Vinyl/PVC Fences | Capital Deck and Fence

Winter Fence Maintenance – Wood, PVC, Iron and Chain link

Capital Deck and Fence — Tue, 31 Jan 2017 08:43:26 +0000

Wood fencing

In Ottawa, the extreme winter conditions put a remarkable amount of stress on our fences, especially those made of wood. Natural wood typically requires the most maintenance because it runs a higher risk of being damaged. During fall and winter months it is important to keep debris, especially leaves, off of your wood fence. Wet leaves and debris can cause your fence to warp and rot through the winter. You’ll be surprised by the amount of gunk, dust, mildew and other debris that can be coated on your fence. If you have a pressure washer, use it to spray clean the the debris. Short of that, good old fashioned elbow grease along with a sponge and some soapy water should do the trick. Waterproofing your wood fence can also help keep it in excellent condition for when spring comes around.

Consider painting or staining your fence. When selecting your paint or stainer, look for UV resistant types that will help protect your fence from the sun’s harmful rays. If you decide to paint your fence, a best practice is to prime your wood beforehand. A good primer can add years to your fence’s lifespan, saving you money and increasing the value of your home. After you’ve applied your primer, allow it to dry completely before applying your paint. When painting, we suggest you use a brush or a roller to apply the paint as opposed to spraying, which can be difficult to apply consistently. Start by painting the top of your fence and work your way down. Use a piece of cardboard at the base of your fence so that you can quickly paint the bottom without worrying about painting your grass or mixing mud into your paint.

Vinyl / PVC fencing

Vinyl fencing requires the least amount of maintenance of all the fencing materials. Vinyl is very durable and never needs to be sanded or repainted. The best thing you can do to maintain your vinyl fence this fall is to rinse it with soap and water when you notice that it’s covered with dirt and debris. Routine maintenance will not only help keep your vinyl fence looking great, but it will also help make it last longer. Due to weather related reasons, such as freezing and thawing, vinyl fence post caps can become loose. To keep the beauty of your fence up use plastic fencing glue to secure the caps back in place.

Iron fencing

Iron fencing also requires little to no maintenance. However, it can be susceptible to rust from regular moisture deposits without the lack of proper coating. You can fight the usual culprits of rust (Rain, morning dew and snow fall) by covering your iron fence with a clean coat of rust-resistant paint. Along with rust, wrought iron fence is susceptible to dents, deep scratches and chips. To ward off the scratches and chips of the surface of the fence, you need to use rust-resistant finish every year, just to maintain the beauty of the wrought iron fences. When it comes to deep scratches, bending and dents, above method of protection won’t work. We suggest not hanging heavy fall decorations on them and, as always, keep your fence free of leaves and debris.

To make sure your iron fences keep look looking new for years, you can give it a thorough washing with soapy and warm water, at least twice a year. Oil the joints, latches and springs of the fences and then follow up with a wax. Use formulated paint to cover small holes and scratches. Don’t forget to sand away all the scratches with steel wool before painting and allow each layer of paint to get dry before applying another layer, this way you can less the chances of dripping and flaking of the paint.

Chain link fencing

While chain link fence is known for its durability and ability to withstand the elements better than other types of fencing, without proper coating it can easily become vulnerable to rust from moisture. Rain, morning dew, and snow are the usual factors that cause rust. With proper coating of rust-resistant finish, you can easily fight them off. During the fall and winter, leaves and other yard debris can become lodged in your chain link fence, which can cause rust. It is helpful to use a leaf blower to keep leaves out of the links in your fencing. Dirt and grass from the ground accumulating on the fence are major reasons why you would need to clean your chain link fence from time to time. You can give your fence a good washing with soapy water between seasons in order to keep it looking new. Start with a wax and then oil the fence’s springs, latches, and joints, etc. with mineral oil. You can use steel wool to sand away light scratches. While painting, it is important that you let layers dry between one another, or else you will risk dripping and flaking.

