https://www.visionfencing.com https://www.visionfencing.com/is-it-better-to-paint-or-stain-a-fence Is it better to paint or stain a fence? If you have an untreated wood fence, it’s best to treat and seal it with something, but which route should you go? <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> If you have an untreated wood fence, it’s best to treat and seal it with something. But is it better to paint or stain a fence? Moisture is the biggest threat to your wood fence, and paint and stain both offer good protection. So, let’s look at other considerations to help determine which </span> option is best for you. </p> <p> <br/> </p> <h2> <span> Is it easier to paint or stain a fence? </span> </h2> <p> <span> As far as application goes, stain is generally more forgiving than paint. Painting a fence requires primer and then multiple coats of paint to achieve a uniform look. If your wood fence has a rougher texture, stain will definitely be easier to apply, even if it requires a primer.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <h2> <span> Is it cheaper to paint or stain a fence? </span> </h2> <p> <span> Gallon for gallon, stain is typically less expensive than paint. Even if your paint is similar in cost to the same amount of stain, it will still cost more up front because it takes mor </span> e coats of paint to get good coverage on your fence. <span> <span>  </span> </span> <span> But </span> <span> , </span> stain must be reapplied much more frequently than paint, so the cost evens out over time. </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <h2> <span> Does it last longer if you paint or stain a fence? </span> </h2> <p> <span> As we mentioned above, stain needs to be reapplied more frequently t </span> han paint (every 2-3 years for stain vs every 5-6 years for paint), <span> but </span> stain tends to age better than paint. Paint will chip, peel, and bubble as it ages, while stain will just gradually fade. In this case, longevity depends on how you look at it. </p> <p> <br/> </p> <h2> <span> Does it look better if you paint or stain a fence? </span> </h2> <p> <span> <span> This is completely up to your taste. Yes, you want to consider how the paint or stain will look as it ages, as we described above. But regardless of how it will look in a few years when it’s time to reapply, what kind of look do you really like </span> </span> <span> now? </span> Do you want to see the natural grain of the wood? Obviously, stain will be the way to go. But if you want options and a wide selection of colors and sheens, paint can’t be beat. </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <h2> <span> <span> Whether you decide to paint or stain your wood fence, be sure to use quality materials and prep the fence thoroughly beforehand (pressure washing is best) so you can get the most out of your hard work, and your fence! And if you need help with your fence repair, we're only a phone call away! </span> </span> <a href="/contact-us"> Contact us </a> <span> <span> for more information about our fence maintenance and repair services. </span> </span> <span> <span>  </span> </span> </h2> </div> Sat, 01 May 2021 20:51:28 GMT https://www.visionfencing.com/is-it-better-to-paint-or-stain-a-fence Fencing Options,Fence Maintenance thumbnail main image https://www.visionfencing.com/what-type-of-fence-lasts-the-longest If you ask “What fence lasts the longest,” you will get a surprising number of answers. That’s because multiple factors play into the material’s longevity. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> If you ask online, “What fence lasts the longest,” you will get a surprising number of answers. That’s because multiple factors play into a fence material’s longevity, but we’ll keep it simple. If you’re asking because it’s trivia night, the correct answer is: galvanized steel chain-link </span> fence. But, if you’re asking because you actually want to install a long-lasting fence on your residential or commercial property, read on to find out what fence will last the longest, considering your type of project (and your enthusiasm for maintenance). </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <h2> <span> Types of Fence Materials (And How Long They’ll Last) </span> </h2> <h3> <span> <br/> </span> </h3> <h3> <span> Aluminum </span> </h3> <p> <span> Both residential- and commercial-grade aluminum fences are at the top of the list for durability. Aluminum is the preferred fence material of most of our customers. It is not susceptible to rot, rust, or water damage, and our aluminum fences carry a limited lifetime warranty from the manufacturer for chipping, fading, and peeling. Combine that with experienced professional installation, and you have one of the longest lasting fence options available. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <h3> <span> Steel </span> </h3> <p> <span> As we mentioned above, galvanized steel chain-link fencing is the longest lasting type of fence. It is not the most popular type of fence, however, because it lacks privacy and curb appeal. As a fence material in general, a properly installed solid steel fence can last a lifetime, while a hollow steel fence won’t last quite as long it is more susceptible to damage from the elements. Rust prevention is the most maintenance a steel fence demands. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <h3> <span> Vinyl </span> </h3> <p> <span> Vinyl (or PVC) fencing material has seen significant improvement over the years, and today’s vinyl fences are strong, durable, and low-maintenance. Vinyl can still become slightly brittle in very cold temperatures though, so keep your climate in mind. Higher gauge (thicker) vinyl costs more but also offers more durability. Vinyl fences require virtually no maintenance outside of hosing off dirt and mildew, and properly installed vinyl fencing can last over 30 years. <br/> </span> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <h3> <span> Wood  </span> </h3> <p> <span> The longevity of wood fencing depends moderately on the quality of wood, partly on installation, and very much on regular maintenance. First, remember that cedar will last longer than spruce or pine, and treated wood of any kind is more durable than any untreated wood. Moisture is the biggest enemy of your wood fence’s durability, so be sure fence posts are treated, and use concrete in the post holes to keep out moisture. If you regularly stain or paint a wood fence (stain every two years or paint every four), it will greatly increase the wood’s longevity as well. A well-maintained, treated cedar fence can last 40 years. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <h3> <span> Wrought Iron </span> </h3> <p> <span> A professionally-installed wrought iron fence can last over 60 years, but not without maintenance. To avoid corrosion, wrought iron must be treated with a rust-resistance finish every few years. Keep in mind that ornate details, where the iron has been bent and curved, are more fibrous and will be more vulnerable to the elements. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <h3> <span> <span> Do you still have questions about which fence material will last longest for you? Whether you have a residential or commercial project in mind, our team would love to help answer your questions. </span> </span> <a href="/contact-us"> Contact us today </a> <span> <span> to schedule a free consultation. </span> </span> </h3> </div> Thu, 01 Apr 2021 20:36:49 GMT https://www.visionfencing.com/what-type-of-fence-lasts-the-longest Fencing Options,Fence Maintenance thumbnail main image https://www.visionfencing.com/best-time-to-install-a-fence When should you install a fence? Believe it or not, the best time to install a fence is in fall or winter. Learn why this is the case! <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> <span> If you’ve decided that installing or replacing a fence is a priority this year, the next decision is </span> </span> <span> when </span> <span> <span> to make that happen. Believe it or not, the best time to install a fence is in fall or winter. Here’s why: </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <h2> <span> Avoid the Rush </span> </h2> <p> <span> <span> The peak seasons for fences and landscaping are spring and summer, which is one reason why fall and winter are actually the best time to install a fence. Fall and winter are the perfect time to get the most attention and availability from fencing contractors and experts since their calendars aren’t as jam-packed as in the peak season. And don’t worry about the winter cold, </span> </span> <span> we </span> <span> <span> certainly aren’t worried about it. We have the equipment and experience needed to brave the winter conditions. </span> </span> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <h2> <span> Landscape Friendly </span> </h2> <p> <span> Winter is definitely the best time to install a fence if you have a manicured landscape. Most plants are dormant during the winter months, which means trees, plants, and shrubs are less likely to be damaged during fence installation and construction. This is true whether you install your own fence or hire a professional. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <h2> <span> Give Wood Fences Time to Season </span> </h2> <p> <span> If you’re installing a wood fence, fall or winter installation will give your fence time to season properly outdoors without the exposure to the direct summer sun and high temps. Allowing the wood pickets to dry out more slowly and evenly can help prevent premature warping or splitting (as opposed to the extreme drying caused by those summer UV rays). </span> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <h2> <span> Ready for Spring </span> </h2> <p> <span> <span> If you want your yard to be fenced and ready for action when things warm back up, the best time to install a fence is… </span> </span> <span> before </span> <span> <span> things warm back up! Plan to complete your fencing