Fence Builders in Houston

If you have an existing fence on your property that is constructed with simple concrete or concrete blocks, you can give it a makeover with flagstone! Why not have an alluring focal point as well as a fence that serves it’s structural purpose.

First,  clean the wall by scraping any powdery build-up with a wire brush when the wall or fence is dry. If the wall or fence has any oil stains or peeling paint, apply a commercial concrete cleaner and scrub the spots with a stiff brush.  Once that is complete,  clean the entire wall with either a concrete cleaner or strong detergent. Before moving on to the steps below, make sure the wall is completely dry.

Measure the wall to get an idea of the amount of flagstones you will need. Choose flagstone that are  light, thin and predominantly flat on one side. Stones that are more squared off will lend a more geometric appearance, and irregularly shaped stones will give a more natural look.

Follow these steps to complete the project.

1. Lay down plywood that is equal in width to the height of the wall. If it is a tall wall the plywood will represent a portion of the wall. Lay the flagstones on the plywood, flattest side down, and arrange them in an integrated design where they will best fit together, and require minimal trimming and cutting.
2. Paint a coat of latex bonding agent on the wall. Then mix a batch of mortar following the instructions on the bag. Apply a 3/8 inch thick layer of mortar to the wall using a straight trowel. If the back of the stones are not that flat, apply a slightly thicker amount.
3. Starting at the bottom of the wall, press the flagstones into the mortar. At least three-quarters of the flagstone should be embedded in the mortar. Use wood shims to hold the flagstones in place and to provide consistent spacing. Continue on up to the top of the wall. Make any adjustments before the mortar starts to harden.
4. After placing the flagstones and the mortar has almost hardened, remove the wood shims. When the mortar has completely hardened, then mortar the joints (the spaces between the flagstones).  With either a pointed trowel or a mortar bag (where you squeeze the mortar out), apply the mortar into the joints. Wipe the edges of the flagstones with a damp towel. When the mortar begins to harden, use the tip of the pointed trowel, a jointing tool, or even a spoon, to scrape out the excess mortar between the joints as well as indenting the mortar into the joints. This is also known as smoothing the mortar and “striking and brushing” the joints. When this is finished wipe and clean the edges of the flagstone again.
5. On the top of the wall install stones large enough to overhang both edges by about an inch. Mortar the top as you did the wall, lay the stones, and mortar and smooth the joints.
6. When all the mortar has 90 percent hardened, wash the wall with water, scrub it with a brush to expel any mortar crumbs, and wipe it with a wet towel. You will know have a picturesque wall to be proud of.

Popularity: 7%

Check out these videos from Home Depot on how to build a fence.  Here is part 1 from a 5 part series. Just click the link to view more!

How to Build a Fence Part 1 – The Home Depot

Popularity: 26%

A fence around your yard or property allows for safety, property definition and privacy. Here are some things you need to consider and know before you start purchasing (or planning) for your new fence.

Where does your property line begin and end?

Building a fence without knowing your property line is a huge problem.  Luckily, this information should be included within the deed to your home. Another alternative is to check with the city.

Are your neighbors aware of your future project?

Check with your neighbors BEFORE you start your new fence. Make sure they’re OK with the height, as you might be in danger of obstructing their views, changing the way THEIR home looks, or you might have land issues to work out – such as large trees that might need to be removed in the process.

What permits do you need?

Many cities have restrictions on where you can and can’t have your fence. If you have a HOA, there may even be rules on fence styles, colors and heights.  Some locations consider fencing a building structure, so you might need a permit. Starting your project without receiving a permit can involve later fines,  having your project stopped before completion, and in some cases they’ll even have the fence torn down. It’s always best to do your homework.

Are there obstacles out of view?

In order to build your fence, you’ll need to dig holes for the posts, which can run pretty deep. Before you dig you need to be aware of any power lines or pipes that may be in the way of your project. Find a contractor that specializes in this – and they’ll come out to mark power lines and pipes and let you know how deep they are.

What’s your plan?

There are tons of scenarios that can make your fence project go down hill quickly. You need to consider tree roots, pipes, power lines, supplies, a budget and more. Mark and measure everything out in advance – well before you start buying supplies. If the job seems like too much of a task – that’s what contractors are for! Don’t be afraid to hire a pro. Most contractors give free estimates, so at least you’ll know a ball park figure of what the project will cost.

Popularity: 21%

Popularity: 35%

Whether it’s wrought-iron balconies (think New Orleans) or elaborate back yard Gazebos, creative expertise gives Houston it’s rich foundation for future generations to enjoy.

Wrought iron

This fencing material combines old world charm with long lasting endurance where intricate patterns adorn balconies, fences, staircases and gates . Metal against metal still resounds with the same authority and creativity as it always did. Iron working has a long and distinguished history in Houston beginning with Cameron Iron Works established in 1760 to present-day iron workers.