Loose nails can become the cause of a bigger damage into your fence if not taken care of on time. Make sure that there are no loose nails on your chain link fence. Tighten all loose screws and bolts. Pay close attention to gate hardware as it gets the most use. If there’s a gate in your chain link fence, make sure that its hinges are rust free. Regularly apply oil on the hinges to keep it rust free. If you don’t do that, opening and closing the gate could become difficult as the hinges start to rust.

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The Ultimate Backyard Fencing Guide

Capital Deck and Fence — Wed, 26 Oct 2016 12:12:51 +0000

There are many reasons to install fencing. You might want to keep the family dog — or the kids — safely in the back yard. Maybe you’re looking to prevent intruders from entering your property, to increase your outdoor privacy, or to block an unpleasant view of your neighbor’s rusty collection of muscle cars. Perhaps you’re safeguarding your swimming pool or adding a boost to your curb appeal.

A fence can do any of these things — if you choose the right one. There are hundreds of different styles to choose from, plus a handful of different construction materials, each with their own maintenance requirements and prices.

And you’ll need to make sure your fence doesn’t create animosity in the neighborhood — or even violate local laws and regulations. Here’s how to avoid those pitfalls and get a beautiful long-lasting fence that fits your home and your budget.

Follow the Rules

Fences are subject to local zoning codes, which dictate the maximum height allowed, how far they must be from property lines, and whether they’re even permitted in front yards. So contact your municipality’s zoning department first, suggests Janet Arden, of the American Fence Association, a trade group based in Glen Ellyn, Ill.

Also, if you’re in a neighborhood association, a historic district, or a fairly new development, you may face further limitations on fence style, height, and location — so check with local officials.

Consider Your Goals

The first thing any fence salesman is going to ask you is why you want a fence—because your answer will help narrow your choices. There are four basic categories to choose from:

Privacy fence: If the goal is to block sight lines, you need solid fencing, which generally means it’ll have tightly spaced vertical boards, pickets (pointed stakes), or framed panels to prevent you from seeing out and others from seeing in. It should be at least 6 feet tall so most people won’t see over it—taller if the neighbor’s teenagers are on the basketball team.

If a little visibility is okay, then the pickets can have spaces between them, or you can use a lattice or decorative fence pattern.

Security fence: To keep people out, you’ll again want a fence that’s 6 feet tall or higher to hinder anyone from simply hopping over it. Pickets or other spiky tops help to deter climbers—especially if the fence has a smooth outer face, so there’s no place to step. For fences with horizontal rails on one side and vertical pickets on the other—in other words, for most fences—that means facing the pickets out.

Decorative fence: If the goal is to establish property lines, add a structural element to the landscape or boost curb appeal, your fence doesn’t need to be nearly as large or obtrusive. You can choose one that’s just two to four feet high, and with spaced pickets, latticework, or all sorts of ornamental designs that don’t block the view, but enhance it. Or you can go totally simple, with a rail fence (just posts and two or three horizontal members) like the ones used on horse farms.

Safety fence: To create a dog run, enclose a pool area, or deter wildlife from trespassing on your property—without changing the view—the most durable option is a wire fence, such as chain link. At their most economical, these consist of galvanized metal mesh, but adding a black or green vinyl coating helps to make the fence almost disappear from view. Or, for an even lower-cost fence, you can use a metal or plastic mesh hung on metal posts or stakes.

Pick Your Material

Once you’ve decided on your fence type, choose the material it’s made from. That’s what’s going to determine its price, the maintenance it needs, and its warranty. (Note: These are ballpark prices. Costs vary wildly around the country—and even among fence companies in the same ZIP code.)

Wood: By far the most common fence material, wood provides a traditional look at a moderate price. Depending on the species you choose, from low-cost pine to high-end cedar or redwood, your installer may recommend treating it with a stain or wood preservative to protect it from insects, rot, and ultraviolet light. Expect to repeat the job every three to five years.

