Author: Gary Stensland

How to Go About Fence Installation

Gary Stensland

A fence is a great way to enhance the privacy of your property and add curb appeal. It can also improve security and deter burglars.

Fence Installation

Before beginning the project, be sure to locate any underground utility lines. This will prevent you from damaging them and incurring costly fines.

You’ll also want to consult your neighbors if you live in a neighborhood with an HOA and adhere to any guidelines or restrictions regarding the style and materials of your fence.

One of the first things that a homeowner has to do when they are thinking about getting a fence installed is to choose the right style for their home. This is a very important decision as it can influence everything from the cost of the fence to how much curb appeal it adds to your home.

To help you make the right choice, start by taking a look at the homes in your neighborhood. Take note of the type and height of their fencing and how they match up with the architectural style of their homes. You may also want to talk with your neighbors about their fences as well. They can give you some great ideas for your own property!

You can also check out local fence companies in your area and see what types of fences they have on display. Often, they have samples of different styles and colors that you can look at to get an idea of what might work best for your home. It is a good idea to ask about HOA rules and guidelines as well, as these will likely have some effect on the type and height of fence you are allowed to build on your property.

Once you have an idea of the type of fence that might work for your home, it’s time to decide on a color. Many people prefer to go with a fence color that matches their house, but you can also go for something more bold. For example, a black aluminum fence works well with brick or stone houses. Likewise, a white wood fence is a beautiful complement to any type of home.

Another factor that can help you decide on a fence color is the landscape of your home. If you have spectacular landscaping that you are very proud of, then it might be a good idea to consider an understated fence option so that your landscape can shine. Many people also like to match their fence color with the trim and window shutters of their home, so that the overall appearance is cohesive and appealing.

Choosing a Fence Material

A fence is a great way to protect your property and add curb appeal. It also provides security and offers privacy, and it can help reduce noise from neighbors and local traffic. A fence can also be used to contain pets, children and other people who might wander off the property. There are many different types of fences, including wood, chain-link, aluminum and wrought iron. Each type of fencing material has its own advantages and disadvantages. Before selecting a fence, consider your goals and your budget. Then, find a fence that meets your needs and complements your home’s design.

Once you’ve narrowed down the type of fence that suits your home, you must select a material for the fence. Wood fences are popular, and they can be built from a variety of materials, such as redwood or cedar. They are also available in a range of heights, from six to eight feet. A fence constructed of treated wood is a good investment because it will last longer than untreated wood and resist the effects of sun exposure.

If you choose a wooden fence, look for planks that are straight and evenly spaced. Check for warps and dents, and make sure the planks are properly sealed or painted. The fence posts should be at least four feet in the ground, and they should be pressure-treated to resist rot and insects.

Another popular option for homeowners is a masonry fence, which can be made from brick, stone or stucco. Masonry fences provide a stately appearance to a property, and they can be incorporated with other fence types to adjust the design or reduce costs. They are relatively low maintenance, but they can deteriorate over time and require repair.

Before choosing a fencing material, be sure to calculate your total cost and factor in the amount of time you’re willing to spend maintaining it. Then, take a closer look at each type of fencing to determine its suitability for your climate and environment. For example, if you live in an area with cold winters and hot summers, consider a vinyl fence. This material can withstand extreme weather conditions, including strong winds and precipitation.

Obtaining a Building Permit

As with any project, it is important to check and double-check whether or not a building permit is required. Fences are no exception and although it is not always the case, it is a good idea to find out ahead of time before beginning construction. Oftentimes, local governments have websites that will provide this information, but if not, the best thing to do is call the city inspector or drop by at city hall. Whether or not the building department has specific requirements about where, how high or what type of fence you can build will be based on zoning and codes in your area.

For instance, your property may be zoned to allow only a certain height of privacy fence or it may be necessary to obtain written consent from neighbors. In addition, some towns have restrictions about how close you can build a fence to your property line, particularly if you are on a corner lot.

Once you have all the information together, fill out a permit application. You will likely have to supply sketches, plans, photos and a fee with your application. Some cities will take several weeks to review and issue your permit, so it is a good idea to start the process as early as possible.

During the review, a building official will look at all of your information and determine if it meets local standards. If there are any problems, they will suggest ways to fix them. Once the permit is issued, you will be able to begin construction. Depending on the city, your permit will usually be valid for a set amount of time, which is why it is best to begin construction right away.

