Benefits of Having a Double Gate Aluminum Fence

What Use Cases Are There For a Double Gate Fence?

From a strictly practical sense, double-gate fences are most commonly used when you need a wider entrance to your yard. This is most common in driveways, where a single-gate would need to be very big, or where an automatic, mechanized gate may be used, but the standard option for a driveway is the double gate. It is easy to use, easy to maintain, and easy to secure. 

Likewise, if you live in an area where you are using large equipment, such as riding lawnmowers or small tractors, you may want a double gate to be used as a backyard gate, a gate that can connect your fenced-in yard to a larger portion of your property. Double gate fences offer wide openings while maintaining the security of a standard fence, and can give you peace of mind when you have a large double-gated backyard entrance to your property.

Double gated fences are also very secure, as they’re made from the same strong, resilient aluminum that makes up the rest of the fence surrounding your yard. Depending on the fence you choose, the top of the gate may be peaked with finials which will deter trespassers from attempting to cross the gate and enter the property, and the sturdy construction prevents vandals from pushing their way through a properly-locked with a sealed double gated fence. 

From a welcoming standpoint, a double gated fence is a fine way to open your yard to welcome neighbors and friends. Opening a gate wide and allowing party guests and family to come and go is more inviting than a simple single gate, which is narrower and will usually come with an automatic spring loaded hinges. Not needing to prop your fence open, but simply allowing it as a passage into the block party barbeque is a great way to tell people that you’re friendly and that you welcome visitors to your home.

How Can a Double Gate Fence Add Value to My Property?

The best way to add value to your property, if we’re speaking purely on Return on Investment, is to invest in your yard. Curb appeal is everything when evaluating a home, and especially selling it. Having a beautiful aluminum fence surrounding your yard–and then having a wide-open grand double gated entrance, whether it be at your driveway or your front walk, is a stunning way to showcase your home–it is your castle, after all.

A properly fenced yard, done in classy aluminum fencing in any style–Floridian, Sierra, Outback, Carolina, Appalachian, Manhattan, Puppy, XP, Castle, Elegant Arch, or Cathedral–makes a dignified statement about your home. It is not cheap chain-link, maintenance-heavy wood, or vinyl: it’s aluminum and ornate, and it exudes charm and an architectural detail that catches the eye of passersby and encourages them to get a closer look and admire your entire estate. Whether you’re encompassing the front yard of a condo, the perimeter of a suburban home, or the full extent of an expensive estate, an aluminum fence gives off a look of confidence, charm, and security that other fences lack. 

There is something regal that comes from a double gate driveway that you don’t get from a single-gate. The double gates have an arched architectural flair that transforms a standard driveway into a sophisticated and enchanting entrance. It sets your home apart from the other houses on the street. These fences arch up and above the surrounding fence, giving a regal feel to an otherwise plain road. It truly feels like an entrance out of a movie.

And when it comes to security, there’s nothing that can beat an aluminum double gate. They are strong and sturdy, topped with finials that will deter even the most determined trespasser, and they protect your home from intruders, both human and animal. There’s no putting a price on the security you feel knowing that you have an extra added protection surrounding your house and keeping the unwanted away from you and your family. Even if it didn’t raise your property value, even if it didn’t increase curb appeal, even if it didn’t make a statement about who you are, it gives you piece of mind that you’re safe–and there’s nothing better than that.

Why Choose Aluminum Fencing Over Vinyl Fencing?

Aluminum fencing looks better than vinyl, plain and simple. Oh sure, there are vinyl fences that fit in with a certain style of house, and they’re not an ugly fence, but an aluminum fence just looks more secure, more stately, more expensive (though the prices are truly comparable). 

Aluminum fencing is also more resilient than vinyl. A strong windstorm can damage a vinyl fence, tearing it down or punching holes in it. A rambunctious teen can try climbing over a vinyl fence only to find it crumple down around him–when he wouldn’t even try to climb an aluminum (and if he did, he’d meet the pointy end of a finial, and not be able to damage the strong aluminum).

Vinyl also discolors in the sun and heat, and can gather hard water stains from repeated hits from sprinklers, but aluminum fences are maintenance free. The powder coating is tough and resilient and doesn’t take damage from weather–no rust, wind damage, sun damage, or staining. Vinyl can’t say that. Even a new vinyl fence will need washing after a storm that kicks up mud in the flower beds, and you have to go spray it down with a hose, but you’ll never find those kinds of problems with an aluminum fence. It looks clean from day one and stays clean throughout its life.

