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Need Help Choosing a Fence for Your Family?

Choosing Fence for Your Family

If you’re looking for a fence service, Pittsburgh has several options, but only Fence Maintenance Service can help you choose the right fence for your family. Call us today to learn more about the kind of fencing materials you should use for your particular situation. We’ll answer your questions and then professionally install your fence.

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What to Consider Before Installing a Fence System

Installing a Fence System

If you are planning to install a fence for your property, it is important to consider a few specific factors before getting starting. This will help you to identify the best materials, designs, fencing purposes, and more, which will allow you to implement a complete and professional plan with your contractor. So while considering Pittsburgh fence contractors, also keep these few tips from our certified professionals at Fence Maintenance Services Incorporated in mind.

-Identify Fence Purposes

The purpose of why you are investing into a fence system needs to be clear in order to know what kind of fence to go with. Pittsburgh fencing for yard privacy, versus fencing systems for vast Pennsylvanian farms will use quite different fencing systems. The type of fence materials required will depend on the purpose of the fence’s construction.

-Research the Appropriate Fencing Codes & Regulations

Once you have your fence style, material, and other concerns outlined for construction, be sure to research and implement the specific fencing codes and regulations in your area. No one wants to tear down a new fencing structure because it is over a property line by a few inches and in violation of a property regulation. Before having your fence system installed, also make sure your contactor and staff know of the exact same codes and regulations.

-Establish Your Budget

While identifying the purpose of your fence installation and getting projects cleared within the codes and regulations of your area, it is also important to consider design customizations and materials for your fence project. All of this combined will help you establish an estimated cost, which of course needs to remain within your budget. Know every aspect of your fence installation, from budgeting and materials, to fencing purpose and property inspection codes.

At Fence Maintenance Services Inc., we make sure that all of our customers’ fence needs and desires and met affordably and efficiently. From your fencing consultation, to our finished quality of work, we make sure our fence services are done properly form start to finish. Contact us today for your fencing consultation!

-Identify Fence Purposes

The purpose of why you are investing into a fence system needs to be clear in order to know what kind of fence to go with. Pittsburgh fencing for yard privacy, versus fencing systems for vast Pennsylvanian farms will use quite different fencing systems. The type of fence materials required will depend on the purpose of the fence’s construction.

-Research the Appropriate Fencing Codes & Regulations

Once you have your fence style, material, and other concerns outlined for construction, be sure to research and implement the specific fencing codes and regulations in your area. No one wants to tear down a new fencing structure because it is over a property line by a few inches and in violation of a property regulation. Before having your fence system installed, also make sure your contactor and staff know of the exact same codes and regulations.

-Establish Your Budget

While identifying the purpose of your fence installation and getting projects cleared within the codes and regulations of your area, it is also important to consider design customizations and materials for your fence project. All of this combined will help you establish an estimated cost, which of course needs to remain within your budget. Know every aspect of your fence installation, from budgeting and materials, to fencing purpose and property inspection codes.

At Fence Maintenance Services Inc., we make sure that all of our customers’ fence needs and desires and met affordably and efficiently. From your fencing consultation to our finished quality of work, we make sure our fence services are done properly form start to finish. Contact us today for your fencing consultation!

Fence Maintenance Tips for Springtime

Sprint Fence Maintenance Tips

Over the winter, the fence around your property is expected to withstand many trials. From extreme temperature changes, to ice and snow, these elements all assist in making your fence need proper maintenance once warmer seasons commence. And since spring has now fully arrived, it is time for spring fence maintenance to begin in Pittsburgh. With this in mind, here are a few simple tips on how to properly maintain your fence this spring, from us at Fence Maintenance System.

Pruning Precaution

The areas around your fence have a great deal of an effect on the condition of your fence itself. By pruning excess foliage of wooded areas and tall grasses, you can help prevent your fence from being unnecessarily damaged. Trimming back these areas will also yield a clear view of your fence, so that you can more appropriately evaluate your fence for spring cleaning.

Fence Inspection

Before beginning any fence maintenance tasks this spring, be sure to properly inspect all areas of your fence. Look for any damaged boards or posts that may need replaced. Check for rust or chipping issues. Examine any fencing position shifts or debris-collecting areas for a source. Reviewing these few things on your fence before getting started on fence spring cleaning will provide you with an accurate list of what your fence needs.

Fence Cleanliness

Due to dirt, leaves and other outdoor debris, your fence occasionally needs a good cleaning. It is especially important for your fence to get washed, rinsed and wiped down at the start of warmer seasons to rid it of things like caked on salt from winter. Having a clean fence will help protect it against unwanted stains, build-up and warping.

