COVID-19 Update
Jay Fencing Ltd. is open & we intend to continue to conduct our business with precautions until directed otherwise. During this time of the CoronaVirus (Covid19) outbreak uncertainty the safety of our employees, customers & community is our primary concern. We are following guidelines on social distancing, hygiene and sanitization. We want to continue to provide our customers with the services that they expect from us! If you book an on-site consultation with one of our estimators please understand that we will maintain a safe distance during any discussions. Jay Fencing Ltd. was built on shaking hands and connecting with people but if you wish to direct us in advance of the areas to have estimated and avoid contact then we completely understand and can work with that. We will offer you the option to email you the estimate and relevant information to avoid having to leave physical documents with you. Please provide your email address when booking an appointment. If you are or become unwell after booking your appointment, please call or email us in advance to reschedule so we all can take extra precautions to protect our staff and their families, as we continue to serve you. Thank you & Be Well!
5 Reasons Why Your Home Will Benefit From A Deck Installation
A well-tended backyard can be a convenient escape after hectic weeks at the office. Just grab a book and a good bottle of wine and park yourself down on a rocking chair for some much needed alone time. More than that, with the right infrastructure in place, that backyard becomes the perfect area for entertaining friends with a leisurely lunch on a Saturday afternoon. But how can you make your backyard more livable and transform it into a classy outdoor extension of your home? The short answer: by adding a deck. Investing in a custom deck for your home in Toronto has many other benefits, which we will discuss in this article. Read on for more. Benefits Of Adding A Deck To Your Residential Property In Toronto 1. A perfect excuse to spend more time outdoors Spending time outdoors has many benefits for your health and wellbeing. Besides all the fun stuff you can do there, of course. Science has proven that spending time outdoors gives you a greater energy boost than you can get from a cup of coffee, for example. Spending time outdoors has also been shown to reduce the risk of nearsightedness. In one study, subjects recorded marginal pain relief and lesser stress after they were exposed to high-intensity sunlight. Time spent outdoors is also considered to reduce the risk of developing myopia. Also, if you work in a creative field, like writing, graphic design, or music production, the outdoors can help stimulate your creative senses. We could add more reasons why you should spend more time outdoors. But it is worth noting that many people simply lack personally justifiable excuses to spend time outside. Again, they may not have the time to walk to the nearest park. Building a deck at your own house gives you a good excuse to spend more time outdoors. Note, too, that a deck offers an easily accessible living space that you can decorate to suit your style 2. Boosts your home’s value As a homeowner, it is prudent that you consider the chances that any improvement you will make to your home comes at a cost you can recover when you eventually sell. As it is one of the most coveted features on residential properties, a deck will help you get a quicker sale, too. According to a survey by Remodelling Magazine, a $10,347 investment in a new deck can add as much as $8, 835 to a property’s value. Very few investments have such a high return. What makes a deck such an appealing addition to your property is, besides its excellent utility, it is also one of the cheapest improvements you can make to your home. Not just that, a deck addition can be accomplished fairly quickly, which means it will not be long before you are throwing parties and entertaining friends on your deck. Speaking of entertaining: 3. Entertain like a boss Nothing beats an outdoor party featuring your closest friends and family. But a private party needs to be hosted in a private space that is screened from the glare of the public. And there is nothing like the feeling of knowing that you are the only one in your circle of friends with a property that has the right amenities for hosting a private outdoor party. An expansive deck can serve as your party’s main entertaining area where your music and catering equipment sits. If you intend to host parties and celebrations with friends and family in your backyard with your deck serving as the main entertaining area, there are a few features you can add to make it a truly custom party space: Consider adding outdoor lighting to take your celebrations well into the night. As well as providing light, outdoor chandeliers will make a strong visual statement, as will hidden rope and market lights. If you live in close proximity to a public place, it may also be a good idea to add privacy screens for your deck to ensure more seclusion for this private space. Another good idea is to incorporate a pavilion into the deck design. This will give you a place to shelter from the rain or excessive sunshine and will accentuate the space even further. 