And that’s why we give a lifetime warranty to our aluminum fences. We are confident in the strength, resilience, and long-term survival of our product and we’re willing to back it up with the promise of our good name. They will be free from defects in workmanship and the coating will not crack, chip or peel for as long as you own the home.

Aluminum Fencing for Commercial Properties

One of the main benefits about aluminum fencing is that it has a clean, finished look that makes it attractive not just around yards, but also around businesses, apartment buildings, pools, and many other commercial locations. Aluminum fencing looks good, is strong, requires little maintenance, and is a relatively inexpensive option for a company that is looking to enclose a space, increase curb appeal, and secure a lot. And aside from all of that it raises the value of the property. We offer six styles of aluminum fence, the Carolina, Sierra and Outback Style Commercial Fences, the Floridian Pool Fence, and the Appalachian and Manhattan Commercial Fences.

How Can Aluminum Fencing Add Value to Property?

Aluminum fencing adds value to commercial properties for many reasons. For starters, aluminum fences look good. That’s just a fact. An aluminum fence has the clean, finished appeal that cannot be said about a vinyl or wooden fence. Aluminum increases curb appeal, drawing eyes to a property, and our three different styles of commercial fencing present different looks that each is appealing and attractive. When you think of a commercial property and the prospect of securing it, the first thing that comes to mind is chain link, which may be inexpensive and easy to install, but almost makes a property look worse and cheapened when you put it up. Chain link makes you think of industrial yards and the inner city, whereas aluminum fencing gives an air of architectural significance and sturdy resilience. A pool surrounded by an aluminum fence is a pool that would fit in at a country club, where a pool surrounded by chain link looks like a backyard.
It’s no secret that aluminum fencing is the choice of businesses, because everything about a business’s image contributes to their overall brand. If a business shows a cheap fence it looks cheap; if it shows a damaged fence it looks shoddy; if it shows a discolored or rusted fence it looks old and in need of work. Aluminum fences and their classy, sophisticated look, which is not easily damaged and in no need of maintenance display a look to clients and customers that you are a company committed to excellence and that you care about your appearance.

Increasing curb appeal is also one of the best, if not the best, thing you can invest in to increase the value of your property. It has been estimated that a modification that you make to your exterior can have as much as five times the return on investment for your property as you if you invested in the interior of your commercial property–so the next time you’re wondering if you should redo your landscaping or your cabinetry or carpet, remember that buyers are going to be making their first impressions when they step out of their car in the parking lot. If it doesn’t look good on the outside, you’re fighting an uphill battle when you get them inside. 

How Can Aluminum Fencing Keep Property Safe?

One of the biggest benefits of aluminum fencing is that not only does it look strong–and it definitely does, which we’ll talk about below–but it is strong. A broad vinyl fence might be blown down in a windstorm, and a wooden fence will begin to deteriorate after a few years. Nails get loose, boards warp, and vinyl grows soft and slumps in the heat. But an aluminum fence will stand strong in any weather, wind, hail, rain, and heat.

And an aluminum fence can’t just be knocked down by vandals and burglars, whereas wood and vinyl can be broken and abused. Aluminum is strong and doesn’t bend without severe pressure. It relies on metal joiners, not plastic or nails. It is strengthened by its crossbars and cement foundations. It stands up to any damage you can throw at it.

And there is something about an aluminum fence that makes it look strong. Without the price of wrought iron or steel, it can deter burglars just by its sturdy look and appearance. No one will even try to knock down an aluminum fence, because it’s imposing and secure. And if you select a style like the Appalachian Commercial Fencing with its spiky finials, it will look to an uncertain vandal as imposing as barbed wire–no one will dare to try to climb over it and enter your property for fear of hurting themselves. And that’s the best kind of security: the kind that never has to be tested because it looks so impenetrable. You’ll never need to worry about the strength of the aluminum because no one will ever try to scale it.

Why is Aluminum Fencing the Best Choice for a Fence Solution?

Aluminum, as we’ve discussed above, just looks better–both for aesthetics and security. There’s no comparison to vinyl or wood or chain-link. But that’s not the only reason that aluminum fencing is the best solution for commercial fencing. The ultimate reason is that it is affordable, strong, and requires zero maintenance. You won’t have to hire painters every few years to spruce it up and make it look good again. You won’t have to hire workers to scrape rust away. You won’t have to worry about the hard water stains from your sprinklers that can discolor vinyl. Aluminum is sturdy and something that you can be confident in for years, decades, even a lifetime! Yes, our aluminum fences come with a lifetime warranty because we are so confident that it will never need to be fixed, touched up, or repaired. There are no defects in our aluminum, and the coating will not crack, chip or peel. 