project during the fall or winter months, and your yard will be ready for all of your spring and summer activities. </span> </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <h3> <span> <span> If you’ve hesitated about installing a fence in the winter, put those concerns to rest. We’d love to help you get that fence ready for spring, </span> </span> <a href="/contact-us"> reach out to us today </a> <span> <span> to talk about what you need. </span> </span> </h3> </div> Mon, 01 Mar 2021 21:30:03 GMT https://www.visionfencing.com/best-time-to-install-a-fence Fence Installation thumbnail main image https://www.visionfencing.com/what-type-of-fence-is-best-for-dogs To determine what type of fence is best for dogs, it’s helpful to consider the four main ways dogs can escape fences. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> A physical dog fence provides protection for your dog (or dogs), keeping them contained to the safety of your yard while also keeping other dogs out of your yard. There are multiple types of dog fences, and choosing the best type for you depends partly on your space, and mostly on your dog. The amount of property you need to enclose will be the biggest factor in the cost of the fence besides the fence material. So take that into consideration, but remember that the most important factor is choosing a fence that will actually contain your dog and keep it safe. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> To determine what type of fence is best for dogs, it’s helpful to consider the four main ways dogs can escape fences. All dogs are different, and not all dogs try to escape at all! But those who  </span> <span> do </span> <span>  will most likely employ one of these tricks: </span> </p> <ul> <li> <span> Jump or climb  </span> <span> OVER </span> <span>  the fence. </span> </li> <li> <span> Dig  </span> <span> UNDER </span> <span>  the fence. </span> </li> <li> <span> Push or chew  </span> <span> THROUGH </span> <span>  the fence. </span> </li> <li> <span> Nose the latch up on the  </span> <span> GATE </span> <span> . </span> <br/> </li> </ul> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <h2> <span> Jumping </span> </h2> <p> <span> First, let’s discuss what type of fence is best for dogs who can jump. Preventing a jumper’s escape is fairly straightforward: install a fence that is taller than your dog can clear. Six- to eight-foot fences are too tall for most any dog to jump, and if you use a smooth surface material (like vinyl or wood privacy planks as opposed to chain link or split rail), you will also make climbing more difficult. Remember to avoid placing furniture or stacked wood, etc, against the fence in a way your dog could use to get closer to the top of (and over) the fence. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <h2> <span> Digging </span> </h2> <p> <span> Next, what type of fence is best for dogs who dig? For this type of dog, you’ll need to consider the kind of digger you’re dealing with. Laying a gravel barrier along the fence line may do the trick. But more likely, you will want to trench the fence line and bury the fence at least six inches underground, or even 12 to 24 inches, depending on how ambitious a digger you have on your hands. Installing hardscaping along the fence line is another option to consider, depending on your property and your budget. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <h2> <span> Chewing </span> </h2> <p> <span> Now to the issue of keeping your dog from pushing or chewing through a fence. Metal fences are extremely strong and durable, and typically consist of a series of vertical posts and pickets connected with a pair of horizontal rails at the top and bottom. The spaces between the vertical pickets are normally three to four inches wide, but that can vary. Be sure the spaces are too small for your dog’s head to fit through. Another option is a solid barrier fence, or a privacy fence, constructed of wood, vinyl, or a composite material. The solid barrier helps in two ways. First, since the planks touch each other, there are no gaps for a dog to push through. Second, the fence provides a visual barrier to the outside world, which can help deter a dog from barking or trying to escape. </span> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <h2> <span> Escape Artists </span> </h2> <p> <span> Regarding those smarty-pants canines who try to simply open the gate and escape: while we appreciate their good manners, we want to keep them safe too. Consider a dog-proof clip or lock on your gate to keep this furry friend secure. </span> </p> <p> <span> <span>  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <h3> <span> So, what type of fence is best for dogs? Clearly, there are a few ways to answer that question. But, the best fence for your dog (or dogs), will be the fence that reliably keeps your dog inside the yard and keeps other dogs out of your yard. Do you need help choosing the best fence for your dog and your yard? We’d love to help!  </span> <a href="/contact-us"> Contact us </a> <span> <span> today. </span> </span> </h3> </div> Mon, 01 Feb 2021 16:51:51 GMT https://www.visionfencing.com/what-type-of-fence-is-best-for-dogs Fencing Options,Choosing a Fence thumbnail main image https://www.visionfencing.com/what-is-the-best-fence-material Depending on your project details & priorities, the best fence materials will vary. Here, we will review the five best fence materials on the market. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Depending on your project details and priorities, the best fence material for your needs will vary. However, there are a few tried-and-true materials that should make the short list for any fencing project. Here, we will review the five best fence materials on the market and some suggestions for when to consider each. </span> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <h2> <span> Wood </span> </h2> <p> <span> Wood fencing </span> offers a great deal of flexibility for fence color and design, and it is a long-lasting option with proper maintenance. While the up-front cost of a wood fence is typically more budget-friendly than some other materials, there are maintenance costs you may want to consider.  </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Cedar is an extremely popular option for wood privacy fences. With few knots a tight grain, cedar is an attractive material that weathers to a silvery gray. Cedar fences are also naturally resistant to insects and decay. However, the untreated wood is more susceptible to rot in the soil compared to treated wood, so ground posts should be installed into concrete (or use treated wood for the posts). A penetrating sealant will provide long-lasting protection. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Chemically- and pressure-treated wood is popular for all sorts of outdoor structures, from decks to pergolas, and more. It can be an economical choice of fencing material and is a particularly good choice for posts inserted in the ground because the material resists both moisture and insects. Sealing or painting treated wood is recommended to increase longevity. Treated or not, wood planks will eventually warp over time and need to be replaced. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> If a natural aesthetic, privacy, or budget are your top priorities, take a good look at the various wood fence options. If “maintenance-free” is your highest concern, wood may not be the best fence material for you. </span> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <h2> <span> Vinyl </span> </h2> <p> <span> Vinyl fencing material has drastically improved over the years. In the early days, vinyl fences would deteriorate quickly, becoming brittle and sagging. But today’s vinyl fences are strong, durable, and low-maintenance. A higher, or thicker, gauge vinyl will cost more but will offer the most durability. Although vinyl fences cost more up-front than wood fences, there are virtually no maintenance costs. Simply hose it off occasionally to keep it looking fresh. If privacy or low maintenance are your priorities, vinyl will be one of the best fence materials for you to consider. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <h2> <span> Composite </span> <br/> </h2> <p> <span> Composite fencing material is made with a combination of wood fibers and plastic polymers. This option typically comes in at a higher price point than wood or vinyl, and rightly so, as it offers the look of wood with the durability and low maintenance of vinyl. Beware though: the quality of composite fencing material can vary greatly, so be sure to buy from a reputable fencing company. If privacy and low-maintenance are your highest priorities, this may be the best fence material for your project. </span> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <h2> <span> Metal </span> </h2> <p> <span> <span> Metal fences are available in a wide range of price points, depending on the type and style of the metal you choose. At a higher price point, </span> </span> <span> wrought iron fences </span> <span> <span> are extremely strong and durable, and are generally low maintenance. (Scraping and applying rust-inhibiting paint will be required as the fence eventually shows signs of corrosion.) Wrought iron will last for decades, providing not only security, but a stately, traditional look.  