Be a Good Neighbor: Fence Installation Etiquette 101

Being part of a neighborhood and community means we should always try our best to work together. Whenever we make big changes to our property, it is always considerate to consider the impact it may have on our neighbors. While you may not think it is a big deal to do an update, it may change the view or daily lives of those around you.

Follow these tips for your best fence etiquette:

Clear lines: Having an idea of where your property ends and your neighbor’s begins is not good enough when putting in a fence. You need to break out your blueprints or paperwork that clearly define your property lines. You cannot install a fence on property that is not yours. You should check with your county as well for any specific rules or regulations for your area. If you do not have the specifics, contact your records office or a land surveyor for assistance.

Clear conversation: It is important to talk with all of the neighbors that will be affected by a new border. That is easy if you are friends or acquaintances, but if you are not close to your neighbor, this can be challenging. It is best to go over in person to discuss what your plans are and show your neighbor where you are putting in your new perimeter. Having a discussion before the work can help head off any strife down the road.

Clear understanding: If you are part of a Homeowners Association, you need to find out what the rules are for putting in a fence. This may range from size to material. It is best to do this before you start making any firm decisions.

Clear view: Typically, you want the finished side to be seen by your neighbors as this will also add to your own curb appeal. 

Clear path to the future: Part of keeping the neighborly peace is to maintain the look of your fence for years to come. You do not want it to have holes, lean in toward your neighbor’s place or have chipping paint on their side. Maintenance is a key component of making your material selection. Wood can wear down with time and needs to be stained or painted regularly. Vinyl needs a rinsing or scrubbing every once in a while.

Now It’s Time to Talk To Us

Our Fence Masters crew can help you with your fencing project. We have expertise earned through thousands of fence installations along with the best products in the industry. We are based in a tradition of quality and excellence. We work with all types of fencing materials that will suit your place, both as a homeowner and business owner. We can meet with you to see what you have in mind and offer an estimate.

Connect with us today through our online contact form.

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How long can you reasonably expect a fence to last? There are many different factors that come into play in determining a fence’s lifespan, including the type of material, the climate, the exposure to storms, and the quality of maintenance. However, when it’s time to replace your fence, there are several signs that are easy to spot.

• A bent fence requires replacement. If it’s not straight, that’s a good indication of damage. A warped fence can indicate loose nails, split wood, and even rot. When the panels of a fence are bent, they can put a strain on the structure, making it more sensitive to weathering. In fact, a noticeably warped fence is in danger of collapse.
• A fence that has changed colors may be damaged beyond aesthetics. A discolored fence indicates aging, and while it may be tempting to simply repaint it, it’s likely that an ashy, dull, yellowed, or rusty-looking fence needs to be replaced.
• If your fence is unsafe, it’s time to replace it. Splinters, protruding nails, and rust are all safety hazards that mean it’s time for a new fence.
• When you can see through your fence, you need a new one. If parts of your fence have fallen over or are missing, your fence is no longer functional. Your fence is probably too old to withstand the weather and needs to be replaced.
• After a hurricane, you will probably need to replace your fence. A well-built fence can take a lot of punishment and remain standing. If your fence has experienced significant winds or been hit with debris, there may be structural damage. Some of this damage may be obvious, but sometimes it’s subtle enough to require careful inspection. Check for rot, especially if there was unusually heavy rain or flooding. Even if you don’t see rot or visible damage, it may be worth having a professional come and check it to determine whether it needs to be replaced.

If you take care of your fence, it can last a long time. When you’re ready for a new fence, though, call Paramount Fence Inc. for professional installation. At Paramount, we’ve been in business for over ten years, but our combined experience in the fence industry spans more than half a century! We’re a full-service fence sales and fence installation business in the Chicagoland area, and we’re dedicated to providing creative and affordable solutions that address our clients’ needs and fulfill their requests. Our staff offers exceptional customer service, striving to exceed your expectations throughout the fence buying and fence installation process. Paramount Fence Inc is a member of the American Fence Association and a registered member of the Better Business Bureau. For more information on how we can help you find the right fence to meet your needs, call us at 630.239.2714 or contact us through our website.

