Four Steps to a DIY Fence

If you are a little more than a weekend handy person, you could build your own wooden privacy fence. Here are the basic steps to building a beautiful fence around your home for privacy and added value.

Check Codes

Before you begin digging the post-holes, check with your local building and zoning division. There may be different codes you need to adhere to, or special permits required before building a fence in your area. You may also need an inspection when the job is completed.

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Design

You will need to come up with a design for your fence. A privacy fence allows you and your family to enjoy your backyard without a lot of noise and curious neighbors. Privacy fences are typically made of wood, but there are aluminum fences and vinyl fencing that also provides much needed privacy. Once you have your design, it is best to measure out and stake the area you are going to fence in. Find spray paint and small marking flags in any hardware store.  

If you are feeling overwhelmed, contact a Nashville fence contractor, such as Franklin Fence and Deck to build the fence of your dreams.

Materials

Depending on your needs, purchasing materials are the next step. Many associates at the large box hardware stores can help you with your plans, and direct you to any shortcuts they may know.

Lumberyards are another great place to purchase your fence materials. Their associates are also brimming with expert advice. In additions, this type of store will have prefabricated panels for an easy fit.

Fence Insulation

Once you have marked out the fence on the lawn, it is time to dig the holes for the posts. Renting a post hole digger and using some old-fashion elbow grease is the best way to get an accurate post spacing and depth.

Adding a fence to your yard is a two-person job. As you shovel the concrete into the holes, have the other person tap the mixture to remove bubbles.  Rounding the concrete will help water flow away from the fence posts. Using a combination square and line level will assure each rail to be square and level with the posts.

If you need help repairing your fence, or you are interested in enhancing your backyard with aluminum fencing, custom wood fencing, composite fences or a deck and gazebo, call Franklin Fence and Deck at 615-790-8428 for a free estimate. Alternatively, contact them by email at franklinfence@yahoo.com.

Beautiful Gazebos & Pergolas from Franklin Fence and Deck

Extending the life of summer is easier when your backyard contains a beautiful gazebo or airy pergola. A Nashville fence contractor, such as Franklin Fence and Deck, will custom build the perfect outdoor space for you and your family.

Taking dinner, or any meal, outdoors can become a disaster if the weather is not cooperating. Having a privacy fence with an attached deck and a gazebo or pergola helps keep the food fresh, less flying bug invasions, and a nice breeze for everyone to enjoy their meal.

  

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Many homeowners are unsure of the difference between a pergola and a gazebo. Here are the main dissimilarities.

Pergolas - these are more like an open-air shelter. There are no walls, only four posts. The ceiling is a crisscross top that allows the sun and other elements to peak through to those sitting under it. It's perfect for dinner, working on your laptop outside and reading and relaxing.

Planting a type of crawling vines along one or more of the posts provide a natural shade cover for a more relaxing atmosphere. There are various types of vine plants, some with hanging fruit and others with beautiful flowers. The amount of shade you want will be the determining fact for choosing living cover.

Attaching a pergola to a fence on one or two sides will add stability and beauty to your backyard environment. If the pergola were wood, a wood fence would look best. However, combining materials like metal fence, vinyl fencing, a garden fence, or an aluminum fence with wood can add a dramatic bold look.

Gazebos - this type of covering has a solid roof, can have one or more walls, and may have different shapes. A solid roof allows for full coverage from the sun and other elements and provides another option for perfect entertaining. Wood and metal are the most common materials used for gazebos, but there are other options available.

If you need help repairing your fence, or you are interested in enhancing your backyard with aluminum fencing, custom wood fencing, composite fences or a deck and gazebo, call Franklin Fence and Deck at 615-790-8428 for a free estimate. Alternatively, contact them by email at franklinfence@yahoo.com.