Tag Archives: Fencing

Adding a fence to your property will not only keep your children and pets safely near home, but it will also boost the curb appeal, and add value to your home. However, when it comes time to install your fence, you may be worried about decreasing the size of your property slightly by losing space on the outskirts of your fence. You’ve probably asked yourself, “How close can I put a fence to my property line?” Here are a few pointers to help you answer that question!

Get a Survey
Before you determine just how close you can put a fence to your property line, you need to know exactly where your property line is! You may have a pretty good idea, but without having a survey done you won’t know for sure. Being off just an inch or two can really make a huge difference when it comes to adding a fence to your yard. The first step is to check with your assessor’s office to see if a survey has already been done (no need to do it twice!). If not, you’ll want to hire a professional surveyor to come assess the property. This is not considered the cheapest service, but in the long run it is worth it. Getting a survey can help you avoid some awkward and even legal conversations with neighbors, and having to move your fence once it’s been installed.

Do your Homework
Depending on where you live, your city or county regulations will have different requirements when it comes to building fences. They may even have a specific rule about where your fence needs to be in relation to your property line, which will make answering your question much easier. You may also find that you’ll have a few different options to choose from — right up to the property line, two, four, six, or eight inches from it. Regardless of where you choose to put your fence, make sure you are playing by the rules. If you live somewhere with an HOA, you’ll want to check their regulations as well.

Cooperate
If your fence is going to be very close to the property line, or you want it to sit on the property line, it’s a good idea to be cooperative and talk with your neighbors first. If the fence is on the property line, you may be able to split responsibility and costs. If they have an existing fence, you may want to consider asking your neighbor if you can tie into it rather than having two fences right on top of each other, or dead space between them. Whatever kind of fence and spacing you choose, open communication and cooperation will make for happy neighborhood relationships for years to come.

Once you’ve decided how close you can put a fence to your property line, it’s time to get it installed! Whether you’re looking for a wood, vinyl, ornamental iron, or chain link fence, let Outback Fencing be the contractor to make your fencing dreams a reality.

Having a fence in the summer comes with lots of perks. For one, you can enjoy smores as a family in the comfort of your backyard and almost feel like you’re alone in the woods! Summer is a time of relaxation and leisure, but summer can be hard on your fence. Here’s how summer weather may affect your fence.

Wood Fencing:
While it is a classic choice, wood fencing may be affected the most by weather. That’s because wood expands and contracts when it comes in contact with cold or heat. And the summertime heat and light are actually some of the most damaging elements for your wood fence. But this doesn’t mean you should avoid the beauty and traditionalism of a wood fence; just make sure you choose a durable type of wood that is less likely to crack or warp. As you properly maintain your wood fence, you can avoid many of the negative affects the summer weather may have on it as well. For one, staining or painting your wood fence will help keep the elements off of your fence.

Vinyl Fencing:
One of the great benefits of having a vinyl fence is the fact that it is very durable when it comes to both cold or heat, and can withstand the most extreme of temperatures. Vinyl fencing is also very easy to clean, which is a huge benefit after those summer rainstorms. Vinyl won’t fade or crack, peel or chip like other fences making it a great choice to stand resilient during the summer.

Chain Link Fencing:
Like vinyl fencing, chain link is a durable and resilient fencing option, especially during the summer months. They are strong and can withstand just about any type of weather, including sun and sun damage. However, if you’re looking for privacy, chain link fencing may not be what you’re looking for. They are see-through which means you won’t have the privacy, but you’ll still get access to all that summer sunshine as well as a cool summer breeze.

Wrought Iron Fencing:
A very attractive fencing option, wrought iron is durable even during the summer months, but only as it is properly maintained. When kept protected and clean, the coating on your iron fence will protect it from the elements, including sun damage. But if there are nicks or scratches, your wrought iron fence may be subject to rust! So be careful when mowing or trimming around your iron fence this summer, and clean it regularly to catch any damage early. Summer rainstorms or humidity are the biggest threat to your iron fence, so be sure to take care of any rust spots early and seal your fence for added protection.

