should find an enclosed place to put them so that they are protected when strong winds come around. This keeps them from posing any threat to your fence’s structural integrity. Such objects may include flower pots and patio furniture.

Fix All of the Loose Parts of Your Wood Fence

See if your wood fence has loose components, such as boards, panels, or posts. When these come loose, it’s easier for them to get blown off by heavy winds. Therefore, you should rebury your fence posts if they ever get lifted from underground and fix any fence boards that are either damaged or loose so that they are more prepared to take on the weather.

Let Hercules Fence Help Set Up The Perfect Fence For You

Hercules Fence takes pride in being experts in residential, commercial, and high-security fencing. We have been serving our clients since 1955, with only the most knowledgeable of staff. Our staff is ready to serve you from Maryland and the Washington Metropolitan area. Our branch offices are in Manassas, Richmond, Newport News, Norfolk, Virginia, and Maryland.

Visit our website to see how we can be of service to you. Also, follow us on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and Linkedin to stay up to date with our latest news.

The post Keeping Your Wood Fence Protected Against Damage From Wind appeared first on Hercules Fence.

If you haven’t invested in an aluminum fence yet, here are a few reasons explaining why you should.

If you’re out driving and passing through a neighborhood, you may notice that there aren’t a lot of fences in the front yard. Most are found in the backyard or bordering pools that they have. With that said, that doesn’t mean a fence can’t be useful in the front yard. Homes that house pets and small children or that are built on busy streets can greatly benefit from a fence bordering their front yard. As our fencing material of choice, we recommend using an aluminum fence for this purpose. If you haven’t invested in an aluminum fence yet, here are a few reasons explaining why you should.

An Aluminum Fence is a Healthy Compromise Between Quality and Cost

Aluminum fences have gotten to be as popular as they are greatly in part due to the wonderful appearance you can get while paying less than you would for other fences. You could save hundreds, or sometimes even thousands, of dollars if you get an aluminum fence instead of a fence made from other materials. It’s even light on maintenance requirements, so it’s no hassle to keep in good condition. You can also get an aluminum fence in all kinds of colors, which makes it easy to have your fence complement your home’s appearance.

An Aluminum Fence Is Durable

If you get an aluminum fence, you’ll be surprised at how many hits it can take. Aluminum is rust-resistant and doesn’t corrode easily. It’s a material that should last you for years to come.

These fences are perfect for handling all of the weather conditions taking place just outside your home, taking on everything from snow to intense sunlight.

What’s more is that infestations from creatures such as ants and termites will never be an issue, which will also aid the longevity your fence has.

Aluminum Fences Don’t Require Much Maintenance

People lead busy lives, and they won’t want to spend their time dealing with maintenance procedures for their fence. With an aluminum fence, you won’t have much maintenance to handle.

They don’t require annual staining or painting., and they almost never flake. Since aluminum fences are typically powder-coated, their color lasts permanently. All you may have to do is use a hose to remove dirt that gets on your fence.

Let Hercules Fence Help Set Up The Perfect Fence For You

Hercules Fence takes pride in being experts in residential, commercial, and high-security fencing. We have been serving our clients since 1955, with only the most knowledgeable of staff. Our staff is ready to serve you from Maryland and the Washington Metropolitan area. Our branch offices are in Manassas, Richmond, Newport News, Norfolk, Virginia, and Maryland.

Visit our website to see how we can be of service to you. Also, follow us on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and Linkedin to stay up to date with our latest news.

The post Why You Should Think About Purchasing an Aluminum Fence appeared first on Hercules Fence.

When it comes to securing and containing your yard, choosing the right fence is essential. With a plethora of fence styles to choose from, it can feel overwhelming wading through the catalogs, warehouses, and Pinterest boards. One option that always shines above the rest for many homeowners, though, is the classic wooden fence. Here at Fence Masters, we assist several clients with their wood fence installations each year, making us experts on the topic. To help choose the right wood and put our expertise to work, we’ve put together a resource that is sure to help you make the right decision regarding wooden fence installation. Read on to learn more about wood fences and the many options available.

The Benefits of Wooden Fences

Compared to other fence options, such as chain-link and wrought-iron, wooden fences offer some of the most desirable benefits amongst fences. Not only do they deliver an aesthetically pleasing form of containment, but they also give you privacy when you’re in your yard. Additionally, wooden fences are some of the most secure and are difficult to infiltrate.

Your Wood Options

You may think that the decision-making process is complete once you select wooden fence installation. While that decision is a large one, choosing the right for your fence is arguably the most important. There are several wood options available, each with benefits and drawbacks. Regardless of the wood you choose, though, you know you’ll be getting a high-quality, lasting fence installed when you choose Fence Masters.

