Watch for Water Damage to Your Fence

Your fence is an investment that you hope will last for years and years. As an outdoor element, it faces wind, rain, sleet and snow year-round. Water can seep in and cause problems to the structure and stability. Catching any issues early is important for the integrity of your fence investment.

What you should look for:

Signs of mold: Too much water spurs the allergen. If there is mold starting to grow on your fence, it needs to be addressed immediately. It can grow on vinyl, painted and unpainted wood surfaces. The fungus can turn up in different colors, including green, orange, yellow, white or black. When it is visible on the surface, it can start to penetrate into the material and cause long-term damage. To deal with mold, wash and scrub with water and dishwashing liquid or a mix of water and vinegar. A pressure washer can be used, but on a low level so that it doesn’t damage the fence. Plan to clean on a sunny day, so that your clean fence can dry and not start the wet, moldy cycle over again. To help prevent mold down the road, make sure you keep up with your fence’s staining or painting. Also, keeping leaves and debris away from your fence will help stop a breeding ground for water and mold.

Sudden fallen piece: If you wake up in the morning and find a panel of your fence has fallen, this could have been triggered by water damage. While repairing the damaged piece is your first priority, you need to also assess the rest of your fence to see if there is damage or mold in these areas as well. Beyond this initial fallen panel, you need to double-check the integrity of the rest of your fence and take steps to lengthen its life.

Internal issues: Unfortunately, you may not always be able to see that there is damage to your fence. If it is internal only, you may have a structure that is compromised and could be knocked down during strong winds or a thunderstorm. While it may be difficult to see any internal damage, you can work to prevent these types of issues by continued maintenance. Your plan should include taking the time to keep an eye on your entire fence. Really look for cracks, scratches or breaks that could lead to further issues down the road and fix them immediately. Pairing this plan with such outdoor chores as mowing or weeding will help get it on the calendar and not be as easy to forget.

Your Neighborhood Fence Experts

Besides fence installation, our team here at Fence Masters also offers emergency repairs for fences we have installed in Northwest Indiana. We have the time and experience in the industry that truly makes a difference. When you want to launch a project or have questions, reach out to us through our online contact form. 

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Here is what you can do to keep rust from being a problem for your chain-link fencing.

Chain-link fencing is a kind of fencing that is made from materials such as galvanized steel. One problem that can burden these fences is rust, and you want to minimize how much damage rust is able to do to your fence so that it lasts as long as it can possibly last. Here is what you can do to keep rust from being a problem for your chain-link fencing.

Keep Your Chain-Link Fencing Clean

Dust and dirt might have materials in them that trigger corrosion in chain-link fencing. Therefore, whenever you see dirt and dust piling onto your fence, it’s important for you to clean the fence as soon as you can. Cleaning keeps materials that cause corrosion away from your fence, which will ultimately raise its longevity.

All it takes to clean your fencing is a little warm water and a detergent that isn’t too abrasive. Use soft-bristled brushes when cleaning the links on your fencing.

Add Some Rust Protection to Your Chain-Link Fencing

Rust protection can be added to your chain-link fencing so that it has a chance to last longer. Regardless of the fence you have, time will take its toll, so it’s always good to have another line of defense keeping your fence protected against adverse conditions.

If you aren’t sure what type of rust protection your fence could use, consult a fencing company for advice. They’ll know exactly what kind of rust protection your fence needs, especially if the company you contact is local, because they’ll know what weather conditions in the area are likely going to impact your fencing.

Stay on Top of General Maintenance

This goes for pretty much any fence, but keeping up with general maintenance is always going to be a good idea. As long as you check on your fencing every now and then, you’ll be able to detect problems while they’re still small and capable of being fixed without too much trouble.

See if your fencing has accumulated any rust, moisture, or debris, and be sure that climbing plants are kept away. As long as you keep these factors to a minimum, your fencing should last you for years.

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 Stopping Rust From Occurring On Your Chain-Link Fencing appeared first on Hercules Fence.

