How to Prepare Your Yard For a New Fence

So, you’re ready to install a new fence. It’s a smart move, because a fence is a great way to protect your property, improve your curb appeal, keep your family safe, and perhaps even afford you some privacy. But while you may be ready for your fence, can you say the same thing about your yard? Here’s how to make sure your yard is prepared when the new fence arrives.

• Clarify the property line ahead of time. The first step toward installing a fence is to mark the property line. It’s important to know exactly where that line is so that you don’t have to tear down the fence later and reinstall it. If you don’t have blueprints or other documents showing the exact location, check with your local authorities to get a set of plans.
• Be a good neighbor. Talk to your neighbors before you install a fence, to make sure they’re not bothered by the process or upset with the finished product. If you’re going to be sharing the fence, it’s smart to get your neighbors input on the materials, size, and color, but even if the fence is solely yours, it’s good to be on good terms with your neighbors. You’ll also want to check with your neighborhood association or homeowner’s association, to make sure your fence falls in line with any rules or guidelines that have been put into place.
• Get rid of any obstacles to your new fence. Before your fence installation contractor comes out to put in the fence, walk the fence line to make sure there are no big rocks, tree stumps, or other objects that might impede the process. Pay attention to the slope of your property, too, so that you can have the right fence panels to accommodate for the incline.
• Make sure you’re clear on all utilities and their placement. Sewage lines, water pipes, and underground cables can all cause a big headache if you disrupt them. Most fencing companies will do a thorough inspection before they install, but it doesn’t hurt to call the utility company ahead of time to make sure you have all the facts about utilities on your property.
• Choose the right installer. Installing a fence is a big job, best left to the professionals. Look for a company with a good reputation, and get a few estimates before you make your final decision.

If 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, 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 How to Prepare Your Yard For a New Fence appeared first on Paramount Fence.

Summertime is the perfect opportunity to do some work around the house and yard, and your fence is no exception. Maintaining your fence is a sure way to keep it at its best and increase its longevity. Depending on what kind of fence you have, your maintenance will look different, so read the tips below for advice, and call our team at Fence Masters if you need professional fence repair or installation!

Thorough Cleaning

Just like anything else on the exterior of our homes, fencing becomes worn down by the elements. Dirt, grime, pollen, and other substances cover your fence, leading to discoloration and an aged appearance. This is especially true when we mow our grass, which can send grass clippings flying onto your fence. Cleaning your fence each summer with a garden hose and soft cloth helps to remove much of the debris. Your fence will look like new and refreshed. Regular cleaning will also help extend your fence’s life, so you’ll want to add this task to your to-do list. 

Painting and Staining

Wooden fences offer plenty of beauty and style to any home. But wooden fences also need some TLC every once in a while. These fences sometimes have paint or a primer on them, which may become damaged from sunlight and rain. Taking the time to fix up peeling paint can help protect the fence so that it lasts for the years to come. If you believe your wooden fence has simply seen its better years, call our team and we’ll install a brand new one for you. 

Test For Loose Posts

Check your fence for instability. Over time, your fence’s posts may become loose as the soil surrounding its base erodes. This is true whether you have a wooden fence, vinyl or aluminum. Test each post to make sure it is firmly planted in the ground. You wouldn’t want your fence to blow over from a powerful gust of wind, after all. If you discover any issues, call our team and we’ll be right over to repair your fence. 

Search for Broken Pieces

Even though our fences are sturdy and made of high-quality materials, they are subject to many kinds of damage. From hailstorms to falling branches, fences can get broken in all sorts of ways. Cracks and dents in your fence affect its appearance and can lead to other problems. Gates get damaged by rough treatment or similar causes. If you have a wrought iron fence, look around for rust. No matter how your fence was damaged, our contractors can help. 

Call a Professional Fence Contractor!

Taking care of your fence has so many benefits in the long run. If you find any repairs that need to be done or decide that your fence is past maintenance and it’s time for something new, call Fence Masters! Our contractors offer the best fence installation in Chicago Heights and are prepared to help with whatever you need. 

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Here are some signs that should tell you to have a new fence installed.

Whether you have a new home or you’ve lived there for a long time, your house could likely benefit from new fencing. Fencing will usually last for quite a while, but eventually, it will need to be replaced. There’s only so much you’ll be able to do to repair your fencing until it inevitably becomes pointless to try and keep it intact. Here are some signs that should tell you to have a new fence installed.

You Have Holes in Your Fence

This problem is common for wood fencing. If you see that you have multiple holes in your fence, it could likely be insects and termites that are to blame. Insect damage can make your fence weaker and unable to stay up in the future. If the damage is only found on one area of your fencing, you might be able to replace the boards that were damaged. However, if the damage is widespread, you will likely have to get new fencing.

