When installing a high tensile fence, posts are usually made out of pressure treated wood. High tensile fencing is normally used on farms to keep cattle in fields or deer out.
Have You Heard Of Pre-Manufactured Deck Railing?
December 5th, 2009 by
What many people don’t realize is that those wonderful decks their friends and family have weren’t installed by a professional.
Top 10 Materials for Fencing
December 5th, 2009 by
Good fences make good neighbors. But what makes a good fence? Fencing options range from the traditional stone or wood to the ultra-modern glass or bamboo. Which option is right for your fencing needs?
- Metal. From ornamental wrought iron fences to chain link meant for security, metal fences are everywhere, and in many different forms. Wrought iron is a more expensive option, but it is also one of the strongest fences on the market.
- Wood. Fences made of wood are durable, affordable, and make a lovely natural addition to a landscape. There are numerous varieties of wood to choose from. Tip: treated wood typically lasts longer than untreated boards.
- Stone. Stone fences have an old-world charm. Created with mortar, they can last for decades with very little maintenance. The traditional style without mortar requires more labor. The durability of stone is evident by the ancient fences still standing around the world.
- Vinyl. Vinyl fences make for quick installation and low maintenance. Though vinyl fences can seem quite affordable, keep in mind that you get what you pay for–some of the cheaper vinyl fences can look like flimsy plastic, so it pays to pay a bit more.
- Composite. Fencing that is meant to look like wood but is much more durable? That’s a composite fence. Composite fencing comes in a wide array of colors and is usually very easy to install.
- Bamboo. An environmentally-friendly option, bamboo is a sustainable resource that makes for a very unique look in fencing. An added bonus: bamboo can bend in high winds, which can prevent fence damage.
- Concrete. Available in many different colors and styles, concrete is a great option for areas that are prone to fires or flooding. Concrete fencing is extremely low maintenance.
- Aluminum. Very strong and lightweight, aluminum fencing lends itself to an enormous range of design ideas. The only caveat: scratches can easily turn to rust problems, so the fence must be inspected regularly.
- Glass. Reinforced glass is a modern option that gives landscaping a sleek, fuss-free look. The bonus: glass fences provide unobstructed views.
- Premade Panels. Fencing panels are made in a factory, shipped to your home, and installed by connecting them to fenceposts. No matter what materials make up the fence, installation is usually easy and quick.
A fence isn’t just about function — it’s about form as well. The fence you choose for your home can be seen by everyone who passes by, so make certain it is a reflection of your tastes and style.
About the Author: Shannon Dauphin is a freelance writer based near Nashville, Tennessee. Her house was built in 1901, so home repair and renovation have become her hobbies.
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Top 10 Materials for Fencing
8 Easy Steps to Refinishing Your Wooden Deck
December 5th, 2009 by
Does your wooden deck need refinishing? There is an easy way to tell: sprinkle a few drops of water on your deck. If the drops bead on the surface, your deck is fine. If they sink into the wood, it’s time for new finish.
These eight tips can show you how to refinish your wooden deck quickly and easily.
- Start with a clean deck. A pressure-washer can remove all the debris from your deck, even the stubborn dirt in those tight corners. For smaller jobs, use a stiff bristle brush and a good commercial cleaner.
- Protect the plants. To protect the grass and plants around your deck, douse them generously with water before you work with any chemicals. When you’re done with the job, don’t forget to rinse the plants and grass thoroughly to remove any chemical residue that might have landed on the foliage.
- Remove the old stain. To make this job easier, consider using a chemical stripper. It tends to work better than power washing on the areas where the old deck stain is harder to remove, such as on railings and in corners.
- Replace warped or discolored boards. Remove any problem boards and replace them with new ones. Check for protruding nails and hammer them down. If rough spots exist on the boards, sand them. Make certain your deck is clean and dry before proceeding to the next step.
- Consider your method. You can apply some stains with a paint roller, but smaller areas may need the help of a paintbrush. Another option is a sprayer, which should transfer the stain quickly and evenly, even in hard-to-reach areas.
- Choose and apply the finish. Remember that clear or tinted products should last about a year before they have to be replaced, while solid and semitransparent stains can last for two to four years.
- Apply more than one coat. One coat of finish is usually not enough. Keep in mind that you may have to allow drying time between coats, so it could take a week before the deck is completely refinished.
- Be patient. Your finish should dry thoroughly before you touch it or walk on it. Once the stain is set, you won’t have to worry about refinishing your desk for at least another year.
Refinishing your wooden deck is a necessity to keep it looking nice, and especially important to avoid splinters and cracked wood. The nicer your deck looks and feels on your feet, the more likely you are to spend time on it and enjoy the fresh outside air.
About the author: Shannon Dauphin is a freelance writer based near Nashville, Tennessee. Her house was built in 1901, so home repair and renovation have become her hobbies.
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8 Easy Steps to Refinishing Your Wooden Deck