Pressure washing makes cleaning fences easy. It’s an excellent solution for removing surface dirt and grime, as long as the fence isn’t too dirty or in ill repair. Pressure washing a fence that needs repairs can create further damage.

Settings

When using a pressure washer, a low to medium spray in a fan pattern is best. It will help avoid any potential damage and it will also aid in preventing streaking. The machines can be used on modern materials, along with wood.

There’s no need to blast the fence with all the power available. A psi of 1500 to 2000 is a good setting for fence washing, along with a 25-degree spray tip. Spring and autumn are good times to wash a fence and ready it for the next season.

Safety First

One of the most important things to remember when washing a fence is to ensure there are no people, pets or plants on the opposite side that will be harmed. For safety’s sake, clear loose debris from the fence and work area. Be sure to close any doors or windows to the home. Covering lawn furniture and yard toys is also a good idea.

Washing the Fence

Most individuals simply turn on the pressure washer and begin spraying down their fence. While that can work if the dirt and grime are very light, manufacturers recommend applying a cleansing agent formulated specifically for the fence type.

Work in small sections at a time and work from the bottom up. Applying a detergent to the entire fence before rinsing isn’t a good idea. The soap will dry, harden, and removing it is much more difficult. Let detergent set for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing it off.

For tough dirt and stains that aren’t easily removed, use a rotating scrub brush on the end of the pressure sprayer wand. Individuals can then clean as usual, washing in small sections and rinsing before moving to the next area.

Fencing can be constructed board by board or with pre-made panels. Installing fencing panels reduces the time and work required to complete the task and provides individuals with an aesthetically pleasing fence.

Pre-made fence panels are easily obtained at big box stores, but a better option is to purchase them from a fencing company or lumber company. Some sawmills will also fabricate pre-made panels to an individual’s specifications. It’s a good option for those that want to customize their fence or incorporate some ornamentation.

Even though there are a limited range of variations in appearance in panels, even pre-made panels can add value and appeal to a home. It’s vastly easier to erect a fence with panels than individual boards. Panels are available in multiple heights and individuals can select from multiple types of wood species, though most are manufactured of pine or red cedar.

With pre-manufactured panels, individuals can get straight to the business of preparing the ground and digging the holes for the supports. Individuals won’t need many tools, either. Depending on the area to be fenced, the average person can complete the installation in a weekend or over the course of several weekends.

Disadvantages

For individuals that take a DIY approach, pre-made panels won’t allow for much in the way of a custom look or fit. It there are variations in the landscape such as dips or hills, panels don’t allow for customization to ensure that each panel is the same height.

When purchasing from big box stores, the panels are often joined using staples rather than nails. Those assembled with staples are weaker and more likely to develop problems.

Pre-made fencing panels can be heavy and unwieldy. Installing them can be difficult, particularly if an individual is attempting to perform the task alone. Plan on having at least one other person to help.

Wind, fire, storms and vandals can damage fencing. Whether a homeowner’s policy will cover the cost to repair or replace fencing will depend on the policy and the cause of the damage. Homeowner’s insurance will typically pay for damages, provided it’s included in the policy’s list of covered causes.

Car Crashes and Vandalism

Vehicles running off the road and crashing into fences is far more common than people think. The driver of the vehicle that caused the damage is typically liable for the costs, but the homeowner’s policy will pay for the repairs or replacement. If the offending driver is known, insurance companies will often seek to recover their costs from the offending driver’s insurer. Insurers will also cover damage due to vandalism.

Fires and Storms

If the policy holder’s home, or the neighbor’s, catches on fire and damages the fence, the insurance company will cover the cost. The same is true if the damage is the result of high winds, a hurricane or a tornado. However, be aware that some policies do exclude damage from floods and winds in Florida.

Trees

There are multiple instances when trees can be the cause of damage to a fence. Homeowner’s insurance will pay for repairs or replacement if a limb comes down in a storm or the neighbor cuts a limb and it falls on the fence. However, the claim will be denied if the insurer believes the homeowner was negligent in some way or if the accident could have been prevented or avoided by the homeowner.

