Tips for Choosing Fence Materials

August 28, 2011 By

When deciding which fence materials to use for your fence installation it’s important to consider how each material stacks up in regards to longevity, maintenance, and location. If fence durability is important to you you’ll want to select a strong, long-lasting fence material like stone. On the other hand, if you detest high-maintenance and want to avoid strenuous upkeep you may find yourself in search of Vinyl.

Let’s break down the pros and cons of popular fence materials to determine which will work best for your fencing project:

Unfinished/Pressure Treated Wood:

Unfinished/pressure treated wood will last several decades, though it requires refinishing every 3-4 years. While such wood can work well in areas where your fence will touch moist earth that could cause sagging, if you’re an resident in search of low-maintenance, pressure treated wood may not be the right choice for you. That’s because wood is affected by all weather conditions, as well as mold. Your wood fencing may also discolor in the sun if not properly cared for. While wood is a great choice for a number of projects and aesthetic settings, it’s important to know that such fencing will require attentive care.

picket fence flower Tips for Choosing Fence Materials

Canton Ga Wood Fence with vines growing on it.


Stained Wood:

Stained wood requires re-staining every 3-5 years via a simple spray application. As with unfinished/pressure treated wood, stained wood should be kept away from moisture and water systems.

Vinyl:

Vinyl fencing will last indefinitely, thought projectiles (such as a baseball) could damage your fence and require replacement pieces. Ensure that your manufacturer offers a lifetime warranty. With Vinyl, most maintenance concerns are aesthetic and not structural so think low-maintenance aside from the occasion deep stain scrub. Vinyl also holds strong against most weather conditions despite misguided consumer fears.

Metal:

A metal fence should last more than 100 years if you protect it against rust. Apply a rust-resistant finish and look into Aluminum or zinc/alloy fasteners that offer greater protection to ensure lower upkeep.

Stone:

A stone fence will last thousands of years if built well, though you will need to watch out for cracks, chipping, destructive plants, loose stones, moisture and freezing. While a stone fence is highly durable, it requires an attentive eye.

Filed Under: Choosing Fence Materials, Fence Materials, Fence Tips Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Atlanta Pool Fence Guidelines

July 28, 2011 By

Did you know that in order to install, fill or operate a pool in Atlanta you must first build an approved barrier around your swimming pool? While pool fence regulations can seem like just another tiring step in the pool construction process the regulations exist to prevent injury and to most importantly protect young children from entering your swimming area unsupervised. Permissible barriers include a 60 in. tall fence, wall, or building – so long as the pool perimeter is deterred and the following additional restrictions are also met:

Pre-Construction:

metal pool fence Atlanta Pool Fence Guidelines

Metal Pool Fence

  • Before constructing the barrier be sure to send all plans including composition, placement, dimensions, elevations and any other data to the department for approval. Following approval the boundary must be completely built before filling the pool.

Pool Entrance:

  • The shallow end of the pool must be nearest to the entrance.

    At least two elements separated by a width of two feet must subsist to allow for controlled pool access. This vertical space must be unscalable with no dips or extensions to prevent climbing.

  • There must be a gate that utilizes a positive-latching mechanism and stands no shorter than 45 inches tall.
  • When the pool is not in use a cover is necessary, but not enough. All entrances must also be closed to fully secure the area.

Approved Barrier:

  • There can be no climbable object located within three feet of the pool boundary.

  • The boundary can contain no opening large enough for a sphere object four inches in diameter to fit through.

  • Installation must follow code, as well as a submitted and approved construction plan that adheres to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • The barrier material can contain no element used for purely decorative purposes.

  • The diamond-shaped opening in chain link fencing cannot exceed 1 ¼ inch.

Now that you know what’s expected we wish you safe and happy swimming!

Filed Under: Atlanta Fence, DIY Fence Building Guide, Pool Fence Guide Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

How to – Paint your Alanta Chain Link Fence

July 26, 2011 By

If you live in Atlanta, painting your chain link fence can bring new life to your home and neighborhood. Choose a metallic colored paint if you want it to look new, or go with a fun color to lighten up the space. A green, for example, will help the fence blend in with the grass, making it less of an eye sore.

chain link fence green How to Paint your Alanta Chain Link Fence

Green chain link fence

Tips for Painting your Atlanta Chain Link Fence

For those Atlanta residents ready to paint their chain link fence fence, consider the following steps. Before getting started, remove all grass and weeds from along the base and take a wire brush to thoroughly to remove any rust.