Your Fence is Leaning

Is your fencing leaning either inward or outward? While this problem sounds easy enough to resolve, it’s not always as easy as you may expect. Sometimes, all it takes to get your fencing fixed is to straighten your supports. Other times, however, there could be greater underlying causes. Your fence could be leaning because your fence posts are weak, which can end up warping or crumbling in the future. Don’t try smaller fixes for problems like these because you will end up having to constantly tend to a problem that ultimately can’t be fixed. Make life easier on yourself and have a new fence installed instead.

You Have a Tree Growth Near Your Fencing

It can be a serious pain dealing with trees along your fencing. Roots, trunks, and branches are all capable of doing significant damage to your fencing. Trimming your trees can help, but that only handles a fraction of the problem. If there is a tree in your yard that is damaging your fencing, that section of your fence will have to be replaced. Not only that, but you’ll have to address the tree as well. Sometimes, it’s better to install new fencing and leave your tree alone. You can install the fence away from your trees to avoid future problems.

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 Signs That Indicate You Need a New Fence appeared first on Hercules Fence.

When picking an ornamental iron fence, there are a few things you need to consider before you make your purchase.

There are more fencing options available today than people can count. Such options include wood and vinyl fences, each of which can serve various purposes and are solid choices for homeowners. However, another option that you could choose is an ornamental iron fence. When picking an ornamental iron fence, there are a few things you need to consider before you make your purchase.

Pick a Fence That Goes With Your Home’s Style

If possible, go with an ornamental iron fence that complements the style of your home. Fortunately, iron fences can be designed in many ways, so there’s a strong chance you’ll be able to find a style that works for you. With the right iron fence, your home will stand out among others in your area, and you’ll get a distinguished look that will last for years.

Consider If Your Fence Should Offer You Privacy

Is a lack of privacy a big problem around your house? If so, an ornamental iron fence could be the perfect fix for this issue. While many fences are for aesthetic purposes and don’t focus as much on keeping your home private, that doesn’t mean you can’t have privacy. Try combining iron with different materials, such as brick or wood, so that your fence won’t have any gaps that will let people peer into your yard. Another option would be to plant greenery around your fence, such as shrubs and trees. This is a greener alternative for giving your home extra privacy.

Cost

Cost is a factor to consider with any fence you install. However, you need to think about more than the initial cost of your iron fencing.  The upfront cost is one expense, but there will also be maintenance expenses that accumulate over time. Before you install your ornamental iron fence, you should take these maintenance expenses into account. Don’t avoid maintenance procedures because fences that aren’t properly maintained won’t last as long, meaning you’ll have to either repair or replace your iron fence sooner.

Should You Add Gates?

Gates are a great way to limit people’s abilities to access your home, all while fitting in with your home’s overall aesthetic. They come in many types and sizes, so you’ll be able to find out that complements your iron fence with no problem.

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 To Choose Your Ornamental Iron Fence appeared first on Hercules Fence.

All fences require routine maintenance, no matter what the season. In the summer, however, some fences need a little more attention than others. With long, hot days just around the corner, it’s important to know how to take care of your fence in the summer.

1. First, let’s consider some general tips that apply to all fences

No matter what kind of fence you have, it’s important to check it regularly for things like wobbly posts, damaged hardware, or rust spots. Fixing these problems while they’re still minor can save a lot of hassle down the road. Trim any low-hanging branches that could fall and damage the fence, and remove any debris around the fence or plants that are growing on it. Vines and other climbing plants may look good on the fence, but in the long-run, they can damage it structurally. What’s more, vegetation growing on or near your fence can attract rodents and insects. While you’re cleaning up vegetation and debris, don’t forget to look for tree roots that could damage your fence, as well as any signs of problems like mildew or termites.

2. Wooden Fences Should Be Washed and Stained

A power washer works well to remove dirt and grime, and while you won’t need to stain your fence every time you clean it, it’s smart to check for signs of wear so that you can re-stain as necessary. When a fence is treated with high-quality stain, harmful UV rays can be blocked from damaging it. If your fence is painted, it’s probably going to need more maintenance than a fence that’s simply stained, because paint can blister and peel in summer.

3. Vinyl Fences Are Fairly Low Maintenance

Still, once you’ve cleared around it, washing the fence is a good idea. Be careful if you use a pressure washer, because this can sometimes dent or crack vinyl.

4. Aluminum Fences Often Need No More Maintenance Than Simply Rinsing With a Hose

It’s still important to check for stains or damage, applying degreasers or rust, calcium, and lime cleaners as needed.

5. Wrought Iron Fences Are Extremely Durable

They can still benefit from a good wash in the summer, using car soap or dishwashing liquid. After washing, you can afford your fence further protection by applying a sealant or car wax. Be particularly mindful of roots, because they can cause serious damage to this type of fence.