Exclusions

Insurance companies have an extensive list of exclusions that may be written into a homeowner’s policy. It’s critical for individuals to understand their coverage. The normal effects of aging or wear and tear on fences isn’t covered. Neither is damage due to termites and other insects, mold and fungi, dings and dents from lawnmowers, or children playing.

Damage sustained from vandalism or a vehicle accident should be reported to the police immediately and homeowners need to take photos of the damage. Both may be required by the insurance company to provide proof of the damage and its extent.

People look forward to erecting their very own fence for privacy, safety, security and curb appeal. What they may not realize is that their neighbor might also has a stake in the fence and it may be considered shared property. It’s just one of the reasons that individuals need to thoroughly explore their community’s laws regarding fences prior to contacting a contractor.

The first thing to establish is exactly where their property line runs. That means the property will have to be surveyed. Some municipalities allow fences to be installed directly on the property line, meaning its shared property.

Other locations have a setback rule, indicating that it has to be installed back away from the property line. That would mean relinquishing up to 12 inches of an individual’s usable lawn space. However, if the fence rests entirely on one side of the property line, it belongs to the person that installed the fence.

Depending on the community, individuals may have to notify their neighbor of their intent to install a fence. If fencing is considered shared property, it’s a good idea to inform the neighbors of pertinent laws, especially since they’ll be equally liable for the structure’s upkeep.

It’s a responsibility and expense a neighbor may not be prepared to shoulder for any number of reasons, particularly since they won’t have any say in what type of fence is being installed. A fence isn’t so much of a problem if it’s just going across the front of a property. For those enclosing their entire yard, they’ll have to notify any neighbor whose property adjoins where the fence will be constructed.

If it’s a shared fence, neighbors will have the right to cut tree branches, trim bushes, and address problems with plants that may be infringing on the structure, as long as it’s on their side of the fence – even if it’s a prized possession of the person who installed the fence.

People place barriers around their balconies and decks, never really thinking about the fact that they’re essentially erecting a fence. It’s a critical safety measure to protect people and pets from injuries. Deck fencing can be designed to provide children and small dogs with an outdoor space to safely play.

Balconies

Individuals typically want a more elegant look for their balconies and aluminum is an excellent choice. The metal can be fashioned into a variety of forms with the same great look as wrought iron and its low maintenance. It can be installed vertically or horizontally and it’s a highly durable, versatile and affordable option. Aluminum is environmentally friendly and available in multiple colors.

A newer trend for balconies is tempered glass using steel framing. Tempered glass is about 4 times stronger than traditional glass, it’s heat and scratch-resistant, and provides UV protection. It also aids in sound reduction. If tempered glass sustains an impact, it doesn’t shatter like ordinary glass – it breaks into tiny granules. Tempered glass is available in multiple styles, designs and patterns.

Decks

The choices are almost unlimited when choosing a barrier for a deck. Fencing ranges from elegant to utilitarian and people are only limited by their imagination. Wood is popular but requires painting, staining, and considerable maintenance. It can be customized in multiple ways, but isn’t as durable as other materials.

For a beautiful deck fence that’s almost maintenance-free, consider a composite material like PVC. Another option is SimTek®, a polyethylene plastic. The materials are gaining traction as barriers on decks. Both are strong, and durable and won’t succumb to mold, rotting or insect predations. The materials are eco-friendly and sustainable. They can be customized in various ways and come in multiple colors.

Aluminum and tempered glass are great for balconies and they’re equally applicable for decks. Both materials can be combined with other materials in a myriad of ways for a show-stopping look.

One of the most overlooked accents is fence lighting. Illuminating your yard can be accomplished through underground wiring, but a quicker and more cost-effective method is solar lighting. The optimal method is to have the lighting included as part of the fence installation. However, you can still enjoy illumination, greater security, and enhanced safety with solar lighting.