If the summer weather has taken its toll on your fence, and you are in need of fence repairs or replacements, make sure you contact Outback Fencing. With value, quality, and satisfaction guaranteed, you will be happy with any fencing choice from Outback Fencing.

A gorgeous, ornamental iron fence can really take the curb appeal of your home up a notch. Unless, of course, it is dirty.  Cleaning your iron fencing will not only keep your home looking beautiful and well-kept, but will help prolong the life of your fence. Iron fences can last for many years, as long as you’re maintaining it properly. This means cleaning and maintaining your iron fence at least twice a year, especially if you live in a humid environment. Here’s how to clean and maintain your ornamental iron fence.

#1. Prevent Damage
One way to make your fence last as long as possible is to protect the metal. Your iron fence can rust if the outer layer is compromised, which is why it is important to prevent damage to your fence. Something as simple as a thorn from a rosebush may be enough to scratch the metal, making way for rust to take hold. Prevent damage by keeping plants (especially prickly ones) away from your fence. Be sure to weed around your fence too, which will both protect it and keep it looking crisp and clean. Be careful when using an edger or mowing the lawn near your fence. You can protect your fence by painting it, or using a water repellent spray to keep the elements at bay.

#2. Clean
Clean your ornamental fence with warm soapy water. Make sure you clean in those hard to reach spots with a toothbrush! After you’ve wiped away all dirt and debris, rinse the fence thoroughly and let it dry. The cleaning process is also a great time to inspect your fence for any cracks, spots, damage, or rust.

#3. Remove Rust
If during your cleaning, you find any rust on your fence, you’ll want to remove it. First, cover any vegetation around your fence with a tarp, and then use a fine wire brush or sandpaper to remove the rust. Use a non ionic detergent and water to rinse your fence. Then, apply a rust converter to those areas that had rust.

#4. Touch-up
If you needed to remove rust, you’ll want to do some touching up so that you don’t get rust again. You’ll want to apply a thin coat of primer, and then paint over the rust spot.

#5. Maintain
Continue to maintain your fence by inspecting and cleaning it at least twice a year. Check the hinges to make sure they are well greased, and replace any missing fasteners or hardware if they are missing or as soon as they need to be replaced.

If you have an older iron fence that is beyond repair, let Outback Fencing help you with a new decorative metal fence. Whether you choose aluminum or steel, Outback Fencing offers powder-coated and sealed fencing with UV-inhibitors. With a baked-on finish, you can expect a beautiful fence that will last for years. For all your ornamental iron fencing needs, or other fencing options, choose Outback Fencing.

Wood fences are a beautiful addition to any home. They allow you to achieve that iconic American picket fence, or to go with something more ornate. Whether you go for a natural or painted look, over time your wooden fence will need some maintenance. Part of the maintenance process is keeping your wood fence clean. Wood fences can develop many different kinds of build-up over time; mold, mildew, mud, and algae can begin to coat your fence if you don’t maintain it properly. Wood fences can also become cracked, warped or cupped without regular care. Because wood fences need to be taken care of properly, you may be unsure of how to go about cleaning one. But not to worry! Here is your guide to cleaning your wood fence.

1. Protect Your Plants
   If you have flowers, bushes, lawn, or anything else growing near your wood fence that you want to protect, make sure you cover them with plastic. Whether or not you use chemicals to clean your wood fence, it’s best to keep the debris you remove off of your plants.

2. Remove Debris
   If you have a lot of debris on your fence, your next step will be to remove as much as possible with a wire brush. While you want to get rid of any buildup, you want to be sure you’re not scrubbing so hard that you are leaving marks in your fence. You may also want to follow up with a hose to remove some of the larger bits of debris.
   If you have mold or algae on your fence, use a mixture of two parts water, one part bleach and one teaspoon of dish soap to scrub your fence. Be sure to rinse thoroughly.

