• Summer Fence Maintenance Tips

    As temperatures soar and humidity rises, it’s a good time to give your fence a once over. Whether a fence is wooden, wrought iron, or chain link, summer can take a toll on it. It’s better to keep a close eye and be proactive, so that you don’t have to make extensive- and expensive- repairs later. What’s more, attending to your fence maintenance during the summer months is a great way to make sure it’s ready to face the winter weather. Walking the whole length of the fence, inspect it for damage, taking care to do these tasks:

    • Begin by making sure it’s clean. Often, dirt is tossed up onto the fence by the lawnmower, family pet, or even your children. This can cause a build-up that’s detrimental to the fence, so the first thing to do is to remove it. Check the fence for other elements that could potentially damage it, like mildew, insects, or rot. If you can catch these things early, you can keep them from causing irreversible harm. While you’re at it, pull up any weeds or vines that may be encroaching on your fence and threatening its structural integrity.
    • Go a little deeper with your cleaning. You may be able to rinse off dirt and grime with a garden hose, or you might need a pressure washer to get into hard to reach areas, but giving your fence a good cleaning allows you to see potential issues more clearly.
    • Take a look above your fence. Do any tree branches hang over it? A summer storm can knock down those limbs, so it’s better to prune them back before they fall and damage the fence. Notice branches over your neighbor’s yard as well, to avoid any potential drama that can be avoided by keeping your trees trimmed.
    • Go beyond the obvious to take a closer look. Are there any parts of your fence that seem warped or broken? If your fence is wooden, does it need to be sealed? If it’s wrought iron, do you notice any rust around the welded joints? How are your hinges and latches? Is everything secure? Take the time to examine the entire fence closely, so that you can make any necessary repairs before the damage becomes extensive.

     

    Regular maintenance can extend a fence’s lifespan, but when it’s time to replace your fence you can trust A-1 Fence to install it and stand behind our work. We’re a locally owned and operated company with more than 40 years of experience, committed to providing fast and efficient work with a personalized feel. We’re fully licensed, bonded, and insured, and are proud of our reputation for quality work. For more information or a free estimate, contact us through our website or call 408-824-1693.

  • Inspecting Your Fence

    In the summer, most homeowners take time to inspect their property. You might be checking your grass, landscaping, and garden to make sure you’ve done any necessary maintenance. But are you remembering your fence? Don’t neglect the fence, but look at the following elements.

    • Examine the gates. Because they’re the only moveable parts of your fence, gates tend to get the most wear and tear. Open and close gates to see whether they latch correctly. If not, the gate may not be squarely attached to the post. You may be able to fix this by tightening the screws or nails or by re-adjusting the tension on a self-closing gate. If that’s not the problem, the hinges may be damaged. If they’re bent, try to unbend them by hitting them with a hammer. Cracked hinges should be replaced. Check to see if the post is out of alignment or if a misaligned latch needs to be tightened.
    • Inspect the posts. Look to see that the posts are securely attached to the ground and give them a light push to check for movement. Make sure there’s no rotten wood at the bottom of the posts and check for damage from lawnmowers or other yard equipment. If your posts are in concrete, inspect the concrete for cracks, and if they have aluminum caps check them for chips or scratches. Check any vinyl caps to make sure they’re securely attached.
    • Check the panels and boards. Check the vertical boards for warping, insects, rotting, and landscaping damage, being aware that wood sometimes has naturally occurring knots, cracks, and warping that don’t affect its structural integrity. Clean the fence, pound any loose nails back into place, and replace individual damaged boards.
    • If you have an aluminum fence, there’s not as much to check. Push on the sections to see if you hear any rattling of loose screws. Tighten loose screws, replacing them if they are stripped. Look for landscaping damage to the bottom of the pickets, repairing minor damage if possible. Look for signs of rust, so that you can catch it early enough to repair it easily.
    • Vinyl fences require very little maintenance. If there’s landscaping damage, you may want to replace that section. Clean your fence with soap and water at least every 24 months.
    • Inspect individual links on a chain link fence. If any are bent or snagged, you may be able to reweave the links or straighten them with pliers. If a top rail is bowed, you can probably fix it by rolling the top rail and retying.

    When it’s time for a new fence, you can trust A-1 Fence to install it and stand behind our work. We’re a locally owned and operated company with more than 40 years of experience, committed to providing fast and efficient work with a personalized feel. We’re fully licensed, bonded, insured, and proud of our reputation for quality work. For a free estimate, contact us or call 408-824-1693.

