Tag: building codes

Posted on

Guide to Choosing the Right Fence Company for Your Needs

If you need to install a fence for your residence or business, there are several aspects of the job to consider. Are you prepared to take on the project yourself or would you like to hire a professional fence company is likely the initial decision you have to make.

No matter what your level of skill, tackling the project yourself can turn out to be a time consuming task that may ultimately prove more costly than employing a professional fence contractor. Fence construction is definitely not a one-man job, so if you do not have extra, competent hands available, it’s a good idea to hire a professional.

Now you have to figure out which fencing contractor to select.

You want to be allowed to have access to a wide range of fencing – steel, aluminum, ornamental iron, vinyl, chain link, split-rail or wood – to choose from, so it isadvisable to use a company that has experience with each one.

A fence company ought to be prepared to aid (blank) in choosing the kind of fence (blank) best for your needs and cost range. They also need to be familiar with local building codes and what it takes to secure any required building permits. Also, a Haltom City fence company may be more familiar with building codes in their town than a Trophy Club fence company would be.

You should select a fence company that’s insured, fully-bonded and offers a written warranty on their jobs.

Don’t take a risk using a cut-rate fence company. It might be attractive coming from a cost perspective, but you will typically not get a guarantee. Furthermore, the company may use inferior products that don’t retain their good looks or structural integrity.

Find out just how long the business has been in business. Those that are family owned and operated are usually more focused on client satisfaction than recent start-ups and franchises.

Companies with in-house employees tend to deliver a better result and be more reliable. Ascertain whether or not the fence company sub-contracts its installation and service projects.

Budget considerations need to be factored in. Make sure you receive a written estimate so there won’t be any unpleasant surprises.

And finally, check out the companies you’re considering. Ask for references from previous clients. Read on-line testimonials if there are any. Find out whether the company is a member in good standing with the Better Business Bureau, local chamber of commerce or industry related organizations.

Posted on

Deck Building: Tips and Guidelines

Building a deck can be a challenge. However, you can accomplish it with only basic skills on carpentry and the following essential tips:

1. Get pressure treated wood.

First, you need to use pressure treated wood. As much as possible, do not get regular 2×4’s, as these only give you a deck that can last for only five years. If you do not prefer the idea of getting pressure treated lumber, then consider purchasing a higher quality lumber like redwood or cedar. Oftentimes, pressure treated wood is no longer manufactured with arsenic, which makes it safe and durable. While it’s significantly less expensive to get non-pressure treated lumber, you would have to spend more money in the long run, as you’ll need to repair or replace some parts or your whole deck.

2. Get the right type of screws and nails.

Some deck building codes require stainless steel or a very specific kind of galvanized screw. This is if you’re using pressure treated lumber. Some metal types can corrode the lumber, causing weak joints. So check building codes before building a deck.

3. Measure.

Measure the wood when you’re at the store before the purchase. For example, if you need 12 feet long boards, you need to measure to make sure they’re they’re what you need exactly. If the boards are 9 feet 1 inch long each, you’ll have to spend valuable effort and time cutting off the extra 1 inch from each of the boards.

4. Check with your local codes.

Find out if you must have a building permit, as most cities do require it. Call your local inspection office for you to know the important things you have to do. You will spend more money if you fail to follow local codes. They can be very specific about the size of post you should use, and the types of screws and nails.

5. Do not forget, bark side up!

When installing your deck boards, don’t forget, “bark side up”. Orient each deck board so the end grain growth rings curve upward. Cupping will happen if you don’t do so; and water will pool in the middle and won’t be able to drain off your deck boards.

If you want your deck to last for a long period of time, you must choose materials wisely, especially the wood you’ll use. Get high quality and affordable Dandenong timber supplies from Serano Timber. Check out their website to learn where and how to get this quality wood for building a deck: http://www.seranotimber.com.au/