Add Protective Sealants

Once your fence is first cleaned, adding a protective paint, staining, or sealant over your fence will help keep it in prime condition. Protective coatings help to prevent damage due to seasonal weather and other outdoor elements. Such sealants work to protect your fence by creating a tight seal. A fence that has a layer of sealant protecting it is a fence that is less likely to encounter rust and chipping.

Contact us at Fence by Maintenance Service today for more information on properly maintaining your fence. We will help ensure that your fence is safe and ready for the springtime season.

Spring Fencing Repairs and Maintenance

Fence Maintenance

The snow is gone, and spring is swiftly on its way to fully springing into action. Yet, leftover fencing damage may begin to show as spring rain washes away the remnants of winter. Now is the time to put away those winter maintenance tools, and re-discover spring maintenance implements.

Not only is spring cleaning required inside, areas such as fence maintenance outside of your home also need attention. All fencing needs general fence maintenance, and eventually all fencing also needs repaired or replaced. After rough seasons such as this past winter, fencing can be made susceptible to damage. Yet, there are a few common fencing maintenance and repair steps that you can take to keep your fencing durable and safe, all year round.

-Replace Unsecured Posts

Over time, fence boards can become loose, sagging, or warped—leaving you with an insecure and unsafe fence. By repairing or replacing damaged sections of your fence it will ensure that the fencing is safe, sturdy and looking good season after season.

-Consider Concrete Stability

After a certain amount of time, the ground holding a fence in place will begin to loosen. Whether it is from cracked concrete or unpacked soil, your fence will not be stable until the base surrounding the ground is stable. This is one reason why fence posts are often secured into concrete—to provide for a stable base, and in so stable fencing as well.

-Invest in Power Washes and Staining

By keeping your fence clean from debris, you will alleviate excess build up, which can often soak up water moisture, leading to a weighed down fence that could warp or rust. After freeing your fence from debris, investing in a power wash will help to remove caked on dirt. If followed by a staining service, your fence will not only be debris free and clean, it will be sealed and protected.

-Investigate Causes of Damage

To prevent damage in the future, take note of what factors actually caused the current damage to your fence. For instance, was the damage due to the age of the fence itself, from an excess moisture problem, the presence of termites, loosened soil, et cetera…? By identifying and solving the damage causing problem you will be able to prevent further damage to your fence later. This will enable you to get the most out of your fencing, while also keeping it up to par throughout several seasons.

Anything from general fence maintenance to fence repair, or even replacement, our Fence Maintenance Service team is here for you. We will help you meet all of your fencing needs not only for spring, but also for the rest of the year.

Your Fence Inspection Checklist for Spring

Spring Checklist

The snow has subsided and spring is nearly here already. This means now is the perfect time to inspect what had been covered in snow and ice over the past few months–including aspects of your home such as fencing. Since fences can stand tall above inches of winter snow, fence maintenance is often overlooked until a serious, most likely preventable issue arises.

With this in mind, Fence by FMS is here to provide a friendly reminder and springtime checklist for all of your fence repair and fence maintenance needs. With proper fencing in place, you can begin your outside spring season with a safe start. The most common issues that weather yields to the fencing are within the structure and materials.

Inspect Post Structures

Ensure that the structures of fence posts are sturdy and secure. During extreme temperature fluctuations, ice, snow and the weight of other debris can affect the structural soundness of fence posts. Whether because of the fence material itself or due to the loose surrounding ground, if left these issues are unattended to fierce spring winds can send your fence tumbling over. At Fence by FMS, our valued team can work with various fencing materials for gate fencing to split rail, ornamental and another fencing. No matter what kind of fence you have, be sure that it is structurally sound.

Check for Deterioration

Around the base of fencing where insects, moisture and other weather factors fester, deterioration can occur. When deterioration of your fencing material happens, the fence itself is neither fully intact nor structurally sound as a result. This can lead to several material, structural, safety and other issues which could be preventable with the proper fence maintenance. From wood fences to PVC vinyl fencing, Fence by FMS will help you to maintain your fence to meet your needs.

Whether you need fence maintenance, repaired or replaced, Fence by FMS can help you with all of your spring fencing needs.

What to Ask Your Fence Contractor

Do You Know Your Contractor?

When thinking of renovating your home it is important to not forget about revamping the exterior. Immediately you may think of adding plants, a new walk way, new paint, and perhaps new porch furniture. Another great addition is to add a fence around the perimeter. Now you may be asking, “How in the world do I choose a Fence Contractor?” Good question. When thinking of enduring fence installation there are few a questions you should always ask a fence contractor.

