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Month: July 2025

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Podcast

How to Protect Your Fence During Hurricane Season in Tampa

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Hi everyone! D.J. Marcussen here, owner of Fence Company Near Me. Living here in Pinellas, Florida, we’re no strangers to hurricane season. When those storms start brewing in the Atlantic, our minds naturally turn to protecting our homes: windows boarded up, cars fueled, emergency kits ready. But one crucial part of your property often gets overlooked until it’s too late, and that’s your fence. A damaged or poorly secured fence isn’t just an eyesore after a storm; it can become a dangerous projectile, cause costly property damage, or leave your yard exposed. So, let’s talk about how to prepare your fence for hurricane season and give you some peace of mind.

The first and most important step in protecting your fence is a thorough pre-season inspection. Walk the entire perimeter of your property and really examine every part of your fence. Look for any signs of wear and weakness: leaning posts, cracked or rotting boards, loose fasteners, or rusted hardware. Pay close attention to the base of your posts where they meet the ground, as this is a common point of failure due to moisture and rot. Small issues like a slightly loose post or a wobbly panel can quickly escalate into major damage under hurricane-force winds. Address these weaknesses immediately; tighten any loose screws or nails, replace any compromised sections, and if a post is leaning or showing significant rot, consider bracing it with a temporary support or having it professionally reinforced.

Next, focus on reinforcing key structural elements. Fence posts are the foundation of your fence, and if they fail, the whole structure can come down. Ensure your posts are set deep enough in concrete, preferably at least two to three feet deep depending on the fence height and soil conditions. For older wooden fences, adding diagonal supports or hurricane brackets at critical connection points can provide significant extra stability. Gates are often the weakest link in any fence line because they move. Check hinges and latches to make sure they are heavy-duty and securely fastened. During a storm, consider adding a temporary drop rod or bolt system to your gates, or even completely removing lightweight gates and storing them in a secure location like a garage or shed if a major hurricane is forecasted. This prevents them from swinging wildly or blowing off their hinges and becoming dangerous flying debris.

Clearing the surrounding landscape is another vital step that many homeowners overlook. Anything near your fence can become a projectile in high winds. Trim any overhanging tree limbs or tall shrubs that could fall onto or press against your fence during a storm. Clear away all lawn furniture, garden tools, decorative items, children’s toys, and anything else that could become airborne. Even a small plastic pot can cause surprisingly extensive damage when propelled by hurricane-force winds. A clean, clear fence line minimizes the chances of external forces causing damage.

Finally, consider the material and design of your fence. While we can’t change our existing fences overnight, if you’re thinking about a new fence, choose materials and designs known for their wind resistance. Chain-link and aluminum fences, with their open designs, generally perform well because they allow wind to pass through. If privacy is paramount, solid panel fences like wood or vinyl can act like sails in high winds. However, higher-quality vinyl with internal reinforcement or wooden fences with small gaps between boards (like shadowbox or semi-private styles) can offer a better balance of privacy and wind resistance. Professional installation also plays a huge role; a fence that is properly installed with deeply anchored posts and appropriate fasteners will always fare better than a DIY job.

Preparing your fence for hurricane season is an essential part of being a Florida homeowner. A little preventative action now can save you a lot of headache, expense, and potential damage later. If you have any concerns about your fence’s readiness or need professional assistance with repairs or reinforcements, don’t hesitate to contact us at Fence Company Near Me. We’re here to help you weather any storm.

Until next time, this is D.J. Marcussen, your friendly fence guy, reminding you that a solid fence leads to solid peace of mind!

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Podcast

How to Keep Mold and Mildew Off Your Fence

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Hi everyone! D.J. Marcussen here, owner of Fence Company Near Me. Living here in Pinellas, Florida, we all know a thing or two about humidity. It’s practically a way of life! While it makes for great sunrises and lush greenery, that constant moisture in the air also creates a perfect breeding ground for unwanted guests on your fence: mold and mildew. These fuzzy, often discolored growths not only look unsightly, but they can also cause real damage to certain fence materials over time. Let’s talk about how to keep your fence looking clean and pristine.

First, it’s important to understand why mold and mildew are such a problem here. They thrive in damp, warm, and shaded environments. Our high humidity levels, frequent rain showers, and subtropical climate provide exactly that. You’ll often see it as dark green, black, or even pinkish spots and streaks, especially on the shaded side of your fence or where vegetation is growing close. On wooden fences, it can eventually lead to rot, while on vinyl, it just looks plain dirty and can be tougher to remove if left unchecked.