4. Increased aesthetic appeal Oftentimes we add decks to our homes just for the sake of improving how they look and not necessarily for the value it adds to the property. We want to feel good about the places we live in, especially if they closely mimic our personal style. For this reason, adding a deck allows you a way of putting your personal stamp on your acquired property. It may be true that you bought the home prebuilt and because of it, there will be specific features on the house you don’t particularly like. Adding a deck can serve as a way of obscuring the part of the house you feel doesn’t quite match your style. The advantage is that you can choose a deck design that suits your taste. Also, a deck addition can greatly transform how your property looks without causing any structural alterations to the original building. You can be reassured that this extension to the house won’t be as costly nor compromise its structural integrity. To put it simply, a deck will boost your home’s curb appeal. 5. A cost-effective way of adding more space to your home Considering the often dramatic transformation it brings to your home, as well as its comparatively low expense, adding a deck becomes one of the most cost-effective ways of adding more living space to your home. There are limitless ways you can put this extra space to use, including entertaining friends and family (as we have already discussed), an outdoor seating space where you can fit your outdoor furniture, and a nice place to dry off after a swim. With a deck addition to your home, you get a lot more space for a lot less money than, say, with a
How To Clean And Protect Your Wooden Deck All Year-Round
Wooden decks provide an outdoor area where you can relax and entertain friends and family. The warm tones of the wood, set against the backdrop of a lush garden will add to the beauty of your property as a whole. But these decks come with the added responsibility of regular cleaning and maintenance to preserve their looks all year round. Regular cleaning and maintenance is also the best way to protect your investment as, without it, your wooden deck will fall apart pretty quickly. How To Clean Your Deck You may have come across advice that says to clean your wooden deck once a year. That’s not bad advice, but the cleaning referred to there is the deep cleaning, exfoliating kind. Otherwise, you should clean the deck regularly, removing dust, debris, and leaves. If you’re only going to clean once or twice a year, your wooden deck is going to look weathered and distressed. Wood is a natural material that needs to be cared for, especially if you live in areas of high humidity. Cleaning regularly, albeit not intensively, will prevent molding and moss growth, which are two sights you don’t want to see on your wooden deck. Regular cleaning may mean sweeping with a broom or leaf blower. Use a knife or small chisel to remove any dirt stuck between the deck boards. As you clean, check the deck’s general condition and structural stability so you can repair any damage before it gets worse. It is good to power-clean once a year. When it comes time for that power clean, here’s what to keep in mind: Avoid Using Power Washers Power washers can get the cleaning job done quickly and effectively. But in the hands of an unskilled person, the power washer can stress or damage the wood. If your decking is made out of soft cedar or pine wood, it’s best to avoid power washers. If you are to use a power washer to clean the deck, make sure to hold the washer’s nozzle at a slight angle and that you follow the direction of the wood grain as you clean. And always keep the nozzle moving. How To Clean A Deck Without A Power Washer There are alternatives to power washers that, while not as fast, are just as effective. For one, a garden hose with a hard-stream nozzle will get the cleaning job done nicely. For areas that are so dirty, you have to scrub, make sure to scrub along the grain of the wood. You can then rinse off with clean water, using a soft broom to sweep off the dirt. Use Non-Toxic Cleaning Solutions For wooden decks that are really dirty, you may be tempted to use tough chlorine bleaches in an attempt to lift stains. This is not advisable. While that may remove the stains, it may end up bleaching the wood and damaging its cell structure. Remember the environment, too. The fog or spray from chlorine-based cleaners may kill plants in your garden. An immaculate deck that sits beside wilting shrubs isn’t a pretty sight. A good, natural way to clean your deck is to use a vinegar and water solution. Combine one cup of white vinegar with a gallon of water. The solution will get rid of mold, mildew, and dirt on wooden surfaces without harming the environment. How To Maintain Your Wooden Deck After every intense clean, you should take the opportunity to stain and seal your deck. A sign that your deck may need recoating are areas where the wood is now bare. Constant exposure to the elements for bare wood causes oxidation, which is to blame for the grayish discoloration you see on some decks. Always make sure the deck is completely dry before you do any restoration or resealing. Before applying a sealer, give the deck a light sanding to ensure the seal is even across the deck. Use Oil-Based Finishes You have several choices for your deck’s finish. These include wood stain (opaque and semi-translucent), vanish, paint, and sealer. But our advice here is to opt for oil-based finishes that absorb into the wood. We prefer the sealers. Vanish and paint leave a film that will wear off in patches, especially in the high traffic areas. The challenge with these is you will need to sand the whole deck the next time you want to refinish it. To apply the sealer, use a roller or brush, going in nice even sweeps and following the grain of the wood. Avoid splashing the sealer all over as that will produce an