Here are the fencing rules you should follow before you begin your installation.

People have many reasons for installing fences. Sometimes, it can be due to how cost-effective a fence is and how fences help raise property value. Other times, the main incentive is to boost a property’s aesthetic appeal. Some people set up fences for protective reasons, such as keeping intruders away from the property. Whatever the reason may be, before anything else, you need to have the fence installed. When preparing for the installation, though, there are certain written and unwritten fencing rules you’ll want to follow. Here are the fencing rules you should follow before you begin your installation.

Inform Your Neighbors When You’re Planning a Fencing Installation

It’s not technically a law to let your neighbors know when you’re installing a fence, however, it’s a common friendly gesture that you’ll want to extend to them. Keep in mind that they will also be impacted by the installation. Perhaps they have to move things around before construction starts, such as flowers that could be too close to where all of the construction gets taken place. Since you’re also affecting your neighbors’ yards to an extent, you should make an effort to let them know that the installation will be happening, and you should tell them when said installation will occur.

Consult Your Local Government

Not every local government makes homeowners acquire permits prior to fencing installations, however, there are many who do. Zoning ordinances will typically let people know how large a fence is allowed to be, and they’ll put a limit on the maximum height you can have.

There could also be fencing rules you have to follow that were made by your homeowner’s association. For example, they can make fencing rules limiting what colors your fence can be and what materials are used to create it.

Don’t Leave Dogs Unattended

Dogs are a large responsibility, and while having a fence around your yard may provide extra protection, it’s still no reason to leave your dog alone in the yard. If you end up doing this, your dog could begin exhibiting behaviors that surrounding neighbors will likely not appreciate. Your dog may begin digging or barking, and both of these behaviors can wear people’s nerves down over time. Some dogs also get very anxious and will resort to aggressive behaviors like biting if they feel threatened. That’s why it’s up to you to stay by your dog and make sure everything stays fine.

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 Written and Unwritten Fencing Rules You’ll Want to Know appeared first on Hercules Fence.

Here are the reasons a wrought iron fence could be great having on your property.

Are you thinking of getting a new fence for your property? If so, you could pick from a long list of fencing materials. One such material that you could use is wrought iron. Wrought iron fencing brings property owners a specific list of benefits that make it worth the investment. Here are the reasons a wrought iron fence could be great having on your property.

A Wrought Iron Fence Doesn’t Need Much Maintenance

Upkeep is always going to be a chore for fence owners, so minimizing the amount of maintenance needed for fencing is going to be a huge plus. Some fences, such as those made from wood, will require painting and staining. This is not the case for a wrought iron fence. The powder coat finishing you get from these fences lasts for several years, and it isn’t very prone to peeling or chipping, even if it has to deal with hazardous weather conditions.

This makes wrought iron fencing a near maintenance-free option, which saves you a great deal of time in the long run.

A Wrought Iron Fence Keeps Problems With Animals Under Control

Perhaps you’re dealing with animals that are climbing over your fence and causing trouble. This won’t be an issue if you have a wrought iron fence because these fences have vertical rails. Unlike the horizontal rails that other fences have, vertical rails make it much more difficult for any animal to scale your fence.

By keeping animals out of your yard, it creates a safer environment for your outdoor landscape, which holds even more importance if you have pets or small children you need to protect.

They Come in Many Designs to Suit Whatever Landscape You Have

Wrought iron fences have the benefit of being available in all sorts of designs. The options you have are practically limitless, meaning you can have your fence complement your property, no matter how your home or landscape looks.

Even after you decide on an initial design for your fence, you can go a step further and add your own personal touches to make the fence truly your own. Adding your own creative twists on fencing will really help your property stand out among others and show people that you care for your landscape.

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 a Wrought Iron Fence is Great to Have appeared first on Hercules Fence.

No matter where you live, sports are a big part of the American way of life. If you’re in charge of a sports facility, whether a baseball or softball field, a tennis court, or another type of recreational facility, you have a lot to think about when you’re planning. You need to consider the comfort of the spectators and the functionality of the field for the players. While you’re making your plans, though, don’t forget to give some thought to fencing. While sports facility fences are not the focal point of the field, it’s still important to have one that serves its purpose well and is aesthetically pleasing.

