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Welcome to Central Iowa Fencing Fence University

 

 
 

Central Iowa Fencing Fence University is the perfect place to learn about fencing, fence maintenance, and fence care.

 

  • Learn how to pick out the proper fence for your home and lifestyle.
  • Learn how to take care of your existing fence.
  • Learn how to clean your fence.
  • Fence maintenance after a storm.
  • Fall fence maintenance tips.
  • Summer fence maintenance tips.
  • Privacy Fencing
  • How To Stain A Wood fence
  • Wood fencing

 

 

Wood Fence Maintenance: What to Do After A Storm

 
 

Winter is the hardest season on your fence with wind, rain, hail, and snow.  All of these can affect your fence.
A strong winter storm can wreak havoc on a wood fence but fortunately there are easy tips to help you salvage
your wood fence after it has been damaged in a winter storm. If any of these steps seem to complicated
you can call the fence professionals at Central Iowa Fencing Ltd.

 
 
  • Assess the damage to the fence.  The first step in repairing a storm-ravaged wood fence is to assess the damage to the fence.
    This doesn't mean only the fence but also damage to the landscaping around the fence.  Make sure it
    will be safe to access the fence for repair, down trees, debris, and down power lines can be dangerous.  Once you made
    sure the surrounding area to be safe, approach the fence to determine what parts need to be repaired or
    replaced. 
 
 
  • Remove large tree limbs or debris around the fence.  One of the biggest threats to wood fencing during a storm is fallen tree limbs and debris.
    If necessary, remove limbs and branches with saw or axe, making sure not to damage the fence in the process.  Also, clean off
    any debris stuck to the fence including leaves, mud, grass, or weeds.
    These can contribute to wood rot over time.
 
 
  • Get your supplies.  Now that you have assessed the damage to the fence and removed all the debris, you can get the supplies necessary to repair
    the fence. You should be able to purchase everything necessary to repair your fence at the local hardware store or home improvement store.
    Central Iowa Fencing can repair your wood fence with quality workmanship.
 
 
  • Reinforce the fence posts.  Wind, rain, and heavy snow can loosen the fence posts this will weaken the structural integrity of the fence
    and cause leaning or a collapse of the fence. Check all fence posts to make sure they are sturdy.
    If the posts are weak then reinforce them or replace the posts.  Reinforcing wood fence posts can be done by installing wood braces
    on the posts and resetting them in fresh concrete.
 
 
  • Call a professional.  If you do not feel comfortable with pouring concrete or setting  new fence post then it is time to call an expert.
    The professionals at Central Iowa Fencing Ltd. can help you with your fence repair.
    Central Iowa Fencing Ltd.
    has over 15 years experience with fence repair and installation.  Call Central Iowa fencing Ltd. Today (515)981- 5777.
 
 
  • Be safe.  If you do choose to repair the damage to your fence, remember to always be safe and use common sense.  First, check for downed power lines.
    Always wear the appropriate safety gear. This includes heavy gloves, pants, boots and safety glasses.
    Lastly don't take on too much.  If they job is too big or too difficult for you then please call a professional.
 
  Winter storm can can damage wood fencing but the fencing specialist at Central Iowa Fencing Ltd. can repair any damage to your wood fence.  

 

Fence Maintenance

 
Iron Fence Maintenance
Wash your wrought iron with soapy water twice a year.  Oil latches and springs with mineral oil.  Use steel wool to buff any scratches or rust off and use a rust neutralizer or you can neutralize the rust with lemon juice and vinegar for an economic and environmentally friendly solution.  Use a matching rust resistant paint to touch up small areas after neutralizing.  Taking care of your wrought iron fence will make it last for years.  
   
Wood Fence Maintenance  
A wood fence is a great way to keep your property private but it does need to be maintained to stay in good shape.  Performing a few basic and simple fence maintenance tasks will help your wood fence last for years and keeps its beauty.  
 
