Mistakes People Can Make During Fence Staining

Mistakes People Can Make During Fence Staining

Mistakes People Can Make During Fence Staining

Fence staining is a fairly simple process that can completely alter the look of your wooden fence, but there are some common mistakes we see that you should be sure to avoid.

Imagine this: your fence is structurally sound and just as you want it. It offers you all the security and privacy you could ever ask for. It’s in great condition, and there’s no reason to replace it. However, you really just don’t love the color of the wood and are thinking about staining it. Fence staining is a fairly simple process that can completely alter the look of your wooden fence, but there are some common mistakes we see that you should be sure to avoid.

Poor Timing

Once you have your new fence installed, it may be easy to neglect getting the staining done. After all, you’re getting what you need from your fence, so why bother with fence staining? As great as staining may look, it also has the practical purpose of helping protect the wood from the elements. Lumber these days can crack when it dries out after installation, so it’s important that you get it installed between two and six weeks after it’s constructed. After all, waiting too long for fence staining may mean that your wooden fence is going to be neglected, become grey, develop cracks, or start to warp.

Not Enough Prep

It’s important to put in enough effort to guarantee that your finish is going to have the best look and feel possible. If you’ve neglected to get your wooden fence stained, it may have little black speckles dotting the surface—which is actually mold. Alternatively, you may see some green, which is algae. That all needs to be removed, or your staining job won’t stick. Clean up the area and for the duration that you’re going to be applying the stain, make sure you’ve cleared the area of grass and any other shrubbery.

The Wrong Products

You don’t want to ruin all that hard work with an inferior product. Be sure you choose a stain that is high-quality, and typically people go with an oil-based stain if you’re staining a deck for the first time. If you’re fixing an older, already-stained deck, a water-based stain might be more desirable. Those are just general rules however, you’ll want to talk to an expert installer to figure out what staining option is right for you.

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 Mistakes People Can Make During Fence Staining appeared first on Hercules Fence.

What You Should Know Regarding Fence Height

What You Should Know Regarding Fence Height

Here is what you should know about fence height regulations.

When you have a fence or are considering installing one, you always need to keep fence height regulations in the back of your mind. These regulations will determine what kinds of fences you can and cannot install. If you don’t follow these regulations, there are going to be consequences, such as possibly having your fence taken down. You want to avoid getting into any trouble, so abiding by the rules is a must. Here is what you should know about fence height regulations.

Why Is Fence Height So Important?

Of all of the regulations pertaining to fences, height is definitely one of the strictest. Other features of fences, such as style, are sometimes more flexible, depending on where you live. However, fence height will always come with regulations, no matter where you are.

How is the Final Height of a Fence Measured?

The grade at your fence’s base is where measurements begin, and you measure all the way up to your fence’s highest point. Make sure to include any and all accessories of your fence in the height total, such as decorative components like lattice or even gaps you have in the middle.

There are exceptions to these rules, however. If your fence is perched on a retaining wall, for example, you will usually be allowed to start the measurement at your top finished grade up until the highest point your fence has.

Keep in mind that fence heights will almost always include accessories unless legislation specifically states otherwise. Because of this, you need to keep accessories in mind before you complete your installation.

How Tall is a Fence Allowed to Be?

The maximum fence height you can have will vary based on your area because there aren’t any national or state regulations in place at the moment. If you want to get confirmation on what fences are acceptable to build in your area, you will want to speak with your County and City planning departments. They are the enforcers for all of the code restrictions in effect, and they are also the ones to ask for permits if you need 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 What You Should Know Regarding Fence Height appeared first on Hercules Fence.

How You Could Get Your Fence Decorated

hercules fence decorative fence

Adding some flower beds to your fence is a great way to make it stand out.

Putting up a decorative fence is one of the last finishing touches people will put on their home. In fact, fences will ultimately provide a home with privacy, security, and elegance. The reality is, no matter the style of your fence, there are some key ways to make the most out of decorative fencing to allow your property to stand out and be a compliment to the rest of the house. Here are some excellent ways you can get your fence decorated in a fun and inventive way.

Planters And Garden Walls

Incorporating plants and flowers into your fencing is an excellent way to create a unique decorative addition to your fence. In fact, fences are a fantastic way to hold a variety of vertical planters of all shapes and sizes. This means, you can create a lovely green space and unique garden without necessarily having a green thumb. Ultimately, if you are looking for fun ways to refresh your home, look no further than investing in some fun planters and garden walls by incorporating your fence into the design aspect of things. 

Repurposed Picture Frames

If you want a more unique decoration, then consider going to a thrift store to get a picture frame to repurpose. In fact, finding a slew of cheap picture frames can allow you to easily spray paint them a bold and inspiring color. Doing so will be an incredible way to arrange them along your fence to provide an aesthetic that is simply all unique.

Incredibly Modern Fencing Murals

Modern fence murals are a great way to be as innovative as you can when it comes to your fence as a whole. In fact, whether it’s wooden or brick, it can really benefit from a mural around it. This is a great way to use your creativity and decorate your fence successfully and effectively. 