uneven finish. Again, two thin coats are better than one thick one. Protect Your Wooden Deck During Winter Canadian winters are brutal. And if not protected, your deck is going to suffer both structural damage and cosmetic deterioration. Wood that’s constantly damp is more likely to discolor, split, or rot when it finally dries. As winter approaches, it is advisable to cover the wooden deck with plastic sheeting to ensure moisture does not seep into the wood. Admittedly, with Canada’s long winters, this is only ever going to be mildly effective. Another good tip is to shovel off all heavy snow build-up with a shovel. But use a plastic shovel and always shovel along the boards and in the direction of the grain. For Heavy Repair Work, Call In The Experts As you do your regular cleaning and maintenance, we have already advised checking for any structural damage. This is important as a deck that is not structurally stable may collapse, which makes it a safety risk. There are signs that tell you a deck may need a professional repair crew. Some may also be beyond repair, with a new deck being the only option. Here are signs to look for: Warping and signs of insect damage on the boards, Rotting posts, Softwood and loose screws on the joists, Rotten and water damaged rails, A ledger board that has detached from the
Driveway Gates Guide – Get Both Form And Function Right
What do you consider when deciding on a driveway gate for your new home or renovation project? Many people choose form over function. After all, the driveway gate is what visitors to your home see and interact with first. So it is excusable that you will put greater thought into how the gate looks over how it functions. When you consider the purpose of a driveway gate, though, it is clear function matters as much as the appearance. This guide looks at the various considerations for a gate that appeals to both functionalists and aesthetes. What To Consider When Selecting a Driveway Gate #01. Security If you’re an aesthete, a good driveway gate is one that looks good and complements the design of the house. But at Jay Fencing , we are big on security. A good gate must protect the property first, meaning it must secure your family and everything that sits on the property. You have to consider the strength and stability of the gate itself. How hard is it for criminals to breach it, what materials is it made of, how high is it …? Generally, steel and wrought iron make strong secure gates. Depending on their design, wooden gates are quite secure, too. Of course, you also have to consider the gate’s attachment as well, for a driveway gate is only as secure as the posts of piers that hold it in place. #02. Accessibility: Manual Or Automatic? Important is your choice between a manual and an automatic gate, too. In most cases, manually operated driveway gates are only as secure as the level of crime in your neighborhood. For a gate to be secure, it must lock well and be safe and easy to operate, opening and closing swiftly. Automatic gates, though more expensive, have many great advantages. But you must pay particular attention to the gate’s implications on the safety of young children and pates. To bump up the security and functionality of your automatic driveway gates, consider the different accessories available. There are intercoms, magnetic locks, vehicle and motion detection sensors, programmable timers, and remote entry. An automatic driveway gate that gives you hands-free access when opening and closing the gate is desirable, especially when driving. #03. The Architecture Of The House A good driveway gate spots a design that complements the design of the house it secures. You want a driveway gate that looks as good as the house it frames. Beyond that, a good looking gate will boost the property’s curb appeal and give it good resale value. Beyond the architecture of the house, consider the landscaping and the style of the fencing. Look to create a cohesive look for the property as a whole by choosing materials and a gate design that matches your landscaping and design of the house. #04. The Slope Of The Driveway If your home sits on a hill and the driveway has a steep slope, the choice between a sliding and a swing gate is taken away from you. A single swing gate will be impractical. If the driveway slopes into the property and the slope isn’t too steep, a bi-swing gate may still work, though. Otherwise, a sliding gate will be your only choice. You may want to ask, which side should the gate open? Unless you have the advantage of ample space outside your gate, in most jurisdictions gates are supposed to open inwards. You wouldn’t your gate to obstruct and endanger the safety of pedestrians. Look up your local city codes for the best guidance on this. #05. Budget Other considerations aside, the type of driveway gate you choose, including the materials, design, and means of access and operation ultimately depend on your budget. The most secure and best-looking gates will cost more than the basic, moderately secure driveway gates. If you’ve decided on an automatically operated driveway gate, there is the additional cost of the automated system itself. Add landscaping costs and you can end up with a big bill to settle. To avoid headaches, decide how much you can afford to spend and then work backward. Jay Fencing is a top installer of both commercial and residential driveway gates in Kitchener, Waterloo, Toronto, Mississauga, Hamilton and all over Ontario. Our experts have many experience experience many types of driveway gates. Contact us for a free quote.