  • Chose an exterior oil based paint that has rust inhibiting features to it. In most cases, you can find paints for fencing, but ensure it is for a metal fence. Also, realize that you will get about twice as much coverage from a gallon since you are not painting a solid surface.
  • Place a drop cloth under the edge of the fence. You will drip paint due to the ground frequently.
  • Work on one section at a time. Using a brush, tip the brush into the paint and then apply to the posts and rails. Once a section of this is done, do the chain link fence. Ensure you get into all sides and crevices created.
  • You can use a roller to do the chain link portion of the fence. Use a quality roller if you do as it will hold onto the paint better, giving you a more even covering.
  • Go from side to side painting the fence. Keep the amount of paint to the reduced level to ensure a good amount of coverage.

And there you have it, folks. For those considering painting there chain link fence in Atlanta, this should get you up and going. Just be sure to store the paint properly when finished and allow the fence to dry thoroughly before touching it. Also, try to avoid painting when there is a threat of rain for the day of the painting and the day after.

Filed Under: chain link and security fences, Chain Link Fence Guide, Installing Chain Link Fence Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

Cedar Fences are great in Atlanta GA

March 6, 2011 By

Cedar fences are great in Atlanta GA and popular all over the country.  There are many reasons that cedar is becoming an even more popular wood to use on fences such as:

Wooden Fences from Natural Enclosures 150x150 Cedar Fences are great in Atlanta GA

Cedar is the Best by Far.

-          naturally termite resistant

-          doesn’t quickly decay due to the changing seasons

-          easily fits almost any residential theme

-          great for privacy fences

-          great for security fences

-          looks fantastic left without paint

-          overall very long lasting

-          durable

-          awesome grain patterns for an attractive addition to the fence.

Western Red Cedar is one of the best types of this wood, but simply buying “cedar” is a great choice in general.  It’s going to look great and needs very little upkeep.  Northern White Cedar is also a good choice.  The Northern variety is known to be firm but supple enough to weave into interesting designs.  It truly allows a fence to be one of a kind. 

All cedar materials will be more expensive than pine, but it’s worth it over the long haul.  At any time cedar can be stained or painted to change the whole appearance of a home or business.  It’s a fantastic, versatile option.  One tip is to not ground the posts in concrete as it increases rot and thus need for replacements.

All cedar can be left in a rough appearance or smoothed depending on the imagination of the homeowner.  It just can’t be understated that the durability of this product pays for itself.  Of this particular wood, the Western Red Cedar is the strongest.  It will stand up to the roughest conditions and look great for years to come.

These are just a few reasons why cedar fences are great in Atlanta GA.  Contact or go see a fence contractor to learn more about other benefits and how much it would be to have them do all the hard work.  There’s nothing better than the job done right the first time.  When a contractor is used there are also benefits such as maintenance covered in the future when there’s a problem.  A cedar fence in Atlanta GA is not just a trendy choice, it’s an investment.  Property values will only go up with a breathtaking addition like this.

Filed Under: Atlanta Fence, Backyard Fence, Choosing Fence Materials, Fence Company, Fence Design, Fence Materials, Fence Materials and Tools, Fence Photo Gallery, How To Build A Fence, Neighbor Fence, Ornamental Fence, Pet Fences, Privacy Fence, Specialty Fences, Wooden Fence Guide, Wooden Fences Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

The Best Fence Materials in Atlanta GA Truly Last

March 3, 2011 By

The best fence materials in Atlanta GA are very affordable and save money on repairs later.  It just takes a little knowledge on the subject to build a fence that lasts.  A quality, great looking fence is not only a good idea to keep pets in the yard, it can also increase the value of a home.  Specially treated wood can last upwards of a decade with proper maintenance and a coat of paint.  Of course, a natural look without paint is just as durable if the materials used are treated.  The kind of wood also has a great deal to do with how long the fence will last.  Pine is a great, affordable choice, but it will begin to buckle after ten years or so.  Something more durable like cedar will last longer.

Split Rail Fencing from Natural Enclosures 150x150 The Best Fence Materials in Atlanta GA Truly Last

Leave it to the Pro's for Great Fence Materials.

