First Blog about Houston Fence

Houston, Texas is unlike other parts of the U.S. in that it is a huge market for residential fencing, with most properties in and around the city having some kind of fenced yard. Properties in the Houston area feature iron fencing, decorative aluminum fencing, wood fencing, chain link, vinyl, 3-rail ranch fencing, and several other forms of fencing. There are many successful fence companies and fence contractors in the Houston area, not to mention many capable "do-it-yourselfers".

This blog is designed to feature new and exciting products for the fence industry as well as offer insights into the experience of fence installation and tips for the "do-it-yourself" builder. All these from the perspective of a fence company owner and contractor in Houston, Texas.

Tip of the day:

Don't skimp on nails! Many are under the impression that galvanized nails, or "hot dipped" galvanized nails will not rust. This is not true. In the high humidity of Houston, even the best coated nails will eventually rust out. If attaching nails with a nail gun, the pin on the gun often chips a small surface of the nail when it is shot from the gun. That small chip will rust first, and leave streak marks down the pickets on the fence. At an expense of around $.20 per linear foot, galvanized nails will cost you more in the long run. Rather visit your local nail supplier, like Fastenal, Granger, or Texas Tool Traders (http://www.texastooltraders.com/) and purhase stainless steel or aluminum nails for your fence. The cost will be around $.45 per linear foot, but you will be happier in the long run.

Question of the day:
Why are the posts on my newly installed fence warping or leaning?

Simple answer...Houston is in the midst of a drought coupled with extremely high temperatures. Wood posts need moisture to maintain their form. Typically the bottom of the post will act as a wick in the ground and suck up water. Also usually there is rain, which keeps the posts from drying out too quickly. In the dry, intense heat Houston has been experiencing, the posts are drying out faster than usual, which causes bowing and warping. Dry conditions can also be the cause of leaning posts or loose footings. If the posts were set in adequate concrete, and they are losing their footing, that could be because the ground has shrunk up to 4" in places. If you have not noticed this, drive down your street and look at the exposed manholes that seem to be rising out of the ground. When the dirt shrinks, the concrete footing becomes loosened in the dry ground and the post can then lean one way or the other. A quick remedy might be to water your fence line like you would water your foundation in dry times.

For more information on fences in Houston, Texas visit www.republicfence.com