Choose Chain Link Fencing For Your Commercial Property In Toronto. Here’s Why
In this article, we will show you why chain link fencing is the right way to present and secure your commercial property in Toronto. Where we have erected them around public facilities and commercial property, chain link fences have enhanced security and allowed property owners to concentrate on their core operations. To prove that chain link fences are a superior choice over wood and other types of fencing, we will discuss five of their top benefits. Let’s dive right in: Benefits of Chain Link Fencing for Commercial Properties #01. A reliable barrier against thieves and stray animals Not surprisingly, one of the main reasons why commercial property owners in Toronto choose any type of fencing is for the security it provides. What they also realize is that some fences are secure and more reliable than others. Because chain link fences can be quite high, they are a much safer option. The fences are also effective at keeping stray animals out of your property as only the smallest rodents can get through their small holes. #02. An adaptable choice Where you suddenly feel a need to increase security around your business premises or office, you can easily add post extenders to your pre-existing chain-link fence. This will add height and make it difficult for people to climb over the fence. Fence extenders can angle in or out depending on whether you want to keep people in or out. By angling the fence extension inwards you make it much harder for people to climb over the fence from within the property. Angling the extension outwards keeps thieves and intruders out. #03. Chain link fences are highly durable Easy to install, chain link fences are also highly durable. You can rely on them to provide security and an effective barrier from intruders for many years after installation. But the strength of the fence depends on the gauge you choose. With 13-gauge being the lightest, for commercial properties, the 6-gauge wire is the recommendation because the wire is thick, so it provides the best security. The size of the wire mesh’s holes is also a marker for the fence’s strength and durability. As with the wire gauge, the smaller the number, the stronger the fence will be. In this case, the number stands for the size of the hole, which ranges from 3/8inches to 2 ⅜ inches. The smaller, 3/8inch hole produces a tighter, more secure fence. #04. Minimal maintenance required Chain link fences hardly need any maintenance. Seeing that they are also very durable, this makes them a cheaper option. Wooden fences, for example, need repainting almost every year. If the paint is left to peel off, the wood will rot from all the moisture soaking in. Another attribute of chain link fences is they can be and are usually protected against rust. This significantly extends the fence’s service life. Even galvanized steel, which is considered the least protected can last many years before you see any rust. Vinyl and powder coatings are the most protective. They will ensure greater durability for your chain link fence. #05. A smart and professional look Any commercial entity that wants to be competitive will care about its image. This entails making sure its facilities, buildings, and fences look well-kempt and professional. Chain link fences will give your commercial property a smart and professional look that requires very little effort to maintain. Depending on the design you choose, your chain link fence can also distinguish your business and set you apart from your neighbors and competitors. Jay’s Fencing has many years’ experience installing chain link fences on commercial properties around Toronto. We have fences that have been standing proudly and securing properties for many years with hardly any maintenance. Contact us with your requirements.
5 Important Questions To Ask Your Fencing Company in Toronto
Are you planning on erecting a fence around your residential property? In this article, we will discuss the important questions you must ask your fencing company in Toronto before hiring them. Hire the wrong fencing contractor and you may be setting yourself up for disputes and costs you can’t recover. Perhaps the first question to ask should be to yourself: Should I do it myself? The common advice is to let a professional fencing company do it. You will probably be OK repairing a broken part of the fence on your own. But putting up the fence from scratch involves a lot of technical work. There are also by-laws to satisfy. After all, is considered, there is just so much to stay on top of, which can be costly to rectify if mistakes are made. Hire a properly licensed fencing company, of which there are many in Toronto. The following are questions you should ask your shortlisted fencing contractors: Do you have experience with this type of fence? The type of fence you want to install should guide your choice of Toronto fencing company. It is important that the company has experience with that type of fence. It’s even better if the fencing company specializes in that type of fence. Different fencing materials require people with specific skills, like woodworkers for wood fences and welders for chain link fences. A good idea is to also ask the fencing contractor what type of fence they would recommend for your property. Ask why they recommend that specific fence/material. The answers should help you decide if this is a company that knows what it’s doing. What fencing by-laws apply in my neighborhood? Good fencing contractors must know what by-laws apply in the areas they service. Ask your prospective fencing company if there are any by-laws that place restrictions on the type of fence you need installed. If a permit is required, ask if the fencing company will pull the permits or whether you have to do this yourself. Do you have a portfolio of completed residential fencing projects? Yes, even the big, established fencing contractors in Toronto started with that one client that took a chance on them. But you’re the one who will be saddled with the added bill in corrections should the work not be done to the expected standards. You shouldn’t be the one to pay for their experience. Ask the fencing contractor to show you a portfolio of projects they have successfully delivered in the last few months. Ask specifically to check the work they have done recently as this will give you an idea of how busy they are. The better fencing companies will be the busier ones. It helps to look them up online and check reviews by former clients on sites like the Better Business Bureau. Do you offer warranty protection? Any fencing contractor worthy of any consideration must be prepared to stand behind their work. The very minimum they can do is to guarantee their services. As part of this, research the company to see how long they have been in business and what their record honoring warranties is like. If the company is not prepared to guarantee their services, move on to the next one on your shortlist. There are other important questions you should ask the fencing company. You will ask if they will provide an itemized quote and invoice, whether they will sub-contract any of the work, and if they have service liability and worker insurance. Lastly, if the answers to all these questions have been satisfactory, ask for their website and physical office addresses. If possible, go and sign the contract from their office and be satisfied that the setup there is professional. Jay Fencing is an awarded, highly experienced fencing company serving clients in Kitchener-Waterloo, Toronto and the GTA. We design and build fences, decks, gates, gazebos, pergolas, and other residential and commercial installations. Contact us with your requirements.