3. Use a Power Washer
   Once you’ve removed most of the debris, it’s time to get the nitty-gritty with a power washer. Some pressure is good, but too much will warp or indent the wood. Choose 1500 to 2000 psi, stand about two feet away from your fence, and spray it down in long, even strokes. A 25-degree tip works great for cleaning wood fences.

4. Dry and Repair
   Once you’ve cleaned your wood fence, you’ll want to let it dry and then sand any rough patches, or sink any nails. If it needs it, now is an ideal time to add a fresh coat of paint or stain. This will help protect your fence from algae or mold growth, as well as protecting it from the sun’s rays.

Now that you know how to clean your wood fence, you can sit back and enjoy the view! If you’ve done all you can to clean and repair your wood fence but it still seems a bit lackluster, contact Outback Fencing. It may be time to start fresh with a new wood fence, and if you live in Utah, Idaho, or Wyoming Outback can help. With Outback, you’re guaranteed professional installation and comprehensive workmanship. For a free estimate on your new genuine wood fence, contact them today!

If you’ve decided to sell your home, you want to put your best foot forward. Not only will this attract buyers, but it’ll ensure that you get the best price possible. Often times, doing a few quick fixes before selling your home means avoiding costly repairs for a buyer before closing. And with more and more houses hitting the market, you want to do everything possible to make your home stand out above the crowd.

Besides touching up some paint, taking care of pressing maintenance issues (roof repairs for example), and replacing a few fixtures, you’ll want to up the curb appeal of your home. This means keeping your lawn mowed, keeping your sidewalk and driveway clear, and maybe planting a few flowers. If you have a fence, honestly assess its condition. Rebuilding your fence before selling your home will attract more buyers and improve your property value.

As you assess the condition of your fence, take note of a few different things. If you have a wooden fence, is the paint faded or peeling? Is the wood worn and gray? Are there any missing posts, crooked posts, or broken pieces? Are there any other signs of wear, damage, or unsightly characteristics? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you’ll want to rebuild some or all of your fence before listing your home for sale.

When it comes to the amount that your home’s value will increase vs the amount it will cost to repair or rebuild your fence, it is almost always worth it to go for the added property value.

The fact is, fences are very attractive to buyers. They provide added privacy and protection for the homeowners. This is especially important if the buyers have children or pets. If the market is very competitive, some buyers may not even want to walk-through your home if they see a fence that they know they’re going to have to rebuild. The inside of your home may be updated and in excellent condition, but if buyers walk up to a home that is in disarray from the curb, their first impression will be very damaging to your potential selling price.

Rebuilding your fence will cost money. But rest assured the cost of fixing your house before your list your home will come back as added value in many ways. Your home will increase in value, it will attract more buyers, and buyers will have no reason to ask for your to take care of the repairs later or ask for a lower selling price. Be proactive and make any changes you can to your fence to save you a headache later!

If your fence needs some serious help or you’re too busy with other home maintenance items, be sure to contact Outback Fencing. Whether your fence is wood, iron, chain-link, or something else, Outback can help you get it looking pristine before selling your home. Don’t hesitate to call Outback Fencing so that you can attract buyers early and sell your home for what it’s worth!

Fence removal may indeed be in your future, if a significant portion of your fencing is in bad shape or falling down. Tearing down aging, worn-out fencing will eliminate the eyesore on your property and, if you plan to install replacement fencing, the old one must be removed.

Before making any changes to your property, however, it’s important to do your homework. Getting rid of your old fencing may not be as simple as it sounds.

Determine Whether Your Fence Removal Is Feasible

Are you the sole owner of the broken-down fencing? If you are unfamiliar with the history of your property, it’s important to verify that the fencing is yours to remove before beginning your demolition.