 

How long has the company been in business? – I think Shakespeare said it best with, “Experience is by industry achieved, and perfected by the swift course of time.” Longevity in a business, especially in the fencing industry, is proof of their professionalism, knowledge, and high level of craftsmanship. Be wary of exploring the services of a young company without many recommendations.

Accountability and Insurance – We highly advise obtaining recommendations from family and friends. Ask about the quality of service, materials, and if the company completed the fence installation on time. Be careful about relying solely on internet reviews.

Another important detail to inquire about is whether the company is insured. This will give you peace of mind knowing you will not be personally liable if anything were to go wrong with the fence installation. A reputable company will have their legal matters in order.

What type of fencing would you like?– It is a good idea to review the stock of the fencing contractor you are considering. If they have to order your desired material it may require waiting longer than anticipated to get your fenced installed.

Remember, to ensure you have the greatest experience don’t be afraid to ask the right questions. When you are ready to explore your options contact us here at Fence Maintenance Service and we will be glad to help you!

It’s That Time of The Year!

Be Prepared for the Summer Months

Summer is here which means barbecues, traveling, and plenty of fun at the pool. If you happen to be a pool owner with young children than having a surrounding fence is mandatory in most if not all states. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission it estimated that each year nearly 300 children younger than five drown in swimming pools and spas and more than 3,200 children that age go to hospital emergency rooms due to submersion injuries in pools and spas. Therefore it is essential to pay attention to your state and local municipality’s law regarding the perimeters on fence installation surrounding your pool. In some cases there may be exemptions so make sure you inquire before hiring a fence installation service.

To be safe here are a few recommendations on features every pool barrier should have. The following are based on legal requirements throughout the United States and from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

  • Barrier s should be at least 4ft. high or taller.
  • The barrier should be impossible for a child to climb.
  • Permanent fencing is highly recommended as it is durable
  • All states do require that gates be opened outward going away from the pool area. It should also be self-closing and self-latching.
  • In terms of material, barriers can be made out of wood, vinyl, or aluminum.

When looking to install a fence around your pool it is best to consult an expert from a fence installation company. They can recommend the best options and perform the installation. Here are a few the most popular fence types:

  • Removable Mesh Pool Fencing – Known to be easy to move; it is a transparent barrier. Be sure the material you choose meets the requirements of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) as it is a standard that is mandatory to meet in some areas.
  • Vertical Bar Fencing – It is a fence that can be made from wood, vinyl, aluminum and wrought iron. Be sure it is installed correctly as in most states the space between the vertical boards have a mandatory measurement of 4 inches wide.
  • Glass Panel Fencing – If you are looking to be safe and maintain the ambiance of your pool than this a great option. Made from tempered glass it is very safe and durable.

To keep your keep your kids safe and enjoy your pool call a fence installation company today. Taking the necessary precautions will only enhance your summer fun!

Cleaning Your Vinyl Fence

Keeping Your Vinyl Fence Clean

Vinyl fences are a great option for individuals who prefer a low maintenance and an ornament type of fence. It is a more durable option than a wood fencing product. An impermeable product it tends to stay cleaner for longer periods. Over time your vinyl fence will endure the effects of the natural elements such as rain, snow, wind, dirt build up and grime. Have no fear! If you take just a little bit of time to clean your fence it can last for many years.

Fortunately, the process of cleaning your fence is a breeze. An uncomplicated task, we have provided a guide to help you:

The Cleaning Process

  1. Using a gardening hose saturate the entire fence with water.
  2. If you have a sprayer or pressure attachment use it to provide a more intense initial cleaning.
  3. Working in small sections it is best to start cleaning from the bottom to the top of the fence.
  4. The initial hosing will remove most of the dirt and grime but you may be left with a few stubborn areas that would require scrubbing.
  5. To scrub those more stubborn areas you want to fill a bucket with warm water, some dish liquid, and use a non-abrasive scrubbing pad.
  6. Once all the dirt and debris have been removed you want to rinse the fence again with the gardening hose.

Note: For more difficult stains on your fence a small amount of bleached mixed with water can be used. Before applying to the entirety of the fence test a small area with low visibility and make sure the original color does not get distorted.

How Often to Clean

To prolong the life span of your vinyl fence it is recommended to clean it at least once a year. Keeping a regular cleaning schedule will also help your fence to maintain that pristine look. If it has been a decade or more and general cleaning is not having a positive effect on the look of your fence than it may be time to call your fence installation service company and discuss a replacement. If you are ever unsure of anything do not hesitate to consult a fence installation expert.