The Right Fence makes Your Property More Alluring
Reliable Fence Installation in Waterloo. Modern homes and building styles feature diverse design styles. Typically, these days, they prefer clean lines with little ornamentation, with an emphasis on function and minimalism. Naturally, when you have a modern style property, it makes sense to have a fence that matches. Wooden Fencing Wood has always been a preferred material for all construction jobs. Wooden and ornate wrought iron fencing styles are ideal for your home. Discover different applications of both wood and wrought iron fences, and discuss your options with your fencing contractor. Wooden fences are commonly made of cedar and other wood species that are resistant to rot. For your cottage, you will want to leave the wood unpainted, but staining your wooden fence to bring out natural grains is ideal for added curb appeal. Typically, fencing contractors prefer wood for making fences. The standard wooden fence consists of planks attached vertically to rails that would work well with a contemporary home. To have a modern update on the privacy fence, you can consider having the planks attached horizontally. If you wish, the contractors can even create a wave effect with the boards. This can create a pleasing effect of light and shadow that adheres to the style-driven tenets of modern architecture. You can even get your contractors to upgrade the fence with shelves and lights. Vinyl Fencing A preferred material these days for fencing is vinyl with more people preferring it over wood because of its advantages. For one, it requires little to no maintenance – you can clean it with a water hose. In addition, vinyl is also very durable and never cracks or splits. Vinyl fencing many times looks close to wood. Even its panels come in similar picket constructions as if you had a wooden fence built. You could install vinyl fencing in one of the above styles. Another contemporary option is having the rails and pickets in different colours. For instance, you could have white posts and rails encompassing brown pickets. Wrought Iron Fencing If your home boasts of stonework, a classic fence around your home is one way to bring out the natural allure of the stonework and delicate designs that make up your home’s charm. Wrought iron fencing is a classic material, but today advances in manufacturing give it a contemporary spin. Modern wrought iron is manufactured with steel or aluminum tubes, instead of hand-wrought pieces. This construction gives your fencing a sleek styling and also fits with modern architecture. When choosing wrought iron for your modern house, it is recommended to stay away from the ornamentation details. You could instead, opt for straight rails and pickets. You could consider having the top of your wrought iron fence finished with a double rail. Also consider having circles included between the rails, which add another pleasant shape. Not only is wrought iron fencing extremely durable, but it is also available in a variety of styles and designs. While it doesn’t offer much privacy, it does offer ample security as the fence is very hard to destroy or climb over especially if you choose spear pickets for your posts. Chain Link Fencing On the other end of the spectrum, chain link fencing is one of the most modern types. As a bonus, it also tends to be budget-friendly. For a modern house, you could emphasize the shapes in the fencing by choosing chain link that’s either coated with vinyl or powder-coating to make it black. Because of the natural element in contemporary design, you have a couple of different options with chain link fencing. One is to choose a chain-link fence that’s green, brown, or another naturalistic colour so that it fades into the background. You could also mix materials, with the posts and rail made out of wood with the chain link strung in between. Cable Rail Fence If you don’t prefer a tall fence, a cable rail fence is very attractive for any style of home. The fence typically consists of cable wires strung between posts with a rail on top. At the same time, you would probably choose metal for the posts and rail for a modern fence. Cable rail mixes very well with wood or look-alike posts and nicely complements a modern house. Cable rail fence offers a two-fold elegance. For one, the posts and rail create regular squares, which speak to modern design. Secondly, the cable rails virtually disappear in the sightline. This nicely allows the view to show through, especially if you omit the top rail. Picket Fence A picket fence is a short fence that is more decorative than it is secure. If you want to fence your property for aesthetic reasons and don’t want to hide the beauty of your landscape, choose a picket fence (in varying post heights for charm) for your yard’s project. Designing ornamental pickets The tips of your fence’s pickets can be designed in almost any fashion. Arrow-shaped pickets are among the most popular styles, although you can choose rounded, squared, or other styles of picket toppers to give your ornamental wrought iron fence unique appeal. Adding a fence around your home adds curb appeal and helps give your property an organized appearance. Also consider other styles of fence to consider including aluminum, chain link, and vinyl fencing – check with your contractors before making a final decision. Schedule a consultation with one of our experts today.