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> Steel and aluminum fences offer a similar aesthetic at a lower price point, and remain extremely durable and long-lasting. A </span> </span> <span> steel fence </span> <span> <span> will be low-maintenance, but may still eventually require a rust-inhibiting paint to stop corrosion. </span> </span> <span> Aluminum fencing </span> <span> <span> is not susceptible to water damage, rust, or rot. Regardless of your budget, if strength and durability are a priority, some type of metal fence will be a great option. If privacy is at the top of your list, metal is probably not the best fence material for your project. </span> </span> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <h2> <span> Masonry Fences </span> </h2> <p> <span> Whether constructed of brick, stone, or stucco, masonry fences offer a stately design to a property, not to mention privacy and security. Masonry is also often combined with other fence materials like wood or metal to adjust the design and also reduce the cost of labor and materials. While masonry fences are low maintenance, it is possible for mortar joints to become loose in stone or brick fences over time, requiring repairs to stabilize. If budget is your top priority, this is not the best fence material for you. But if you have the budget, and if security and privacy are your top priorities, consider incorporating masonry into your fencing project. </span> </p> <p> <span> <span>  </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <h3> <span> <span> No matter what fence option you choose, be sure to source your materials from a reputable fence company. Proper installation will also make all the difference in the longevity and reliability of your fence. If you’d like help identifying the best fence materials for your particular project, or for information about our fence installation services, </span> </span> <a href="/contact-us"> contact us </a> <span> <span> today. </span> </span> </h3> </div> Fri, 01 Jan 2021 16:51:51 GMT https://www.visionfencing.com/what-is-the-best-fence-material Fencing Options,Choosing a Fence thumbnail main image https://www.visionfencing.com/which-type-of-fencing-is-best Which types of fencing is best for you depends on what you need it to do. We’ll review the types of fencing best suited for the 3 main “jobs” of a fence. <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Choosing between types of fencing begins with identifying why you are installing a fence. Which type of fence is best for you will depend on what you need it to do. Here, we’ll review the types of fencing best suited for the three main “jobs” of a fence: privacy, security, or containment. </span> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <h2> <span> Best Types of Fencing for Privacy </span> </h2> <p> <span> If your goal is to gain privacy from neighboring yards or to block a street view, consider a wood or vinyl privacy fence. Building a privacy fence from cedar or vinyl with little or no space between boards, or even a closely spaced lattice with climbing plants and foliage, can offer a great deal of privacy and a pleasing addition to your landscape. The height of your privacy fence may be limited by local building codes, so be sure to check those (or use a local Charlotte area fence company like ours, who is already well-versed in local codes).  </span> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <h2> <span> Best Types of Fencing for Security </span> </h2> <p> <span> Different heights and types of fencing can provide varying degrees of security for your property. From pool fences to deer fences and more, when you need a barrier to prevent entry from the outside world, you want a fence with a reliable and lockable gate, a lack of places to grip or climb, and a taller height. Wrought iron and aluminum provide great strength and durability, making these popular types of fencing for security. However, if privacy is part of what makes your property more secure, a wooden or vinyl privacy fence can still be a good option, but be sure to keep flush planks facing out, and any horizontal rails on the inside, making it more difficult to climb. </span> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <h2> <span> Best Types of Fencing for Containment </span> </h2> <p> <span> Perhaps you have pets or small children you need to keep contained in your yard. Dog containment is a very popular reason for installing a fence. Choosing the best type of fence for containing a dog starts with one question: is your dog a jumper or a digger? If you have a smaller dog, or a dog who does not jump, a 3- to 4-foot fence in any material should be adequate. However, if you have a larger dog (or if your small dog can jump high!), consider an option that is 5 feet or higher. If your dog likes to dig, regardless of how tall your fence is, you will want to either include hardscaping along the fence line or bury the fence at least six inches underground. Any type of fence material can be used for containment as long as the fence height and the space between slats is calculated appropriately.  </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> <span>  </span> </span> <br/> </p> <h3> <span> <span> We’ve been helping Charlotte area customers choose and install the best types of fencing for their needs for over 15 years. If you need a fence, </span> </span> <a href="/contact-us"> contact us </a> <span> <span> today. We’d love to help! </span> </span> </h3> </div> Tue, 01 Dec 2020 16:51:51 GMT https://www.visionfencing.com/which-type-of-fencing-is-best Fencing Options,Choosing a Fence thumbnail main image