If 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, 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 5 Steps To Take Care Of Your Fence In the Summer appeared first on Paramount Fence.

Here are the criteria that should be met before selecting your temporary fencing.

When a fence is only needed as a short-term solution, temporary fencing can satisfy your security needs. These fences can be removed and put in a different position with ease, making them much more convenient and suitable for situations in which fencing won’t be needed for too long. For your temporary fencing, there are three requirements that the fence should satisfy. Here are the criteria that should be met before selecting your temporary fencing.

Use Temporary Fencing With Heavy Bases

Permanent fences often get secured by using posts or foundations that get planted into the ground. However, this is impractical for temporary fences because planting posts or foundations into the ground only works if you don’t intend to move the fence later. Instead, they use mobile bases that let them stay upright. It’s best to go with temporary fencing that has heavy bases. This is because it becomes harder for potential intruders to move your fence’s panels. The panels also become more resistant to weather conditions, including heavy wind.

Your Temporary Fencing Should Be Made From Sturdy Material

Your temporary fence shouldn’t be flimsy. Just because it’s mobile, doesn’t mean you have to have a fragile fence. Many fences are made out of plastic if the main goal is to establish an identifiable boundary around a given area. If the fence needs to offer more protection, metal temporary fencing is preferred. Keep in mind that, just because you only need temporary protection, that doesn’t mean you should settle for less protection. Temporary worksites deserve just as much protection as permanent ones.

Reliable Structures

Picking out a temporary fence should not be too different from picking out a permanent fence. Both permanent and temporary fencing are meant to define borders and provide protection to established areas. Mesh security fences offer great resilience. The mesh structure helps to cushion any damage caused by impact to your fencing panels. Intruders have a more difficult time making holes in mesh fences as well since they need to cut a single strand of wire mesh at any one time. This solution has worked with permanent fences for a long time, but there’s no reason it can’t work for temporary fencing as well.

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 Deciding on The Best Temporary Fencing appeared first on Hercules Fence.

We will look at the different low-maintenance fencing options you can use around your property.

When picking material for your fence, you should always ask yourself, “How much maintenance will be needed to keep my fence in good condition?” A related question would be how much money it costs to maintain the fence. The less maintenance your fence needs, the less it will cost to maintain it. Sounds pretty straightforward, right? That’s why going with low-maintenance fencing is a good idea. There are three low-maintenance fencing options that people often use: vinyl, treated wood, and aluminum. We will look at the different low-maintenance fencing options you can use around your property.

Vinyl Fencing

Vinyl is a fairly new option for low-maintenance fencing, but it does wonders. Not only is it low-maintenance, but it’s also incredibly durable. There’s no painting required, and it won’t splinter, meaning you won’t have to replace rails. Vinyl fencing is also resistant to pests such as termites, and you won’t have to treat your fence for mildew and fungi every year like you would with other fences. All you need to do is use a hose to rinse your fence, and your fence will be as good as new. You should hose your fence once every few months.

Treated Wood Fencing

The next of our low-maintenance fencing solutions is treated wood fencing. Many people love the appearance and feel of traditional wooden fences. However, standard wood can be a hassle to maintain. That’s why you should get pressure-treated wood. This variety of wood has chemicals infused inside of it that make it resistant to many outdoor elements, such as rain, extreme temperatures, and termites.

This low-maintenance fencing option only asks that you reapply paint, stain, or fungicide every couple of years. As long as you are vigilant, you’ll have no problem maintaining your fence.

Aluminum Fencing

Aluminum is another low-maintenance fencing choice that people love. It doesn’t require any painting, and it doesn’t rust. While the price of aluminum fencing can be high, you save money long-term because you don’t have to spend money on different maintenance procedures that other fences require, such as painting or replacing boards. Be wary that these fences don’t handle impact as well as other fences, meaning aluminum fencing is nonoptimal for crowded places.

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 Choosing Material For Your Low Maintenance Fencing appeared first on Hercules Fence.

If you aren’t convinced that you should hire professional fence contractors, here a few reasons it’s in your best interest.

When you’re considering installing a new fence, it might be tempting to install it yourself in an attempt to save some money. However, DIY installations often don’t go well. You have to spend money on materials for your installation. You have to handle all of the work yourself. If any problems come up during your installation, you have to address them. This is why we suggest hiring professional fence contractors. No matter what kind of fencing you would like to have installed, going with licensed professionals is always a safer bet. If you aren’t convinced that you should hire professional fence contractors, here a few reasons it’s in your best interest.

Save Money

Most DIY fence projects are done in an attempt to save money. However, as mentioned earlier, you have additional expenses if you try installing your fence yourself. This includes the materials for your installation, and any repair expenses if your installation doesn’t go well.

Professional fence contractors will already have the materials needed for the job. Also, they should offer you a warranty. Any company that doesn’t offer a warranty shouldn’t be trusted. Professionals also tend to make fewer errors, meaning you get a higher quality fence.