• Baseball fields require several different fences. Baseball field fences involve three main components, and chain link fences will work for all of them. First, there’s a chain link backstop. Then you need a dugout fence, and finally a waist-high fence that surrounds the field. Choosing chain link for all three fences will give your field a unified look, but if you want to go with something different, talk to your fencing contractor.
• The type of fence you use for a tennis court can depend on the type of court. If you’re working with a hard court, 10 foot tennis court fences are recommended. If your court is made of clay or turf, though, your fence doesn’t need to be as high because the balls don’t bounce as far. In that case, 8 feet is sufficient. Whichever kind of court you have, recognize that tennis courts come with some prestige, so your fencing needs to measure up. Some people choose fabric mesh or pipe railings with cable, but the standard choice is once again chain link. Typically, vinyl-coated chain link is used for tennis court fences.
• When you’re fencing recreational facilities, you have some flexibility as to the type of fence you choose. When you need sport court fences, you may want to go with chain link. Around a playground, you could choose a short wooden fence or perhaps a PVC/vinyl picket fence, depending on the look you want. Surrounding an entire park or recreational field, ornamental metal fences provide security and an elegant look.

When you’re ready for a new fence, call Paramount Fence Inc. for professional installation. We’re a full-service fence sales and installation business in the Chicagoland area, proudly serving the following counties in Illinois: Kane, DuPage, Kendall, DeKalb, McHenry, and parts of Cook, Will and Lake. With more than half a century of combined experience, our fencing contractors are dedicated to providing creative and affordable solutions that address our clients’ needs and fulfill their requests. Paramount Fence Inc is a member of the American Fence Association and a registered member of the Better Business Bureau. For more information, call us at 630.239.2714 or contact us through our website.

The post Top Fences for Your Sports Facility appeared first on Paramount Fence.

Today, we’ll compare vinyl fences with wooden ones so you can have an easier time deciding on one for you.

Are you having trouble deciding on a material for your new fence? Two of the more popular options you could use are vinyl and wood fences. The best option for your house will come down to the role of the fence, its looks, and just personal preference overall. Today, we’ll compare vinyl fences with wooden ones so you can have an easier time deciding on one for you.

What Objective Do You Have For Your Fence?

Whenever you’re getting a new fence, you have to know what the goal for the fence will be. Some materials satisfy certain objectives better than others, so knowing what you want your fence to do will make deciding on fencing material much easier.

Maintenance Requirements

A lot of people actually overlook the maintenance requirements fences have when making a purchase. If you go with wood fencing, there will be a few maintenance procedures to follow. For example, you may have to stain your fence on occasion or possibly replace a few fence boards whenever they get too damaged. While caring for a wooden fence, you’ll also have to deal with the expenses. This means spending money to get a new stain, as well as new fence panels.

Vinyl fencing, on the other hand, doesn’t come with many maintenance requirements. The most you’ll need to do is simply hose your fence off every now and then when dirt starts to build up.

Aesthetics

All fences come with a certain charm to them that adds to the aesthetic appeal of your property. Wood fences are the go-to option for many homeowners who wish to improve their yards’ curbside appeals. These fences have a lot of warmth and natural beauty to them, which is why they have been around for many years. Even when these fences get a little damaged, some people like the look because it adds some more character to the structure overall.

Vinyl fences can look beautiful as well, mainly because the fence doesn’t get damaged as easily. You won’t have any worries about factors like termites or warping, which would otherwise compromise the beauty of the fence. Because of this, you maintain a “like-new” look for much longer.

How Long Will You Stay On The Property?

Wood fences are perfect if you’re only going to stay at a location for two or three years. Wood fences become more expensive as time goes on because more damage will accumulate, which will require more upkeep. However, you get great value from these fences in their early years, so wood is a great material for short-term value.