There are also zoning laws and planned neighborhood charters to check before building.  It’s also a good idea to talk to the neighbors to make sure the property lines are understood.  It’s just not whether or not a neighborhood will allow a fence, but sometimes charters restrict the materials used, colors applied and/or how high the fence can be.  Before picking the best fence materials in Atlanta, check with the neighborhood charter. 

When choosing chemically treated materials, remember that many are refusing to use CCA lumber due to problems with dangerous chemicals.  Choosing the best fence materials is not something to leave to chance.  Think about pets and children that will be playing on the fence and which is the safest choice.  There are a great many new facts going around about CCA products, so consult a professional fence installer for the latest news.  Safety is always first, no matter what the project is.  There are studies that state it is “safer” to use CCA lumber after several coats of paints have been applied, but again, it’s a risky choice.  Call a great fence contractor in Atlanta GA today and find out more about the best fence materials to use in Atlanta GA.

Filed Under: Atlanta Fence, Backyard Fence, chain link and security fences, Chain Link Styles, Fence Company, Fence Design, Fence Materials, Fence Materials and Tools, Fence Photo Gallery, How To Build A Fence, Installing Privacy Fence, Picket Fence, Pool Fence Guide, Privacy Fence Guide, Wooden Fence Guide, Wooden Fences Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Chain Link Fence Building in Atlanta GA

February 28, 2011 By

Chain link fence building in Atlanta GA can be a breeze with a little help.  When installing a chain link fence in Atlanta GA it’s important to know exactly what to do.  There are a million books out there making this list of do’s and don’t’s too complicated.  For those who want a safety fence that the homeowner and police can see clearly through in case of trouble:

Commercial Chain Link Fence 150x128 Chain Link Fence Building in Atlanta GA

Contact the Best in Fence Installation Today.

1)      Mark off where posts go and measure it multiple times for accuracy.

2)      Double check the property line with neighbors.

3)      Look into a neighborhood charter and local zoning laws to make sure all applicable rules are followed.

4)      If a professional in fence installation is doing the work, do they have all the proper paperwork licensing them to do the work?

5)      Does everyone involved know where the utility lines are?

6)      Know how close the fence posts can be to utility lines before there’s an issue.

7)      How big do the fence post holes have to be?

8)      How deep do the post holes have to go?

9)      Is all work the installer providing necessary and are they doing it to code?

10)  Is all labor and materials covered by the contractor’s warranty?

11)  Does the company space the posts far enough (or close enough) to stand up against the elements?

12)  Are top quality materials being used?

13)  Is the work being done on schedule?

14)  Are the posts strong enough to keep the chain link from sagging?

15)  Does the individual or company pull the links tight enough the first time it’s installed?

16)  Did the homeowner test the chain link to make sure all binding is tight?

17)  If there is a fence, does it match what was promised?  Does it fit correctly?

18)  Did the company take away all garbage and leftover materials?

19)  Does the bill look the same after the job is done as what was promised before it started?

20)  Were all aspects of the design and integrity tested to make sure it was done correctly?  Was the warranty covered one last time before the workers leave?

Contact a great fence contractor if chain link fence building in Atlanta GA is on the “to do” list this spring.  Yet, there’s no reason with a little help from neighbors and friends it can’t be done without a fence company.  There are no limits to what a bit of elbow grease can accomplish.

Filed Under: Atlanta Fence, Backyard Fence, chain link and security fences, Chain Link Fence Guide, Chain Link Styles, Choosing Fence Materials, Common Fence Mistakes, Fence Company, Fence Design, Fence Materials, How To Build A Fence, Installing Chain Link Fence, Measuring a Fence, Neighbor Fence, Security Fences Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Repairing a Fence in Atlanta GA

February 25, 2011 By

Repairing a fence in Atlanta GA is inevitable for anyone who has already built one on their property.  The first rule of thumb is:  Fix it now than later.  The longer one waits to repair any small problem can cost a lot more money when the issue becomes worse.  The weather and time are the two biggest enemies of materials.  Wood products swell, shrink, or split while chain link begins to sag.  There are do it yourself ways to handle these issues and save money on building a new enclosure.

Saddle Picket Fence 150x115 Repairing a Fence in Atlanta GA

A Great Fence Contractor is Right Around the Corner.