Commercial Fencing Styles

Our commercial fencing comes in six styles, the Carolina, Outback & Sierra Style Commercial Fences, the Floridian Commercial Pool Fence, and the Appalachian & Manhattan Commercial Fences. Each of these fences comes in 6’ or 8’ panel lengths, and range between 36” to 72” in height.

Carolina, Sierra & Carolina Styles

These fencing designs offers a clean, distinguished look that would be appropriate from the suburbs to the house on the hill. Each panel has tall verticals with three rails crossing horizontally. The lowest is just above the ground, providing stability to the well-made aluminum fence. It is topped cleanly by two rails, one riding along the cap of the fence and the other just below, creating an elegant, secure appearance that says that this fence is strong and dignified.

The Sierra can be built with optional rings between the top rails, giving the fence an altogether different look that shows class and sophistication. It gives off a vibe of sturdiness, combined with the ornamental detailing that sets it apart from other fencing styles.

Floridian Pool Fencing

The Floridian Style Fencing looks great around a pool. It’s a basic, clean look that gives security to a pool, keeping children and pets away from danger. The Floridian is a simple but strong fence that will give you peace of mind, whether your property has a pool, or is just looking to line a walkway. 

Appalachian & Manhattan Fencing

These fencing designs offer a secure, distinguished look that looks both sturdy and secure. Each panel has tall verticals with three rails crossing horizontally. The lowest is just above the ground, providing stability to the well-made aluminum fence. It is topped by two rails, with press point tops rising from each picket. The fence is inviting to guests and friends with its clean, distinguished look, but deters those who would try to climb and enter a backyard or pool area.

The Appalachian & Manhattan can have their pickets go all the way to the ground, through the bottom rail, or the pickets can terminate at the bottom rail, giving a clean look.

The Differences Between Vinyl vs Aluminum Fencing

When installing a fence you have many options, and manufacturers will be quick to tell you the benefits of their products, but we thought that we’d put them in a head-to-head competition and see how two of the most common fence types stand up against each other: aluminum vs vinyl. Both are popular, both are common, but they each have their pros and cons and while we are obviously biased–we make aluminum fences, after all–we want to give you the most balanced analysis of your fencing options that we can offer. 

So here are some of the biggest factors that homeowners will weigh when determining which type of fence to buy, and we’ll look at how each fence stacks up in each category.

Privacy

When it comes to privacy, an aluminum fence is not going to offer you the same kind of blank-wall privacy protection that you can get from the flat, unbroken surface of a vinyl fence. While there are vinyl fences that come in slats rather than flat panels, most vinyl fences block the view into the yard entirely, and they keep nosy neighbors (and nefarious ne’er-do-wells) from peeking into your property. The same can be said about wooden fencing or brick walls: when you have a big flat surface instead of a slatted, rail-style fence.

Typically, when you have an aluminum fence and are looking for privacy, you tend to obscure sight lines with shrubbery or trees. Depending on the tightness of the rails and the age of the aluminum fence you can even get a good vine system growing on it, but it will never match the straightforward sight-blocking obscurity of a vinyl, wood, or brick wall. 

Durability

This category has a winner as clear as the privacy category: vinyl can stand up to standard wear and tear, but when push comes to shove–literally!–aluminum will beat vinyl every time. Vinyl fences are made from material that is lighter, hollow, and grows brittle with time and age. A stray baseball can punch a hole through a vinyl fence, and the very thing that makes a vinyl fence so private–that big flat surface–makes it particularly susceptible to wind damage. A good windstorm can take down a wide, flat wall when it would instead just fly right through an aluminum rail fence. 

Vinyl also will discolor with time, especially where it comes into contact with constant water–think how many times you’ve driven through a neighborhood with predominantly-vinyl fences and picture all the discoloration and mildew on the white vinyl that comes from constant, repeated sprinkler spray. Hard water on a white vinyl surface can leave unsightly arcs of tarnishing hard mineral deposits. 

Aluminum fences are strong and sturdy, and virtually immune to weather damage–either wind or water. The only durability issues that arise with aluminum fences are direct hard impacts–cars backing up without looking, or something similar–but that would damage both aluminum and vinyl fences alike.