Avoid Legal Problems

Different places have different restrictions on the fences that can be built. Without knowledge of these restrictions, you can run into legal trouble. Professional fence contractors know about all of the regulations in your area and will make sure that your fence abides by all of the rules in your area.

Raise Your Property’s Value

A fence, if installed properly, can make your home more valuable. Highly-trained fence contractors will grant you the highest-quality fence you can get, meaning they’ll maximize the value the fence can add to your home. This is especially important if you plan on selling your home in the near future.

You Get the Best Fence

While you may have an idea for what fence you want to install, getting a professional opinion is never a bad option. Professional fence contractors can give you input on what fence best suits your property. They can also give your recommendations on where your fence should be placed, and what style is best. This gives you the best chance of getting an aesthetically pleasing and functional 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 Go With Professional Fence Contractors appeared first on Hercules Fence.

During the warmer months, there is no better place than being outside on your deck! Find ways to make your space your own and dress it up just like you would a room inside. 

Add Privacy: A DIY curtain rod can allow for a more private space on your backyard deck/patio area. You can also add style with your choice of outdoor fabric.

Seating and Storage: A great way to add a place to stow outdoor items and beef up seating is a hybrid unit. Bench seating that also opens up can be the perfect solution to two problems.

Add Greenery: There are so many ways to showcase greenery depending on your space. Traditional potted plants always look great and can be arranged in groups on a plant stand for a unified look. Pots in different materials, colors and sizes add a unique touch. You can also recycle unique pieces as containers, such as old colanders, wicker baskets, antique items or galvanized metal watering cans.

Soft spots: Pillows are a colorful way to add comfort to your patio and deck furniture. Making a comfortable space is a perfect avenue to invite guests to sit down and rest. Outdoor rugs can also be a source of comfort and style.

Unique Accessories: Scour antique shops, flea markets, garage sales, online sites or specialty stores for extra pieces that will really take your deck’s decor to another level. A mix of large and small pieces can create the perfect look. 

Beverage cart: Create a spot for serving up drinks to help with your entertaining game. Cups and plates with lots of colors can be a source of style and an easy way to switch things up with different seasons.

Source of light: If you spend time on your deck in the evening, light is a must. Lights on rails or stairs help light the way while being stylish. String lights are very easy to install and continue to be a popular option for decks.

Professional Team Needed for Your Deck Project

The Fence Masters team was launched in 1983 with only two employees. While we have focused on fencing installation and repairs, we also have helped homeowners in our communities with decking. We work with PVC vinyl, wood and cedar decking materials, and we can create a customized design. You guide what features you want, including step terraces, benches, railings, and niches. 

All of our projects are backed by our expertise and excellent customer service. We promise we will arrive on time, work diligently and clean up so that your place looks like it did before we started the project. 

Quality Products and Communication From Our Crew

We can answer any questions that you may have through our online contact form. We can put together a quote for your particular project. With our own fabrication workshop and iron weld shop in-house, we put together pieces right here for you.

The post appeared first on Fence Masters

If you’re thinking about installing security fencing, there are a few traits your fence should have.

A lot of homeowners who install a fence aren’t too sure of what purpose it’s supposed to serve. But hey, a fence is better than having no fence, isn’t it? Well, this isn’t necessarily true. If you’re going to install a fence, it should have a purpose. For many people, they use fencing to increase their home’s security. If you’re thinking about installing security fencing, there are a few traits your fence should have.

Security Fencing Doesn’t Let People Hide

You should always go with see-through security fencing. This is because some people use fences as the perfect hiding spot while they survey your property and look for the best place to infiltrate. While you may be concerned that people can see your house with little trouble using a see-through fence, potential intruders have to be aware that you can also see them.

Security Fencing Should Be Difficult to Scale

Your fence should be an effective barrier for anyone who tries to get over it. This means your fence should be at least 8 feet in height, if not taller. This keeps people from simply hopping over your security fencing. Keep in mind that many homeowners associations have restrictions on how tall your fence can be, so check the regulations in your area beforehand.

The security fence should also have minimal horizontal rails. These grant people stepping stones that allow them to scale tall fences.

Lastly, the fence should have a spiked or pointed top. This dissuades people from reaching the top of your fence since it can harm anyone who tries to climb over it.

Security Fencing Should Be Tough to Bypass

Security fences are no good if they can’t keep people away. To keep your fencing as secure as possible, it needs to be impervious to cutting and be strongly secured to the ground by using concrete. Secure gates are also appreciated, and these gates should be padlocked. While you will need to pay a little extra money to maximize the protection your security fencing offers, the protection is easily worth the money you spend.

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 Deciding on Security Fencing For Your Home appeared first on Hercules Fence.