Step 1-Check The Pickets Of Your Fence
Check all the pickets on the fence to make sure the nails are not coming out and that there is no rot in the wood pickets.
 
Step 2-Cleaning Your Fence
Clean any mildew off the wood fence with mildew cleaner or you can use soap with water and a scrub brush.  Hose the area off with clean water.
Wood fencing should be cleaned with soap and water periodically to remove dirt and grime, this will help the wood fence last longer and prevent the wood from rotting.  You can also use a pressure washer.
 
Step 3-Painting/Staining Your Fence
Every few years your wood fence will need to be painted or stained.  You can paint your wood fence with a brush, roller, or paint sprayer.  A brush will make it easier to get into all the cracks and crannies that can be missed by a paint sprayer.  Also remember a paint sprayer has problems with overspray.  Remember to paint the bottom well that meets the ground.  This area is exposed to moisture and dirt and may be the most likeliest place for wood rot to start.  Apply two coats of paint or stain making sure the first coat has good time to dry.
 
Vinyl Fence Maintenance
Vinyl fencing is easy to maintain and will last for years looking great.  To keep your vinyl fence looking great you should clean it once every 3-6 months.  A bucket of soapy water works great.  An environmentally safe cleaner is recommended and will also not hurt your fence.  A harsh cleaner can damage your vinyl fence and also your landscaping.
 
Cleaning A Cedar Fence
If you have a cedar fence it will over time turn gray or a silver hue.  There are four common reason of discoloration of a cedar fence and they are:

  • Natural fading and graying.
  • Mildew, mold, and tannin stains.
  • Oil and tree sap discolorations.
  • Burns.

 

Black marks caused by mildew, mold, and tannins are the most common stains for cedar fencing.  Tannins are naturally-occurring plant chemicals that leech from the cedar wood.  Tannins are incompatible with metals and any metal they come into contact with cedar will leave black stains.
Mildew and mold can grow on cedar and other woods, these should be cleaned off of the wood.  Oil and sap are another cause for discoloration on cedar fencing.  Sap oozes to the surface of the wood, leaving a shiny dark discoloration and it is sometimes sticky.  Cedar wood fades and takes on a gray look naturally with age.  These can usually be removed with a water/bleach solution, be careful not to drip on landscaping as this will damage plants.
 
Central Iowa Fencing Ltd. Fall Fence Maintenance Tips
 

Nasty Fall weather and rotting yard debris can potentially damage a fence.  These simple tips can help your fence last for years.

  • CleanRemove dirt, leaves, and debris.
  • Trim trees. Remove overhanging tree limbs these can break in a bad storm.
  • Paint/Stain. Apply a fresh coat of paint or stain before winter hits.
  • Check Fence. After major storms it is a good idea to check for storm damage. 
   
Central Iowa Fencing  Ltd. Summer Fence Maintenance Tips
 
The start of Summer is a great time to perform standard maintenance on your fence.  This will keep your fence looking great for years to come. 
  • Vegetation and Dirt:  Trim back any vegetation such as vines, bushes, or weeds that may be taking over your fence.  Also remove any soil that may be built up on your fence.  These will hold in moisture and cause wood rot and could lead to a termite infestation.
  • Trim Overhanging Branches: Trim any overhanging branches that can potentially fall on your fence during a harsh summer storm.
  • Visual Inspection: Look over your fence carefully to make sure there are no signs of rot, loose or broken boards, or loose fence posts.
  • Wash Fence: A good fence cleaning in the summer will make it look great all summer long and improve the longevity of your fence.
  • Staining or Painting: Paint or stain your fence to protect it all season long.
  • Check Latches and Hinges: Check the latch and hinges to make sure they close properly.  Oil fence hinges and the latch.
  • Repair Fence Damage: Repair any damage to your fence.  If you are unable to do it yourself then call an expert.  The fencing experts at Central Iowa Fencing can help.
 