The best defense against mold and mildew is a good offense, meaning prevention. One of the most effective strategies is to improve airflow around your fence. Trim back any bushes, trees, or vines that are growing too close to the fence line. When plants are pressing against the fence, they trap moisture and block sunlight, creating the ideal conditions for growth. Aim for at least a foot or two of clear space around the fence if possible. Good drainage in your yard also helps; standing water near the fence base will only exacerbate the problem.

Another preventative measure, particularly for wooden fences, is proper sealing and staining. A good quality sealant creates a barrier that helps repel moisture, making it harder for mold and mildew to take hold. Reapplying this every few years, according to the product’s instructions, is a smart investment in your fence’s longevity and appearance. For vinyl fences, while they don’t absorb moisture, their non-porous surface can still host mildew if conditions are right, so general cleanliness is key.

Now, if you’ve already got some mold or mildew making itself at home, don’t fret. Cleaning it off is usually straightforward, but the method can depend on your fence material. For most vinyl fences, a simple solution of warm water and a mild household detergent, applied with a soft brush or cloth, can do wonders. For tougher spots, a diluted bleach solution (about one part bleach to three parts water) or a specialized outdoor mold remover can be very effective. Always test a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t discolor your fence. For wood fences, a diluted bleach solution or an oxygen-based cleaner works well, applied gently with a soft brush to avoid damaging the wood fibers. You can also find commercial fence cleaning products specifically designed to tackle mold and mildew on wood.

For both types of fences, a pressure washer can be very useful for removing stubborn growth, but use it with caution. On wood fences, too much pressure can damage the fibers, leaving unsightly marks or even splintering the wood. Keep the nozzle a good distance away and use a fan tip. On vinyl fences, while more durable, excessive pressure can still force water into seams or damage the finish. Always start with a lower pressure setting and increase only if necessary. After cleaning, ensuring the fence has a chance to thoroughly dry in the sun is important to discourage immediate regrowth.

Maintaining a clean and healthy fence adds to your home’s curb appeal and protects your investment. By understanding the causes and taking these preventative and cleaning steps, you can keep mold and mildew at bay, ensuring your fence looks great year after year. If you’re in Pinellas County and need advice or professional cleaning, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Fence Company Near Me. We’re always here to help.

Until next time, this is D.J. Marcussen, your friendly fence guy, reminding you that a solid fence leads to solid peace of mind!

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Podcast

Common Causes of Fence Damage (and How to Prevent Them)

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Hi everyone! D.J. Marcussen here, owner of Fence Company Near Me. It’s a fact of life, especially here in Pinellas, Florida, that our fences face a fair share of challenges. Between the sunshine, the humidity, and everything else our environment throws at them, even the most robust fence can show signs of wear and tear. Understanding what typically causes fence damage is the first step in keeping your perimeter strong and looking its best for years to come. Let’s talk about the usual culprits and how you can stay ahead of the game.

One of the biggest factors we deal with in Florida is, no surprise, the weather. Our intense sun can cause wood fences to fade, warp, and crack over time. The constant humidity creates a perfect breeding ground for mold, mildew, and rot, particularly at the base of wooden posts where they meet the ground. Then, of course, we have our famous afternoon thunderstorms and the occasional tropical storm or hurricane. Strong winds can easily loosen panels, snap posts, or even completely blow over sections of a fence, especially if it’s already weakened. To prevent this, regular inspections are key. Consider applying a good quality sealant or stain to wood fences every few years to protect against UV rays and moisture. For all fence types, make sure posts are set deeply and securely in concrete. During hurricane season, trimming trees near your fence can prevent falling branches from causing catastrophic damage.

Next up, we have pests and rot. Termites are a constant threat to wood fences across Florida. They can silently tunnel through posts and rails, compromising the structural integrity long before you notice any surface damage. Fungi and rot also love our damp climate, especially in areas where wood is in direct contact with the soil or holds moisture for extended periods. The best prevention here starts with material choice; pressure-treated wood or naturally resistant options like cedar are better. However, even these benefit from regular inspections for signs of pest activity or discoloration from rot. Keeping vegetation trimmed away from the fence line improves airflow and reduces moisture buildup, making it less attractive to pests and fungi. If you spot signs of trouble, addressing it quickly can save you from a much larger repair job.

Then there’s the inevitable general wear and tear. Over time, even the best fences can simply succumb to daily use and exposure. Gates can sag from repeated opening and closing, hardware can rust, and panels can loosen. Kids playing, pets leaning against it, or even just the subtle ground shifts can contribute to this gradual breakdown. The key to preventing major issues from general wear is proactive maintenance. Regularly checking gate hinges and latches, tightening screws, and lubricating moving parts can extend their lifespan significantly. Addressing small issues like a loose picket immediately prevents it from becoming a bigger problem, like a whole panel coming undone.