Appearance

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, of course, and there are some people who will always love the simple beauty of a blank white wall, but when it comes to options and pure architectural design aesthetics, you can’t beat an aluminum fence. Aluminum fences come in a wide variety of styles that match every design style, from southern gothic to French royal to Imperial, aluminum fences offer style and features that are simply more varied than the run-of-the-mill white walls with square caps that are common to almost all standard vinyl fences.

An aluminum fence can match most any design aesthetic, whether your home is old or new, brick, shingle, or wood, modern or old-world. Aluminum also has the benefit of mimicking wrought-iron for a fraction of the cost, giving your home an old-school charm that you simply can’t get from vinyl.

Property Value

When installing vinyl or aluminum fencing, the initial installation and purchasing prices are not dramatically different, so you would think that they would add equal amounts to your property value. But as we’ve already discussed, aluminum is a more long-term investment, as it is more durable and will last longer–often years longer, especially in areas of high use or bad weather. So an aluminum fence will be better for your property value in the long run, even though a nice vinyl fence may look great when it’s first installed.

There’s also a lot to be said about the look of the neighborhood. Vinyl is the fence of choice in the suburbs, in cookie-cutter house after cookie-cutter house. But aluminum fencing adds a unique flair to a house, both in the city and the country, and raíses the property value of not only your house but the surrounding neighbors’ homes, through its excellent appearance and unique design elements. Your neighbors will thank you for installing an aluminum fence that will elevate your entire street.

Strength

When it comes to strength, there are many ways to gauge the strength of a fence, but an aluminum one beats a vinyl in almost all respects. First, there’s the example we gave above about a windstorm: a vinyl fence can get battered and an aluminum will not bat an eye. But there’s also a question of wear-and-tear, particularly from kids and teens who have a tendency to climb and jump. A vinyl fence is strong–there’s no getting around that–but an aluminum one will not buckle if you get a group of teenagers scaling it. You may not want them jumping your fence, but if you have rowdy kids at home–or rowdy kids in the neighborhood–you can avoid steep repair costs by going with a stronger fence from the very start. 

Cost

You can shop around and get fairly even prices when it comes to vinyl vs aluminum and there’s no clear winner, but there are more things to consider than just the initial purchase and installation costs: there’s replacement costs and repairs. If an aluminum fence is going to last longer, then it’s going to be a better deal in the long run.

Maintenance

Fortunately, both aluminum and vinyl fences don’t require much maintenance–certainly nothing like a wooden fence that requires sanding and repainting from time to time (over and over again). A vinyl fence can get dirty, as we’ve mentioned before, chiefly from hard water stains and mildew, but that can be cleaned with a power washer and some manufacturer approved chemicals. An aluminum fence, on the other hand, requires next to no maintenance. You’ll never need to repaint or pressure wash. All that’s required is the occasional hose-down.

Installation

You can install both aluminum and vinyl siding on your own, or hire installers to do it for you, depending on your budget. Because vinyl is typically unassembled and more of a snap-fit product (and therefore weaker) it’s not too hard to assemble. Aluminum fencing has pre-assembled sections, requiring less work and it produces a stronger end result. So, in this case, aluminum is the clear winner. But ultimately, it’s all about what you prefer. 

For more information about our aluminum fencing, check out our product line.

Why Install Your Aluminum Fence Yourself?

Aluminum fences add security, curb appeal, and value to your home and yard. They are sturdier than vinyl fences and don’t require the upkeep of a wooden fence, and overall they are an incredible investment in what may be the biggest asset you’ll ever own—your home. 

So, you want to get an aluminum fence installed, and while there are plenty of companies and contractors who will install it for you, there are definitely benefits to doing it yourself (or maybe even with the help of your family and friends). It can be an enjoyable experience for all involved, it adds value to your home, and when you accomplish something like that on your own, you’re engaging in an activity that will tie you to your property, giving you confidence in your abilities and pride in your property.

Below are a few reasons why installing a custom aluminum fence yourself is a good idea:

#1. You’re Saving Money

It’s no secret that any home improvement has the potential to overrun costs and send your budget into the red. When you hire a contractor you have to deal with their workers, their time schedule, and their exorbitant prices. Even if the contractor buys products from Aluminum Fences Direct, they may make you pay through the nose for work that you could just have easily accomplished on your own with a little sweat and hard work.

Aluminum Fences Direct offers aluminum fences at a low price, even when considering adding accents and accessories. Our prices are straightforward and plain: you know up front exactly how much you’ll be paying and when, and there are no surprises or hidden fees. You know that we have the best prices for the best products because we are constantly undercutting our competitors and outselling them despite our high quality. Our philosophy is that if you can do the work yourself, you owe it to yourself to buy the very best and create something that you will be proud of.

