Building Stronger Fences

Keys to stronger fences

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Here are a few simple building methods used to greatly increase the looks and longevity of your fence.

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Stronger Concrete

• 'Hot Stabbing' or 'Wet Setting': these terms means properly mixing concrete then pouring it into the post hole. This method creates a much stronger concrete itself and a stronger bond between the concrete and the post. Pouring dry concrete into the hole and splashing the top with water doesn't get near the strength as wet setting.
Better Vinyl -

• U channel - Contrary to popular perception the vinyl U-channel just isn't a trim piece, it also acts as a strengthening member for the fence. Screw two U channels, one to each side to stop any bowing.

• Buy the quality vinyl materials from fence contractors/suppliers and avoid the thin generic vinyl products of big box stores.
Better wood -

• Posts - Metal vs. Wood - Using metal posts is by far the most effective way to increase the lifespan your wood fence. Many decent looking 10 year and younger fences fall over because of rotted posts. If you are concerned about the look of the galvanized tube posts, paint them or search out "postmaster posts" which are designed to fit in line with the fence rails and be covered with a single picket.

• Strong gate posts - Use heavy duty posts for the gate post: a larger schedule #40 tube for chain link or wood with tubes, a 5" steel with vinyl, or if you must have wood posts at lease use 4*6 and possibly 6*6 for gates over 5 feet. Set the post at least 3 feet deep with more concrete. Of course larger gates get larger posts set even deeper. Gates should shut with the push of one finger, no grunting needed.

• Picket quality - Use at least a true ¾ inch thick 1*6 picket; some big box store pickets are only ½ inch now! Make sure you know the quality the bidder is quoting. There is a -/ lineal foot price range in picket quality.

• Nails, Screws and Staples - Use at least galvanized ring shank nails when attaching pickets to rails and #10 pan head screws when attaching rails to posts. Avoid staples, sheetrock screws and non galvanized material.

Building Stronger Fences

Angler Fencing and Construction builds fences in Spokane Washington. Pretty much any type of fence is possible including the following: wood fence, vinyl, chain link, ornamental iron, farm and ranch, privacy, pet, livestock, and security. Commercial and Residential. Call 509-535-9909 or 208-899-9909 or visit http://www.anglerfencing.com

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