Fence Quality – Why It is Important

The Importance of Your Fence Quality

The fence that surrounds your property has a multi-functional purpose: it serves as a “barrier” between your property and those surrounding it, and as a decorative piece that can add curb appeal. However, a fence is also a permanent structure, which is why the quality of the fence that you choose is importance both to the life of the fence and the appearance that it serves. Below are a few examples that factor in to why the quality of your fencing is so important:

  1. Building Codes – Pittsburgh and the surrounding area is divided into many different townships, each with their own building codes and regulations regarding fences. Since some regulations and codes are very specific about fence installation and which materials may or may not be used, it is important to first consult with your local township to ensure that you are in compliance.
  2. Maintenance – Certain fencing materials require more maintenance than others, and settling for “cheaper” materials may cost you more money in fence maintenance in the long run.
  3. Ability To Hold Up Under The Elements – Pittsburgh and the surrounding region is subject to rainstorms, snow, and extreme changes in temperature as the seasons change. A quality fence should be able to hold up to the elements and maintain its appearance in spite of them.
  4. Appearance – The better quality fencing material you use, the better the curb appeal. Whether you’re contemplating a wooden fence or a chain link one, it is best to discuss your options with your fencing installation company and decide on the best quality product that meets your budget.
  5. Longevity – Simply put, the better the fencing material, the longer your fence will hold up. While you may be looking to keep your costs low, it is better to invest in a better quality fencing material that will ensure its appearance and curb appeal for years to come.

The most important part of the fencing process is the installation. Choosing the right fencing installation company is important, as they will have the tools and the experience to ensure that your fence is installed properly, as well as a knowledge of building codes and will be able to give you advice on the best possible materials as well as maintenance.

Fence by Maintenance Service is a local family-owned and operated company that has been serving the fencing needs of Pittsburgh, Cranberry Township, Butler and the surrounding communities for over 50 years. A winner of Angie’s List Excellent Service Award for four consecutive years, Fence by Maintenance Service prides themselves on quality materials, professional installation service and a Two-Year Workmanship Warranty. For more information on fencing materials, installation, or maintenance, contact Fence by Maintenance Service today, where their expert professionals will be happy to answer any questions that you have.

Choosing The Right Fence For Your Property

The Different Types of Fences

Adding a fence can serve a number of purposes: it can provide you with privacy, serve as a barrier to protect children and pets from leaving the yard, and add beauty and character to your property. When considering a fence, there are several key points to consider in helping you make the best choice that will serve your needs as well as enhance your home:

What is The Purpose of Your Fence?
This is probably the most crucial question to ask yourself that will ultimately help you make the best choice that is right for you. Fences are generally used for three purposes:

  • Appearance – If you are looking for curb appeal, the right fence can enhance the overall look of your home while adding to its value.
  • Privacy – If privacy is your main concern, you will want to consider a fence that provides a “barrier” between your property and those around it.
  • Security – Enclosing your yard to children and pets to prevent them from leaving the yard provides multiple options, allowing for either decorative fencing or privacy fencing.

Types of Fences
There are several different types of fencing available, made to accommodate any taste and/or budget, the majority of which are listed below. After you’ve decided on the purpose of your fence, you will need to look into fencing materials, as well as their price ranges, and set a budget:

  • Wooden Fences – Wood fencing allows for a natural look, is fairly easy to install, and can be stained to match any taste.
  • Chain Link Fences – While popular for commercial establishments, these are an affordable fencing option for homeowners who are looking to keep pets enclosed in their property. Chain link fences also are available in vinyl-coated colors as well as the traditional galvanized style.
  • Ornamental Fencing – Typically made out of aluminum, these fences allow for a high-end curb appeal without the costs and maintenance of iron.
  • Vinyl-PVC Fencing – Popular in recent years, Vinyl/PVC fencing offers a reasonably affordable option that is practically maintenance free. While the most commonly used color, there are other options available.

Fence Maintenance
It is important to keep in mind the type of maintenance that will be required for your choice of fencing. Vinyl/PVC fencing requires little to no maintenance, maintenance on ornamental aluminum is minimal, and chain link is virtually maintenance-free. Wooden fences will require occasional mending or repainting. Discussing your specific options with a professional fence maintenance company will give you a better idea of the type of maintenance your fencing choice requires.

Fence Installation
While it may be tempting to try a “Do-It-Yourself” fence installation, a professional fence installation company has the tools and the expertise to ensure that your fence is properly installed and can give you some tips on fence maintenance, ensuring that your fence has the longest possible life, as well as continuing to look good for years to come.