  • Factors to Consider When Deciding Whether to Repair or Replace Your Fence

    Repair or Replace your Fence in San Jose, CA

    Although many types of fencing are designed to last, issues such as weather, accidents, and age may impact the appearance or function of these structures. If you’re planning to repair or replace your fence, then consider the following factors to help determine which option is right for you!

    Your Local Jurisdiction

    Among the first things you should do when considering whether to repair or replace your fence is to check your area’s zoning laws. Not taking this step is among the most common errors that homeowners make when they opt to replace their old fencing, sometimes leaving them with hefty fees to pay. For example, even if you intend to replace your fence with one that is identical in size and material, you may still require a permit for the project. If you’re a member of a homeowner’s association, then investigate its requirements for fencing, as well. Taking these steps can help you decide whether repair or replacement is your best option.

    Your Fencing Issues

    Establishing the extent of the problems affecting your fence is important for determining whether repair or replacement is the most practical option. If fencing has suffered damage due to an accident, then only a panel or so may be affected, which would make repair a smart choice. However, if your fencing is aging and showing signs of rot, warping, or cracking throughout the structure, then replacement may be your best bet.

    Your Personal Preferences

    Lastly, if you’re still on the fence about repair or replacement, then consider how happy you’ve been with the structure’s performance. Does it provide you with the amount of privacy that you want? Would you prefer something in a different style or color? If you’re less than satisfied with the overall look or function of your fence, then now may be a good time to invest in something better suited to your needs.

    Whether you need to repair a few fence panels or replace your existing fencing in San Jose , let the experts at A-1 Fence Inc. help. To receive your free estimate, contact us today at (408) 259-2955.

  • Mistakes to Avoid When It Comes to Maintaining Your Fence

    Fence Maintenance Checklist by A-1 Fence Inc

    A properly maintained fence can stand the test of time and continue to add to your curb appeal, but there are a couple of common mistakes that people make. Knowing your maintenance requirements, staying on top of repairs, and setting up a maintenance plan are important for keeping your fence in great shape. Here’s a closer look at the maintenance mistakes to avoid.

    Not Knowing the Requirements

    Unless you obsessively take care of your fences, it’s impossible to tell if you’re giving your fence enough maintenance without knowing what it needs. It’s not always easy to make time in your schedule to maintain your fence. If this is the case for you, then you might want to choose fencing material that doesn’t need too much attention . Iron fences are known for their durability and low maintenance requirements, but you should understand what it takes to maintain your fence no matter what material you choose.

    Postponing Repairs

    Fencing problems will never take care of themselves, which means it’s your job to make the call to have your fence repaired when necessary. If you wait too long to have your fence repaired, the problem will only become more severe, and the necessary repairs will be more extensive and involved. It’s best to take care of these issues sooner rather than later, so you don’t forget about them and let them develop.

    Not Having a Maintenance Plan

    Life tends to be easier when you stick to a plan. When it comes to your fences, you should have some idea of when to give them some attention. You can also work with your fencing professionals and enlist their services to make sure you don’t wait too long to maintain your fences. Driveway, dog, and pool fences all need maintenance, and a plan can help.

    If you’re looking for a pool fence near San Jose that’s easy to maintain, contact the professionals at A-1 Fence Inc. Fencing is our specialty, and our cast iron fences and gates are easy to take care of. Give us a call at (408) 259-2955 or take a look at our website and our services.

  • Reasons to Regularly Inspect Your Fencing for Damage

    Reasons to Inspect your Fence for Damage by A-1 Fence Inc

    Your fence is meant to deter home invaders, protect your family, and add to your house’s appeal. However, your fence is only as good as your regular inspections. Read on to see why it is so important to inspect your fence for damage .

    A damaged fence invites criminals.

    If your fence or gate looks worn or broken, then potential criminals see an opportunity to invade your home or damage your property. Unrepaired fences are a visual message to the world that you are unconcerned with the protection of your family and property. Whether the message is true or not, criminals see broken or badly maintained fences as an invitation to inspect your property and home for other weaknesses.

    A damaged fence risks injuries.

    When your security or pool fence—likely used to keep your children and pets in the boundaries of your property—is damaged, then you risk injuries to your family. Your children or pets may locate a weakness and sneak out of your yard. Possible intruders and wildlife may find that weakness and use it to enter your yard and attack your vulnerable children or pets. It is crucial to the continued safety of your family that you regularly inspect your fence for damages.

    A damaged fence looks unattractive.

    If you are concerned about your property’s resale value or you have a homeowners’ association, commonly known as HOA, then you should regularly inspect your fence. Many HOAs have strict rules governing the condition of front yards, which will include your fence. If you plan on selling your home, then fence repairs are crucial to maintain or increase your resale value. Prospective buyers are likely to look at other houses, if your house’s first impression is broken down or worn.

