One of the best ways to ensure that you hire the right contractor for your  new fence, is by asking the right questions when you interview them. You should really interview the contractors in person, so they can really explain the details of the job and so that you can thoroughly explain exactly what you’re looking for.

Here are questions that you need to ask a contractor before you hire…

1. Are you a licensed contractor in your state/city?

Before you even talk to any contractors, check with your state and city to see if you a contractor needs to be licensed for the fence that you are adding to your home. Some states will accept other accreditations besides a license to be able to work in a state. This may include work experience or membership in a professional trade union. If a license is required, be sure to get the contractor’s number and call your local building department to validate the number.

2. Can I have 3 references from past customers that you have done similar jobs with?

If you are having a new fence built, then you want the contractor to give you references for customers that had fences built – not their bathroom or basement. Any good contractor will have plenty of references available for you to call.

3. What insurance coverage do you have?

At the bare minimum a contractor should have auto insurance, general liability insurance which includes property and casualty, and workman’s compensation. Proper insurance on the part of the contractor help to protect you from any legal responsibility should an accident happen on your property while the contractor and his team are working. You can ask to see a copy of the insurance policy or ask for the insurance agency information to verify coverage. If a contractor does not have insurance and an accident does occur, you could potentially be sued by the contractor and/or their employees.

4. How long have you been in business?

Protect your investment and go with a contractor that has been in business for at least 3-5 years under the same company name. Read the contract very carefully if you are dealing with a young company and make sure they have references.

5. May I have an itemized estimate for the said project?

Ask for an itemized estimate that includes materials, labor, any fees or licenses as well as a time frame. The estimate should be in writing so that you can compare it to another contractor’s estimate. Some contractors will do this for free while others may charge a small fee.

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.

How to Build a Fence Part 1 – The Home Depot

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.