If the wooden posts or slats begin to lean:

1)      Use a shovel or spade and work dirt away from the leaning object.

2)      Pull the post or slat straight again and hold in place.

3)      Use fresh dirt and pack it in firmly to keep the slat or post upright.

Be sure to replace the rail that runs across the slats between slats.  These are very important to the overall integrity of the fence.  These keep the slats from tipping over.  Check all the rails regularly for rot due to moisture or extreme weather conditions.  After heavy storms or snowfall, go over the fence to be sure there’s no long term damage.  If there are any issues, address them at that time.  It’s much cheaper to repair an existing fence than paying for a new one.

If there are any questions about fence repairs, contacting a leader in installation is a great place to start.  No one knows better than the experts.  If planning to make the fence already in place more individualized, someone who installs fences for a living would know new ways to make it really pop.  Again, if the job appears too big, or the fence came with a new home and falling apart, ask about cost and warranties on getting them to do the work.  Nothing is better than the best job done for the best price.  Whether doing the work alone or by hiring a company, repairing a fence in Atlanta GA is very important for safety and beauty.

Filed Under: Atlanta Fence, Backyard Fence, chain link and security fences, Chain Link Fence Guide, Choosing Fence Materials, Common Fence Mistakes, Fence Company, Fence Design, Fence Materials, Fence Photo Gallery, Iron and Decorative Fences, Iron and Ornamental Fences, Ornamental Fence, Privacy Fence Guide, Wooden Fence Guide, Wooden Fences Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Picket Fence Designs in Atlanta GA

February 22, 2011 By

Picket fence designs in Atlanta GA are many.  Yet, there are a few things to remember that are the same no matter where one lives.  Whether in the city or a more rural area, there are few things to keep in mind that will make the whole project easier for everyone involved.  Some of these include:

Picket Fence 150x150 Picket Fence Designs in Atlanta GA

An Excellent Fence Contractor is Ready to Help.

1)      Check with local utility companies to find out where power and water lines are to prevent cutting into one installing a fence.

2)      Contact the local zoning department for any laws regulating the type of fence that can be installed.

3)      Look into the charter if living in a planned community for any rules on fence installation, or if it’s even possible.

4)      Give a hard look into the allowed budget and then get several estimates on the cost of materials.  Stay on course with the budget to make sure that budget is kept.

5)      Consider hiring a professional fence installation company to do the work if the budget allows it.

Very few know where utility lines are and the local utility departments will be happy to come out and mark off the appropriate areas.  It’s much easier than doing repairs later.  Once the above check points are answered, it’s time to look at what kind of picket fence wants in Atlanta GA.

With picket fence designs, make sure that the fence will be to the appropriate scale in relation to the house.  The great thing about picket fences is that they can be cut into many different styles and pained to match the color scheme of the residence.  A picket fence needs to match the style and scale of a house. When installed appropriately it can definitely increase the value of a home. 

Even if one doesn’t hire a fence company to do the labor, they do have great suggestions and building tips to make a homeowner more comfortable with the labor.  While speaking to them asking about their prices of installation isn’t a bad idea.  This will give one an idea of the budget needed in order to have someone else do the work.  With some companies their warranty includes upkeep.  This is a big time saver for a homeowner.  The only limit to a homeowner’s picket fence is the imagination. 

Filed Under: Atlanta Fence, Backyard Fence, Choosing Fence Materials, Dacula Fence Company, Fence Company, Fence Design, Fence Materials, Fence Materials and Tools, Fence Photo Gallery, Picket Fence, Setting a Fence Post Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Great Wooden Fences in Atlanta GA

February 19, 2011 By

Wooden fences in Atlanta GA can come in any number of styles and functions.  There are a million different places to read that give “hints” on installation and cost, but here are a few facts and figures one can count on.  Money is tight on all Americans these days, so knowing exactly how much one will spend on a new project is crucial.  Everyone wants to avoid “sticker shock” at the end of any project.

Wood yard Fence 150x150 Great Wooden Fences in Atlanta GA

Building a Wooden Fence Doesn't Have to Break the Bank.

Some steps to an affordable wooden fence are:

1)      Write a detailed list of all the materials and tools needed for the job

2)      Remember smart money saving tips like buying wooden posts either the same length, or twice as long to be cut into two posts from one.  Buying posts a few feet taller than needed is a waste of materials and money.