#2. It’s Much Easier Than You Might Think

A contractor might blow a lot of smoke about the difficulties of installing the fence and all the extra labor and cost it’s going to take, but with few exceptions, if you have a moderate ability with tools and an understanding of directions, you can build your own aluminum fence without the price and hassle. 

The process is relatively simple. Detailed instructions can be found here, and a more detailed list of instructions will also be provided after your order is place… but these are the basics:

1. Layout the entire fence—end posts, corner posts, and gate posts—with wooden stakes, and then mark the position of the fence sections with taut string. This will guide you where to dig holes.
2. Check with your home plans, or by calling your utility company, to make sure that you’re digging post holes in safe places and not cutting into gas lines, drainage, or sewage. This is essential! Most utility companies will perform this service for free, and if you fail to do so you could end up with a very costly repair bill.
3. Using a post-hole digger, dig down between 24-48” per hole, depending on the frost line in your part of the country.
4. Attach one section of fence into your post. Repeat this post and section placement for the length of your property.
5. Post the first hole and mix concrete to pour into the hole. Install one panel and one post at a time. Fill each hole with concrete, leaving a gap between the concrete level and the ground level, and then, when dried, cover the concrete with dirt and grass.  Another option is to pour the concrete after a short run of 4-5 sections are in place and pouring the concrete for all 5 posts at one time.
6. Continue the process all the way around your yard until it is complete. Make sure you’re staying level and plumb in all of your posts and sections.

And that’s about it! There’s really not much to it, and once again, more detailed instructions can be found at this link.

#3. What Tools Do I Need to Install a Fence?

Materials

• Cement/Concrete mix: This is essential to ensuring the longevity of your aluminum fencing to make sure the posts are securely fit into the ground.
• Gravel (optional): If you dig a really deep hole, you’ll probably want a little gravel to help fill them in.
• Water: You’ll need this for mixing the cement, and you’ll need buckets on hand or a garden hose.

Tips for the Best DIY Aluminum Fence Kit

Why to Install an Aluminum Fence

Any work that you do to your yard will be returned to you many fold for years to come. Improving the landscape of your yard is one of the very best ways to increase the value of your property. One study estimates that a well-landscaped yard has a significant price advantage over a poorly-landscaped one, with an average increase between 5.5 to 12.7% in the value of the home. For a $300,000 home, that translates to an increase of value between $16,500 to $38,100. And while planted flowers and well-manicured grass is important, it is the more permanent features—like a DIY aluminum fence—that will add the most value to a home. 

Remember: when a potential buyer comes to look at your home, the first thing they’re going to do is look at the exterior. Before they even get out of their car, they’re already making judgments about the quality of the home, and having a perfectly maintained and landscaped yard is the first impression they’ll ever have.

But more than resale value, you’ve got to think about what kind of home you want to live in. Whether you have little kids that you want to keep from running into the street, a dog you need to contain, a pool you want to keep children out of, or simply want the peace of mind that comes from having a quality barrier between you and the outside world. A proper fence is all about peace of mind, aside from whether you ever plan on selling your home. 

Besides, just like a potential home buyer will be wowed by your beautiful yard, you too will be pleased with the look and feel of a quality DIY aluminum fence in your yard. 

DIY Aluminum Fences

There is nothing wrong with paying a company to install your aluminum fence for you, but this investment into your property can be made with relative ease and effort. If you know your way around a few home improvement tools, you can tackle this project for a fraction of the cost that it would take for professional contractors to install it. 

At Aluminum Fences Direct, we have a full online installation guide that is detailed enough for even the most unskilled person to follow in their path toward home improvement.  We also send more detailed instructions at time of order…. but the process, overall, is very straightforward. The first step is to layout your fence in the place where you’re going to want it, and then dig holes for posts. The guide explains how to measure the size and depth of the post holes. Then, later in the process and with a little concrete and some leveling guides to make sure you’re straight and plumb, you’ll be able to tackle the fence posts with relative ease.

The next step is to install the fence gates. This shouldn’t be difficult at all if you’ve properly measured the fence post widths and the concrete has hardened. It’s simply a matter of installing hinges and hanging the gate.

The installation guide breaks down a hypothetical project in detail, with diagrams and measurements, that you can use to understand the process and mirror as you create your own yard and fence map and plan. It takes a little digging, a little measuring, and some patience, but the process is straightforward and totally accessible to the layman.