Fence Design Trends 2019
A fence can be so much more than just a barrier between you and your neighbours. These fence design trends of 2019 can give you inspiration for turning your fence into a backyard statement piece. The top trends we are seeing into 2019 include integrating florals/plants right into the fence design, using wood alternatives such as metal or vinyl, creating elaborate privacy screens, and choosing different colours. To learn more about getting the fence of your dreams, contact the experts at Jay Fencing today! Over 100,000 Projects Completed. Over 30 Years of Experience. Fence Design Trends 2019 See below for awesome fence design trends of 2019. Some of these trends are continuing to gain popularity from last year, while others are just starting to pop up in the new year. 1. Integrating Florals and Plants A beautiful garden around a picket fence Image source: meadowbrookblog.blogspot.com A modern wooden fence with built-in shelves Image source: boredomtherapy.com These two images above show the very different ways you can integrate florals and foliage right into your fence design. The traditional white picket fence is brought to life with greens, pinks, and purples as a garden flourishes around it. This design is easy to accomplish – simply create a garden around your fence and plant your favourite shrubs or flowers. If you plant perennials, you can sit back and enjoy your flowers coming to life every year with minimal work on your end! The modern, horizontal solid board fence shows a minimalist version of integrating plants into the design. This fence comes with simple, built-in shelves – perfect for displaying hanging plants or potted flowers. This is a great design for those who love the look of a bit of green but don’t want the work of a full garden. 2. Alternatives to Wood Fencing A DIY corrugated metal fence Image source: noelledesigns.com A multi-coloured vinyl fence By Jay Fencing We start off 2019 seeing a lot of variety in fencing materials. It used to be that almost everyone had a wooden fence – and if you didn’t have wood, it was likely you had either iron or chain link. Now, we are seeing a wide variety of fences, styles, and designs made from almost anything you can imagine! As DIY fencing and projects continue to remain popular into 2019, there are quite a few interesting do-it-yourself corrugated metal fences, or fences made from unique materials such as recycled doors. Aside from DIY projects, we are also seeing more vinyl fences, sound barrier fences made from stone, and composite fencing. With these different fencing materials come different colours – a trend we will touch on in our next section! 3. Adding Colour to Your Fence A black vinyl fence By Jay Fencing A wood and metal fence & gate Image source: gardentrellis.co.uk There are many ways to add a splash of colour to your fence. In the first example above, we see a black vinyl fence that contrasts perfectly with the light grey bricks on the home. If you are looking for a bold choice, you may choose to go with darker fence colours such as navy blue, dark grey, black. or dark green. Or, if you are looking to add a whimsical touch, you can paint your fence fun, bright colours instead! If you want to add a touch of colour without losing some more traditional elements, you can integrate colour in a different way. The example on the right shows a horizontal wood fence with metal integrated along the borders. Combining different materials is an excellent way to add different textures and colours to your fence without painting it! 4. Elaborate Privacy Screens A gorgeous privacy screen with intricate designs Image source: acuriolattice.com A privacy screen with hanging baskets By Jay Fencing More and more homeowners are looking for ways to transform their backyards into an at-home oasis. We see this in a number of backyard trends, including adding in beautiful waterfall ponds, luxurious pools, converting sheds into “she-sheds” or “man-caves” – and we even see this with current fencing trends. Elaborate privacy fences and screens are the perfect way to add an intricate or bold design without going ‘overboard’ – a privacy screen only takes up a small portion of your yard, so you can go as crazy as you want without it being overwhelming. Working with the professionals can help ensure your fence or privacy screen turns out exactly as you want it to. Adding a privacy screen is also a cost-effective option for adding more privacy to your backyard, especially if you do not have a full fence or you have a fence that does not currently provide a lot of privacy such as iron or chain link. You can use a privacy screen to enclose part of your deck or patio, so weekend BBQs with your family and friends feel even more personal! 5. Extra Features An iron fence with built-in iron arbour By Jay Fencing A wooden fence with lighting Image source: abstractlandscapes.co.uk In a similar design trend to the elaborate privacy screens, we are also seeing fences that integrate lots of extra features, such as built-in lights or built-in pergolas and arbours. In the past, it wasn’t uncommon to see simple lights on the top of your fence posts. Now, we are seeing more of a spotlight effect with lights built into the top of the fence boards facing down, so the light shines down across the fence. This is a great way to not only make your yard look beautiful at night, but to keep it safer for you and your family. As we see on the left image, built-in arbours and even pergolas that connect from your fence or privacy screen are also trending into 2019. If you don’t like the idea of hanging flowers or baskets right on your fence, an arbour or pergola is a great way to integrate that floral design in a different way!