The post When to Replace Your Fence appeared first on Paramount Fence.

There are many reasons you should get a fence installation once spring arrives.

Winter is coming to a close for the year, and spring is starting to, well, spring forth. Once spring arrives, your yard will wake up from its winter hibernation, and you’ll start seeing problems. Sometimes, fences can get damaged over the winter, and the damage might be too great for a simple repair. That’s when you’ll want a new fence installation. There are many reasons you should get a fence installation once spring arrives.

The Weather

The weather in spring is much more pleasant than it is in winter. When spring arrives, it will be easier for you to address your outdoor landscape. Also, it will be easier to carry out your fence installation when the ground is warm. In winter, the ground may still be frozen, making it much more difficult to dig holes for your fence posts.

Beating the Summer Rush

Summer is oftentimes the busiest time of year for fence installation companies. By doing your fence installation in spring, you can beat the summer rush and get your appointment scheduled before everyone else. That way, once it’s summertime, you’ll already have your fence ready to go while everyone else is frantically trying to schedule appointments before the weather gets cold again.

You’ll Have a Gorgeous Yard for Summer

People love to be outside during the summer. You don’t want to step outside and see a broken fence. By getting your fence installation done in spring, you’ll have a brand new fence that will add more enjoyment to your outdoor landscape.

Keep Children and Pets Protected

Fences aren’t just aesthetically appealing; they also add more functionality to your outdoor landscape. By getting a fence installation, you add a secure border to your yard that keeps children and pets from wandering out of your yard and getting into danger. You’ll want your children and pets to get outside during spring and summer while the weather is beautiful, and by installing a fence, they can enjoy the weather safely.

Improving Access to Your Yard

Perhaps you had an old fence, and that it might not have had the best means of letting you access your yard. With a new fence installation, that can all change. You can reassess how you want to access your yard, then work with a fence installation contractor to decide on the best layout for your new 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 Get Your Fence Installation As Spring Approaches appeared first on Hercules Fence.

Follow these vinyl fencing maintenance tips so that your fence will look good and stay strong for years to come.

Vinyl fencing is a popular choice for many residential areas. It can withstand all types of weather. It’s resistant to molding or rotting. It also makes your home look more appealing. On top of all that, vinyl fencing requires little maintenance to keep it in good condition. However, that’s not to say that no maintenance is needed. You still have to take action to keep your fence looking good. Follow these vinyl fencing maintenance tips so that your fence will look good and stay strong for years to come.

Keep Your Vinyl Fencing Clean

Vinyl fencing doesn’t take too much effort to clean. All it takes is a standard household cleaner with a little water and a sponge. Just scrub down the surface to get rid of any accumulated dirt and grime, as well as all sorts of plant growth. After that, simply rinse your fence with a garden hose, and it will be as good as new.

Fence Caps

Your fence caps can get loose if enough freezing and thawing cycles occur. Roughly once per month, you should walk along your fence and monitor the fence caps. If you see any loose caps, use some plastic glue to secure them back in place.

Use Quality Repair Products on your Vinyl Fencing

If anything happens to your vinyl fencing and you need to replace parts of your fence, you should always go with high-quality materials. If you try to use materials that are of lower quality, it won’t be long before your fence becomes damaged again. This creates a cycle in which you are constantly spending time and money dealing with your fence. Avoid all of that trouble and go with something of high quality right away. It may cost a little more initially, but you’ll make returns on your investment in no time.

Check the Stability of your Fence Posts

Every year, you should walk around the perimeter of your fence and check on the sturdiness of your fence posts. Posts can get loose from all sorts of heavy weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or wind. If you see any loose fence posts, fill some dirt around the area and repact the ground by using a shovel.

