Lone Star Fence & Construction

Wrought Iron Fencing: Pros and Cons

If you want beautiful, durable fencing that withstands the test of time, it’s hard to go wrong with wrought iron.

Wrought iron is classic, secure, and beautiful.

However, like anything in life, wrought iron fencing comes with both benefits and drawbacks. Here’s what you need to know in order to make an informed decision about the fencing you’ll add to your home or business.

Pro: Durability and Long Term Savings

When you purchase a wrought iron fence you can enjoy it for a lifetime as long as you maintain it properly. That’s right: you may never have to replace or purchase a fence ever again.

Even the very best of wooden fences need replacement at least every 15 years or so, no matter how good the materials, craftsmanship, or maintenance plan.

If you want a fence that lasts, wrought iron is the way to go.

Pro: Appearance

Wrought iron is undeniably beautiful. We can create a variety of customized designs to enhance its beauty even further.

While most of our homeowners choose fairly basic designs, some take advantage of our abilities with custom metalwork, choosing flourishes or decorative elements that truly express their unique personalities and aesthetics.

Pro: Security

Wrought iron fences are extremely difficult to climb or scale.

If you combine them with an automatic security gate, they’re difficult to break into at all. It can become a perimeter that keeps people out of your lawn or property. Combine it with a security system, and you turn your home into a safe fortress, sending criminals off to find a softer target.

Con: Requires Regular Maintenance

Like all fences, wrought iron fences require regular cleaning and fresh paint every year.

But your main battle with a wrought iron fence is going to be fighting off rust. Most will need some manner of rust removal at some point during the lifespan of the fence. You’ll need a rust removal solution and, occasionally, some sandpaper to remove the rust.

Conduct regular inspections to ensure you catch the rust while it’s still a series of small spots, rather than a large patch that is eating your entire fence.

Con: Initial Costs

There’s no denying that wrought iron fencing requires the highest initial investment of any fence type.

But remember, you’re buying a fence that will last a lifetime, so you do save money in the long run.

Schedule Your Quote Today

Have you decided that a wrought iron fence is right for you? Then turn to the wrought iron experts!

The team at Lone Star Fence & Construction is ready to give you a free quote and to help you design the fence of your dreams. Contact us today!

What are the Benefits of Wrought Iron Fencing?

Here at Lone Star Fence, we custom create a wide variety of wrought iron fencing in a plethora of styles. We love custom creating the perfect fence for our customers.

How do you know wrought iron fencing is the best fit for your needs? While this form of fencing requires more of an initial investment than other forms of fencing, it also tends to be the least expensive kind of fence to install in the long run.

Here are four benefits of wrought iron fencing you may not have considered yet.

#1) Security

Few fences are as secure as a wrought iron fence. They’re difficult to climb. They offer little in the way of handholds or footholds.

Certain styles can even make climbing a painful proposition.

If security is your number one reason for installing a fence, then you should give wrought iron your due consideration.

#2) Longevity

Few fasts last as long as a wrought iron fence. The fence itself can last for multiple lifetimes.

The finish on the fence won’t last as long. You’ll need to get the powder coating on your fence replaced every 20 years or so. Nevertheless, purchasing a wrought iron fence is the closest you’ll ever get to the fencing version of “fix it and forget it.”

#3) Convenience

Wrought iron fences don’t need much maintenance.

They need to be cleaned every 6 months. While cleaning them, they need you to attend to a bit of rust removal if you find any.

If your fence is painted instead of powder coated then you should paint it with a rust-inhibitive primer and paint at least once a year.

After that, you can sit back, relax, and put your feet up. Not much damages or harms a wrought iron fence. They’re especially nice here in the Houston metro area, since mold and mildew don’t attack iron.

#4) Beauty

It’s hard to overstate the classic elegance of a wrought iron fence.

It’s the fencing choice for the White House, Buckingham Palace, the Eiffel Tower, and numerous estates around the world.

Adding a wrought iron fence to your property will instantly elevate it, increasing property values and adding prestige.

