Fences are a critical feature in a home. A damaged, incorrect, or obsolete fence lowers your property’s value and doesn’t qualify for a good return should you choose to sell. If you’re looking to have a fence installed, we recommend hiring a reliable fence company in Salem, Oregon. Their experience and expertise will ensure the job is done right the first time. But first, here are some considerations to ensure your fence installation lasts long and is reliable.
Choose Right Materials
Select materials suitable for your environment and climate. For example, if you live in a high moisture area, use vinyl materials that are resistant to moisture. Or If you reside in an area with harsh weather conditions, such as strong winds or extreme temperatures, choose metal fences. Note that no matter what type of fence is it, you decide if you want a permanent or a temporary fence. Viking Rental can help you choose and decide on good materials.
Also, consider what material will look good in your yard and how much maintenance it will need. If you’re looking for something simple and low-maintenance, vinyl or PVC might be a good choice. If you want something more natural-looking and durable, wood or composite materials are ideal.
Once you’ve settled on a style, think about durability and longevity. While wooden fences can last decades if maintained properly, they require regular painting or staining. Composite materials like vinyl or PVC don’t need as much upkeep as wood, but they can still fade or discolor over time if exposed to UV rays from sunlight.
Set Posts Correctly
The foundation of your fence is the posts. Use a post-hole digger to create holes at least 1/3 the length of the post. After you’ve dug the holes, add a layer of gravel to the bottom for drainage. Insert the post into the hole, ensuring it is level.
Next, pour concrete around the post to hold it in place. Ensure the concrete gets packed tightly around the post, and use a trowel to smooth the surface. Leave the concrete to dry for at least 24 hours before attaching the fence panels.
Use Proper Fasteners
Fasteners hold the fence panels or boards onto the posts, ensuring they stay in place. Choose galvanized or stainless steel fasteners, as they are rust-resistant and will not rust over time.
Next, consider the size of the fasteners. The size should be appropriate for the weight and size of your fence panels or boards. If you use too small fasteners, they may not hold the weight of the fence, leading to sagging or damage.
Finally, ensure that you install the fasteners properly. Place fasteners evenly and securely drive straight into the posts or rails to hold the fence panels or boards. If using screws, pre-drill holes to prevent the wood from splitting.
Use Professional Fence Installers
Remember that quality is essential as price when you’re looking to install a new fence. A good fence company will have plenty of experience with installing fences, and they’ll provide you with a variety based on your needs and budget.
They’ll also advise you on the best materials for your yard, including which materials will withstand weather and wind damage. You’ll know that the fence will last for years and won’t need repairs or replacement at any point.
Regular Maintenance
Inspect your fence periodically for damage or wear. Check for cracks, warping, rotting, or loose boards or posts. Repair any damage as soon as possible to prevent it from getting worse.
Keep your fence clean. Dirt, grime, and other debris can accumulate on your fence, making it look dingy and dull. Use a pressure washer, a scrub brush, and soapy water to remove dirt or debris. For wooden fences, you may also need to apply a sealer or stain to protect the wood from the elements.
Trimming nearby trees or shrubs growing too close to your fence is also essential. Overgrown vegetation can cause damage to your fence. Finally, apply a rust inhibitor or protective coating to your fence’s hardware, such as hinges and latches; it prevents rust and corrosion.
Choose What to Plant In Your Garden
When installing a fence in your garden, ensure you’ve got a handle on what’s growing. While some vines are harmless, some are dangerous for your fence, as they can cause it to rot or collapse.
Many types of vines can cause damage to fences. Some examples include wisteria, honeysuckle, and wild grapevines. These vines can cause damage to your fence by growing into the wooden posts that support it or breaking through the vinyl sheets that make up its structure.
If you’re looking to install a beautiful, functional fence, DIY may not be the best route. Still, ensure you’ve done your homework when hiring someone to install a fence. The fencing company you contract should have experience performing installations in your local area. Feel free to ask for references from family and colleagues and check online for reviews.
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