Finally, we see a fair bit of accidental damage. This can come from a variety of sources, from a landscaping mishap involving a lawnmower or weed-eater hitting the fence base, to vehicles backing into a section, or even just sports equipment flung over the fence. While some accidents are unavoidable, many can be prevented with a little foresight. Creating a clear buffer zone around your fence where landscaping equipment can’t easily reach, or even installing a small border, can protect the fence from common yard work damage. Being mindful when maneuvering vehicles near the fence line, especially with trailers or boats, also goes a long way.

Understanding these common causes and taking a few preventative steps can truly make a difference in the longevity and appearance of your fence. Investing a little time in maintenance now can save you a significant amount in repairs later. If you’re in Pinellas County and notice your fence showing signs of distress, or if you just want some professional advice on prevention, don’t hesitate to give us a call at Fence Company Near Me. We’re always here to help keep your property secure and looking great.

Until next time, this is D.J. Marcussen, your friendly fence guy, reminding you that a solid fence leads to solid peace of mind!

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Podcast

The Best Fence Types for Privacy for Your Florida Home

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Hi everyone! D.J. Marcussen here, owner of Fence Company Near Me. One of the most common reasons homeowners in Pinellas, Florida, come to us for a new fence is to create a private oasis in their own backyard. Whether you’re looking to block out nosy neighbors, create a secluded space for your pool, or just enjoy your property without feeling exposed, privacy is key. So, let’s talk about the best fence types that deliver that much-needed seclusion.

When we talk about privacy fences, we’re generally looking for a solid barrier with no gaps or very minimal spacing between the fence components. Here in Florida, we also need to consider durability against our unique weather challenges, from the intense sun to heavy rain and hurricane season winds.

Wood fences are a classic choice for privacy and offer a warm, natural aesthetic that many homeowners love. You’ve got a couple of excellent options here. Solid stockade fences are built with boards placed about against each other and offers minimal visibility through the fence. The wood can be stained or painted to perfectly match your home’s exterior, adding a truly custom touch. For an even more robust privacy solution, or to account for wood’s natural tendency to shrink over time, board-on-board fences are an excellent choice. These are constructed with overlapping boards, meaning there are no gaps even if the wood naturally shrinks. This also adds a nice dimensional texture to the fence, making it visually appealing from both sides. When choosing wood for Florida, remember that opting for pressure-treated pine or cypress is absolutely crucial to resist rot and the persistent pests we have. While wood offers excellent privacy and a timeless look, it’s worth noting it does require more maintenance than other options, like regular cleaning, sealing, or painting, to truly withstand our humidity and strong sun.

If low maintenance is your absolute top priority when it comes to privacy, vinyl fencing is an unbeatable option, especially right here in Florida. Vinyl privacy fences are typically constructed with solid panels that interlock or fit snugly together, creating a seamless and impenetrable wall. They come in various heights, commonly six or 4’ options, offering truly superior visual blockage for your yard. Vinyl is engineered to withstand harsh weather conditions. It simply won’t rot, rust, warp, or succumb to termites, which are significant advantages in our climate. It’s also UV-stabilized, so it resists fading and chalking from that intense Florida sun. Keeping it clean is a breeze too; a quick wash with a hose and mild soap is usually all it takes to keep a vinyl fence looking pristine. You won’t find yourself needing to paint, stain, or seal it ever again! While classic white is always popular, vinyl fences are readily available in a wide range of colors.

Composite fencing offers a fantastic blend of durability, aesthetics, and, of course, privacy. These fences are typically made from a mix of recycled plastics and wood fibers, giving you the appealing look and feel of wood without the demanding maintenance that natural wood often requires. Similar to vinyl, composite fences usually come in solid panel systems or horizontal tongue and grove pickets with aluminum post ensuring complete and uninterrupted privacy. They are highly resistant to rot, insects, splintering, and warping, making them a very strong contender for Florida’s challenging environment. Plus, composite materials come in a variety of colors and textures that closely resemble natural wood, allowing you to achieve a rustic or modern look with minimal upkeep.

When you’re considering a privacy fence, think carefully about the exact level of seclusion you truly need, your budget, and how much time you’re willing to dedicate to maintenance. Here at Fence Company Near Me, we can walk you through the pros and cons of each type and help you choose the perfect privacy fence to create your own secluded paradise on your Pinellas property.

Until next time, this is D.J. Marcussen, your friendly fence guy, reminding you that a solid fence leads to solid peace of mind!

 

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