 

Privacy Fencing

 
Privacy fencing is a great way to add privacy and protection to your yard.  Privacy fencing can add value to your home and require little maintenance.
Shelter
Installing a privacy fence will provide your property with a barrier to help shelter it from the elements.  Privacy fencing acts as a windbreak to prevent wind damage to your landscaping and property.  Depending on the positioning of the fence and you home the privacy fence can also provide some shade.
 
Decoration
Privacy fencing can be very beautiful and will add to the decoration of your garden and home.  Privacy fencing can be stained or painted to compliment your home or yard.
 
Variety
One of the main benefits of using a privacy fence it the wide range of materials and styles of fence available.  A variety of colors and wood types are available.  Choose a style and color that compliments your home and yard.
 
Protection
A privacy fence while adding beauty to your home and yard also provides some protection too.  Privacy fencing helps keep children and pet within the property boundaries.  Privacy fencing also help keep out intruders and stray animals.  Privacy fence is also perfect to add privacy to a pool or hot tub area.  Privacy fencing also helps to distinguish property lines.
 
Maintenance
Privacy fences are design to last for years with only a little maintenance to stay in great shape.  Clean your fence and recoat with paint or stain every few years.
 
Noise
Privacy fencing can help reduce noise.  The taller and the denser the materials the more sound it will help block.
 

Central Iowa Fencing Ltd. Winter Fence Maintenance Tips

 
Winter weather can be hard on an Iowa wood fence between the wind, cold, and moisture of rain and snow.  A little winter maintenance can increase the life span of your wood fence and cut down on potential problems next spring while preserving the beauty of your wood fence.
 

Problems In Winter Your Wood Fence Will Encounter

Winter can pose extreme challenges to your wood fence with the cold, moisture, and shifting temperatures.
Snow and rain:
Prolonged exposure to moisture weakens the fibers in the wood fence this can lead to mold, mildew, and wood rot.  A waterproof stain or sealant should be applied to your wood fence before winter hits.
Remove leaves and dirt from between the wood slats, this will allow good air circulation and prevent moisture from being trapped and causing damage to the wood.
 
Changing Temperatures:
Dramatic shifts in winter temperatures can cause the fence wood to expand and contract, which can cause knots to fall out and leave knotholes in your fence.  Knotholes can invite insect infestation and wood rot.
 
Shifting Soil:
Heavy rain can cause excess water to soak into the ground and form sinkholes, landslides, or shifts that can impact your wood fence supporting posts. 
 
Falling Debris:
Under the weight of winter snow and ice branches can be weakened causing them to fall on your fence.  Trimming back tree branches that are close to your fence will help eliminate them fall and damaging your fence.
 
Winter Maintenance Tips For Wood Fences
There are simple steps you can take throughout winter months to ensure the safety of your fence.
 
  1. Inspect your wood fence for damage after a harsh winter storm.  Check the post for damage and repair to prevent more damage.
  2. Routinely clean the fence for leaves or other organic material that has settles between the boards or rails.
  3. Remove snow pilling up on the fence if possible this will help prevent water damage.
Basic fence maintenance during winter can preserve your fence for years to come and will help make spring fence maintenance easier.
 

 Decorating Your  Fence For Christmas

Christmas is a wonderful time with family and friends and is a great time to show off your beautiful new fence built by Central Iowa Fencing.  Here are some decorating ideas from Central Iowa Fencing that will make your fence as festive has the inside of your home.
 

 

Wreaths:

Wreaths have been traditionally used to welcome guest to your home.  Welcome your family and friends to your home by placing a wreath on your gate.  Wreaths can be hung with string to wood fencing, wrought iron fencing, or chain link fencing and are a great way to add color to your yard in the winter.
 
Garlands:
Garland are perfect for a classic elegant look.  Drape your fence with fresh greenery or you can use an artificial garland to use year after year.  Garlands can be attached to wood fencing, wrought iron fencing, or chain-link fencing.
 