Schedule Your Quote Today

Do you think a wrought iron fence might be right for your property? Schedule your free quote today!

We’ll discuss your needs, goals, and ideas, and will help design the perfect fence for you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Masonry Fences

A masonry fence provides a stately, gorgeous addition to most properties, and is one of the sturdiest types of fences you can invest in.

But they aren’t the most common fences, even in Houston. Those who are considering them often come to us with many questions.

Here are answers to the questions we receive most often.

What are masonry fences made of?

We can create a masonry fence from brick, stone, stucco, or concrete. We tend to favor brick or stone for the old world aesthetics. They’re also more suitable to our climate than most other options.

Do masonry fences require maintenance? If so, what kind?

Yes. All fences require at least a little maintenance, and masonry fences are no exception.

To care for your masonry fence:

Clean the fence once a year.
Inspect your fence once a year.
Seal any cracks that you find.
Make sure weep holes remain clean and clear.

If you notice your masonry fence requires repairs, you should schedule those repairs right away.

How long do masonry fences last, on average?

If it’s installed correctly and maintained well, a masonry fence can last for a century or more.

Do masonry fences increase the value of a property?

Yes. They are a durable, long-term investment that will instantly elevate your property, showcasing it as a luxury property, all while increase your curb appeal.

Are masonry fences good for all property types?

No. Especially small properties don’t do well with masonry fences, because they start to feel crowded and crammed in. We usually build masonry fences for larger properties such as ranches or estates. We also build them for Houston-area businesses and churches.

How much do masonry fences typically cost?

Every fence is different and every property is different, so it’s tough to say without viewing your property and talking to you about your needs.

Nevertheless, a typical masonry fence may cost anywhere from $6000 to $12,000.

Fortunately, you get incredible value in the form of increased privacy, safety, and luxury.

Get a Free Quote on a Masonry Fence Today

Wondering if a masonry fence is right for you? Why not talk to us? We can work with you to design your next fence and to install it correctly so you get to enjoy your investment for a lifetime.

Call (832) 925-3347 to discuss your options today.

FAQs About Automated Gates

Thinking about purchasing an automated gate for your property, but aren’t sure where to start?

Many of our customers start by asking us some of the questions below.

What are the different types of automatic gates?

We can either install a swing gate or a slide gates. Swing gates are quieter and require less maintenance, but slide gates are more compact and preserve more space.

Slide gates also leave no gap between the gate and the ground, making them the right choice for families who have pets.

What are automatic gates powered from?

We usually connect an AC gate operator to your property’s power. It’s possible to connect gates to another power source, such as solar, but we’ve found the tried and true way to be the most reliable method.

We also sometimes use ram motors, which use hydraulics to push and pull the gate.

What are automatic gates made from?

The automatic gates we install are typically made of metal. This makes them easy to maintain, as well as tough and difficult to destroy.

However, some homeowners care as much about privacy as they do about securing the perimeter. They also care about aesthetics. It is possible to build a lovely wooden automatic gate as well.

What are the advantages of automated gates?

Automated gates come with many advantages.

They secure your perimeter and make your property a harder target, deterring thieves, trespassers, and mischief-makers.
They can increase your privacy.
They increase the value of your property.
They help provide more protection to children and pets.
They can make your home look more sophisticated and upscale.

You may even get a break on your homeowner’s insurance rates when you purchase a gate. Ask your agent!

How long does it take to install an automated gate?

We can usually get the job done in about half a day, as long as everything runs smoothly.

What happens to my gate system if there is a power cut?

Automatic gates come with backup batteries. Your gate should continue to function during a hurricane or other severe weather event, a brownout or blackout, or any other event which might impact your power.

Install Your New Automatic Gate Today

At Lone Star Fence & Construction, automatic gates are our speciality! If you’re ready to enjoy all the benefits that an automatic gate can bring you, then contact us to schedule a quote today.

When Should You Consider a Chain Link Fence?