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 Tips for Maintaining Your Vinyl Fencing appeared first on Hercules Fence.

Find out about why you should use temporary fencing, and where it should be used.

Sometimes, it’s necessary to create a border separating pedestrians from certain areas. Whether it be a sporting event or a construction site, there are places where pedestrians should not be found, and having a border in place helps promote their safety. Many people use fences to block off places that aren’t meant to be accessed by pedestrians. However, for more scenarios than you may think, temporary fencing is better than any permanent fencing options. Find out about why you should use temporary fencing, and where it should be used.

Why Use Temporary Fencing?

Temporary fencing is perfect for when you only need a barricade for a certain amount of time. While they aren’t as sturdy, temporary fences are easier to install and remove, making them perfect for places that don’t need a border for too long. Sometimes, permanent fences are simply not a feasible option. For times like this, temporary fencing can be the solution you need.

Use Temporary Fencing on Construction Sites

Temporary fencing is commonly used on construction sites, and not without good reason. Construction projects don’t last forever, so that means you’ll only need a fence until the project is completed. For this reason, a temporary fence is perfect, because you easily set it up before the project, and take it down just as easily once the project is completed. Temporary fencing is also necessary on construction sites because they provide more security on the worksite. With an extra border, your workers are better protected against unwelcome guests. It also promotes the safety of pedestrians who might otherwise wander into the construction site. It’s also a requirement under state and federal law to keep the public and your workers safe, so a temporary fence helps serve that purpose.

Gatherings

Temporary fencing can be perfect for various festivities such as weddings or other large social gatherings. A fence helps to keep your event private so that the only people there are the ones you invite. Having a fence also helps guide guests to the event. It can also help you make parking less chaotic because you can guide drivers to the area where they should be parking.

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 to Use Temporary Fencing and Where It Should Be Used appeared first on Hercules Fence.

A privacy fence is a good investment, adding value and security to your property. While it won’t keep your home safe from 100 percent of dangers, a privacy fence adds a layer of protection that controls entry to and from your yard and deters passers-by from gaining access to your property. If you’re thinking about installing a privacy fence, you probably know all of that and may be installing it for precisely those reasons. But there are seven other benefits that you might not even have considered.

1. The value a privacy fence adds is significant. Adding a privacy fence can lower homeowner’s insurance rates dramatically: you’ll pay so much less for coverage that the fence will pay for itself in short order. What’s more, a privacy fence that’s well-built and well-maintained increases your home’s resale value. A privacy fence makes a house look more attractive, and the fact that it reduces the risk of burglary makes it more appealing to buyers.
2. A privacy fence affords you comfort and seclusion. With a privacy fence in place, you can gather with your friends and family in total privacy. They say good fences make good neighbors, and this is especially true in the case of a privacy fence. If you have a pool, this type of fence is particularly beneficial, to keep out pool crashers and give your family members privacy when they swim.
3. Privacy fences can keep your pets safe. A privacy fence gives your outdoor animals a safe space to play and keeps stray animals from wandering into your yard.
4. Weather can damage your back yard, but it’s less likely to when you have a privacy fence. A well-built privacy fence will protect your home, garden, and outdoor living spaces by providing a barrier to the wind and rough weather.
5. When you have a privacy fence, it’s easy to see where the property lines are drawn. The fence makes it clear where you and your neighbors are allowed to mow, plant, or build. Just make sure you know the local regulations before you put up your fence.
6. It’s easy to make part of your privacy fence removable. This will allow you to move something large into your yard if the need arises.
7. Privacy fences are customizable. A wide range of materials and designs are available so that your privacy fence can perfectly fit your needs, budget, and aesthetic sensibilities.

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 Benefits of a Privacy Fence appeared first on Paramount Fence.

We’ve put together this useful guide of the pros and cons of various types of metal fencing for your consideration.