Lights:
Light are a great way to add light to your yard and fence during the holidays.  There are many different light styles to choose from that will look great onyour fence.  Traditional bulb lights, icicle lights, modern energy saver light like LEDs, or rope/tube lights.  Christmas lights can be used in many different ways from traditionally draping over the fence or wrapping around a post to form a candy cane. Icicle lights add a frosted wintery look to any fence.
 
Bows and Ornaments:
A simple way to decorate is to add bows and ornaments to your fence.  Ornaments can be made out of a variety of materials and can be a fun family project to make ornaments for the fence.  Red or burgundy bows are a great way to add color to the outside of your home and are very economical.  Bows are also a lot of fun to make and a great craft project for children.
 

Protect Your Wood Fence From Wood Rot

Protecting your wood fence from rot is important to the longevity and beauty of your wood fence.  Your wood fence should last for decades if properly cared for.  Proper wood fence maintenance is easy to do for the home owner and will help the wood fence keep its value.
 

Two Types of Rot For A Wood Fence:

Your wood fence will potentially encounter two types of wood rot.  It is important to protect against both kinds of wood rot for the longevity of your fence.
 
Dry Rot:
Dry rot occurs when the wood fence looses the moisture and protective oils of the wood.  This is the most common form of wood tor for a wood fence.  The wood dries out and becomes brittle.  The wood boards start to crack and give of splinters.
 
Wet Rot:
Wet rot will occur when moisture is constantly hitting the wood surface.  Typically rot occurs where the wood fence post meet the ground.
 
Wood Rot Prevention:
The best way to prevent wood rot whether it is from dry rot or wet rot is to stain your wood fence right after your wood fence is built.  Staining your wood fence give it a layer of protection and naturally conditions the wood so it does not dry out.  Staining your wood fence once a year is recommended to keep it protected and beautiful for years.
 

Why Stain Your Wood Fence

Keeping a fresh coat of stain on your wood fence is important to the care and beauty of your new wood fence.  Wood stain will help prevent dry rot and wet rot of your wood fence.  Linseed oil based stain will help protect your wood fence form the elements and provide the wood with oils to condition the wood and help keep the wood from drying out.  Linseed oil will help supplement the natural wood oils to keep your wood fence from cracking.  Apply a fresh coat of stain every year.
 

How To Stain A Wood Fence

Stain will help keep your wood fence in good shape.  You should apply stain to a wood fence every year to keep your wood fence looking good.
 
Before You Begin To Stain Your Wood Fence:
Make any necessary repairs to your wood fence.  Fix wood rot damage by replacing boards on your wood fence.  Clean your wood fence and clean up the surrounding work area.  Cut the grass around your wood fence and trim up bushes before your begin your fence staining project.  Make sure the wood on your wood fence is clean and dry.  Make sure it is free of dirt and grime.  Remove any mildew before staining.
 
Applying Stain To A Wood Fence:
You can use a roller, brush, or sprayer to apply your stain to your wood fence.  Sprayers can be costly if you don't have one and will go through more stain during the application process than a brush or roller.
 
Stain Your Wood Fence:
Stain your wood fence with an even coat of stain.  Make sure you apply two coats of stain to your wood fence.  Be careful not to drip stain on the ground or shrubbery around your wood fence. Stains should be applied above 50 degrees.  Do not apply stain if rain is expected with in 24 hours.  Wear a mask while staining your wood fence. 
 
Central Iowa Fencing Ltd is a fence contractor located in Central Iowa.  This Central Iowa Fence contractor has over 15 years experience in custom built fences.  Central Iowa Fencing can help you with your fence project.  Contact Central Iowa Fencing Ltd. today. (515) 981- 5777   Customer testimonials for Central Iowa Fencing
 

PVC Vinyl Fencing

What is PVC?
PVC is a common abbreviation that stands for Polyvinyl Chloride.  PVC is widely used in many products around the world.  PVC is used as a building material also because it is low cost, durable, and will not rust or rot like other materials.  PVC is also made into fencing because it will not rot like wood.  PVC fencing is low maintenance because it does not require being painted or stained.  PVC vinyl fencing is a great low cost alternative to wood or metal fencing. 
 