If you moved into your home after the fencing installation was completed, you may discover that your fencing – or at least a portion of it – belongs to your neighbor(s). In that case, you’ll need their approval for removal. If you share fencing with multiple neighbors, you must coordinate with each one.

What if your neighbors don’t agree with your plan to remove the old fencing? Realistically speaking, if negotiations with your neighbors fail, your only option will be to install new fencing on the inside of your property line.

Verify the Details Before Planning Fence Removal

Once you’ve determined that you can indeed remove your old fencing, the next step is to locate all nearby utility lines.

Fence posts are typically set in concrete several feet deep into the ground, and they’ll have to be dug out. But, with fencing that’s been in place for a long time, the local utility companies may have installed underground lines near the posts. Digging close to underground electrical, gas or water service lines can be dangerous.

Most areas have a designated utility locating service that provides their services free of charge. In Utah, for example, this service is provided by Blue Stakes. Simply call and request service, and the company will dispatch a technician to identify and mark the utility lines.

Finally, you’ll need to contact your local building department. Most cities require homeowners to obtain a demolition permit for fence removal projects.

Completing Your Fence Removal Project

Assuming you have all the required approvals, you can certainly remove your own fencing, but the work won’t be easy.

Digging out fence posts and their concrete bases requires the use of specialized equipment, along with a lot of elbow grease. You’ll also have to haul away the materials once demolition is complete. Check with your local landfill to verify if they will accept your materials and, if so, what the costs will be. If you don’t have a truck or trailer large enough to transport the debris, you can contract with a local hauling company to handle the disposal.

If all this sounds like more trouble than you bargained for, you may not have to go through the hassle. If you plan to install a new fence once the old one is gone, your fencing contractor can handle the demo for you. At Outback Fencing, serving homeowners throughout Utah, Idaho and Wyoming, our new fence installation pricing typically includes the cost of fence removal. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today.

Swimming pool safety fences will never replace diligent adult supervision. When kids are in or near the pool, they must always be under the careful watch of a responsible adult.

That said, pool barriers do add an extra layer of security. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), pool safety fences can help prevent most submersion deaths and injuries involving young children.

Because homeowners have many options for building pool barriers, it helps to understand the reasoning behind the most common regulations and design requirements.

Why Swimming Pool Fencing Is Necessary

If the CPSC says that kids require adult supervision around the pool, why is safety fencing necessary? Customers without children in the household often ask this question, wondering why they should invest in pool fencing.

The answer is that, without fencing in place, a neighborhood child could easily wander into the yard and fall into your pool. Or you may have friends or relatives with children visit. Securing the swimming area is the best way to keep them safe if they slip away from the adults.

The CPSC reports that nearly 300 U.S. children under the age of five drown every year in backyard pools. Another 4,100 suffer injuries serious enough to require emergency room treatment. Many of these children would have been safe from harm if pool safety fencing had been in place.

Regulations for Swimming Pool Safety Fences

Currently, no federal guidelines exist for pool safety fencing. However, most cities and counties have adopted local safety regulations, based upon recommendations from the CPSC and the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA).

Many municipalities require that fences be at least four feet tall, although five feet is often required or considered preferable. Spacing between pickets must generally be less than four inches, and the space between the bottom horizontal fencing rail and the ground must be less than two inches.

In addition, if the side of the home acts as a portion of the enclosure, the CPSC suggests installing alarms on all doors leading to the swimming area. Many cities also require that doors and fence gates have self-closing and self-latching devices or locks.

Options for Swimming Pool Safety Fences

When designing a pool enclosure, homeowners have several options. Security is the primary goal but that doesn’t require sacrificing design and style.

Wood fencing can blend into the natural surroundings and provide extra privacy for your swimming pool. Low-maintenance vinyl fencing offers the same level of privacy and a durable choice for use around water.

Homeowners can also secure their pools with ornamental iron enclosures or chain link fencing. But, since these materials can rust, we recommend placing the far enough away from the pool to avoid excess water exposure. Otherwise, your enclosure will require extra maintenance or more frequent repair.