Every homeowner has their own unique style, design needs, and reasons for installing fencing. This makes it important for homeowners to weigh their wants and needs when choosing between the different types of metal fencing. With all the options available to you, it may seem a little daunting to pick out the right fence for your property’s privacy, security, and landscape design needs. Luckily, your trusted fencing professionals are here to help–we’ve put together this useful guide of the pros and cons of various types of metal fencing for your consideration.

Chain Link Fencing

Chain link fencing is one of the most popular types of metal fencing for both residential and commercial properties. This is partially due to the low cost of chain link fencing material, making it a great economical choice for commercial properties as well as fencing in large residential lawns. Chain link has some other key advantages as well, such as being very low maintenance and great for security fencing because it allows a clear line of sight with available anti-climb features. There are even coated chain link fencing options that are available in a variety of colors and finishes. The main drawback of chain link fencing, however, is that it does not offer as much curb appeal as some other metal fencing options.

Steel Fencing

When it comes to durable and effective security fencing, steel tends to be the most reliable option. This is due to the strength of steel fencing, which makes it a great choice for homeowners looking to invest in seriously increased security for their property. Plus, since steel fencing is so durable, it will maintain its strength and new appearance for longer, standing up to season after season of unpredictable weather and storms. Steel fencing is pricier than many other residential fencing options, though, so it’s important to consider your budget when choosing the right metal fencing for your property.

Ornamental Aluminum Fencing

Ornamental aluminum fencing is a great option for homeowners looking to add style and elegance to their property. One advantage of choosing aluminum fencing for an ornamental fence is that it is much more cost-effective than traditional wrought iron ornamental fencing. Plus, with several designs available, you’re sure to find the right design to add that special something to your property and boost your curb appeal!

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 The Good and Bad of Different Types of Metal Fencing appeared first on Hercules Fence.

Chain link is sort of the underdog of fencing materials. It’s not stylish or elegant, doesn’t offer the privacy of wooden or vinyl fences, and doesn’t give the protection of iron or steel. Still, it’s a popular fencing material, because it’s durable, versatile, and affordable. In fact, here are three examples of when chain link fencing is a better option than just about any other fencing material.

• When you’ve got a tight budget, chain link is likely to be your best choice.
  • Chain link is one of the lowest costing fencing materials per square foot, yet it’s a reliable option. The relatively small investment you’ll make in chain link fencing will provide you with a fence that lasts for many years. What’s more, chain link is so low maintenance that you probably won’t have to pay for repairs and replacements during the years you enjoy your chain link fence. Even if your fence does need repair, it will cost less to repair it than it costs to repair other types of fencing.
• If security is your priority, chain link provides a strong, secure option.
  • Your chain link fence can be installed at different lengths and heights, and you can even add razor wire at the top for additional security. Breaking through a chain link fence is extremely difficult, and if the fence is high, it’s difficult and dangerous to climb. Because it’s so secure, it’s a material commonly used in prisons, military complexes, and other places where security is vital.
• If you live somewhere with extreme weather, chain link may be your best option.
  • Excessive heat, snow, and high winds can wreak havoc on certain fencing materials. Wooden fences, for instance, can warp, spit, and crack when faced with snow and ice, while chain link fencing stands up to the elements. In hurricane-prone areas, chain link fencing is an excellent option because the open weave allows wind and water to pass through.

If you’re ready for a new fence, call Paramount Fence Inc. for professional installation. At Paramount, we’ve been in business for over ten years, but our combined experience in the fence industry spans more than half a century! We’re a full-service fence sales and fence installation business in the Chicagoland area, and we’re dedicated to providing creative and affordable solutions that address our clients’ needs and fulfill their requests. Our staff offers exceptional customer service, striving to exceed your expectations throughout the fence buying and fence installation process. Paramount Fence Inc is a member of the American Fence Association and a registered member of the Better Business Bureau. For more information on how we can help you find the right fence to meet your needs, call us at 630.239.2714 or contact us through our website.