And, if you have any issues installing, we have access to installation teams to help you if you are in the areas of Cincinnati, OH; Georgetown, SC; Lexington, KY; Louisville, KY; Myrtle Beach, SC; Nashville, TN; Raleigh, NC & Roanoke, VA.

Why Do I Want to Go with an Aluminum Fence?

Aluminum fences are a stunning look that will enhance any home in a way that a wooden fence never could. There is something regal and sophisticated about an aluminum fence that indicates that you are a homeowner who cares about your castle. With a wealth of fencing styles, each of which offers a different bit of architectural character and cultural feel, along with a wide selection of accessories to customize your fence—such as finials, caps, scrollwork, and latches—your fence is truly a one-of-a-kind that will look like nothing else in your neighborhood. It will stand out as a home that cares about aesthetics and security.

Another great reason for going with an aluminum fence is its durability. A vinyl or wooden fence will often have a difficult time with windstorms, and break or fall over easily during a storm. Vinyl is also prone to vandalism, as it can break with the strike of a well-thrown rock or a vandal’s kick. Wooden fences are always in need of repainting, refinishing, restaining, and otherwise taking care of the wood repeatedly. Plus vinyl and wooden fences are much more likely to be the targets of graffiti than their aluminum counterparts, as a large flat surface is more attractive to a tagger than the slats of an aluminum fence.

Besides, if you care about your yard as much as you care about your fence, then why would you want to hide it behind a vinyl or wooden fence where it can’t be seen? Aluminum fences are unobtrusive and allow people to see your full house, lawn, flowers, and garden. It adds to the curb appeal to be able to see into your yard and get a feeling of what it’s like on the other side of the fence. An aluminum fence is both an attractive highlight and a window through which to look at other aspects of your home.

Additional Features of a DIY Aluminum Fence

Sustainability

An aluminum fence is a great option if you’re concerned about the environment and the long term impact of your landscape decisions. Aluminum is very sturdy and is easily recyclable, so an aluminum fence is a good investment for the environment. In fact, aluminum fences are often made from recycled materials, so you’re helping the environment before you even get started.

Versatility

Because there are so many styles and options with an aluminum fence, you can really customize it to however you want it. If you’re looking for something to contain a dog, we have styles that reach all the way down to ground level and keep pets from escaping a yard (or, if you’re concerned, they stop animals from getting in your yard). There are spear topped fences that add that extra degree of security to prevent someone from jumping the fence and entering your yard. There are all manner of latches to make your gates secure from one side, both sides, with magnets or latches. And, of course, there are a wealth of aesthetic styles to match your home, neighborhood, and yard plan. Each fence is custom to you.

Price

If you’re looking for a bargain-basement fence, then chain link is the way to go, but that won’t do anything for the curb appeal of your yard. A wooden fence can look good, but you’re pumping money into it year after year in maintenance costs as you paint and refinish. An aluminum fence is a perfect solution, as it is a one-time cost with every bit as much security (if not more so) than chain link, and is far longer lasting than wood or vinyl. 

Rust-Free

Another option when buying a nice metal fence is wrought iron. It gives much the same look as aluminum, often with finials and scroll work, but it has the drawback of being very susceptible to rust. Wrought iron will need scraping and repainting every few years to maintain, which an aluminum fence never will.

Lasts a Lifetime

An aluminum fence is in it for the long haul. Aluminum Fences Direct offers a lifetime warranty for your aluminum fence, which states that your fence is covered against cracking, chipping, and peeling for as long as you own your home. Needless to say, this kind of warranty can never come from other types of maintenance-heavy fences.

How To Build a Dog Run

If you own a dog, you understand that it needs a regular dose of exercise in order to live a happy and healthy life.  While dog owners do their best to make sure their furry friends get the run they need on a daily basis, it’s not always possible to spend the time necessary exercising them.  Dog owners who live in a home with a yard have an advantage, but even those who enjoy this situation face limitations, as you can’t just let dogs run free and unsupervised with no fencing or structure in place to keep them and others safe.  If you don’t have a fence and can’t or don’t want to build one, or there are other reasons that your dog can’t run around your yard, it may seem as though your options are limited.

Aluminum Fences Direct has an option for you.  We provide you with fencing options for all different types of situations, including for when you have a puppy.  In addition to a puppy fence, you could also build a dog run.  Doing so would provide your dog with fresh air and exercise while keeping him or her safe and contained so that you don’t have to worry about encountering any serious problems.  The trouble is, building a dog run can be daunting for those who haven’t done such a thing in the past.  We’re going to present you with some ideas below to help you get started and perhaps even finish this project if you feel it’s what you need.