Outback Fencing, serving homeowners throughout Idaho, Utah and Wyoming, can assist you in selecting the best fencing materials and designs to ensure both water safety and aesthetic style. Contact us today to learn more about your options for swimming pool safety fences.

A wood picket fence is a simple and affordable way to enhance your home’s curb appeal and add a charming focal point to your landscaping.

But, before installing any new fence, however, it’s important to do your homework. Otherwise, you may set yourself up for potentially costly problems. The residential fencing experts at Outback Fencing recommend following these three easy tips to ensure the easiest and most cost-effective outcome.

Check Property Lines Before Installing Your Wood Picket Fence

Many homeowners assume that their property lines extend out to the edge of the sidewalk or curb. But this may not be the case in some areas of Utah, Idaho and Wyoming.

When planning a new fence project, start by verifying every property line where you plan to place your fencing. Otherwise, you may interfere with a public right-of-way or common area.

Your property’s deed and survey should both contain a description of your lot’s boundary lines. You can use these measurements to determine the placement of your new wood picket fencing. If you aren’t able to find these documents, you can visit the local property assessor’s office to view your area’s real estate plat maps.

If you aren’t clear on where your boundaries lie, contact a professional to assist you. A licensed surveyor can visit your lot to measure and mark your legal property lines.

Check Local Rules for New Fence Installation

Depending on where you live, you may not be able to install the exact style of wood picket fencing you prefer. Many cities and townships have specific building codes in place. Height restrictions, locational requirements and picket spacing limits are a few of the local rules you may encounter when planning a new fence.

In addition, if you live in a planned urban development or newer suburban community, your homeowners’ association probably also has rules in place governing the installation of new fencing. You may be limited to certain materials or colors, for instance, and you may be required to position the posts and rails to face the inside of the property.

Take the time to identify your local rules and be sure to follow them. Otherwise you could encounter problems with the city or your homeowners’ association. In some cases, they can compel you to remove any fencing that does not comply with governing restrictions.

Obtain a Permit for Your Wood Picket Fence Installation

Depending on where you live, you may need a building permit to install your new wood picket fencing.

Permits may be required on the city or county level. And, in general, the more urban your location, the more likely it is that you will need a fence permit. The planned height and location of your picket fencing may also trigger the need for a permit.

Contact your local zoning office or building department to determine whether your fence installation will require a permit.

If the thought of dealing with all of this on your own seems daunting, consider using the services of a licensed professional fencing contractor. Outback Fencing is the go-to expert for fence installation in Idaho, Utah and Wyoming. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation and estimate for our new wood picket fence.

A wood security fence is an attractive and effective option for keeping Fido and Fluffy contained in your yard. It’s not as high-tech as some of the available alternatives but the advantages make it an ideal choice for many homeowners.

Perhaps you have considered going with an “invisible” or electric fence, either to save on costs or to preserve the open-wide views from your homesite. If so, consider some of the reasons why wood fencing may be a better choice.

A Wood Security Fence is Pet-Friendly

In case you aren’t familiar with the technology, let’s look at how an invisible fence works. A boundary wire is buried underground, which sends out a signal to a receiver on your pet’s collar. If Fido or Fluffy roams too close, they will hear a warning sound. If they keep going and cross the boundary line, they will be administered an electric shock.

Invisible fence manufacturers compare the shock to that we feel from static electricity. However, the shock must be severe enough to startle your pet and stop him from leaving the property. Settings can be adjusted but, to be an effective deterrent, the shock needs to be substantial. For many pets, learning to avoid it involves multiple encounters.

A wooden security fence provides an actual – and shock-free – barrier to keep Fido from leaving your yard. Consequently, it’s a much more humane option.

Determined Pets Can Escape from an Invisible Fence

With a professionally installed wooden security fence, you won’t have to worry about your beloved pet escaping. Not so with electric fencing.