Vinyl fences are great if you’re staying in one place for many years. They don’t rack up the same expenses over time, meaning you’ll get more value out of them long-term.

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 Comparing Vinyl Fences With Wood Fences appeared first on Hercules Fence.

Animals are eating all of my plants, can a fence help keep them out? That is the question for gardeners who have put the time, effort, and love into their plants and herbs. It is disheartening to come outside to gather some tomatoes for dinner to find that they have all been gobbled up! Critters can approach your outdoor garden like it is an all-day and all-night buffet. A fence can help preserve your garden for years to come, and with a gate, you can easily access your plants whenever you need to water, weed or grab something for lunch, dinner, or a snack. 

Check out our tips before your fence installation.

Do some detective work: It is helpful to know exactly what animal is eating at your place before you determine what type of fence is needed. Rabbits are a lot smaller than deer. If squirrels are the culprit, you will find areas where they have dug up bulbs. If deer are to blame, tracks may be evident in the dirt or clean snips on herbaceous-type plants or tears on more woody plants. Rabbits leave sharp cuts, and droppings are often left behind.

Determine the best fence fit: Smaller creatures can not only wiggle between spaces, but they can also dig under a perimeter. For example, for rabbits, a tighter gauge on a chain-link fence would work, and you will still be able to enjoy the beauty of your plants and not have a blocked area in a small part of your yard. Digging the fence base deeper can keep burrowing rabbits out as well. For deer, height matters in a fence. Typically, six-foot-high fences can prevent deer from jumping. Also, a top rail is what deer use as a sightline to help them figure out their jump height, so do not have one on your fence.

Do leave some for them: Once your fence is installed, it can also help to have a grassy area or shrubs around it to entice any critters that once loved your garden. Other food opportunities will steer the hungry animals away. 

Understand this is sometimes how it rolls: Not even a fence is 100% impenetrable, but it will help! If you lose some of your plants, know that some seasons are better than others and feel good about benefiting your local wildlife.

Find Fencing Guidance from our Experts

At Fence Masters, we are always learning about our industry through every project. We continue to build our knowledge and skillset based on our years of experience in the Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana region. We carry fencing material from wood to vinyl and wrought iron to chain-link. We customize pieces right in our shop and can create a fence and gate for your garden.

If you need some advice or design ideas, contact us today.

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Here are features you should consider protecting with a privacy fence screen.

Getting a little privacy in your yard is great. Even when you have pleasant neighbors and live in a safe area, it’s sometimes just nice to get away from it all. This is why having a privacy fence can be a great idea, or you could get a privacy fence screen if you aren’t interested in getting an entire privacy fence set up.

Some areas will benefit from these screens more than others would, and there are certain property features that might be worth protecting with a screen. Here are features you should consider protecting with a privacy fence screen.

Protect Outdoor Swimming Pools With a Privacy Fence Screen

Swimming pools are common features that people conceal with a privacy fence screen. It’s great to go for a swim in the summer, but swimming at home is often seen as a private activity, and you wouldn’t want others leering into your yard while you swim.

With a privacy fence screen, you wouldn’t have to worry about anyone watching you while you enjoy your outdoor swims.

Wood/Composite Decks

People love enjoying time on their outdoor decks. They’re the perfect places to enjoy hanging out with loved ones or even just lounging around your yard doing anything from reading to sunbathing.

It would probably be uncomfortable knowing others could be watching you while you try to enjoy these activities, so having a privacy fence screen could provide you with much-appreciated comfort to do the activities you enjoy doing.

A Privacy Fence Screen is Perfect for Gardens

Gardening is one of the hobbies that is very popular among homeowners across the country. It can be a calming activity to tend to plants around your yard, and you get the benefit of showing off a beautiful garden to those around you.

Now, having a fence screen could make it tougher for others to see the fruits of your labor. However, not everyone is comfortable being watched while they garden. Some prefer to keep their gardens to themselves and simply enjoy them personally. For those who want to keep their gardening private, getting a fence screen installed can be a solid solution.