    Don’t let your damaged fence design in San Jose cause an accident on your property. Work with the experts at A-1 Fence, Inc. to repair or replace damaged sections of your fence. To schedule your appointment, call us today at (408) 259-2955.

  • Repairing Rusted Wrought Iron

    Wrought iron is durable and attractive, but must be maintained regularly to keep it from developing rust. If you have rusted wrought iron in San Jose that needs to be repaired, call A-1 Fence Inc. for a free fence repair estimate. Our team has over 40 years of experience with fence repair, installation, and maintenance. For more information on how to repair rusted wrought iron, watch this video clip.

    Rust can completely destroy a wrought iron fence. To repair rust, we will first remove your wrought iron fence. Then we will replace the rusted portions of the fence and treat them with anti-rust finishing. We will clean your fence as well to make it look brand new.

  • Growing Shrubs Against Your Chain Link Fence

    When you install a chain link fence on your property, you will enjoy economical and long-lasting protection for your property. To boost the beauty and style of your chain link fence, you may want to adorn your fence with shrubs and landscaping. There are several different plants that can be used to cover chain link or cast iron fences. For example, a ficus hedge can be planted along a fence. As the ficus grows, you can train it to travel along the surface of the fence. A contractor offering fence designs in San Jose can help you choose the perfect landscaping to accompany your new chain link fence. To learn more about growing shrubs along your fence, be sure to check out this video from ehowgarden.

  • Tips for Painting Your Chain Link Fence

    If your property is in need of additional privacy and security, you may want to consider a chain link fence installation. While a chain link fence is a highly functional choice for your yard, this fence style is not as ornamental as a wrought iron or wooden fence. To boost the style and character of your chain link fence, you may want to paint your new fence after it is installed. A contractor specializing in fencing in San Jose can provide you with the ideas and equipment needed to apply a fresh coat of paint to your fence. Read on for some handy tips for painting a chain link fence. Painting Your Chain Link Fence San Jose

    Prepare the Area
    Since a chain link fence does not have a solid, flat surface, your paint may drip as it is applied. To prevent spilling paint on your grass or yard, it is important to prepare the area beneath the fence before you start painting. For example, you can lay down drop cloths or tarps to catch any paint drips that occur as you are painting.

    Choose Your Painting Equipment
    You will have a couple of different options when you are choosing your painting equipment for your chain link fence painting project . For example, a heavy nap roller can be used to paint large sections of your fence. Since this equipment is powered by hand, it can take more time to paint large fence areas. To speed up your painting, you may want to choose a paint spray gun.

    Touch Up With a Brush
    Whether you use a heavy nap roller or a paint spray gun to paint your chain link fence, there is a good chance that you will miss small sections as you are painting. To ensure that your chain link fence has a polished and professional look after you are finished, it is a great idea to perform a final touch up using a small paint brush.

  • Preventing Grass and Weeds Under Your Chain Link Fence

    Tips for Preventing Grass and Weeds Under Your Chain Link Fence Chain link fencing offers a functional solution for homeowners or businesses looking to define property lines and secure yard space. The open weave in chain link fences gives a transparent appearance, which means there is no obstruction of sunlight from either side of the fence. However, chain link fences do add to your regular lawn maintenance routine. Because lawnmowers and weed-eaters cannot reach grass and weeds under a chain link fence, you need to prevent grass and weeds from growing under your chain link fence in the first place. To keep your fence line from looking messy and unkempt, here are some tips for preventing grass and weeds under your chain link fence.

    Trench the Fence Line

    For starters, mark a line at least six inches into the yard from the fence line using stakes and string. The string marks the edge of the area you will trench and mulch. Dig straight down a few inches deep along the string line with a sharp garden spade. Remove grass and weeds with the spade, using caution not to bend the bottom edge of the chain-link fence.

    Spray Herbicide on Remaining Grass

    If your San Jose chain link fence was installed over existing grass or weeds that you cannot remove with the spade, spray a premixed glyphosate herbicide to the grass or weeds under the chain link fence. This will ensure that the grass and weeds die before you cover the area with landscape fabric.

    Cover with Landscape Fabric

    Fill in the trench with mulch or small rocks and cover with landscape fabric. Press landscape staples about a foot apart through the edges of the fabric to hold it in place and cover with mulch or small rocks, such as pea gravel. Spread the material evenly over the fabric using your hands to avoid pulling up the staples.

    Click here to learn more about chain link fencing and to learn about our solutions to your fence issues, have a look at our fencing services page.  We offer fence maintenance, repairs, and ornamental iron fencing that could address your concerns with grass beneath your fence.  Or give us a call today at 408-259-2955!