An invisible fence doesn’t guarantee that your dog will stay in the yard. If Fido sees a squirrel or cat dart across the boundary line, he may try to follow – and if he’s determined enough, he’ll make it, despite the electric shock.

What he probably won’t do is endure the shock again to return home.

Once your pet crosses the boundary wire, he’ll effectively be locked out of the yard. With a clear head, free from the distraction of the chase, he’s not likely to voluntarily suffer another shock. He may end up running off instead, putting himself in danger of getting lost or hurt.

A Wood Security Fence Protects Your Pet from Other Animals

Invisible fencing is designed to keep your pets inside the yard, but it does nothing to keep other animals off your property. An aggressive stray dog or rabid wild animal could easily enter your yard and put your faithful companion in jeopardy.

Wood security fencing, on the other hand, truly protects your pet by keeping him contained inside and other animals on the outside.

Some pet owners have reported the development of negative behavioral patterns in their dogs and cats, in response to electronic fencing. Fido may forget where the boundary line is, or may not realize where, when or why he receives a shock. As a result, he may start exhibiting fearful or neurotic behaviors.

You won’t see that happen with a wood, vinyl or chainlink fence.

Would you like to learn out more about the safer, more humane ways of enclosing your property and protecting your pets? The professionals at Outback Fencing can explain your options and answer all your questions. Contact our West Jordan, Utah, office today to schedule a free consultation and estimate for vinyl or wood security fence.

Wood fences are available in a wide range of styles, designs and finishes. With so many different options, many homeowners find it difficult to choose.

Are you feeling overwhelmed with all of the wood fence design options?

Begin your quest for the ideal wood fencing with a look at three of the most popular types used by homeowners throughout Idaho, Utah and Wyoming. Is one of these styles the right choice for your home?

Picket Wood Fences

A picket fence is built with closely-spaced, vertical wooden boards, which are attached to horizontal rails at the top and bottom. The rails are held in place and supported by fence posts. This style of wood fencing is typically between 3 and 4 feet in height.

Picket fences have been a favorite among homeowners since Colonial times. This style of fencing has long been seen as a symbol of success and accomplishment. In fact, the classic American dream of success has long been symbolized by having a family and owning a home with a white picket fence.

These days, picket fences needn’t always be painted white.

The wood can be painted, stained or treated in a variety of ways, to complement your home and property. Homeowners can also choose from several different picket fencing styles, including designs with flat, tapered or rounded tops.

Stockade Wood Fences

Would you prefer more privacy and security from your wood fencing? If so, you may like the stockade fence design.

Like picket fences, stockade wood fences feature vertical boards that are placed very close together, attached to rails that are supported by posts. But, whereas picket fences are short and low, stockade fences are typically built about 6 to 8 feet in height.

For this reason, stockade fencing offers a greater sense of privacy and protection.

Stockade fencing can also be customized to provide a unique look. For example, the fence can be designed with a convex or concave rounded top line. A decorative lattice topper can be installed to provide light and view.

And, of course, many different types of wood stain and decorative finishes are available.

Board-On-Board Wood Fences

If you want a privacy fence, but you would prefer for your fencing to look the same from both sides, consider a board-on-board design.

A board-on-board fence is constructed with an overlapping pattern of vertical boards attached to both sides of the rails. Once installed, the direct sightline through the fencing is effectively blocked.

Because of their attractive, architectural style, board-on-board wood fences are popular in many upscale neighborhoods and communities. Homeowners can choose the timeless beauty of a natural wood finish or opt for a paint or stain treatment to boost the visual appeal of their property.

Are you “on the fence” about the best type of fencing to suit your home? With 20 years of experience installing wood fences throughout Utah, Wyoming and Idaho, the Outback Fencing team has the knowledge and expertise to help you achieve your goals. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary site visit and estimate for your metal, vinyl, or wood fence.