The post Examples of Where Chain Link Fencing is a Better Choice Than Other Fencing Materials appeared first on Paramount Fence.

Learn all about the various types of residential fencing so you know which to install around your home.

Anyone would want to have the perfect home. It should be the right size, offer the right yard space, and be in the right location. But sometimes, there are parts of your home that can get overlooked. One such feature would be what type of fence to use to surround your home. There are many types of residential fencing options. Each comes with its own pros and cons that can help you pick the best one for you. Learn all about the various types of residential fencing so you know which to install around your home.

Privacy Fence

Privacy fences are great for anyone who wants, well, privacy. These fences are usually around 4 to 6 feet in height and made from either wood or vinyl. As a residential fencing option, it’s great for families that have children and pets because it helps keep them from wandering out of your yard and getting into danger. Depending on the material you pick, maintenance requirements will vary. Wood will require painting or staining, while vinyl can be cleaned using soap and a hose.

Picket Fence

This style of residential fencing is preferred for classic homes. They’re usually made from wood. The price of a picket fence will change based on what size you want, with bigger fences costing more than smaller ones.

Some varieties are made out of PVC, which is often cheaper, and it can withstand the natural elements for many years.

Chain Link Fence

Chain link fences come at a low cost and require little maintenance. They serve their function, which is to keep unwanted guests away from your property and keep others on your property, such as children and pets, you don’t want to get into trouble. This style of residential fencing doesn’t offer much on its own in terms of aesthetic appeal, but you can add some greenery around a chain-link fence to make it look more lively.

Wrought Iron Fence

Wrought iron fences are often custom-designed to suit the needs of the owner. You have to make sure you sand and paint them every couple of years in order to keep them looking good.

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 Types of Residential Fencing for Your Home appeared first on Hercules Fence.

More than just a security measure, fences can also add curb appeal, enhancing the look of your home and sometimes even increasing your property value. Choosing the right one is important, though, because it’s an investment that will remain in place for a long time. Ask yourself these questions when making your decision.

• Why do you need the fence? Define the purpose of the fence, and you’ll narrow down your selection. Do you want to keep a dog contained? You’ll need to think about the size of the dog. A small dog may need a fence with narrowly spaced pickets, while a larger dog may require a tall fence, especially if prone to jumping. If the purpose of your fence is pool safety, you’ll need to consider the “pool code.” If you want privacy, there are many different fencing options that will be suitable, but make sure you’re staying within the confines of your HOA regulations or local ordinances.

• How will it fit in with the surrounding area? What kinds of fences do your neighbors have? You might want to blend in, choosing a style that matches what’s already in place, or you may decide to stand out, with a fence that’s entirely your own style! Your fence should at least complement the ones around it, and again, should conform to homeowner’s association restrictions and local codes. Do your homework before installing a fence, to make sure you’re not thinking too far outside the box.

• Does it fit with the style of your house? Your home’s architectural style is an important factor when you’re choosing a fence. If you’ve got a cozy little cottage, a tall, ornate iron fence will look oddly out of place, just as a split rail fence would not be the right choice for a Victorian mansion and a picket fence would seem strange surrounding a very modern home. There are many kinds of fences, so you’ll be sure to find something that matches your home’s style if you take a little bit of time to consider your options.

If you’re ready for a new fence, call Paramount Fence Inc. for professional installation. At Paramount, we’ve been in business for over ten years, but our combined experience in the fence industry spans more than half a century! We’re a full-service fence sales and fence installation business in the Chicagoland area, and we’re dedicated to providing creative and affordable solutions that address our clients’ needs and fulfill their requests. Our staff offers exceptional customer service, striving to exceed your expectations throughout the fence buying and fence installation process. Paramount Fence Inc is a member of the American Fence Association and a registered member of the Better Business Bureau. For more information on how we can help you find the right fence to meet your needs, call us at 630.239.2714 or contact us through our website.

The post What type of fence should I get? appeared first on Paramount Fence.