Bottom Line

At the end of the day, there is nothing better than decorative fencing in your yard. In fact, flexing your creative skills is an excellent way to make the most out of it that can easily complement your property and home as a whole.

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 How You Could Get Your Fence Decorated appeared first on Hercules Fence.

Thinking About Fencing That is Suitable for Children

Thinking About Fencing That is Suitable for Children

Consider these types of fencing for your yard if you have children.

It’s always important to keep children safe, even if they are just playing in your yard. It would be tragic to have them get hurt because they wandered too far from home. It’s for this reason that fencing is advised anytime you have a family with small children. Fences help keep children from leaving the yard unsupervised while also protecting your house from unwelcome guests who may try to invade the property.

But what fence is best suited for a family with small children? There are a few options that get proposed, and we’ll be going over each one in detail. Consider these types of fencing for your yard if you have children.

Privacy Fencing

A little privacy is always appreciated around your yard. With privacy fencing, you can enjoy your yard in peace. Children can play in the yard to their heart’s content, and neighbors won’t be disturbed.

Vinyl is a good choice for privacy fences because it’s a durable and long-lasting material with very few maintenance requirements. It can also reach a respectable height that will keep your yard secluded.

Metal Fencing

If security is at the top of your priority list, metal fences are a fantastic option. It’s very difficult to cut through metal, and kids can’t get between the bars to bypass the fence.

If you use aluminum as the fencing material, it will be lighter than iron, and you can get your fence in many different designs to complement your outdoor landscape.

Iron fences let you achieve a more classical appearance. Also, although more maintenance will be needed to keep an iron fence in good shape, weathering will only serve to give it even more style.

It’s Safer to Get a Tall Fence

Generally speaking, the taller a fence is, the better it will be when you have small children running around your yard. Taller fences keep children from climbing over them, meaning they will be safely inside your yard at all times where you can monitor them. Consider having plants installed around your fence so that it looks more lively and beautiful.

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 Thinking About Fencing That is Suitable for Children appeared first on Hercules Fence.

4 Ways Your Fence Adds to Property Value

Fences have grown to be a prominent staple in many American communities. It’s becoming increasingly rare to drive through residential neighborhoods and find more than a quarter of homes without a fence. In fact, more and more buyers are beginning to pass up homes that do not have a high-quality fence already professionally installed on the property. The type of fence doesn’t particularly matter to these buyers; merely having the containment already available without lengthy lead times and the inconvenience of installation while settling into their new property is enticing and increases their willingness to pay more for your home. 

While it’s widely known that having a fence professionally installed does wonders for your home and property value, have you ever stopped to consider just how it delivers this return on investment? Today, the experts at Fence Masters are taking a deep dive into the value fencing has on residential properties and spelling out just what a new fence can do for you when it’s time to sell your home.

Aesthetics

When initially thinking about installing a fence, your primary concern is likely how effective it will be in performing the desired job. This is also of high importance and interest for those looking for a new home. However, a fence that offers both functionality – whether that be to keep small children and pets safe or keep unwanted visitors out – and aesthetics is a bonus. Fence Masters works diligently to provide residents of the Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana areas with attractive and functional fences, allowing them to have secure and beautiful yards. 

Financial

Home upgrades and enhancements are the most effective ways to add property value. These renovations can get pricey, especially when you delve into projects such as floor replacements, countertop installations, and appliance upgrades. For those looking not to spend an arm and a leg on renovations, there is fence installation. As one of the more straightforward and affordable home improvement projects available, installing a brand new fence gives your property value a boost financially while also making it more functionally attractive to those on the market for a new family and pet-friendly home. 

Convenience

As we mentioned, many prospective buyers are looking to get into their new homes as quickly as possible with as few updates, renovations, and installations as possible. A new or recently-updated fence adds significant interest value to your property, effectively drawing in buyers and helping to sell your home quicker and at a higher price.

Security

There is an adjustment period that comes with purchasing a new home. It takes time to feel entirely comfortable and safe in a new home. When there’s a high-quality fence already installed on a property, it’s easier to feel confident in a new home’s security. Regardless of the material, a fence adds an extra layer of protection to a property, helping to keep uninvited guests out and your loved ones in.

Ready to add to the value of your residential property? Contact the experts at Fence Masters to discuss your fence options and receive a free estimate. We’re excited to help you create an attractive, secure yard.

The post appeared first on Fence Masters

Privacy Slats for Chain-Link Fences: What You Need to Know

 

Privacy Slats for Chain-Link Fences: What You Need to Know

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.

What to Ask Yourself When Getting a Fence Gate

What to Ask Yourself When Getting a Fence Gate

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.

Keeping Your Wood Fence Protected Against Damage From Wind

Keeping Your Wood Fence Protected Against Damage From Wind

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.

Why You Should Think About Purchasing an Aluminum Fence

Why You Should Think About Purchasing an Aluminum 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.

Professional Tips for Choosing the Best Wood for Your 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

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