Chain link fences aren’t the prettiest fences. Yet they are extremely durable, versatile, and useful.

Here are three times when a chain link fence is the right choice.

#1) When Security is the #1 Concern

There are many reasons to add a fence to your property, including privacy and curb appeal. But if you really only care about keeping criminals off your property, it’s hard to beat a chain link fence.

They’re difficult to climb. It’s often easy to raise them high enough to make unauthorized access even more difficult. If you have a commercial property, you can add barbed wire to the top.

The mesh patterns of a chain link fence also help with the security aspect. By retaining some visibility, you are able to keep an eye on what’s going on right outside of your property. You can still retain some privacy by choosing a style of chain link fence which reduces the gap between links.

#2) When Paired With Certain Climbing Plants

Want to add a whimsical series of climbing morning glories to your fence, or some vibrant Coral honeysuckle plants?

Chain link fences offer excellent support for vining plants. We’ve seen them turned into the skeleton for glorious “living” fences in the past.

#3) When Protecting Pets is the Purpose

Certain fences are very easy for dogs to dig under. Wooden fences are also very easy for dogs to chew on.

Chain link fences are more difficult, and do a better job of keeping dogs safe and sound. Only metal and masonry fences compare, and not everyone has the budget for those fence types.

Chain link fencing is especially useful for protecting big dogs.

Get a Quote on Your New Chain Link Fence Today

At Lone Star Fence and Construction, we offer chain link fences in a variety of styles, colors, and heights. We’re happy to help you determine which options will best meet your needs.

For incredible security, try pairing your new fence with a customized automated gate, too!Call today to schedule a quote.

Will Adding a Fence Increase Home Value?

Our customers often want to know if adding a fence to the home will help increase the value of the home. In many cases, this will depend on a number of different factors.

Here are some considerations which can impact the amount of value your fence ultimately adds to your home.

Does the fence add curb appeal?

Curb appeal can account for up to 7% of a home’s value. That means a gorgeous fence that makes your home look even more beautiful for the first time can indeed add a great deal to the value of your home.

Of course, a fence won’t get the job done by itself if you haven’t taken other steps to improve curb appeal, such as cleaning up the home’s exterior or keeping the lawn in good shape. Nevertheless, it can help.

Does the fence improve security?

Houston has a high crime rate relative to the rest of Texas. Local home buyers are often willing to pay more when a home has good security features.

Many fences don’t offer good security on their own. Anyone can lift a latch. Nevertheless, when you combine the fence with an automated security gate and when you build the fence high enough, you do indeed harden the home as a target.

How much privacy does the fence offer?

Home privacy adds to curb appeal. Most people want the opportunity to live their lives without scrutiny or interruptions from the neighbors.

Some fences don’t add privacy but many do. If privacy is a concern, be sure to tell us when we design your custom fencing options.

What is the condition of the fence?

A fence only adds value to the home if it’s in great shape. If it’s begun sagging, has holes in it, or, if made of wood, has gone to an ugly shade of uncared for gray, then the fence can reduce property values instead of raising them.

If the fence is in pristine condition, then it’s more likely to help you fetch a great price for your home.

What is the fence made out of?

Metal and masonry fences add the most value to your home. These fences are made out of high quality, long-lasting materials. They help to communicate serenity and affluence.

By contrast, a chain link fence may be a practical addition to a yard, but might not do much to increase the selling price of your home. Like it or not, these fences aren’t considered to be particularly prestigious.

Wood and vinyl fences are somewhere in the middle, depending on how they are constructed.

What is the neighborhood like?

Do most of your neighbors have fences? Then you’re reducing the value of your home by not having one. You’ll also reduce the value of your home if you don’t invest in the same basic type of fence as your neighbors.

Most neighborhoods prefer to maintain a certain aesthetic. Don’t be the odd house out.

Design Your Fence Today

At Lone Star Fence & Construction, we are committed to helping you install the right fence for your home. If you’d like input or insight into which fences might be good additions in your specific case, contact us to schedule a quote today.