Fence by Maintenance has been serving the fence installation, maintenance and repair needs of Pittsburgh and the surrounding area since 1957. Priding themselves on quality installation and professional service, Fence by Maintenance offers a Two-Year Workmanship Warranty, and continues to receive an annual Super Service Award from Angie’s List. If you are looking to maintain or repair your current fence, or are looking for a new fencing installation, contact Fence by Maintenance today, where their expert professionals will be happy to answer any questions that you may have.

The Best Porch Railing For You

How to Decide on the Best Porch Railing for Your Home

Your Wexford, PA home can make use of the professional expertise of Fence Maintenance Services when it comes to adding a rail to your front or back porch. Your home’s porch can be incredibly unsafe if a railing is not added to it. The railing itself is a way to keep people and animals from falling off of the porch, and they are also beneficial for climbing and descending the staircase to get to the front door of the home. Likewise, the railing that you choose will add a finished touch and look to the house like no other.

Choosing the Right Porch Railing

When it comes to choosing the porch railing that is right for your home, you have several different options available to you. The two main options that most homeowners choose from would be aluminum porch railing systems and PVC systems. These two types are commonly used on all types of homes, and they both have their own advantages that can be beneficial to your budget and house in general. Aluminum railing has a tendency to be quite sturdy and give a more rustic feel to the home, and it will not rust over time. This type of railing is also very durable and lightweight, making it ideal for just about any style home. Believe it or not, aluminum railings are also very easy to install, allowing the project to get done in a quick and efficient manner.

PVC railing is also another fantastic options that happens to be available to you. The PVC is incredibly lightweight, but it has aluminum inserts that give the railing more strength and resiliency. It also deflects heat, which is ideal for those hot summer days when you need to climb the stairs and hold onto the railing. Fence Maintenance Service will be able to help you decide on the porch railing that is right for you. Because these two options have their own benefits, you will want to carefully consider each one before choosing.

Costs and Installation

The cost of the actual porch railing when purchased from Fence Maintenance Service will differ depending on the specific material that you choose and the size of the porch and stairs that they will be added to. Experts from Fence Maintenance Service will be able to measure out the porch and give you an idea as to the price of the entire project once you decide to have it done.

Having a new railing put onto your porch is going to add value to your home and give you the security that you need when using the porch or climbing the stairs. This is why it is a good idea to figure out if PVC railings or aluminum railings are the right choice for you. From there, the experts can begin to install the work for you, ensuring that it is done in a quick and efficient manner so that you can simply enjoy the way that it looks on your home.

Choosing the Right Type of Fence For You

Choosing A Fence For You

There are many reasons why people have wood fencing installed around their property. Some people have animals that they do not want to escape. Others simply want their yard to have some privacy and prevent nosey neighbors from peeping in on their private activities. Whatever your reason for wanting to install wood fencing, you must carefully consider what type of fence you are going to buy. There are many varieties to choose from. Some require more fence maintenance than others. Each of them have their own unique qualities. Let’s take a look at the different types of wood fencing and how you can go about selecting the right fence for your property.

1. Picket fence

We have all seen picket fences before. Many people who live in residential neighborhoods are probably used to seeing them every day. They are made with pieces of wood that are called pickets that are held together by horizontal pieces of wood. Picket fences are ideal for protecting a garden from animals that will trample or eat the things you have planted. They are also good to surround yards of families that have pets and small children as a way of keeping them safe and on the property.

The width of each picket and the amount of space between them can vary in picket fences. The standard way to build a picket fence is with the pickets being 3 1/2″ or 4″ wide with a space between them that typically ranges from 1″ to 3 1/2″. There are many styles of pickets to choose from, such as pointed, French Gothic, dog eared and more.

2. Shadowbox

A shadowbox fence design has pickets that alternate on each side of the back board. This style is used by people who are concerned about privacy, but at the same time, they do not want their yard to be sealed off from all light like a prison. These fences prevent people from seeing in, but allow air to go through. However, the amount of light that passes through a shadowbox fence is limited.

3. Privacy fence

A privacy fence basically prevents any light from entering whatsoever. There are no pickets and the boards are placed directly next to each other. Privacy fences are typically taller than most other types of fences. This is to prevent people from being able to see over the top of them. They are usually built at a height of six feet or taller. Red cedar or treated pine are the types of wood typically used to make solid privacy fences.

If you are interested in having wood fencing installed on your property, you need to hire an experienced fence service like The Fence Maintenance Service based in Pittsburgh, PA. When it comes to fence maintenance and fence service, they can handle any installation and repair job that you have. Their many satisfied customers say a lot about the quality fence maintenance and fence service they provide. For the best fence service around, contact The Fence Maintenance Service today.

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