Solar Lighting

There are so many different types of solar lighting available, it can be overwhelming. Solar units can be installed on fence caps and hung from brackets from fence posts. They’re offered in a myriad of styles from those that look like coach lights to futuristic designs. Solar lights have the advantage of being an environmentally-friendly choice, can be installed anywhere on any type of fencing, and are extremely low maintenance.

Solar lights add ambiance to outdoor environments. The initial cost will depend on the brand and style of lights chosen, but are less expensive than those that rely on underground wiring. Another advantage is that they work even in a power outage. Solar lights are available in different lumen measurements, depending on how much illumination you desire, and can come equipped with motion sensors. There are even models with rotating colors.

Wired Lighting

Best included in the design plan when the fence is installed, wired lighting is tied into a traditional electrical system and requires the installation of underground wiring. They can be installed with a switch that allows you to turn them on or off as desired.

The disadvantage is that they won’t work if a power outage occurs. Many models are also equipped with motion sensors that turn on and off, even if the lights have been doused. Low-voltage lights are typically utilized as accent lighting for plants and pathways and are equally applicable as fence lighting. You can also use strings of lights – full size or miniatures – as temporary lighting for events and gatherings.

There are multiple reasons that you might decide to install a fence and you’ll have a myriad of styles, colors and materials from which to choose. The first step before contacting a fencing specialist is to identify why you want a fence.

Safety and Security

A fence provides safety for children and pets, protecting them from incursions by human trespassers and a wide variety of unwanted wildlife. Fencing is effective for concealing valuables encompassing lawn care equipment, ATVs, PWCs and motorcycles from burglars.

Privacy

Homes are being constructed even closer together than in the past, inhibiting the ability to enjoy time with family and friends. A fence provides a private space for you to enjoy good times away from the prying eyes of neighbors and passersby.

Set Boundaries

Fencing is a great way to establish property boundaries, but it’s always best to consult with your neighbor first. Depending on local laws, they may be responsible for part of the upkeep costs – an expense for which they might object.

Ornamentation and Curb Appeal

If you’re planning on selling your home, a fence can add significant curb appeal and ornamentation all in a single package. Fences are an attractive attribute for buyers and viewed as a money-saving bonus.

Hiding Eyesores

Everyone partakes of modern conveniences, but those services often come with equipment that’s unappealing to the eye. A fence can hide or camouflage eyesores that include satellite dishes, HVAC units, emergency generators, and electrical boxes. They’re also effective for concealing electrical vehicle charging stations and trash bins.

Complying with HOAs

HOAs can dictate many things and a common rule is keeping “clutter” such as children’s toys and outdoor furniture out of sight. A fence alleviates that concern, but always consult with the HOA to ensure the fence you want conforms to the organization’s guidelines.

Swimming Pools

Pools and spas must be surrounded with an appropriate fence and gate to prevent access by children. Before installing a pool or spa, consult with a fencing specialist to determine what meets safety standards and your aesthetic preferences.

It doesn’t matter whether a fence is being installed for privacy, safety, child or pet containment, or aesthetic reasons, it’s essential that the installation be performed by an experienced company that’s fully licensed, bonded and insured. Locating that company can be difficult and the following are some tips for finding an experienced fencing company.

Research

Anyone looking for a fencing professional will need to perform their due diligence. Some red flags to look for include a company that’s recently changed its name and a poor rating with the Better Business Bureau. Make sure that the company has a physical business address.

Recommendations

Ask family, friends and co-workers that have had a fence installed about the company that did the work. Find out if they were happy with the results. Many companies will place a sign on the fence indicating the name of the business that performed the installation. Alternately, individuals may also consider asking the property owner of a recently erected fence about the company and their experience with the installer.

Quotes

Get quotes from at least three fencing companies. The quotes should include the cost, an itemized list of what the company will do, a timeline for completion, the size of the crew required, and when the work will begin.

