Is a Privacy Fence Right for Your Yard?

While you may love your neighbors and your community, you may feel that something is missing in your backyard – a sense of privacy and seclusion. We all want to feel that we are able to enjoy our backyards without being watched or have our neighbors intrude on our own private time. That is when a privacy fence may be in order! Privacy fencing can offer a way to give you the backyard space that you are seeking. Our team at Fence Masters works with both wood and PVC or vinyl privacy fencing.

Separation is Good for the Soul

While your neighbors may be offended at first that you are planning to install a privacy fence, hopefully they will process it and understand that every relationship needs space. Make sure that you approach your neighbors to discuss your decision and go over where you are planning on having it installed. You do not want to come across as rude, so try to speak to them during a time that is convenient.

Here are four key points to bring up during your conversation:

1. Visible lines: A fence perimeter is a great way to mark off your property line. This may be important to you as a homeowner and it is worth explaining that to your neighbors. This perimeter will really give you a sense of your space and property if you are thinking of adding a barn, outbuilding or pool.
2. A secure zone: Having a fenced-in yard allows you and your family to feel more safe from the outside world. If you have a dog, a privacy fence helps it have a place to play while not worrying about it getting away.
3. More time to make memories: Obviously, the privacy part of a privacy fence is probably the No. 1 reason that you want to install one. If it looks like this factor is bothering your neighbors, gently remind them that they will benefit from some privacy of their own due to your fencing.
4. Be prepared: Your neighbor may not embrace your decision and you will have to face that fact head-on. They may argue that they are worried about their own property line, violating local laws, an obstructed view and more. Talk it out and pledge that you will only use fencing professionals and that you will maintain the fence year after year.

The post Is a Privacy Fence Right for Your Yard? appeared first on Fence Masters.

Here are some of the key things to pay attention to when shopping around for the perfect fencing company for your specific needs.

For the most part, a fence is a great enhancement for any property — commercial or residential. In fact, if you are already thinking about installing a new fence to surround the perimeter of your residential or commercial property, you want to make sure you hire trusted and reliable professionals to get the job done right the very first time. The reality is, just like with any large purchase you make, doing your research should be something that all property owners do before making the final decision on what fencing company to select for their specific fence installation project. Ultimately, finding the right fit requires that you look and understand what it is that you need from your fencing company. Here are some of the key things to pay attention to when shopping around for the perfect fencing company for your specific needs.

Getting Multiple Quotes

Cost and price is key when installing a fence. In fact, it becomes increasingly important to avoid going with the very first fencing company or contractor you meet with — do your due diligence and research. The reality is, it is your responsibility to make sure that you ask for price quotes from multiple contractors to get a better understanding of the actual rate you’d expect. Ultimately, having a greater understanding around the common costs associated with a fence installation can really inform you on what price is a right fit for you and your specific needs.

Always Ensure A Contractor Is Licensed And Insured

There is no denying that conducting a wide and broad research component of shopping around when selecting a fencing contractor should be a key component of the search itself. In fact, any reputable contractor would be happy to provide you with their insurance and licenses when asked. By asking this, you can rest assured that the company and contractor are all reliable and trustworthy. The reality is, these are all essential to knowing that you are hiring someone who has the proper experience and authority to safely and reliably install your new fence. Ultimately, having a contractor who cares about standards and safety is incredibly important to ensure that your fence is installed effectively and efficiently overall.

The post What You Want in Your Fencing Company appeared first on Hercules Fence.

Here are some of the most common issues your aluminum fence may face, along with information on how to address them.

Aluminum fences are extremely durable, and can be counted upon to provide highly reliable security whatever your needs may be. As is to be expected, though, certain problems do tend to crop up with this type of fencing after years of steady use. Here are some of the most common issues your aluminum fence may face, along with information on how to address them.

1. Weather Damage

Powerful storms often generate sustained winds and extreme gusts that can affect your fence’s stability and structural integrity. This may not be immediately evident along any given length of fencing, but the cumulative effect is of potentially increased vulnerability. Should a windborne projectile (such as a tree limb) careen into fencing already weakened by countless previous storms, it may cause panels to dent and warp—or even dislodge them outright. The resultant sagging may generate gaps and present a hypothetical security risk, so be sure to contact a local fence installation and repair business right away if you find yourself in these circumstances. Companies like Hercules Fence specialize in quickly and soundly repairing this type of damage.