Chain Link Fence – Everything You Need To Know
Chain link fences are a practical and economical fencing solution for many different types of properties. Adding a chain link fence to your home or commercial property can help increase security, help define property boundaries, and keep guests, children, and pets safer. Chain link fences are generally easy to install, but you may find potential problems if you choose a DIY installation over hiring a professional. If you are interested in your own versatile chain link fence, contact the experts at Jay Fencing! We’ve completed over 100,000 projects – and we offer free on-site quotes! What Is a Chain Link Fence? A chain link fence is a common type of fence made from metal – usually galvanized or coated steel. Most chain link fences are simple and only include a few important components, such as the mesh (the chain link portion of the fence), the rails and posts, and the gate. Chain link fences are easily identifiable due to their ‘zig-zag’ pattern that forms hundreds of small diamonds. See below to learn more about the different components that make up a chain link fence. The mesh part of the fence is the ‘chain link’ portion Mesh/Fabric: The mesh (also called fabric) is the actual “chain link” part of your fence. Although you may think of this as the body of the fence, the mesh is added after the posts and rails are already installed. Without the posts and rails, the mesh would just fall over! The fence mesh is what helps keep unwanted guests out and your family safe inside. Chain link fences on their own do not provide a lot of privacy, but you can choose to plant bushes or trees around your fence, or even invest in a chain link fence cover or screen to add more privacy to your property. Fence posts are installed deep underground to ensure stability Fence Posts: Posts are an important part of your fence’s structure. Without properly installed fence posts, your fence will not last. Although you may think you see all of the posts in the image above, there is actually a good portion of the posts installed in the ground. It may help to think about fence posts like you think of the foundation of your house. Because of that, proper post hole digging and installation is so important. When it comes to chain link fences, there are two types of fence posts: the terminal posts and the line posts. The terminal posts are thick and sturdy, and the line posts are thinner and help to uphold the mesh on the majority of your fence. Fence rails help keep every part of your chain link fence together Rails: Like posts, your fence rails help your fence stay firmly in place. Without rails, your fence wouldn’t last very long! Fence rails are the long, metal parts of your link fence that run horizontally at the top. Though some fences, like wooden fences, have two rails (one on the bottom and one on the top), most chain link fences will just have one rail at the top. With extra tall commercial chain link fences, another rail is sometimes added to the middle of the fence. Rails are often not noticeable but do play an important role in maintaining the integrity of your fence. The Benefits Of a Chain Link Fence Chain link compared to three other popular fencing options If you have ever driven through a subdivision or walked through a large outdoor shopping centre or commercial area, it’s likely you will come across many variations of chain link fences. There is a reason why chain link fences are so common – the benefits are undeniable! These benefits include: Keeps Children & Pets Safe: Chain link fences are a practical way to keep children and pets safe and contained. They are one of the top choices for backyards in homes all across Canada because they do their job so well! Although chain link fences don’t provide much privacy, the fact that you can see through them actually allows parents and pet owners to have a better view of their loved ones from a distance. Cost-Effective Solution: It’s no surprise that fencing can add up, especially if you have a large residential or commercial property. Fortunately, chain link fencing is one of the most affordable fencing solutions. It usually costs significantly less than wood, iron, and vinyl alternatives. Strong & Durable: Though you may not realize it, when properly installed, chain link fences are strong, sturdy, and durable. Because of their design, chain link fences are generally not affected by harsh weather such as strong winds or heavy impacts. They also tend to withstand normal wear-and-tear better than some other options. Little Maintenance Required: If you prefer a hassle-free purchase, chain link fences are easy to maintain right from day one. Even if you want to ensure your fence lasts a long time, it requires very little maintenance to get there. Simply painting your fence can help it look brand new and help protect against rust. Easy To Install: Chain link fences are generally easy to install and require less know-how if you plan to do a DIY installation. If you want to work with the professionals, they take less time to install and because of their ease of installation, they cost less to professionally install too! To learn more about purchasing your own chain link fence and all the benefits that come with it, click here! Chain Link Fence Uses Chain link fences can be used for a variety of purposes for both commercial and residential lots Chain link fences are versatile and can be used for a number of different purposes. If you are looking for the perfect accent piece for your yard or a privacy fence, you should look elsewhere. However, if you need a simple fencing solution and a way to keep yourself and others safe on your property, then a chain link fence could be the perfect choice.