Analyze Your Available Land

The first question to answer with regards to your dog run is where to build it.  That will largely depend on the layout of your lot and where the dog run will make the most sense.  Generally, people will build a dog run so that it sits along the perimeter of a yard to minimize the intrusion on the rest of the land.  However, some prefer a square-shaped structure.  Consider walking your land and taking a close look at it from the standpoint of where to put this structure, as you may be surprised at what you think of when you do so.  When you have the idea in mind, draw it out so that if/when you talk to others about this, you can show them what you have in mind as you move your plan forward.

Size Matters

The purpose of your dog run is to make sure that your dog can run around outside safely.  That also means that you’ll need to build something that your dog will want to use and something in which he or she will feel comfortable.  Dogs don’t like feeling crowded or cramped, so keep the size of your dog in mind as you think about what you’re going to build.  We’re not just talking about width, but also length.  Generally speaking, your dog run should be at least five times as long as your dog is tall, and it should be at least three 3-5 feet wide if you’re going to have one that’s narrow instead of square.  Beyond that, the more room you want to provide, the better, but any less than that and it may not get the use you hope for.

Prevent Escapes

One of the biggest reasons that people build dog runs in the first place is because their furry friends tend to be escape artists.  That attitude is not going to change if he or she suddenly finds room to roam in a dog run.  You will need to take some preventative measures to keep your dog contained in the dog run, or you’ll be facing the same problems you would if you let him or her roam free outside.  If your dog is a jumper, build a roof on top of the structure so he or she can’t get over the fence.  If your dog is a digger, extend the fence you build below the generally suggested guideline of 12-18 inches below ground.  Dig down two feet or more so your dog won’t have an easy time getting underneath the fence.

Keep the Sun in Mind

Every plot of land is different, which means that the sun will hit your yard differently than most others.  If a dog run is placed such that it exposes the dog to the hot sun all day long, he or she may not want to use it.  However, keeping the dog run completely out of the sun may not be a good idea either if your dog is a sun worshipper.  The best approach, if possible, for building your dog run is to place it such that your dog can sit in the sun if he or she so chooses, but you should also provide the option for shade if that’s what he or she needs.  If you’re not sure about how all of this works, take the time to track the sun’s movement across your yard if you’re not aware of it already.

Plan Your Materials

One of the biggest benefits to building your own dog run is that you are completely in control of how it works, how it looks, where it goes and how much it costs.  In order to provide yourself with proper expectations, list the materials you’re going to need to build the dog run ahead of time and get as close an estimate on cost for each as possible.  This will help you avoid unpleasant surprises and cost overruns that don’t help anyone.  Every self-built dog run is unique, but for the most part, you can plan on needing the following:

• Wooden posts
• Fencing
• Concrete
• Digging tools if you don’t have them
• Weed cloth
• Gravel
• Sand
• Hinges
• Screws
• Nails

The list above is hardly exhaustive, as once again it will depend on the specifics of the dog run you’re going to build.  If you’re looking for fencing help, you can always take a look at what Aluminum Fences Direct has to offer in this regard.  Of for bigger dogs, you can choose from any of their options here…  Aluminum Fences Direct.  Otherwise, think about how much of each of these materials you’re going to need to come up with a cost estimate.

Be Honest With Yourself

If you’re going to build your own dog run, you should make an honest assessment of the work with regards to every aspect of it before you begin.  This includes assessing your own ability to build something like this.  While it’s a doable project for many people, it is a lot of work that requires some craftsmanship and skill.  If you haven’t poured posts into the ground before and made sure that they’re plumb and level with each other, it could lead to problems if you intend to build a roof.  If you haven’t worked with hinges or strappings in the past, you may need to be able to do so.  The bottom line is that it may make more sense to hire a professional to help you build your dog run if you don’t have experience with this sort of thing.  That cost may wind up being less than if you start the project and wind up hiring someone to correct mistakes and clean up problems down the road.

Lay the Groundwork

The possibilities for the ground that your dog is going to run on are nearly limitless, as you can use concrete, the ground that’s there, mulch, gravel or just about anything else.  However, what you’ll need to do before you start is make sure that the area where you’re going to build the dog run is completely clear of debris, clutter or any other potential obstacles.  Remove any and all rocks from the area where the dog run is going to sit.  Level the ground and grade it properly so that when it rains, your dog isn’t dealing with standing water.  Do whatever is necessary to make not only the installation, but the use of the dog run as smooth and efficient as possible.