2. Erosion

As demonstrated above, durable as it may be, aluminum isn’t impervious to the forces of nature—even the seemingly mundane. Erosion can be another culprit when it comes to weakening the general integrity of an aluminum fence. Natural shifts in the ground beneath a fencepost might cause it to bend or buckle, and in especially unfortunate cases make contact with and cause damage to your property. Rapid erosion caused by extreme rains can present a different but no less concerning hazard, wherein multiple adjacent posts are loosened or dislodged in a short period of time. Again, it is highly advisable to contact professionals if this happens, but in the latter scenario a fence-owner may find success in reinforcing shaky or weakened posts with dirt—as long as it’s safe to attempt.

3. Accidents

No type of fence or barrier is entirely accident-proof, and by definition no accident is remotely predictable. If your aluminum fence sustains significant damage from a motor vehicle or any other strange twist of fate, it may be in sorry shape indeed—but not for long, as skilled professionals can quickly repair or replace them. The companies they represent will work closely and compassionately with you to navigate any insurance-related matters, as well.

The post Common Problems Your Aluminum Fence Might Face appeared first on Hercules Fence.

Inevitably, the summer weather begins to turn cooler as fall ushers in another change of seasons. Among your to-do list for prepping your home and property for the winter cold and snow, should be getting your fence in order.

Take the time to follow the following tips to help your fence be ready for its spring debut.

Cleaning it up: Your fence panels have taken a beating during the hot summer days and rainy thunderstorms. With the humid and moist air, you may find that some mold has cropped up on areas of your fence. Scrub this away or use a pressure washer, but carefully so that you do not blast it too hard. Depending on the type of fencing that you have, research cleaners on the market or dish soap, vinegar or bleach diluted with water can all work. If you have a chain link fence, a rinse with a hose should do the trick. Not only does cleaning your fence get rid of dirt and mold, it can bring it back to looking sparkling and new.

Trim the greenery: Spring is when all of your plants and trees have really blossomed and this may have led to leaves or greenery now touching your fencing. It is best to take the time to trim these away so that they are not causing any damage or marring your fence panels.

Took a close look: We know that you see your fence, but do you really look at your fence? During the seasonal changes, it is a great time to see if there are any real issues that have surfaced on your fence during the summer. Check for leaning or damaged posts, rotting wood pieces, cracked, loose or missing vinyl pieces, rust on wrought iron or chain link fencing or crooked and broken gates. We can work with you on fence repairs and assessments before the winter rolls in this year.

Wood refresh: Most fence materials are water-resistant as part of their make-up. While wood may need a new coat of stain or paint. Fall is a good time to apply whatever protectant you are using.

Debris be gone: As fall moves in, more leaves will be falling, more wind will be blowing and organic material can collect near your fence. It is always good to rake away any items that are too close to your panels.

The post Fall Fence Maintenance Tips appeared first on Fence Masters.

Read on for several reasons you need a pool fence around your pool.

Deciding that the time is right to get a new fence (or replacement) is usually the result of lifestyle change. For instance, getting a new dog might require a fence, or your baby passing the milestones of crawling, walking, or climbing might make you decide that the time is right. Another lifestyle change that might encourage you to get a fence, and in fact will in most cases necessitate getting a fence, is the addition of a pool. While all fences are intended to keep trespassers out, a pool fence is a highly important safety tool to protect anyone who can not adequately swim from accidentally drowning. Read on for several reasons you need a pool fence around your pool.

Safety

The prime reason to have a pool fence installed is, of course, to keep people safe. You don’t want kids to wander too close to a pool and fall in, especially young kids like toddlers who may not know any better. Pools can also be a huge enticement for neighborhood kids on hot days, and if they get into your pool even without your permission and get hurt, you’d have to live with that. Additionally, if you failed to secure your pool correctly and someone got hurt, you could also be financially responsible. Finally, it is not just people who are protected by a pool fence – you will also be keeping pets and other animals safe from drowning as well.

Privacy

Adding a fence around your pool makes it a more private area, allowing you to really relax. There really isn’t a way to truly relax when you feel like your neighbors are watching you lounge at the pool. Also, in some cases, people seeing you at your pool gives them the confidence to invite themselves over – a fence can help limit that.

Money Saving

Having a pool fence installed around your pool will also save you money. In most cases, it is required by law and by insurance companies, but in the rare cases when it is not, you will often get a discount on your insurance for having one. If you are required to have one and you don’t, you could be directly liable for injuries that occur around your pool, and you could be fined by the government for failing to have the fence installed.

The post Why You Need a Pool Fence appeared first on Hercules Fence.

We’re here to break down the better choice between a DIY vs. professional fence repair.