Vinyl and composite: These faux-wood fences are made from either solid vinyl or a mix of wood fibers and plastic resins. In either case, the material is formed into rails, pickets, and other fence parts that get assembled piece-by-piece just like wood fences.

Their color—usually white, but available in numerous hues—is mixed into the material itself, so they never need painting. The best of these products look exactly like the real thing, so if you want a painted wood fence, this is a way to get it without all of the maintenance that wood requires.

Iron and aluminum: The classic wrought-iron fence can be anything from an ornate decorative property-line marker to a tall, spiky enclosure that provides high security.

These days, though, the fences aren’t actually wrought iron. They’re made from welded tubes of steel or aluminum. Thanks to factory paint coatings, a good metal fence will need virtually no routine upkeep, though you should touchup any spots where the coating cracks or peels to prevent corrosion.

Chain link and wire: The most economical of fences, chain link also has the advantage of almost disappearing into the scenery, especially if it has a black or green plastic coating on the mesh.

If, on the other hand, you prefer not to see through the fence, you can order it with vertical privacy slats woven into the mesh.

The post The Ultimate Backyard Fencing Guide first appeared on Capital Deck and Fence.

Choose the Right Fence for Your Home

Capital Deck and Fence — Tue, 13 Sep 2016 11:58:47 +0000

A fence can be a great addition to the value of any home. Choosing to build a fence for your home is no different than any other investment in that its benefits are maximized when it is optimized to your home and needs. In order to choose the correct fence it’s important to consider the functions that you would like the fence to perform, including, but not limited to:
– Privacy from neighbours
– Blocking street view
– Complying with safety regulations (ex. pool requirements)
– For style and aesthetics
– For added wind resistance

There are many options when choosing your home’s fence, including wood, PVC, chain link and ornamental iron. Each kind of fencing has a unique set of benefits, which can be used to help determine what type of fencing is best for you.

Wood Fences
Wood fences can come in several forms; however, one of the most common is a closed slatted model. This type of fencing offers maximum privacy, while emitting a natural elegance. The only downfall with wood fences is that they may require staining and they require some regular maintenance.

Chain Link Fences
Chain link fences are great if you need a quick and easy set-up. They’re usually less expensive than their stylish counterparts and are virtually maintenance-free. One thing to keep in mind, however, is on their own they do not provide much privacy.

Iron Fences
Ornamental fencing is one of the more stylish and modern choices. In addition – iron fences also require little maintenance and upkeep, making iron fencing both chic and simple. Again, if privacy is your main desire, iron fences may not meet your needs.

PVC Fences
PVC or vinyl fences are the best of both worlds, offering both privacy and style. The only thing to keep in mind with PVC fences is that the initial cost and any repair costs can be higher than some of its counterparts.

Some other things to consider:
– Does your community have any requirements concerning fencing types, sizes and/or placement?
– Are there any city bylaws that will affect the placement of your fence?
– What is your budget for this project? Having a professional provide an estimate can help you determine which types are within this frame.

A new fence can be a great addition to your home, providing appeal, style, privacy and more! By using the information above, you should be able to determine whether wood, PVC, chain link or ornamental fencing best suits your home!

For a more in depth look into each fencing material, check out our guide, Pros and Cons of Vinyl/PVC Fences, Wood Fences, Iron Fences and Chain Link Fences.

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Best Materials for a Pool Fence

Capital Deck and Fence — Tue, 19 Jan 2016 08:11:52 +0000

One of works last year: iron pool fence in Ottawa.

Though the winter is long in Ottawa, it is never too early to think about summer. Pools are very popular in Ottawa. No matter which neighborhood you step into, someone bound to have a pool. If you are thinking of getting pool, consider getting a pool fence. Not only does it keep safety a priority, it is great at keeping privacy. Before we start, we like to direct you to the City of Ottawa Pool Enclosure guide.