Take Your Time

Rushed jobs are often jobs that subsequently require more work because of things that are missed or because of poor craftsmanship.  You want to give your furry friend a place to roam as quickly as possible, but you shouldn’t sacrifice quality for the purpose of saving a day or two in time.  Invest in your time as well as your materials to make sure this is done right the first time.  You will be rewarded for your patience.

If you’re unsure of where to start or where to turn when thinking about how to build a dog run, you can always speak to the team of professionals at Aluminum Fences Direct.  We’ve helped people with their fencing needs all over the country, and we’d be happy to work with you as you move towards providing your dog with a safe and enjoyable place to spend time outside.  Please feel free to contact us at any time.

Residential driveway gates can be a beautiful addition to any home. Here are a few reasons you might want to consider an aluminum gate for your driveway!

If the safety of your home and its contents matters to you?  Do you have a lengthy driveway which could be a point of weakness when it comes to intruders? If either of these are true, then you should consider investing in an aluminum residential driveway gate. A driveway gate can help give you peace of mind and increase the security of your home.

An aluminum fence is cost effective and will also last you a long time! In this article we’ll be taking a closer look at why aluminum is such a great fencing and gate material, and the 10 top reasons why you should consider an aluminum residential driveway gate on your property.

Why Aluminum?

You may be thinking: why aluminum and not steel or wrought iron? Well, there are many reasons that make choosing an aluminum driveway gate a great option. Firstly, aluminum fencing is much more affordable than steel or wrought iron, meaning you have more money to spend on other home projects. Secondly, aluminum comes in a variety of designs and finishes, which means that, while cheaper, it’ll look almost identical to more traditional fencing materials.

Thirdly, aluminum fencing is highly durable and low maintenance. It is rust and corrosion resistant, meaning that with a little cleaning it’ll look as good as new for years to come, and will not reduce the security of your property. Finally, aluminum is much lighter than steel or wrought iron, meaning that it is more cost effective to install. It is also much less likely to prematurely wear out the motor of your gate system, meaning little maintenance costs.

9 Reasons to Buy an Aluminum Residential Driveway Gate

1. Welcome Visitors Only: A residential driveway gate means that you can control who is allowed to enter your property. This is great for private individuals or those living alone, as it means anyone you don’t recognize is kept at a safe distance. This also means you don’t have to deal with cold callers, canvassers, and salesmen unless you want to!
2. Security: A long driveway can be perfect for nefarious individuals to hide out in and scope out your property, learning your daily habits or your home’s weak points of entry. A driveway fence keeps these criminals at a safe distance from your property, and works as an overall deterrent to anyone who wants to do you or your home harm.
3. Privacy: A driveway gate perfectly sections off your property from the rest of the world, reducing unwanted interruptions such as from salespeople and canvassers, as well as giving you the feeling of your own oasis from the rest of the world.
4. Keep Animals Out: A property with a large amount of land can be very tempting to deer and other animals, which while great to observe, can also cause untold property damage and be a general nuisance. A driveway gate will help keep animals out.
5. Reduce Insurance Costs: As you’ve increased the security of your property, you may find your home insurance company will offer you reduced rates!
6. Increase Property Value and ‘Sale ability’: A high-quality driveway fence will likely increase your property value and make it more appealing to prospective buyers. If you’re looking to sell, a beautiful driveway gate will make a great first impression that is likely to stick in the minds of prospective buyers. This will help shorten the wait between listing and sale dramatically.
7. Style: An impressive driveway gate will add an immediate sense of luxury to your property. It is also a great opportunity to express your unique style and design taste as aluminum fencing and gates comes in a range of styles from modern to classic and traditional. Whatever style you use, friends and family will immediately know they’ve reached your home, and will be excited when those gates swing open!
8. Convenient: Traditional gate methods are more affordable yes, but who wants to get in and out of their car every time they want to enter their property? Getting soaked in the rain, or having to walk the potentially long pathway to your gate to meet family members just won’t cut it in the modern world. With a modern aluminum driveway gate, you can let in the people you love with remote access at just the click of a button!
9. Preppers: Across the USA there are thousands of preppers who have preparedness training at the core of all they do. If you’re one such person and you don’t yet have a driveway gate, then can you call yourself a true prepper? Fencing and gates are the first line of defense that should be incorporated in your preparedness plan.

Whatever your lifestyle, belief system, or needs, it’s clear that investing in an aluminum residential driveway gate is a must for your security, safety, and peace of mind.