Fencing is a big part of your home. It keeps pets and children safe, provides privacy for you and your guests, and adds aesthetic appeal to your landscape.
A professional fencing contractor can help you with any renovations you need to complete on your home fence. This can include repairing damage, repainting your fence, or adding gates.
1. Installing a New Fence
A new fence can add to the visual appeal of your home and property, while also providing a layer of privacy and keeping pets and children in the yard. While some homeowners try to save money by building their own fencing, it is often far easier and safer to leave this type of project to a professional. A professional team can usually install a fence in half the time it takes a homeowner with limited experience, and they know how to use all of the equipment required, from a circular saw to a post hole digger.
Before starting a fence-building project, you should review your city’s zoning codes and HOA covenants to ensure that the style and height of your chosen fence are within the guidelines set by your neighborhood. It’s also a good idea to talk to your neighbors about the project. If your fence is to run along the property line, it will affect them as much as it does you, and you may need to get their permission to build it.
If you choose to purchase a prefabricated fence, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions thoroughly to learn how to properly install it. It’s important to follow all the directions, especially if you are installing a taller fence that requires concrete for support. If you decide to hire a professional team to install your fence, be sure to communicate clearly with them about your expectations and goals for the fence. Then, they can help you select the best materials and design to achieve your desired result.
Once your new fence is installed, you can protect it from weather and moisture damage by staining it. Staining also helps your fence look finished and complete, which can enhance the aesthetic of your property. To stain a wooden fence, you can roll, brush, or spray a water-based stain on the surface of your wood posts and panels.
If you are repairing or fixing your fence, it’s important to do the work in dry and warm conditions. Working in rain or snow can lead to complications, such as concrete that is not properly set and moisture that gets into different parts of your fence. If possible, try to schedule repairs and renovations in the summer when the weather is more forgiving.
2. Repairing a Broken Fence
A fence is a great way to add privacy, security, and a sense of ambiance to your property. It’s important to keep your fence in good condition, but over time weather and use can take their toll. If you notice your fence is sagging, mildewed, damaged or broken, it’s time for repairs.
There are several ways to repair a fence, but the best option depends on what kind of damage your fence has sustained. The price tag for repairing a broken fence will also vary depending on the size and design of your home fence, but simple designs are usually less expensive to fix.
The first thing you should do before starting a repair project is to call your local utilities company to locate any buried lines and mark them with paint or flags. This will prevent you from accidentally digging into and damaging any power or water lines that could cost you thousands of dollars in repairs and possibly hurt or kill you or others working on the project.
Typically, a broken fence can be fixed with a quick and easy wood post repair method. This is a temporary solution, however, and it’s best to replace the entire post and concrete footing when you’re ready to do so.
To repair a broken fence post, dig out the old concrete footing using a shovel and remove the remaining wood post from the ground. Then, dig a hole 18 to 24 inches deep, depending on the height of your fence. Make sure the hole is square and level before inserting the new fence post into place. Pour three inches of gravel into the bottom of the hole to improve drainage and secure the post.
Finally, affix the fence rails to the top of the new posts. Ensure that they are loosely secured with wire ties. You can then cut the 2×4 rails to the appropriate length and nail them to the posts with a hammer and nails. Use two 10d galvanized common nails at the ends of each rail to ensure a strong connection.
3. Repainting a Fence
Refreshing your fence with a fresh coat of paint will add curb appeal and protect the wood from the elements. Depending on your climate, you should be repainting your wooden fence every 2 years at minimum to prevent moisture seepage and rot. Before beginning the project, take a look at the fence and note any areas that may be worn or damaged. This will help you decide whether it needs to be repaired or if the new coat of paint will suffice.
Start by trimming any bushes or trees that come into contact with the fence. If it has been painted previously, this is the time to scrape off any peeling or chipping paint. Make sure you do this outside and wear a mask to avoid breathing in any hazardous materials.
After the area has been prepped, sand any rough areas of the fence to ensure a smooth finish. Then, use the primer that goes with your chosen shade of paint. Ideally, it should be an exterior wood primer such as Sherwin Williams Exterior Latex Wood Primer. This will create a base that will hold the paint better.
If you are using a sprayer, follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to properly set up and use the machine for best results. It is also recommended that you apply several thin coats as opposed to one thick layer of paint to avoid runs and drips.
A good quality paint brush or roller will give you the best results, but if you don’t want to deal with the hassle of cleaning and refilling a sprayer, there are many other options available. You can even get a high-quality foam brush that will leave behind no bristle marks and will save you time and effort.
Once you’ve applied your primer and paint, wait for it to dry completely before putting up any signs that say “Wet Paint – Do Not Touch.” Then enjoy your newly refreshed fence! Whether you’re building a garden fence or simply painting an existing one, it is important to use high-quality products that can withstand harsh weather and sun exposure. With the right preparation and the proper equipment, you can easily complete this DIY task and have your fence looking like-new in no time.
4. Installing a Gate
Installing a gate can be an excellent way to add security and privacy to your home. However, it’s essential to make sure that your gate is well built to avoid future problems like sagging or falling down.
There are a number of things that you can do to ensure that your gate is well-built and will last long. For starters, it’s important to use high-quality materials for the gates and posts. Also, you should always ask for several quotes before choosing a contractor to perform the work. Requesting multiple estimates will help you find the best possible price-quality ratio.
It’s also a good idea to hire a contractor that is experienced with fencing and has a solid reputation in the industry. In addition, you should hire a contractor who has appropriate insurance coverage. This includes worker’s compensation and liability insurance. This will protect you in the event of any accidents or injuries during the project.
Before you begin construction, it’s a good idea to check for underground utilities in the area where the fence will be installed. This can be done by calling a utility location service or using an online app. Doing this will prevent you from accidentally damaging any pipes or cables during the installation process.
Once you’ve located the correct location for the fence gate, dig a trench that is 12″ (30 cm) wide and at least 18″ (46 cm) deep. Then, pour concrete into the trench. Use a fast-setting concrete mix if possible, and follow the instructions on the bag. It’s also a good idea to slope the ground slightly downward in order to direct rainwater away from the gate fence posts.
When you’re ready to install the gate, place a piece of timber 25mm thick down to support it whilst you fit it to the posts. This will prevent the gate from sagging over time and allow you to fit the latch and bolts.
Lastly, make sure that your hinges are properly positioned. A simple way to do this is by using a piece of scrap lumber as a spacer between the first hinge and the gate post. This will ensure that the gate is centered between the two mounting posts and that it’s perfectly level.