In the digital world, information is accessible at a rapid pace. You can Google or YouTube search anything, even fence repair techniques. However, fence repair is not a task to take lightly. A high-quality, robust fence protects your property while adding aesthetic value to your home. Therefore, you don’t want wear and tear to get the best of your fencing. You also want to avoid costly mistakes while attempting to repair your fence yourself. You might think, “Isn’t a DIY repair project more affordable?” We’re here to answer that question and break down the better choice between a DIY vs. professional fence repair.

The Benefits of Hiring a Professional Fence Repair Company

Hiring a professional fence repair company has many results, including:

• The excellent results will boost your home’s curb appeal and increase your home’s property value.
• A professional fence repair company has the right tools and equipment.
• A professional can give you advice on styles, designs, and materials.
• Experts will take less time because they know what they’re doing.
• Experts will also save you time working on other projects or commitments.

The Downsides of a DIY Fence Repair Project

• Lack of expertise: There is a high probability of poor results if you’re not an expert at this type of project. Also, lacking the right tools means your work won’t be at its finest.
• Time is Precious: Some DIY projects are more time-consuming than others. Experts are well versed in their industry, meaning it will take them a shorter time to complete the project. DIY projects take longer when it’s a trial and error process.
• Safety Risks: Improvement projects come with safety risks. For example, a chain link or cedar fence might be challenging to work with and poses a risk of injury or property damage.
• Complex Techniques: It’s easier to replace a slat or picket than it is to fix a wrought iron or another type of metal fence. These repairs are more challenging and require more training and experience that goes far beyond what a fence repair novice can do.
• More Money: The answer to “Isn’t a DIY repair project more affordable?” is “no.” If you’ve never attempted a fence repair, you’ll have to buy new posts, other fence materials, and a repair toolbox. Experts know where to purchase these tools at an affordable price.

If you’re willing to take on repairing a fence for learning purposes, a DIY project will at least make you more knowledgeable. However, experts will ensure that the job is done the first time correctly. Contact Hercules Fence today if you’re looking for a fence material that isn’t prone to constant repairs.

The post DIY Vs. Professional Fence Repair: Which to Pick appeared first on Hercules Fence.

You have already selected the material and location of your new fence, so you are along the way in the project timeline. But have you taken the time to speak to your neighbors and make sure that they are part of the loop? It is always good etiquette to discuss any type of home improvement project with your neighbors, but a fence installation is even more important as it can infringe on your neighbor’s space during work.

Here are some tips to guide you through a cool and calm conversation.

Know your boundary: Before you speak to your neighbor, make sure that you have your property line paperwork in order and are able to show your neighbor, in case there are any questions. If there is a current fence that you are replacing, make sure you are clear on who owns it before beginning any work. We always ask that you provide a plat of survey so it is clear we are installing on your property.

Share details: When you are informing your neighbor of your plans, go into details of exactly where it will be, what material it will be and any timeframe of the projected work. You want them to know when our crew at Fence Masters is coming out, so there are not any concerns about strangers being around on your bordering properties. If you will need to be on their property for fence maintenance, this is also a good time to point that out ahead of it being installed.

Convenient time: Ask your neighbor before going over to have the conversation when they have time to talk. You do not want to just interrupt their day and plans by hustling over there and insisting on speaking when that might start the conversation off on the wrong foot. Schedule a time to connect later if your neighbor is busy or does not have time for more than just a quick few minutes. Also, be open to adjusting the installation day if your neighbor has an event planned or will be out of town and they would like to be around during the installation.

Be open: Approach the conversation with an open mind and open ears. If your neighbor has any questions or concerns, take them seriously and find out the answers if you do not know. You want your neighbors to be happy about the project and not resentful. If during the installation, something changes that may affect your neighbor or the work being done, advise them sooner vs. later, so that they are always current with the goings-on.

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If you’re looking into fence replacement and are just getting started with the whole process, read on and familiarize yourself with some of the most essential basics.

At some point in a fence’s lifespan, it becomes clear that it’s too old to keep going. Replacing a fence can be a great way to spruce up a property and make it just as good as it was when you originally had the fence installed. However, there are some things you’re going to want to keep in mind before you embark on a journey of fence replacement. If you’re looking into fence replacement and are just getting started with the whole process, read on and familiarize yourself with some of the most essential basics.

Understanding Boundaries

Knowing where your property boundaries are is essential. As much as we’d like to hope otherwise, it may be the case that your current fence isn’t actually on the boundary line between you and your neighbors’ property. When looking into fence replacement, you want to understand where the boundaries are and mark them on the land while you install your fence.