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 Features You Might Want to Protect Behind a Privacy Fence Screen appeared first on Hercules Fence.

Fences are wonderful, but depending on the type can take time to install!

Congratulations! You’ve made the decision to build a fence. You’re aware of all the benefits: the security, the privacy, the ability to keep pets and children in, and the general sense of safety that a newly built fence can provide you. Next, you’ll have to determine how the installation is going to go—and you don’t want to find yourself sitting around waiting forever either! Provided you work with a reputable fence installer, there are some expectations you can reasonably have about how long it will take to construct new fences. 

Wooden Fences

Most people know wood as being a material that’s easy to work with and therefore easy to install. It’s the go-to option for DIY fence installers around the world, and this is in part thanks to its ability to get put up with such ease. Your typical yard is only going to take 1-2 days to install wooden fences, whereas a larger yard may take an extra day or so. If a fencing contractor is experienced and has enough resources, they can cut this installation time down and get the job done in an afternoon.

Metal Fences

Compared to wood, using metal can be expensive and difficult. While there are lighter metal options like aluminum and chain link which may take a comparable amount of time as wood, other metals are going to be much more difficult and may take up to 4 days to install. Many people who opt for metal fences are also doing so because they have specific or custom requirements, which may end up prolonging the project.

Composite Fencing

For some, composite siding can be the best of both worlds and look like other materials such as wood while being much easier to care for. Just like wooden fences though, the installation time is going to be about the same amount of time: you’re looking at 1-2 days depending on the contractor you opt for.

PVC or Vinyl Fencing

In some ways, PVC and vinyl are similar to composite in that they’re synthetic materials. However, PVC and vinyl can be difficult to install and the actual installation process can be a bit more intensive, sometimes requiring between 3-5 days to install fences around an averagely sized yard.

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 Time Needed to Install Different Types of Fences appeared first on Hercules Fence.

Do you have a fence around your garden? Garden fences are a practical way to keep unwanted creatures from accessing your garden, but they can be much more than that. Check out these fence ideas to give your garden some personality.

• Consider going with a modern look. Does your house have a modern look? If you’re trying to create a look complementary with modern architecture, choose garden fencing with a minimalist feel. A black aluminum garden fence can have a modern look without being jarring.
• There’s a reason chain link is popular. It’s literally been around over a century, and it still holds up. If you want to keep unwanted visitors from your garden, chain link can do the job admirably. Don’t like the look? Train some vines to grow on the wire or attach hanging baskets to make it a lush part of your landscaping.
• Don’t limit yourself to simple garden fencing. Add a swinging gate, a charming pergola, or lattice work with climbing flowers.
• Place your fence along a different path. Maybe you are bored with straight lines in your garden fencing. Talk to your fencing contractor about the possibilities.
• Does the idea of a secret garden appeal to you? Take your cue from the famous book/film and install a door in your privacy fence. Allow ivy to grow on the fencing to give that feeling of discovery to those who open the door.
• Make your fence part of your garden. Containers along a wooden fence hung with planters makes an interesting and visually appealing display.
• Mix your materials for a striking look. You don’t need to have a fence that’s all wood, all metal, or all PVC/Vinyl. A metal garden gate creates an interesting focal point for your fencing. You can also mix several different materials, using metal, PVC/Vinyl, and wood to create a look that’s unique to your garden.

When you’re ready for a new fence, call Paramount Fence Inc. for professional installation. A full-service fence sales and installation business in the Chicagoland area, proudly serving the following counties in Illinois: Kane, DuPage, Kendall, DeKalb, McHenry, and parts of Cook, Will and Lake. With more than half a century of combined experience, we’re dedicated to providing creative and affordable solutions that address our clients’ needs and fulfill their requests. Paramount Fence Inc is a member of the American Fence Association and a registered member of the Better Business Bureau. For more information, call us at 630.239.2714 or contact us through our website.

The post Beautiful Fence Ideas for your Garden appeared first on Paramount Fence.