GS Fence Company

Durability Showdown: Lifespan of Various Fence Materials in San Antonio’s Climate

When it comes to selecting the perfect fencing for your property in San Antonio, the array of choices can seem overwhelming. Wood, vinyl, metal – each one has its own distinct benefits and potential drawbacks. An important factor to consider is longevity, as a fence is an investment that should stand the test of time. Understanding the durability of different fencing materials in our unique San Antonio climate is critical. Welcome to the durability showdown!

1. Wooden Fences: A Classic with Variability

From Cedar to Pine, wooden fences offer a timeless aesthetic. But how do they fare against the San Antonio heat and occasional bouts of heavy rain? Cedarwood, for instance, is naturally resistant to insects and rot and can last anywhere between 15 to 30 years with proper care. However, it may weather and change color over time. Pine, a more economical choice, can last 5 to 12 years. Regular maintenance including staining or painting can significantly increase the lifespan of a wooden fence.

 

2. Vinyl Fences: The Long-Lasting Contender

Vinyl fencing, while it may not offer the natural appeal of wood, boasts an impressive lifespan. These fences are resistant to the elements and typically last anywhere from 20 to 40 years. Best of all, they require minimal maintenance and won’t warp or change color under the intense San Antonio sun.

 

3. Metal Fences: The Powerhouse of Durability

When it comes to longevity, metal fences are hard to beat. Wrought iron and aluminum fences, with proper maintenance, can easily last over 50 years. They withstand the San Antonio heat like champions, and with a protective coating, they can resist rust and corrosion.

Chain-link fences, an economical metal option, typically last around 15 to 20 years, though high-quality, vinyl-coated options can last much longer. They can withstand San Antonio’s climate well and require minimal upkeep.

 

4. Composite Fences: The Best of Both Worlds?

Composite fencing is made from a mix of recycled wood fibers and plastic. It offers the aesthetic appeal of wood with the durability of synthetic materials. Typically, composite fences can last between 25 and 30 years, making them a solid contender. However, they may discolor and warp slightly in extreme heat, a factor to consider given San Antonio’s hot summers.

In conclusion, when choosing the material for your new fence, consider more than just upfront cost and appearance. Think about the long-term investment and the way your fence will stand up to our San Antonio climate. The durability showdown isn’t simply about the strongest material, it’s about finding the best match for your needs and environment.

 

At G’s Fence Company, we’re here to help you make an informed decision that will keep your property looking its best for years to come. Contact us on (210) 888-1498 or fill up this contact form for a consultation and free quote. We look forward to helping you create a durable, beautiful addition to your property.

4 Tips for Commercial Fence Installation

When you want to install a commercial fence, you have to consider so many things. It requires proper planning to achieve an effective and efficient result for your commercial fence installation project. Such a fence must bring together factors such as aesthetics, security, safety, and cost-effectiveness in the right combination. 

At G’s Fence Company of San Antonio, we have created this guide to make it easier for you to have the perfect fence for your commercial property. 

Questions to Ask

Before you get started with your search for materials, contractors, and consideration of factors, it is recommended to find answers to the following questions:

  • Will the materials withstand the local weather?
  • Will the fence provide the security and safety you seek for your property?
  • Does the fence fit into your budget?
  • How long will the fence last?

Once you have determined the answers to these questions, you should know that a commercial fence must provide a wide range of benefits. These benefits include:

  • Security
  • Safety
  • Privacy
  • Aesthetics
  • Access control
  • Adding property value

1. Choosing the Right Material

There are different fence materials and they serve different purposes. It is important to do a little research to ensure you are getting the right fence. For example, vinyl and wooden fences provide excellent privacy, but a tall chain link fence offers greater security. While a wrought iron fence looks more appealing, it may not offer the privacy you desire. 

The key positives of some of the commonly used commercial fence materials are as follows:

Chain Link Fence

  • Ease of installation
  • Cost-effective
  • Effective at keeping critters out
  • Effective at keeping low-moderate intrudes out
  • Highly customizable
  • Low-maintenance and highly durable

Decorative Chain Link

  • More attractive
  • Extra level of protection to increase the fence’s lifespan

Wrought Iron

  • Durable and long-lasting in all weather conditions
  • Exceptional strength and high level of security
  • Exceptionally tough
  • Timeless looks
  • Adds high value to your property

2. Consider Local Conditions

While you may prefer the looks of a certain material for your commercial fence, it may not be suited for your local conditions. 

  • If your property is in a windy area or on the waterfront, consider chain link
  • If your area experiences high summer temperatures or rain, consider vinyl

3. Hire the Right Contractor

When it comes to fence installation, whether commercial or residential, you should hire professional services instead of handling the project yourself. Never choose the first contractor you come across. Again, do a little research on their experience with the materials of your choice and their market reputation. 

4. Factors

It is further recommended to consider the following factors when installing a commercial fence:

  • Security
  • Looks
  • Environment
  • Local building code
  • Maintenance requirements

For more information and guidance about commercial fence installation, it is recommended to contact G’s Fence Company of San Antonio. You can give us a call at (210) 888-1498 or write to us.

How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Fences?

When you install a fence on your residential or commercial property, you want it to last for decades. It must withstand sunlight, winds, storms, moisture, and exposure to various other conditions. Whatever type of fences you may have, they will need specialized care and maintenance if you want to extend their lifespan.

At G’s Fence Company of San Antonio, we would like to share some helpful tips for different fence materials to get more years out of them.

