Keller Fence Installation: Tips and Tricks

Tired of seeing that strip of paint tearing further and further down your fence? Does your dog keep escaping under the raised part of your fence you’ve been meaning to fix? It’s time to stop looking at your fence and being reminded of repairs you’ve been putting off on the weekends. Don’t spend hours trying to match paint for your fence replacement or lining up post lines for a fence installation in Keller, TX. A Keller Handyman is here to make your fence repair and installation problems disappear.

Fences aren't always created equal; that's evident in the various neighborhoods of Keller, TX. Some have peeling paint and aren't straight or are missing boards. The installation process and ongoing maintenance can play a big part in the appearance of your fence. Mr. Handyman of Keller, Roanoke, and Alliance is here to make your fence pristine and the envy of the block. Whether it be repairs or fence installations in Keller, TX, we're here to help with our attentive service.

What Are the Different Parts of a Fence?

Properly identifying the different parts of your fence is the first step in fence installation and repair. Fences surprisingly have more parts to them than you might think. Different styles also have different parts.

• Fence Posts: Also known as columns, these are the vertical parts that hold the entire structure up. They are usually buried several feet in the ground and reinforced with concrete to brace against the wind.
• Rails: These are attached to the posts horizontally, running parallel to the ground, and are typically on the back of the structure to give the structure sturdy integrity. Different lengths may require different rail locations.
• Pickets or Slats: These pieces are attached to the rails and can be horizontal or vertical boards. They form the frontmost visible part of the structure and are the main part of the fence.
• Gate: A portion of the structure that swings open to allow entry or exit. Sometimes there isn't an actual gate, just an archway or gap in the structure. Gates are useful for divides between front, public accessible lawns compared to backyard fenced-off parts of the lawn. The more secure the gate, the harder it is for trespassers to wander into your yard.

What Materials Can Be Used?

There are a wide variety of materials available to choose from for your Keller fence installation. The main factors include: how long you want it to last before replacements are needed (quality materials), how the different styles impact the aesthetics of your home, and ultimately, how much you're looking to spend. While we're sure, you don't want to spend a ton on your fence, investing more can lead to less work needed for repairs and maintenance down the road, saving you money and improving your property value. Each material has its own pros and cons and comes down to your preferences on the fence type. Our expert staff can provide estimates for installation and different design options for each fence style.

Wood Fence:

A classic, timeless material that has been used for ages and is a popular option among property owners to this day. This natural material is environmentally friendly if you choose domestically grown timber or reclaimed wood and is an affordable option. However, wood fencing is susceptible to rotting and paint peeling off, making this material require more maintenance than other material options. A wooden fence may need to be replaced every 10 to 15 years in Keller, depending on the type of wood, how well it's maintained and cleaned, and how bad the weather has been.

Chain-Link Fence:

While commonly found in parks and school grounds, the classic chain-link fence can be used in residential fencing services as well. This material is the most functional and inexpensive option; however, it struggles in the appearance and privacy category. A chain-link fence may not be the best for keeping small animals or trespassers off your property. These types of fences do last for a long time since extreme weather conditions don't have a strong effect on them, and they require little to no maintenance.

Aluminum Fence:

This sturdy material is relatively inexpensive but also durable. It comes in a wide variety of different colors and styles but isn't one of the best choices for privacy or security. The aluminum materials are usually made from recycled material, making them a more environmentally friendly option. Aluminum fencing requires low maintenance.

Wrought Iron Fence:

A classy, elegant style of blocking off your property. Wrought iron is extremely durable and long-lasting compared to other options. A drawback is the high installation costs associated with this material. However, with proper care, these fences can still look great a century after they're built, making sure you don't have to worry about replacement ever. With these quality fence products, the only maintenance required is the addition of rust-resistant paint every few years to stop rust build-up.

Vinyl Fence (PVC):

Vinyl fencing options require less maintenance than wood and are offered in a wide range of styles, not limited to options that mimic the look of wood. These options won’t peel over time and only need an occasional blast from the hose to keep them clean. A few drawbacks of this material are its higher cost and that it is prone to warping or fading in extreme weather due to its plastic composition. That plastic composition also makes it less environmentally friendly.

Types and Styles of Gates available for Fence Installation in Keller, TX

Gates are great tools for making your blocked-off areas enterable. Both front lawn and back lawn fences could benefit from a secure way to quickly enter your enclosed area. Sometimes, breaks in the fence are left as a gate. However, these aren't very secure and defeat the benefits of fencing. You can retroactively add a gate to your fence, but we suggest preemptively adding it to your Keller fence installation.

Some common styles you can choose from include:

• Single-door or double-door options are the standards for gating off a walkway or path.
• Swing gates are typically placed across a driveway to prevent vehicle access.
• Cantilever gates that slide open are perfect for limited spaces such as narrow streets.
• Rolling gates use a track and wheel system embedded on the base.