Fencing Contractors – How to Find a Great One
Adding a new fence to your home or property can be a big financial decision and commitment. That’s why finding the right fencing contractors is so important. If you work with a bad contractor, you may end up paying more than you should, or you may end up with a poor-quality product. But when you work with professional fencing contractors, you can sit back and relax while the job gets done. In this article, we’ll outline the best ways to narrow down your search and find the best fencing contractor for you, your project, and your budget! To learn more about fencing solutions in the Kitchener-Waterloo area, contact the experts at Jay Fencing today! Jay Fencing has 32 years of expertise and has completed over 100,000 projects! Fencing Contractors – How to Find a Great One With all of the options available, choosing your own fencing contractor can feel overwhelming. Finding a great fencing contractor doesn’t have to be hard – but there are a lot of bad contractors out there. The following five questions are designed to help you narrow down your search and help you eliminate any contractors and companies that don’t meet professional standards. 1. Are They Affordable? A good contractor will be able to provide you with a thorough and accurate quote One of the first things you are likely wondering about your new fence is “how much is this going to cost?” It’s important to find out if the contractor is affordable and can do the work you want within your budget. Before you choose to move forward with any contractor, you should get and compare quotes from multiple companies. Here are some tips for comparing quotes: In general, it’s best to ignore the lowest offer, especially if it lowest by a large margin Remember that lowest price doesn’t mean ‘best’ offer – in some cases, it means the opposite Get quotes from at least three different contractors The contractor should only give you one quote – and they shouldn’t budge on it. One, sturdy quote means they have thoroughly done their research and can give you a more accurate number Ask about money upfront – A good contractor won’t need a lot of money upfront. If they ask for 50% before anything is even done, it’s best to ditch them. Remember, “Pros don’t need a lot of money up front. They don’t live week to week” – Mike Holmes. Ask about quote prices – Do they provide free onsite quotes? Will you have to pay to get an estimate? Once you have all of your quotes, it’s time to sit down and think about what you’ve collected. Of course, price alone won’t tell you very much about a contractor. It is a good starting point, but there is more research you will need to do and more questions to ask before you can confidently settle on a great contractor. 2. Do They Provide Workmanship Guarantees? It’s important to ask about workmanship guarantees and contracts before agreeing to anything The next answer you will want to know is “How long will my fence last?” You could get the “best deal” in the world on a fence, but if it’s poorly built and only lasts for a few years, is that really a good deal? Unfortunately, this happens more than you may think. In some cases, a poor fencing contractor may use incorrect materials, poor quality materials, or poor workmanship. In all these cases, you will likely end up with a fence that just isn’t quite right. So what happens now? A professional fencing company will not only use correct, high-quality materials as well as proper installation techniques, they will also provide workmanship guarantees. Even the best contractor can make a mistake or run into an unforeseen issue – they are human too! A great fencing contractor knows this and ensures their customers are protected with thorough guarantees. For example, at Jay Fencing, we offer a two-year warranty that we put into place for all of our fencing projects. This warranty covers any defects in both quality and workmanship that you may find with your fence. This is not just a verbal agreement – we put this into writing because we understand how important peace of mind is when you add a new fence to your property. When communicating with your potential fencing contractor, you should ask the following questions: What workmanship guarantees do they provide? Are they upfront about their guarantees on their website or does it seem like they are hiding something? Are these guarantees and warranty put into writing, in the contract or a separate document? Can they guarantee the quality of the materials they will be using? What happens if a mistake is made during the installation process? Quality workmanship is just as important – if not more important – than price. Quality materials and quality workmanship go hand-in-hand. In the next section, we’ll take a closer look at the questions you should ask regarding fencing materials. 3. What Materials Do They Use? You should ask about the different materials the contractor can use, and the quality of each type Quality workmanship may be pointless if a company only uses low-quality materials, prone to damage in just a short period of time. That’s why it’s important to find a company that combines both quality workmanship and quality materials. Keep in mind, quality materials doesn’t necessarily mean ‘most expensive.’ For example, wooden fences come in a wide variety of different types of wood of varying price points and sturdiness. A great fence installer will let you know about all of your different options, materials, and fence designs available. They will let you know about the pros and cons of each fencing material, and ensure you know about the potential problems that can come with the less expensive, weaker materials such as whitewoods. However, great companies understand the reasons someone may want a more economic fence – such as a