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.

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.

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It is time to consider whether your pool is safe. Is your pool enclosed with a fence? Does your fence meet pool code? Are your latches on your gates working? We are here to help. I know it seems a little early to be considering these things, but summer is just around the corner. We have vinyl and aluminum fences  in various styles and colors, that meet pool code standards. Please call to schedule your free  estimate today.