Chain Link Fence Vs. Vinyl and Aluminum: How to Choose

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Chain link fence is common used around parking lots or other commercial areas, but is it a good choice for your home? Below are 3 reasons we prefer to build with high performance vinyl or aluminum materials instead of a standard chain link fence.

1. Chain link fences don’t last as long as vinyl or aluminum fences.

When choosing materials for your new fence installation, durability and longevity are two of the most important factors. High performance vinyl and aluminum fences are built to stand the test of time and endure the Valley’s climate. They’re not susceptible to damage from moisture or insects either!

2. Vinyl and aluminum are much better looking and offer more privacy than a chain link fence.

Matching your new fence with the style of your home adds curb appeal and increases your property value. Vinyl fences have tons of color options and offer the most privacy with their no-gap design. If you don’t need the privacy of a no-gap vinyl fence, ornamental aluminum fences offer unique designs and a beautiful style without obstructing your view.

3. Chain link fences can rust.

Chain link fences are made of metal which can rust after years of exposure to weather and erosion. Even galvanized metal fences that are designed to last longer can still rust over time. Vinyl and aluminum fences will never rust! They are built to withstand the elements and require no maintenance beyond the occasional rinse with the hose if they are dirty.

What fence material is right for you?

When choosing fence materials, it’s important to think about why you’re installing a fence in the first place. If privacy is your top concern, a no-maintenance gapless vinyl fence is the most logical choice. If you’re adding a pool fence but still want to be able to see the kids swimming, an ornamental aluminum fence will look great and maintain visibility.

5 Questions to Ask A Fence Company

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If you’re considering building a new fence on your property, it’s important to ask prospective contractors the right questions. We’ve come up with a list of questions to ask your soon-to-be fence company to make sure they’re a perfect fit for your needs.

1. Can you tell me about the quality of your fence materials?

Strong and durable fences are built with high quality materials. Ask your fence company what brands or manufacturers materials they are using and if there are any warranties on materials.

2. Do you use aluminum stiffeners to prevent sagging?

An stiffener is a strong, lightweight aluminum insert that is used to reinforce fence posts or railings. In order to maintain the strength of your privacy or yard fence and prevent sagging, we always install aluminum stiffeners to strengthen the bottom rail of fences we build.

3. Will you use concrete to set fence posts?

Concrete should be used for all vinyl, aluminum and chain link fence installations. The taller the fence, the deeper the posts need to be set. It’s important that posts are set in concrete in order to maintain the strength and structure over time.

4. How long have you been in the fence business?

A fence company that has been in business for a long time will have more experienced workers and knowledge of materials and techniques. Dutch Way has been proudly serving customers in the Valley since 1995.

5. Are you properly licensed and insured?

Dealing with a licensed and insured fence company protects you from shoddy work. It also ensures that you have proper legal resources in the event of any disputes or injuries to workers on your property.

Dutch Way is a licensed, insured fence company with over 20 years in the business.

If you’re thinking about building a new fence, trust a fence company with a great reputation and over 20 years of experience in the Valley. Call us today for a completely free estimate! 1-888-467-6310.

Is Your Pool Fence Ready For Summer?

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Pool fences give you peace of mind knowing that your friends, family, and pets are safe. With summer just around the corner, families all over Harrisonburg are getting ready to open their pools. Below is our pool fence safety checklist of things to consider before opening your pool. Does your pool fence meet the appropriate standards?

1. Check all gates to make sure they are latching properly.

Before you can open your pool for the summer, it’s important that all gates are properly latching. All pool fence gates are required to swing shut, spring shut and latch. In other words, your gate should be able to close on its own and remain locked. This prevents any animals (or people!) from stumbling into the pool during the night without seeing it.

2. Check the gap between horizontal railings.

Most pool fences consist of horizontal and vertical railings. Pool fence regulations require that the horizontal railings must be no more than 45 inches apart, measured from the top of each rail.

3. Measure the height of your pool fence.

Harrisonburg building code requires that all outdoor swimming pools have a barrier fence that is at least 48 inches (4 feet) tall. This makes it difficult for any animals who visit your backyard at night to find themselves accidentally enjoying a midnight swim.

4. Examine the structural integrity of the fence.

It’s important that you take a walk around your pool fence before opening your pool to do a visual inspection. Look carefully for any holes, rot (not applicable for vinyl fences), potential weak spots or anything that might threaten the safety of the fence.

5. Make sure the rest of your pool is up to code.

If you’re unsure about any electrical or other building codes, check the Harrisonburg City Government’s swimming pool permit page that has all of the relevant code information.

If you need to replace or install a new pool fence or have any questions about local building code, Dutchway is here to help! Get in contact with us today.

Dutch Way Fence company creates Harrisonburg’s first gated community!

Dutch Way fence company partners with The Commons to create Harrisonburg’s first gated community.

Harrisonburg is home to many student subdivisions that provide affordable housing close to James Madison University. The Commons American Campus Community is upgrading safety for their residents through creating Harrisonburg’s first gated community. Dutch Way is proud to offer their expertise in custom fencing solutions to the project.

The gated community solution amplifies safety for residents.

Upon completion, the entirety of The Commons will be fenced with gated access. Strictly controlled entry for vehicles, bicycles, and pedestrians is offered to residents via small transponders that will operate the gates at a touch. Safety increases when only residents and authorized guests can enter the community. Gated communities typically experience low crime rates and a heightened sense of community from their restricted access and exclusivity.

Dutch Way collaborates with city agencies to offer The Commons a reliable custom solution.

From the initial conversation with the management team at The Commons, Dutch Way has been dedicated to drafting a custom solution that works for both The Commons and Harrisonburg City. Dutch Way is working with The Commons, Harrisonburg City Council, and Emergency Services, to design to code the best fencing and gate system for this gated community.  Being the first gated community in Harrisonburg, the design and installation will set the standard for future gated communities built in the city. Dutch Way fence company’s commitment to top-quality products and expert design and installation are leading the way in maximizing safety for this gated community and those to come.