3)      Remember measurements when it comes to the wooden panels that make up the fence itself.  Those too can be easier on the wallet by buying them in lengths of 6 – 8 feet in pine, cedar or other desired wood.  Again these can be cut to the right length instead of buying more wood the same length.

The tools needed for the job vary depending on how much experience someone has and the tools they already have.  Some of the tools that are necessary are:

1)      Hammer

2)      Nails

3)      Ruler

4)      String

5)      Drafting pencils

6)      Electric saws for larger jobs

7)      Wooden pegs

8)      Good friends or neighbors with experience to help

A great way on saving money on tools is to borrow them where possible.  Tools are a great investment for any homeowner who may have “to-do” lists around the house.  Yet, if new projects aren’t soon to pop up, borrowing them will save cash on tools that will otherwise just occupy space in a closet or garage.  (Just be sure to keep the peace and return all tools on time and in good condition.)

Building a wooden fence in Atlanta GA doesn’t have to break the bank.  If the materials and tools here seem out of the scope of one’s skills, it’s a great idea to look into hiring a professional fence installation company.  Money can definitely be saved by having the job done right the first time instead of trying it alone, then calling in the professionals.  The scope of the job is only limited to one’s budgets.

Filed Under: Atlanta Fence, Backyard Fence, Choosing Fence Materials, Common Fence Mistakes, Fence Company, Fence Design, Fence Materials, Fence Photo Gallery, How To Build A Fence, Wooden Fence Guide, Wooden Fences Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Building a Fence in Atlanta GA

February 17, 2011 By

Building a fence in Atlanta GA is an exciting project to think about with spring around the corner.  Yet, there is more to it than just picking out random materials with a vague idea of where the fence will go.  There must be careful planning and product knowledge to be sure the right kind surrounds the property, pool or pet enclosure.  There’s no doubt that there are many fences to choose from.

For those looking into building a fence in Atlanta GA, here are a few hints:

Ornimental Fencing 150x150 Building a Fence in Atlanta GA

Pick the Best with Fence Installation.

1)      Before even thinking about visiting the local home improvement store, first check with the local zoning laws.  Every city is different, so if one just moved to the area, what the rules were in the old town may be different in the new one.

2)      If living in a planned neighborhood, look into the charter where rules on building any number of things are outlined.  Also, it’s a great idea to check with neighbors as well to make sure there are no objections that may cause problems later.

3)      When talking to the neighbors, make sure everyone involved agrees on the property line.

4)      Pay close attention to any damage building a fence will do to the root systems of shrubs and trees that surround the property.  This is another great thing to speak about with neighbors who may have planted the surrounding greenery.

5)      Carefully plot on paper where the fence will go as far as posts on the property line.  This is a great way to make sure the way the project started looks the desired way at the end.

 6)      Decide on what the fence will be used for whether it’s for security, privacy, or purely ornamental.

 Once a fence is decided upon, there are a few choices in style to choose from:

1)      Chain link – a great choice for keeping intruders out while pets and kids are kept in the yard.  It doesn’t provide much in the way of privacy, but vines can be added to climb the links for a more attractive look.

2)      Picket fences – these are the traditional fences for those with the idealized suburban home front dream.  They are easier than many because they often come “ready-made”.

3)      Ranch style fence – this is a great ornamental choice for those who want a more western appearance to their property.

4)      Panel fence – this choice provides a great deal of privacy by placing high slats close together.  This, like chain link, keeps the kids and pets safely inside while potential trespassers are prevented to see in or enter.

5)      Board fences are the extremely pricey and by far the most expensive of all these choices.  They can be built as high as a panel fence, but it is constructed from more study materials that won’t shrink. 

These are just a few hints on how to choose a fence, where to start planning construction and how to keep peace with the neighbors while doing so.  Building a fence in Atlanta GA is a big project and should be done with care.  If the job appears too big, consult a fence installation professional to the job done right the first time.

Filed Under: Atlanta Fence, Backyard Fence, chain link and security fences, Chain Link Fence Guide, Choosing Fence Materials, Fence Company, Fence Design, Fence Materials, Installing Chain Link Fence, Installing Privacy Fence, Iron and Decorative Fences, Iron and Ornamental Fences Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,
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