The most common wood materials for fencing include:

• Cedar: Cedar fencing is a popular, durable, and low-maintenance fence option that is attractive and insect-resistant. It is an excellent choice for those with a middle ground budget and who want a naturally beautiful fence.
• Cyprus: Many who enjoy the benefits of cedar will also enjoy Cyprus fences. This wood option has naturally occurring chemicals that deter insects, is a longer-lasting option that is beautiful with or without staining. Cyprus fencing can be a little pricier, but the material’s advantages typically outweigh the higher price point for many homeowners.
• Pine: As the most common material for wood fences, pine is the most affordable choice for your wooden fence. For those looking for a less natural look than cedar, Cyprus, and Redwood, pine is a great choice. Pine fencing is easy to find, install, and maintain and does well in various climates, including here in the Midwest.
• Redwood: The durability, aesthetic, and maintenance benefits of Redwood make it a highly desirable wooden fence option. Redwood is one of the more expensive wood options, but the beauty that comes with the fence often offsets the price. Redwood is a long-lasting wood that can withstand harsh weather conditions for many, many years.

How to Choose the Right Wood for Your Fence

Deciding on a wood type for your fence can be difficult, especially when presented with several beautiful, high-quality options. It helps if you consider several factors when choosing your material, though, which makes the decision-making process a little easier. When looking for a wooden fence, think about:

• Your Climate: Some wood materials cannot withstand extreme temperatures, such as double-digit negatives or triple-digit highs. Additionally, taking into account the average humidity of your area can significantly affect your wood choice.
• Your Budget: As outlined above, different wood types will come at various price points. We always recommend having an idea of what you’re looking to spend on a new wooden fence before researching wood types. It’s not easy to give up on your dream wooden fence and its benefits if you find it too expensive.
• Its Lifespan: On average, a wooden fence, regardless of material, should last anywhere from 10-15 years, depending on maintenance, climate, and the quality of its installation. However, wood with greater longevity can last up to 30 years before needing replacement. If you’re intending on installing a fence on your forever property, choosing a wood material with a longer lifespan is the best, money-saving option.

Of course, if you need assistance picking out the best material for your wooden fence, the experts at Fence Masters are here to lend a hand. We have been the leading fence contractors in the Midwest since 1983 and have the experience and knowledge to help you make the right decision. Give us a call today to discuss your fencing options, and we’ll happily assist you.

The post appeared first on Fence Masters

Here are some suggestions we have on how you can clean your fencing to prepare for spring.

We’re getting to that time of year once again: spring cleaning. When you think of spring cleaning, you may be thinking about things you can do inside of your house. However, don’t forget about your outdoor landscape. One part of your outdoor landscape that could benefit from spring cleaning is your fencing. So, where do you start with cleaning? Here are some suggestions we have on how you can clean your fencing to prepare for spring.

Come Up With a Game Plan

If you come up with a plan in advance, the cleaning process will be much easier. First, take a look at your fencing and see if you can notice any areas of concern. Next, find out what supplies you’ll need to address the problem areas. Lastly, map out a schedule for what you will address and when. This will keep you from getting too overwhelmed at any one time.

Clean Along your Fence Line

Do you have anything taking up space in your yard? If you do, pick all of it up before you begin cleaning your fencing. If you have grass along your fence line that needs to be trimmed, get it done beforehand as well. This will leave you with more space with which to work and while getting other cleaning tasks done at the same time.

Test Any Locks and Gates Your Fencing Has

This is a task that doesn’t take too long, but it goes a long way. By testing your locks and gates, you’ll know whether or not your fencing is secure. See if your gates swing open or if you have working locks. Sometimes, you can help out your hinges by applying some lubricant.

Get Your Fencing Repainted/Restained

By repainting or restaining your fencing, you can completely revitalize it, just in time for the new season. Before you do any staining or painting, however, just be sure that whatever product you’re using is okay for the fencing material you have.

Consider Hiring a Fencing Company

If you’re unsure of what to do yourself, you can look to a fencing company for help. Professionals will have advice on how to care for your fence, and they can find any spots on your fence that may require attention.

Something else great is that many fencing companies have warranties for their work, making it completely safe to work with them.

Let Hercules Fence Help Set Up The Perfect Fence For You

Hercules Fence takes pride in being experts in residential, commercial, and high-security fencing. We have been serving our clients since 1955, with only the most knowledgeable of staff. Our staff is ready to serve you from Maryland and the Washington Metropolitan area. Our branch offices are in Manassas, Richmond, Newport News, Norfolk, Virginia, and Maryland.

Visit our website to see how we can be of service to you. Also, follow us on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, and Linkedin to stay up to date with our latest news.

The post Spring Cleaning Suggestions We Have For Your Fencing appeared first on Hercules Fence.