Services

A professional fencing company will be aware of the ordinances and regulations governing the installation of a fence. Many locales have specific rules regarding the type, color, materials and height of fences. The company will also be able to pull the necessary permits and contact underground utility lines. Each fencing job is different and the company should send a representative to walk the property to be fenced so an accurate estimate can be provided.

Contracts and Warranties

Don’t engage a fencing company without a contract. It should spell out in detail the scope of the project and the terms of payment. Some companies require a down payment or offers payment plans, while others may require half down and the remainder upon completion. Make sure the company provides a warranty on its work, materials, and how disputes are addressed.

A backyard makeover can give people more space to relax, room for entertaining, or new features to enjoy. No matter what the desired makeover, it begins with a plan. The best option for the project’s ultimate planning and execution is to consult with a professional landscaper.

The other alternative is a software program that enables individuals to choose different features around the specified space to see how they’ll look. Start with a dream landscape and work to narrow down the available choices. Keep the following in mind when planning a backyard makeover.

Budget

Even a small makeover can be expensive and will depend on multiple factors. It’s important for individuals to decide how much they’re willing to invest in the makeover. Always expect the cost to be more than anticipated as the price of materials can fluctuate widely over time.

Purpose

The first step is to ascertain what’s to be accomplished with the makeover. Some want to create a cozy retreat, a place for entertaining, or a kid-friendly environment. Unless individuals are handy or enjoy puttering around the garden, choose low-maintenance options.

Likes and Dislikes

It can be helpful to walk around the area to be rejuvenated. Take stock of what’s liked and disliked, as well as those things that might be salvaged and incorporated into the new design. That may include removing trees, bushes and existing flower beds.

For those that live in locations rich in wildlife, it may be prudent to keep out deer and other unwanted animals with a fence. Individuals may have their heart set on specific plantings, but let reality be a guide. All plants simply don’t grow well in some areas and may need more time and care to survive than individuals have.

Materials

There are dozens of materials with which to create the makeover, from concrete and pavers to synthetic materials. The makeover can include ponds, fountains and waterfalls. Outdoor furnishings will need to be waterproof and depending on the size of the area, will need to be versatile and serve multiple purposes to avoid overcrowding.

Rules

Every neighborhood and community are governed by specific rules as to what’s allowable, what’s not, and will require specific permits for the work. That’s where the services of a professional are beyond compare. They’ll know the prevailing rules and be able to pull the necessary permits.

You may want to replace your fence for any number of reasons. You may simply want to update the appearance or it may not be functional for your current needs. However, there are signs that indicate your fence actually needs to be replaced and the signs are easy to spot, depending upon the material with which its constructed.

Cost

It can be more cost effective to replace an entire fence that’s been installed for several years rather than trying to hold it together any longer. You don’t want to invest any substantial amount of money into a fence that will only last a couple of more years before it must be replaced anyway.

Damage

Chipping, cracking and splitting – or missing boards of wooden fencing – is a sure sign the fence needs to be replaced. It’s an easy matter to replace a single board, but when entire sections are missing boards, it’s unsightly. Non-wooden fencing can experience damage in the form of chipping, cracking and splitting that’s unpleasant to view and comprises the integrity of the structure.

Leaning

A leaning fence is a sign that its lost structural strength. If a single section is leaning, it can often be repaired or replaced. If there’s a generalized leaning along the entire fence, it’s time to be replaced.

Loose & Missing Hardware

Fences use metal fasteners that can encompass nails to screws to hold all the pieces together. Over time, the hardware can rust or loosen due to wind, rain and salt spray. You have a choice of replacing the entire fence or making repairs, depending on the age of the fence. The fence may sustain further damage by trying to repair it.

Rotting

Rot is a common problem in areas of high humidity and rainfall. Florida residents have the additional concerns of hurricanes that result in storm surges and high winds that can exacerbate any existing problems. Signs of rot will appear on fencing where it’s closest to the ground and while preservatives can help, eventually a full-blown case of rot will set in.