PVC Fencing Styles:
PVC vinyl fencing comes in many colors and styles.  PVC vinyl fencing can also look just like real wood.  You can get PVC vinyl fencing in traditional and classic styles to match your home and outdoor entertainment area.  PVC vinyl fencing can be installed by Central Iowa fencing, a fence contractor located in Central Iowa.
 
Maintenance Free PVC Vinyl Fencing:
PVC vinyl fencing is a great low maintenance choice for busy homeowners.  PVC Vinyl fencing does not need to be painted or stained to maintain its color and beauty.  PVC vinyl fencing does not require replacing of boards, sanding, or refinishing.  PVC vinyl fencing is colored all the way through the material so scratches won't show like on wood fencing.  PVC vinyl fencing will not crack or chip like traditional wood fencing and will virtually last the lifetime of the home.  The color on PVC vinyl fencing will last of years without fading or dulling.
 
PVC Vinyl Fencing Contractors: Central Iowa Fence Contractors:
Central Iowa Fencing Ltd is a fence contractor located in Central Iowa.  This Central Iowa Fence contractor has over 15 years experience in custom built fences.  Central Iowa Fencing can help you with your fence project.  Contact Central Iowa Fencing Ltd. today. (515) 981- 5777  Customer testimonials for Central Iowa Fencing
 

Fencing and Fence Posts For Wood Fences

Fence post for wood fencing comes in two types the traditional wood or the more modern choice of metal fence posts.  Metal fence posts are stronger than traditional wood fence posts and can be easily hidden so the look and beauty of the wood fence is maintained.  Metal fence posts will not rot like wood fence posts and they will not warp like wood fencing too.
 
PostMaster® Metal Fence Posts:
PostMaster® by Master Halco makes quality metal fence posts for wood fencing.  PostMaster® metal fence posts for wood fencing will prevent your fence weakening from termite damage to the wood type of fence posts.  PostMaster® gives the ordinary fence the strength of steal while having the look of wood fencing.  Post Master® fence post will not warp, twist,  attract insects, or rust.  PostMaster® fence posts are galvanized with a zinc coating that helps prevent premature rusting.  PostMaster® is manufactured using a steel base material conforming to the requirements of ASTM A 653 and a coating designation G90 galvanized (zinc) coating.  PostMaster® fence posts are made of recycled material which is good for the environment and the planet.  PostMaster® posts are cost effective since they are only slightly more than high quality wood fence posts.  PostMaster® fence posts will out last wood fence posts.  To learn more about PostMaster® metal fence posts for wood fences please download the PostMaster PDF.

 
 
 

 

Central Iowa Fencing Ltd. service area in Central Iowa includes in: Ames, Des Moines, Boone, Altoona, Ankeny, Jefferson, West Des Moines, Urbandale, Clive, Indianola, Marshalltown, Johnston, Grimes, Granger, and Waukee Iowa.

Central Iowa Fencing Ltd. is servicing homeowners in the zip codes of: 50263, 50125, 50158, 50023, 50013, 50036, 50009, 50129, 50265, 50325, 50322, 50301, 50305, 50309, 50313, 50317, 50321, 50330, 50334, 50340, 50361, 50367, 50381, 50394, 50936, 50980,50302, 50306, 50310, 50314, 50318, 50327, 50331, 50335, 50303, 50307, 50311, 50315, 50319, 50328, 50332, 50336, 50304,50308, 50312, 50316, 50320, 50329, 50333, 50339, 50360, 50364, 50380, 50393, 50397, 50950, 50947, 50396, 50392, 50369,50347, 50362, 50368, 50391, 50363, 50131, 50322, 50323, 50391, 50395, 50398, 50014, 50010, 50011, 50012, 50111, 50109, and 50940.

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