Don’t DIY: Advice From Fence Companies in Dallas

Fence companies in DallasSome home repairs can be done by anyone with a simple YouTube tutorial or advice from the guys at the local hardware store. Trimming bushes and unclogging a drain fall into this category and can be completed by most anyone without much trouble. However, when it comes to outdoor fencing, it is best left to the professionals. All the fence companies in Dallas will tell you the same thing: don’t DIY!

The DIY Generation
We are living in a DIY generation, where everyone thinks they can do anything with a few instructions and the proper materials. Thanks to sites like Pinterest and an entire TV channel dedicated to do it yourself projects, everyone thinks they are a professional. While some of the people giving advice and instruction via these sources are professionals, most are not.

What most people don’t see (or research) is how often DIY projects go wrong. It is more common for a DIY project to fail than succeed, and professionals are called in after the fact. That is why all the fence companies in Dallas agree on one thing: people can save money, time and disaster by calling a professional first.

There are some things about building and repairing fences that only professionals know:

  • Some saws or tools work better than others

  • Not all wood stains are created equal

  • Certain paints don’t work with certain wood grains

  • Vinyl fencing isn’t as easy to install as people think

  • The guys at Home Depot don’t always know best

  • Some fence materials handle weather better than others

The list goes on and on. The problem with DIY tutorials is that the person who created the video likely isn’t living in the same area. Someone in Minnesota will likely use different materials than someone in Texas. To get a fence that lasts, it’s best to call a fence company in your particular area.

Save Some Time
Most people are pressed for time. A fence repair or installation may seem like it will only take a few hours or an entire Saturday. However, most people who turn a fence project into a DIY project quickly learn it takes much more time than anticipated.

That is why fencing companies suggest hiring them. They know how time-consuming a new fence install can be, and they can send in as many professionals as necessary to get the job done quickly.

Save Some Money
Most people choose DIY projects because they save money. However, if you don’t already have paintbrushes and rollers, a paint pan, a sander, saw, nail gun, stain, paint or other materials on hand, hiring a professional is actually much cheaper. The reason fence companies in Dallas can afford to give customers a great deal is because they already have all these tools on hand. Don’t delay on calling the professional until it is too late!  Call DFW Fence Doctor today for any repair needs or if you are wanting a new fence or outdoor area such as an arbor installed. We’ll come out and meet with you. Call us today at 469-425-2515 or visit us online at https://www.dfwfencedoctor.com.

Fence companies in Dallas
DFW Fence Doctor
5808 Goliad Ave.
Dallas, Texas 75206
469-425-2515

Photo Credit: @DepositPhotos/ r o b e r t s r o b

Dallas Fence Company: Three Types of Outdoor Decks Offered by Us

Dallas fence companyAs the weather gets warmer, thoughts turn to pool parties and barbecues and a new deck from a Dallas fence company can make the most of your outdoor entertaining. The type of patio deck that’s best for you depends on your budget, maintenance considerations and the physical appearance of the material. A cedar deck is one of the most attractive outdoor decks for lounging and summer parties, but it will require staining to protect it and keep it looking good. Wood and plastic composite decks and pressure-treated wood are other popular choices. Consider the pros and cons of each deck and discuss them with a rep from a Dallas fence company.

Cedar Decks

Cedar wood and all wood decks have a warm, natural look and a pleasant smell. They need to be stained to preserve and protect the wood, so this isn’t a good choice if you want an “install it and forget it” deck. The red part of a cedar deck, the “heartwood” resists rot. Cedar doesn’t absorb moisture and lies flat without warping or twisting. Properly installed cedar boards last about 15-20 years. You’ll need to stain and reseal the deck every year or so, according to instructions from the Dallas fence company that installed the deck. Cedar decks fade quickly, so staining and sealing is essential to retain their beauty. Cedar decks in Dallas are moderately-priced and can be custom-designed to your specifications.

Composite Decks

Composite wood and recycled plastic decks require little maintenance, except for sweeping and an occasional washing with a garden hose. You can even stain a composite deck four to six months after installation. Composites won’t splinter or rot like wood; they’re termite-resistant and the surface won’t fade or discolor due to rain or other weather conditions. They’re more expensive than cedar wood decks, but they don’t look as attractive and feel cold when you walk on them barefoot. Composites are better for ground-level decks that come in contact with the soil. Wood decks may sustain damage or attract insects if placed too low to the ground.

Pressure-Treated Wood

Long-lasting pressure-treated wood has the beauty of cedar with a layer of protection to ward off insects and damage from the elements. Ask your Dallas fence company contractor about types of treated lumber. Wood should be treated with arsenic-free ACQ, Copper Azole or Borates. Choose premium pressure-treated wood boards with straight grain and fewer knots, as they are less prone to warp than generic pressure-treated boards.

DFW Fence Doctor, a Dallas fence company offers deck installation, repair and staining. We’ll help you choose the right material for your deck and custom design it to match your home and lifestyle. Call us today at 469-425-2515 for more information about preparing your outdoor living space for summer fun.

Dallas fence company
DFW Fence Doctor
5808 Goliad Ave.
Dallas, Texas 75206
469-425-2515

Credit: Deposit Photos/© tab62

Protect Cedar Fences With Staining From A Dallas Fence Company TX

Dallas Fence Company TX | Dallas, TexasCedar fences are well worth the extra cost for their beauty and style. Quality red cedar boards are used to build side by side or board on board fences designed for complete privacy. If preventing outsiders from snooping on your property is important to you, cedar fences are a perfect. Wood fences last up to 25 years provided they are stained by a Dallas Fence Company TX every few years. They can become discolored or develop black streaks if they remain unstained

Why Black Marks Form on Cedar Fences

The most common stains on cedar fences are caused by mildew and mold. Wet, rainy weather and other environmental factors eventually fade and discolor cedar, leaving black streaks on the wood.  A yard with a grass lawn and lots of plants will be a magnet for mildew while a fenced-in space with no plants and a concrete walk will not cause as much mildew or mold to form. When a Dallas Fence Company TX installs your cedar fence, ask about the best ways to control mold and mildew from forming on the wood.

Tannins, astringent compounds found in plants, also leave black marks on cedar. They leak from wood and any metal or iron that comes in contact with the wood will leave black streaks. This includes nails, saw blades and hammers. Dark wood contains more tannins than light-colored wood, so deep red cedar will have darker stains.

Sap occasionally oozes to wood’s surface, leaving a sticky black mark. When cedar is cut at the sawmill, oil from machines may drop onto wood.  Remove oil and sap stains with paint thinner.

If you have an older fence or live in an area prone to extreme weather, cedar discoloration may occur naturally. Burns from fireworks, candles or matches are another cause of black marks on cedar.

If your fences have any of discoloration or fading due to the reasons listed above, or if you just want to liven up the color of your fence, a Dallas fence company TX can do the job and have your yard looking brand new for the spring.

At DFW Fence Doctors Dallas fence company TX, we clean, dry and apply oil-based stain to cedar fences.  A properly-stained fence lasts longer and withstands wet weather and the aging process much better than unprotected wood.  Call us at 469-425-2515 for a free quote on staining your fence (or installing a new one). The professionals at Fence Doctors are here to help extend the life of your Western Cedar fence.

dallas fence company tx
DFW Fence Doctor
5808 Goliad Ave.
Dallas, Texas 75206
469-425-2515

Credit: Deposit Photos/© SRphotos