Now today, we will introduce 3 materials that are typically chosen to be use as a pool fence and we will tell you why.

1. Wood

Wood has been used in fencing for years, but recently, it has been on the decrease in popularity due to its high maintenance. Because of the proximity of the fence to the pool water, a wood fence needs care and attention to last. If you are looking for privacy, wood definitely offer you some. However, an important thing to note is that if you want to watch your kids when they are in the pool, it is best to have a fence that you can look through or over so you can check on them. Notwithstanding the maintenance aspect, there’s no disputing the fact that it looks great in any setting and also makes a wonderful privacy fence.

2. PVC or Vinyl

PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, has become a popular choice for pool fences. It is durable, flexible, and won’t warp, rot, or bend due to moisture exposure or extreme weather. Although some homeowners consider them to be on the bulky side and colour options are limited, PVC fences provide a lot of privacy and come in a variety of styles. PVC will cost more up front, but it won’t need to be replaced or re-installed nearly as often. PVC fence is also frequently used around pools. Many privacy fences have lattice or spindles for the top foot of the fence to add ornament to the design.

3. Iron

Everyone is looking for something different. An iron fence is for those who want to have a great view of nature. If you don’t need or want as much privacy, but still want a strong, secure pool fence, iron is the way to go. Iron fences are lightweight, sturdy, and available with many elegant ornamental accents. However, some maintenance is required to keep iron fences from corroding. Also iron fences can be expensive.

	Wood	PVC/Vinyl	Iron
Pros	Size, style and colour customization Inexpensive	Amazing privacy Low maintenance Size and style customization	Extremely durable Does not obstruct view
Cons	Requires maintenance Can warp and twist over time	Gates may sag over time Maybe considered bulky White color Mildew formation in wet shady areas	Poor privacy

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Pros and Cons of Vinyl/PVC Fences, Wood Fences, Iron Fences and Chain Link Fences

Capital Deck and Fence — Tue, 05 May 2015 07:59:20 +0000

Vinyl/PVC Fences

Pros

Low maintenance.
- Do not need to be painted or stained.
- Easy to clean.
- Immune to pests and fungus.
Vinyl does not produce splinters, which makes it a great choice especially if you have small children or pets.
Great aesthetics. The appearance of vinyl fences is very similar to wood.
Lasting power and strength. Lasts much longer than wooden fence and is nearly 5 times stronger than wood. This means you will be getting more for your money and are investing in something that should last a lifetime.
Flexible and will not snap or break off as easily as wood.

Cons

Higher upfront cost compared to wood fences. However, because of low maintenance, the overall cost can be offset. Because you will not need costly maintenance, you actually save some money in the end.
Vulnerable to extreme temperatures. They may become brittle when constantly exposed to cold or hot temperatures, making them prone to damage. Frequent heating and cooling of vinyl fences result in the contracting and expanding of components, making the components loose and gradually damaging them.
When a single board in your vinyl fencing gets damaged, you may have to replace the entire section, which leads to costly repairs.

Wood Fences

Pro:

Classic, timeless look.
Durable
Most affordable fencing option. Other materials, such as wrought iron, are expensive to produce and to install.

Con:

Difficult to maintain.
- Wood is more likely to rot and be infected by insects. This can happen more quickly if the post is set directly into the ground.
- It requires regular maintenance, which is very essential to keep the wood sealed and protected.
- It also needs to be painted and coated on a regular basis to keep it from cracking and the paint coat from peeling off.

Iron Fences

Pro

Strength. Iron fencing is much stronger than other common fencing materials such as wood or vinyl.
Durable. Iron fences will last much long than other fences.
Easy to Maintain. For the most part, these fences are easy to maintain especially if they are painted. Paint will keep the tiny pits that may form in the metal from collecting substances that may cause them to corrode.
Can be designed. The alloy itself has an elastic and malleable nature that many artists and designers can shape into interesting patterns. There are books and websites that feature interesting wrought iron fence designs and photos which are great for finding ideas to use in ones home.