How to Keep Your Vinyl Ranch Fence in Great Shape

We’ve built plenty of vinyl farm and ranch fences for homeowners across Texas. Their classic white look and their sturdiness make them perfect for marking off pastures.

Another great reason for vinyl fencing is that it’s built to last. A properly built and maintained vinyl fence can last up to 30 years.

The trick, of course, is to give your vinyl fence the treatment it needs to go the distance. Here’s what you need to know.

Never Use Harsh Chemicals

A garden hose should be sufficient to clean your fence; you don’t need harsh chemicals.

If you feel you need soap, choose one of the following:

Biodegradable soap
Vinegar and water
Castille soap

Baking soda can remove almost any stain a vinyl fence might develop.

Avoid the Use of Force

Pressure washing a vinyl fence will damage it, as will clipping it with a lawnmower or a weedwhacker. If possible, keep your trees trimmed back from your vinyl fence to avoid issues with falling debris during severe thunderstorms.

Vinyl fences stand up to wind, weather, and mold very well. The thing they don’t do well is blunt force trauma, especially from heavy machinery. The more gently you can treat your fence, the better.

Avoid Paint

Vinyl naturally protects itself from UV rays, but only if you don’t block its protective qualities with paint. Paint doesn’t adhere too well to vinyl anyway.

If you really want a color other than white, talk to us; there are some options, and we can help you explore them.

Pay Attention to Mildew and Algae

In our humid Texas climate, mildew and algae are all too likely, especially in the shaded areas of your yard. Either will stain your fence.

Fortunately, vinegar and water take care of mildew and algae, too.

Schedule Your Free Quote Today

Don’t have a vinyl fence yet? Thinking about installing this low-maintenance, long-lasting option? Turn to Lone Star Fence & Construction and call us to get a free quote today!

Our customers will tell you all about our detailed estimates, the way we offer informed suggestions, and, best of all, the way that we won’t charge you until the job is finished.

What to Think About When Considering Custom Gate Design

Adding a custom gate to your property can increase its value and security. It can also help you personalize it, communicating your unique style, your house number, or anything else you want.

When ordering a custom gate, you will have a big influence on the final design. Thus, there are some points to consider as you discuss your quote with us.

What is the purpose of the gate?

Gates may either slide open or swing out. They may help you increase your curb appeal, or they may block the view of your property altogether.

Consider whether your primary concern is privacy or security. Consider how many times per day the gate might open, where it will open, and how much space you’ll have to work with.

Are you laboring under any restrictions?

If you live in a neighborhood with a homeowner’s association, you may be dealing with some strict rules about the type of gate you can put up, how high it may be, and how much of the view you’re allowed to block.

It’s imperative to research these restrictions before you call us, as you may have to pay fines or even tear down your new gate if the HOA takes exception to it.

How much space do you have?

If you have enough space, adding a pedestrian gate can be a great option. This allows a safer entry point for people approaching on foot or via a wheelchair.

However, suppose you don’t have the space to add the option. In that case, you’ll maximize your accessibility with a sliding gate vs. a swinging gate, as someone may always step or scoot backward long enough to allow the gate to open without having to judge distance.

How tall do you want the gate to be?

A taller gate can be an elegant, imposing feature for any home. A shorter gate shows that you’re serious about security but creates a more welcoming atmosphere.

Some of the zip codes we serve are in townships with height restrictions on gates, so there’s often an upward limit on what we can do anyway. Nevertheless, it’s a good design and aesthetic consideration.

Get your free quote today!

Here at Lone Star Fence and Construction, we’re always excited to help you design the perfect gate for your home, ranch, business, or property. We can help you balance aesthetics and other design considerations with practical concerns.

Ready to get started? Call (832) 981-2402 today!

How to Child-Proof a Fence

Many people install fences so their children will have a safe, private place to play. Yet you won’t be able to create a genuinely safe play area if you don’t take the time to child-proof the fence.