Choosing the proper style of the gate will save you headaches down the road. For example, a swing door may eventually be blocked by a parked car, making it impossible to enter your backyard. When in doubt, an expert with years of experience with Keller fence gate installations can give you their expert advice on the project and help you have an excellent experience.

Signs You Need a New Fence Installation or Replacement

Many people avoid touching their fence as long as it's still standing. This leads to chipped paint and broken boards. Once the boards start to lose their structural integrity, it loses their ability to perform their job. A floppy fence or one with boards missing won't keep your young ones or pets in or trespassers out. We recommend performing a walk around the entire structure for the following signs of a fence in need of repair:

• Cracked or broken timber/wood
• Wood rot
• Weathered, gray, splintered wood
• Peeling, flaking paint, or wood stain
• Rust stains and other signs of corrosion
• Sagging, unstable posts that move when you touch them
• Bent, warped, or loose chain link panels
• Contact with the ground (posts are the only part that should be touching the soil)
• Vinyl faded by sun exposure
• Squeaking or broken hinges and latches
• Gates that are difficult to open and close

If you've noticed any of these warning signs or your recently constructed project violates Keller bylaws or building codes, it's a good sign that you need Keller fence installation or replacement services. A fence can make or break the exterior of a home, and fines can be costly for encroaching on city property or passing height limits. Have an experienced handyman complete the installation or replacement and meet regulations for you, giving you peace of mind.

Should I Get Service for Fence Installation in Keller, TX, or Just Repairs?

Once you've identified these issues with your fence, your next question will most likely be, is this a repair, or does it need to be re-done? The answer mostly depends on the extent of the damage. Sometimes only repairs are needed when it's only losing visual appearance or if one slat is misaligned.

Here are some general guidelines for situations warranting replacement for a large stretch or the entire structure:

• More than about 25% of the whole structure has been damaged by factors such as harsh weather, neglect, or just normal wear and tear.
• It was hit by a falling tree branch or a vehicle and has suffered extensive damage.
• It is infested by termites, carpenter ants, or other destructive pests.
• You want a new style that will enhance your curb appeal and add property value.

If any of these apply to you or you have some additional considerations that may be important, we recommend you get in contact with our expert staff here at Mr. Handyman of Keller, Roanoke, and Alliance.

Fence Installation Keller, TX Tips

Once you've chosen your preferred material, the next step is your Keller fence installation. While this process may seem simple on paper, This installation project can be more of a challenge than you would think, even for an experienced home DIYer. Running into issues with bylaw violations, improperly installed bases, and miscalculating the materials needed can all be unpleasant experiences. Luckily, we've compiled some tips based on our Keller fence installation experience to help turn your project into a wonderful experience.

Inspect Your Land

Before starting your Keller fence installation, it's important to contact a local land surveyor to survey your land for any special circumstances that might impact your ability to install a structure. Property lines are often forgotten over time, and It's vital to keep your structure within your property boundary lines to avoid any problems with the neighbors or fines from the city. A property survey can solve this problem.

Once you've confirmed your property line, we suggest checking your land for any inclines or declines you may need to deal with when constructing the project. Small hills require special types of construction. Racking may be optional for small inclines; however, stair-stepping is required for any continuous steep slopes.

Calling for property information before you dig will protect you from breaking any sewer lines or utility lines under your lawn too. You can call utility companies directly to have them come to survey your property for anything hidden under the surface. Taking these precautions will help you avoid damaging any buried pipes or lines, resulting in additional costs, and can prevent personal injury to yourself or anyone else.

Do your research BEFORE Starting.

Unless you like to "do first, deal with consequences later," we recommend making sure you've done all your research on Home Owners' Association and city bylaws and building codes to make sure you're complying with the regulations. Depending on where you live, you may have different bylaws and may require a special building permit. Doing your research can ensure you're within compliance with any municipal rules and that you know the exact allowable fence height.

Mark Your Fence Layout

Unless you like redoing parts that don’t align or aren’t straight, it’s important to mark and plan out your layout. Marking your proposed layout with stakes and lines will help you visualize your custom fencing structure and identify any issues or obstacles before starting. Once you have your outline down, you can begin calculating how many parts you’ll need to complete the project to minimize trips for more materials.

Call a Local Keller Fence Installation Professional

If this guide feels overwhelming or you don't know how to start your Keller fence installation, Mr. Handyman of Keller, Roanoke, and Alliance is here to help with our exceptional customer service. With years of experience, our experts are ready to make you love your property again. With a service warranty and all parts backed by our guarantee, you can stay confident in your purchase knowing it was installed at the highest level of quality. Unlike any other service provider or fencing contractor who may leave you with a non-sturdy fence that may require a replacement fence down the line, you can always count on us to solve your fencing needs.

Learn more about our services by picking up the phone and giving us a call . We offer a wide range of services for everything from fence installation to patio repair and hanging services. No matter the task, the expert staff at Mr. Handyman of Keller, Roanoke, and Alliance is there to help your project in many different service areas to complete customer satisfaction. We proudly provide service in Keller, Roanoke, Alliance and many other nearby areas.