Wooden Fences

When maintained well, a wooden fence should see at least 20 years of life. Wooden fences are a significant investment and you should do everything to get more out of them. 

  • Add Metal Fence Posts: The posts are the most vulnerable part of a wooden fence because they are in constant contact with the ground. Use metal fence posts, as they can last decades while building a strong and durable foundation. You will not have to worry about wood posts absorbing moisture and suffering damage from mildew, rot, or insects.
  • Install a Rot Board: Add a rot board to the fence’s bottom to prevent moisture absorption.
  • Stain & Seal: Use quality fence stain and sealer to add life to the wooden fence and enhance its looks. Fence stain can also protect against UV-ray degradation.
  • Inspect & Repair: Make sure your wooden fence is inspected and repaired every year. Timely repair can prevent any costly breakdowns, repairs, and replacement jobs. 

Vinyl Fences

Vinyl fence is more popular than almost any other fence type. These fences can last from 20 to 40 years based on the maintenance and repairs they receive. Vinyl is a durable and sturdy material and requires minimal maintenance. It is recommended to take the following steps to have your vinyl fence, see more summers:

  • Inspections & Regular Maintenance: Wash the fence two to four times a year. It should be inspected at least twice a year to look for any signs of damage. 
  • Oil the Hardware: This is a general rule that applies to all types of fences. The gate hinges and other hardware should be oiled once a year. Make sure the screws are checked and tightened or replaced in time.
  • Adjust a Gate: If there is a gate, it should be adjusted once a year. Make sure it is properly secured to prevent it from swinging during bad weather.

Chain-Link Fences

Your galvanized steel chain-link fence should last you up to 30 years. You can apply a vinyl coating for additional protection and make sure any damages are repaired on time. Some tips to extend a chain-link fence’s life are as follows:

  • Clean Regularly: These fences are easier to clean. You will need a pressure washer and mild soap to remove dirt, debris, and stains. 
  • Rust Protection: chain-link fences are likely to get rust. Make sure to apply rust protection on an annual basis. Special attention should be given to the fence’s bottom, where moisture from the ground can build up.
  • Remove Vines: It is an appealing idea to don your chain-link fences with vines to add privacy and enhance the fence’s beauty. The foliage is going to expose the fence to moisture and place weight on it. It is recommended to remove vines and plants on the fence to add more years to it.

As mentioned above for other fences, you should oil any gate hinges and check the hardware from time to time.

So, these are some of the most helpful tips to add more years to your fences. For more information and guidance, contact G’s Fence Company of San Antonio at (210) 888-1498. You can also write to us, and we will get back to you at the earliest.

6 Benefits of Chain Link Fences for Your Commercial Property

Chain link fencing provides an affordable and durable fencing option for any type of property. Their exceptional strength and longevity make them perfect for commercial properties. There are many benefits of this type of metal fence for businesses. At G’s Fence Company of San Antonio, we would like to share the top reasons why our commercial clients prefer these fences.

1. Exceptional Strength

Chain link fences have exceptional strength. Depending on your property’s unique needs, you can find wire mesh chain links in a wide range of gauges. This is why strong chain link fences are regularly used to protect the following types of areas that require high security:

  • Utilities
  • Military facilities
  • Inventory depots
  • Warehouses

At G’s Fence, we offer you sturdy materials designed to withstand the conditions typical to San Antonio, Texas. 

2. Enhanced Security

If you require additional security for your business premises, you should consider chain link fencing. Since this fence is quite strong, it prevents potential intruders from breaking in. Security is an important reason why our commercial clients invest in these metal fences. It will keep out not just human intruders, but also wildlife.

3. Enhanced Safety

Chain link fence also offers specific benefits for use in certain industries and hazardous conditions. It acts as a reliable way to keep intruders out without causing splinters. These fences don’t have decorative design features such as pointed posts. You can opt for simple and straightforward chain link fences with pillars and railings. Safety is a major reason why chain link fences are also used temporarily around construction projects.

4. Unobstructed View

Chain link allows clear visibility through the fence line. There are different commercial settings where this design offers many benefits. These fences act as the perfect barrier around outdoor pools, water parks, and sports fields. They allow people to get a clearer view inside without the need to enter the facility. This feature makes these fences perfect for businesses where visibility is an important part of promoting the business. 

Some types of commercial establishments that use chain link fences include:

  • Sports facilities
  • Amusement parks
  • Pet boarding kennels
  • Self-storage companies
  • Nurseries
  • Motels
  • Retailers with outdoor inventories

5. Versatility

Versatility is an essential element of chain link fencing. You can your chain link fence in a length, height, and style of your choice.  Besides the conventional galvanized steel mesh, you can also find vinyl-coated mesh in a wide range of colors. With so many options in terms of dimensions and style, these fences allow you to both secure your perimeter and enhance your property’s curb appeal.

6. Ease of Maintenance

Chain link fences are also low-maintenance fences. You can maintain them with regular hose washing to ensure all debris is removed. Galvanized, powder-coated, and vinyl fences typically come with ample protection against the elements for many years. You can consider adding protective metal coatings later on. The ease of care makes this fence widely popular with commercial property owners.

At G’s Fence Company of San Antonio, we help you choose the perfect fences for your commercial or residential property in San Antonio, Texas. For more information about our products and services, feel free to contact us at (210) 888-1498. You can also write to us, and we will get back to you at the earliest.