After all, children are resourceful. They can think of all kinds of ways to get into trouble, and sometimes, their imaginative play inspires weird ideas. Taking the proper childproofing steps can stymie them when they’re about to do something crazy.

Here are the steps to take.

#1) Choose the Right Fence

Wooden fences, metal fences, and smooth metal fences are perfect for children.

Masonry fences and chain-link fences are less ideal. Chain-link fences essentially present kids with a series of convenient handholds to help them scramble right over the fence. An excellent climber could also use the natural ridges offered by brickwork to get over a masonry fence.

You also need the right fence design. Many parents prefer privacy fences with tight slats that can’t be seen through or squeezed through. This keeps bad actors from staring at your kids and prevents kids from squeezing through the slats: a win-win on both counts.

#2) Install Safe Latches

If you don’t pick a child-proof latch, you won’t have to worry about climbing and squeezing because your child will be able to walk right through the gate.

You can add plenty of safety latches to a fence that is too high for children to reach or too difficult for them to open. You may even consider adding a keycode lock just for your fence.

#3) Pay Attention to Fence Maintenance

Fence damage can pose a hazard to your children. It can frustrate all your efforts to keep them on your side of the fence. Certain fence damage can even cause injuries.

Give your fence regular inspections. If you see damage, call us. We are happy to handle fence repairs as well as installations, and we want your child to be safe, too.

chain links Climbing Plants

Want help choosing the perfect fence for your family’s needs? Want to find out how much it will cost to install the fence of your dreams? Call us anytime!

The team at Lone Star Fence and Construction is ready to help.

How to Hurricane-Proof a Fence

The odds of a major hurricane hitting Houston sits at 7%, and statistics tell us that Texans can expect an average of three hurricanes and tropical storms to hit over a four-year span.

Since it’s hurricane season now, we thought we’d offer some insight into how hurricanes might impact your fence and whether there are any steps you can take to keep it standing in the face of high wind and driving rain.

Construction Matters

No amount of planning or tricks can help you if your fence wasn’t constructed properly in the first place.

That’s why our team sets fence posts high and deep, ensuring they’re secured with concrete. These steps help ensure that it’s difficult for the wind to yank your fence right out of the ground.

Materials matter, too, and of course, some materials are better than others. Our masonry fences, wooden fences, and wrought iron fences are especially hurricane-resistant. Our chain-link fences also do a great job of standing up to nature.

Vinyl fences are harder and, by their very nature, a bit flimsier. We choose good vinyl, but it’s just never going to be as sturdy as the alternatives. Many of our customers don’t mind since vinyl is also less expensive and very easy to maintain. Plus, there are still some mitigation steps we can take during the building phase, such as ensuring that there are gaps between the slats, which allows the winds to pass right through the fence.

Maintenance Matters

In addition to regular cleaning, inspections, and repairs, you can make your fence more hurricane-resistant by trimming the vegetation around it and trimming back your trees so they don’t hang over it.

Falling debris, such as big, heavy branches, is a common hazard during hurricane season. It doesn’t even take a hurricane to produce them. We’ve all been in intense, tornado-spawning thunderstorms that rip branches right out of trees and litter them all over the road. Keeping the hazard away from your fence protects it year-round, not just during hurricane season.

We recommend checking your fence after any storm so you can catch and make repairs quickly. If you call Lone Star Fence and Construction, we’re happy to make repairs.

Alertness Matters

Nobody’s watching the news as often as they used to. If you don’t have the proper alerts set, it can be easy for a hurricane to creep up on you.

Find a way to check the weather daily so you know when to respond. Your fence won’t react well if the wind picks up a piece of your lawn furniture and hurls it right into the nearest post.

You need enough advance warning to get out there and pick up anything that might be at risk.

Need a New Fence?

We install year-round, even during hurricane season, and we always build for Houston weather conditions. While there are no guarantees, our fences do have a track record for withstanding severe weather conditions.

Check out our photo galleries to see our past projects, and call (832) 981-2402 if you’re ready for a quote.