Sometimes it’s not always about the fence! If decking is part of your back yard picture it is good to know that Texans can choose materials made from wood and plastic scraps purchased from land fills along with saw-dust from recycling plants. Many  homes use innovative moisture protection and insect prevention techniques. The industry continues to reinvent itself to make homes more energy efficient and durable
(not to mention more appealing).

So, for the latest in housing, see ya’ll in Houston!

Popularity: 13%

There are various options available when it comes to fencing, and they all serve various purposes! If you’re looking to install  fencing around  then this article may help you understand the various styles available.

Fences have a variety of functions If  you’re looking for privacy then opt for a fence with solid faces and no gaps. If privacy is not your main objective you might not mind a fence with space boards.   If top security is key, then you will be interested in a steel fence.

Here are various types of fencing you can use for ideas:

Whether you’re going to your nearby home improvement store or having a custom fence built, now you know the basics.

Popularity: 20%

Did you know that adding a fence to your property can increase the value of your home? Most people think about additions and improvements because they want to improve the look of their homes. Most of us think that we need some area of our home improved in some way. Home improvement can be a minor or major enterprise. There are so many choices available and so many decisions that can be made that it can be an entertaining endeavor.

Some of the choices to begin with are whether you want to do the work yourself. Are you ready to work with a contractor? The answer depends on many things. If changing the appearance of a room and not the structure of it, then maybe you can do some of the work yourself.

If you lack of time and expertise, then you might want to hire a contractor. The contractor will be responsible for hiring all the trades and devote the time needed to the project. You may want to be responsible for the job yourself by hiring the different tradesmen to appear when needed. This requires some knowledge and excellent timing so you are not paying someone to wait until another person finishes a job. Certainly if you have the skills and the time, being the contractor and tradesman is the perfect solution.

There are many types of improvements, but adding a quality fence around your house or even just around portions of it can be one of the most rewarding improvements you can make. A new fence can…

provide privacy

block noise

improve appearance

help with gardening and plants

provide safety for children and pets

provide clear delineation between your property and your neighbor

If comfort is your goal then upgrading certain systems may be where to focus your efforts. Improving electrical, plumbing, and ventilation systems may provide you with more comfort. Waterproofing a basement and soundproofing certain rooms may also increase comfort. Many of these improvements require the services of a professional.

Fencing can also save you money by saving energy. You use less water with fencing in place.

Home improvement can be fun not to mention affordable. Get the ultimate low down now in our complete Home Remodeling guide.

Popularity: 9%

Fencing does not have to be boring!

The ideas for unique and original fencing are endless…from using recycled materials to artistic approaches…to rustic materials and more. Your fence can be an extension of your personality and an expression of yourself. Imagine a fence made from recycled bottles or industrial building materials.

To do it right, you want to make sure you have enough materials for the job, so make sure you measure accurately and plan well. And remember, not all ideas turn out the way you imagine them. Prepare a small portion of the fence first and see if it looks as good in your yard as it did in your imagination.

Finally, remember to budget for labor and finishing. Paint, varnish, and other finishing materials will be needed to make your custom and artistic fence look presentable.

In the end, if you have fun, save money and express something artistic, you’ve done well.

Popularity: 100%

The Newest Trend in Fences

Would you like to get rid of your old fence? Houston fence companies are ready to serve you but the question is what type of fence do you want? At a time where everyone is doing their part to take care of the environment, sensible solutions have been introduced to help alleviate environmental problems and that includes fencing.

The newest trend in Houston these days is to get fences that use a very minimal amount of lumber or wood products but are still sturdy enough to stand on their own. This custom designed fencing system allows its owners to mix and match different panels and insert it in between the fences. You can get panels that are painted with lots of trees, or fences that look like they are made out of wrought iron even if they are really not. This kind of fencing system makes it possible for homeowners to get a beautiful fence without using up too much natural resources.

Homeowners can choose different designs for toppers, bottom panels, deck panels and even gates. Now isn’t that amazing? For an elaborate looking fence, Houston homeowners can get diamond lattice toppers or maybe get a special order of toppers that have pictures of wrought iron maple leaves. What is amazing about this kind of fencing system is that these toppers look like the real thing. Apart from that they are even scratch-resistant.

However, homeowners are concerned about the durability of this kind of fence. Houston fence companies only provide products made out of sturdy materials. Getting quality products from these companies is not difficult since there are many providers in the area, not only in Houston but in other Texan cities nearby. Competition is tight so most companies make sure that they provide the best products and offer high quality service so that they can repeat business with you.

For fence installation, hire a professional to do it but since fences are rather simple to install, you can actually do it yourself. Most manufactured fencing systems have installation guides or instructions. Just follow the instructions step by step and you are good to go. If you do not have the necessary tools, you may need a professional to do the installation for you. This would add to the costs though so if you think you can do the installation yourself, just borrow the tools you’d need from a friend.

Popularity: 4%