Con

No privacy. Open designs usually feature iron bars that are close enough together to keep people out, but wide enough apart to look through.
Will Show Weather Damage Over Time. There are conflicting studies about whether wrought iron is better or worse than other iron alloys at resisting corrosion. Either way the fact remains: if a wrought iron fence is weathered long enough, it will begin to corrode. Rust on wrought iron is particularly hard to deal with because of the slag in the metal.
Expensive because of its material and the difficulty involved in producing it, is more expensive than wood and vinyl fencing. Additionally, one may find it slightly more expensive to install it as well, especially if the design of the wrought iron is custom made.

Chain Link Fences

Pro:

Affordability. Chain link fence is the most affordable fence option which can be installed by home do-it-yourselfers, although a professional can ensure a tight, lasting installation that will perform well for years.
Low Maintenance. Chain link fencing requires little or no maintenance. All chain link fencing is galvanized, meaning the metal wire fence material underwent a chemical process to protect it from rusting. This extends the life of the chain link and limits the maintenance.
Safety. Chain link is popular as it contains children and pets in yards while also offering a sight link through it to allow watching activity on the other side.

Cons

Security . While chain link fencing can be built tall, and barbed wire added to the top for security, that is typically done only in industrial and manufacturing settings. Homeowners typically use a four-foot chain link, which, as most people know, can be readily climbed over.
Appearance. Without vinyl coating or California style construction, and given its popularity and use at industrial sites, chain link is considered a generic, more pedestrian fence design. Even with galvanization, chain link fencing and fence posts can be scratched.
No Privacy. Chain link fence won’t keep prying eyes away. There is an option for putting slats in the chain link to improve privacy, but that isn’t often used.

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PVC / Vinyl Fences

Capital Deck and Fence — Tue, 16 Sep 2014 13:09:54 +0000

PVC / Vinyl Fences

Whatever PVC fence design you have in mind, the specialists at Capital Deck and Fence can provide you with design, supply and installation of complete fence solutions for your property. Our designers are experts in a variety of products and systems including:

PVC (vinyl) fence
Different fence styles
Different fence colors
Fence accessories

Your Full-Service Contractor

We can provide you with complete end to end services including conceptualization, design and plans.

Some of our works:

PVC Fence. 6′ with Lattice. Mackenzie Style. Color – White

PVC Gorilla Fence. Mix 6′ and 7′ High. Color – Green Teak

Homeland PVC Fence with Wood Inside. 6′ High. Color – Adobe

The post PVC / Vinyl Fences first appeared on Capital Deck and Fence.

Fences

Capital Deck and Fence — Tue, 16 Sep 2014 13:07:45 +0000

Fences

We believe that fences make better neighbors!

Capital Deck and Fence is proud to serve residential, commercial, and industrial clients throughout Ottawa and the surrounding areas. We have been installing high-quality fences and we have earned a reputation as a company that provides high quality work and delivers excellent customer service. We specialize in residential wood, vinyl and ornamental aluminum fencing. We offer a variety of different products so we can customize your fence to your exact specifications.

Our full product offering includes the following:

Vinyl / PVC Fencing

Wood Fencing

Chain Link Fencing

Iron Fencing

Why hire the fencing professionals from Capital Deck and Fence?

At Capital Deck and Fence, we believe that fences make better neighbors. In addition, a good fence design can add value and security to your home or commercial building, as well as improving its appearance. We, however, know that installing a fence involves a lot more than just digging postholes and nailing boards together. For this reason, we are dedicated to supplying our clients with the finest quality in fencing. Our unique and proven installation method is virtually trouble free and guaranteed for years of durability. We believe in quality service that is:

Timely
Courteous
Convenient
Reasonably Priced
Efficient
Dependable

If you are in need of fencing for your home, commercial building, or industrial facility, please give Capital Deck and Fence a call today for a free estimate. We look forward to working with you.

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