You also may want to take some time to discuss this with your neighbor and make sure it’s clear who is responsible for fence upkeep and any other maintenance costs that may arise. It’s also good to be on the same page in terms of what the fence will look like and how the construction process may go. Letting your neighbor know ahead of time can make everything go much easier.

Beneath Your Fence

Remember that there are utility lines in the ground. Pipes and cables may be running under your property, so you want to check with utility companies and be certain that you’re not digging somewhere you shouldn’t be. Those sharp fence posts could end up cutting through water or electricity lines, causing all sorts of issues for you and your neighbors. Scope out utility lines before doing any backyard digging.

Permits and Laws

Most districts and counties have their own permitting rules that you should be aware of. Check with your local building office before you start doing any construction. Building a fence without a permit may be more costly in the end as you could be forced to remove the fence or even get fined. Ensure any contractors are permitted as well.

Local laws are also going to guide the building process. They may indicate what height or materials your fence may be. Brush up on any local regulations before you get started with your fence replacement.

The post What to Know Prior to a Fence Replacement appeared first on Hercules Fence.

Understanding the difference between the signs of a wood fence repair or a wood fence replacement can be a game-changer.

For the most part, a wooden fence will likely need to be repaired at some point — but if not properly maintained you might need a replacement. In fact, a wooden fence that has seen better days is due for either a repair or replacement — but how are you supposed to know whether you can get away with a repair or have to spend money on a full replacement of your wooden fence? The reality is, if your wooden fence has started to grow mold or is missing some pickets, it becomes increasingly important to get your wooden fence in tip top shape as soon as possible to extend the overall lifespan of your fence overall. Ultimately, understanding the difference between the signs of a wood fence repair or a wood fence replacement can be a game-changer for your wallet down the line. Here are a few key ways to finally determine whether your wooden fence needs a simple repair or whether it needs a full replacement.

Understanding The Limitations Of Cosmetic Damage

If your wood fence has any peeling paint or a fading stain, then that tends to be considered a cosmetic issue. In fact, these signs are excellent candidates for a simple wood fence repair. The reality is, when the damage is more severe and affects the overall structural integrity of your wood fence then a replacement might be the best solution. Ultimately, widespread rot and mold are significantly harmful to your wooden fence which is why you typically see professionals recommend a replacement when these unfortunate elements have already settled on your wood fence.

Understanding Your Wood’s Condition

When it comes to your wood fence, paying attention to the overall condition of your wood is essential. In fact, if you happen to notice a lot of splintering or cracking of the wood itself, it might be beneficial to simply get a totally new fence. The reality is, when your lumber is soft or spongy, then having your wood fence replaced becomes increasingly important to keep your property properly protected for many years to come. Ultimately, rot typically weakens the wood itself, leading homeowners to definitely want to consider the benefits of replacing their wood fence as repairs will likely be significantly more costly and might not even fix the issue completely.

The post Deciding Between a Wood Fence Repair or Replacement appeared first on Hercules Fence.

As a rental property owner, you need to keep your tenants or renters safe and secure, just like if it was at your own home. A new or updated fence can create a secure perimeter while not adding too much work to your role as an owner.

Here are pros and cons of each type of fencing material:

Wood fence: There is nothing like the natural and iconic beauty and style of a classic wood fence. At your rental property, a wood fence will add a versatile look to your place that can be either a privacy fence or more of a style accent with open panels. You can select the paint or stain color that you use to personalize your fencing. The maintenance of your wood fencing can be the downside to this selection as you will need to maintain the stain or paint and sealant to keep it from being damaged or rotting.

Vinyl fence: As the original PVC fence company in the Chicagoland area, our team has extensive experience in vinyl fencing. This is a great choice for rental property owners seeking privacy at their property. It will not rot or warp, but it does need to be cleaned and scrubbed occasionally to keep off dirt and mold. While vinyl can be affected by weather, our fencing has a mix of inhibitors and additives to help it resist cracking, breaking down in the sun and staying flexible to move with the weather elements.

Chain Link: If you are not concerned about privacy and want a strong perimeter around your rental property, then chain-link fencing is a good choice. It can be tailored to your place with a range of colors, gauges and coatings that you can select for your fence. While it does not offer any privacy, it is a good fence for homes that have pets.

Wrought iron: If you are hoping to add a sense of elegance to the front of your rental, then consider adding a wrought iron fence. While it is not always the best for creating a tight perimeter around a space, wrought iron continues to be a beautiful material for creating an elegant look. Our  team can assist with your design decisions, and we can create one-of-a-kind pieces as we have our own fabrication shop as part of our company.

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