If you do not feel comfortable dealing with this aspect of the fence installation, it is always a good idea to hire a professional home improvement contractor that has a valid licensed Home Improvement Contractor (HIC) license. This will ensure that all work is performed to code, and that any faulty workmanship will be rectified before your permit expires. In addition, a HIC licensed professional will be able to handle the permit process for you, which saves you time and stress.

Getting Started

If you have a lot of time on your hands and are familiar with woodworking or construction, and can find a friend or family member to help, installing a fence yourself may be a project that suits you. However, it is important to understand that a fence takes much more than the simple purchase of materials. It must be built correctly to last, and the complexities of working with uneven ground or navigating landscaping plantings can make it a more difficult job than you might expect.

The first step in getting started is to clear out the area where the new fence will be installed. Make sure the crew will have easy access to the area and remove any landscape items that are in the way, such as fallen tree limbs or large rocks. Having an open space will allow the crew to work more efficiently and prevent valuable items, such as lawn ornaments or landscaping features, from becoming damaged during the construction process.

Next, the fence posts must be installed. It is important to dig the post holes properly and seat them securely. The size of the hole should be double the diameter of the post and about a third of its height, so it can support the weight of the structure.

After the posts are in place, the next step is to install the panels or pickets that will define the fence’s look. There are several options for this, including using pre-fabricated fence panels, which can make the process quicker and simpler, or constructing a traditional white picket fence with individual pieces.

When you have the fence completed, it’s a good idea to apply a sealer or stain to protect it from weathering and damage over time. The product you use will depend on the type of fence and the environment in which it will be located, so be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

If you have a shared property line with neighbors, it is a good idea to alert them of your plan before starting the construction so that they can prepare themselves and keep their pets and children inside during the installation process. This also gives them an opportunity to request that they move anything in their yard that they would like protected from the fence.

Chain Link Fence – An Economical Way to Enclose a Yard

Gary Stensland

A chain link fence is an economical way to enclose a yard. Chain Link Fence New Jersey is also highly secure and easy to maintain. To start pricing your project, determine the linear footage you want to enclose. Price the mesh and top rail based on this measurement. Then decide how many corner posts and line posts will be needed.

Fences

Chain link fences are among the most durable fencing options available to homeowners. Typically made of galvanized steel or black vinyl-coated metal, they last about 15-20 years and don’t require frequent maintenance like other fence materials. They are also affordable, particularly if you choose a vinyl-coated option.

Unlike wooden fences, which require staining every few years to prevent rotting and warping, chain-link fences don’t have to be repainted or waterproofed. They are not as vulnerable to damage from storms or heavy snow either because the metal mesh is able to withstand the force of wind and weather.

These sturdy fences can be constructed from a range of materials and are available in various heights to suit a variety of applications, from a residential backyard enclosure to the protection of HVAC equipment at a commercial facility. They are often chosen for their durability and low cost compared to other fence options.

Because the metal mesh is so tightly woven, it’s difficult for trespassers to climb and even more challenging to cut through using strong pliers. Unlike other fence types that may offer privacy benefits, chain-link fencing is transparent and allows people to see what’s going on behind it, so it’s not ideal for those who place a high value on privacy.

The chain-link fence is easy to install, requiring no ultra-accurate measurement or special skills. The fabric itself comes in a wide range of gauges, mesh opening sizes and heights, and colors. You’ll also need to select the number and type of gates you require, which will impact the overall cost.

Other costs to consider include the posts, connecting metal pieces and any additional privacy elements you add. For example, you may wish to purchase a bottom tension wire, also known as coil wire, to minimize the in-and-out movement that occurs at the base of the fence between terminal posts. Some installers also add intermediate horizontal rails, referred to as top horizontal rails, for taller fences of 10 feet or more.

Once you’ve accounted for the cost of the fabric, the posts and the connecting metal pieces, you can determine the final total by adding in the price per linear foot of the top rails and any other gate options you may want to buy. You will also need a tension bar and one top rail sleeve for each post, as well as a carriage bolt for each corner post connection to the top and bottom rails.

Chain link fence is a highly effective deterrent, and in conjunction with proper installation and lockable gates, it can provide a high level of security for any property. This type of fencing is also easy to modify for different applications, and offers a wide range of options that can increase its ability as a barrier. For example, adding stainless steel barbed tape to the top or bottom of a chain link fence increases its resistance against attempts at climbing or crawling under.

Another way to improve the security of a standard chain link fence is by adding a tension wire to the bottom of the fabric. This can help prevent anyone from pushing under the fence, whether it is to steal equipment or information. This is often seen on military barracks, industrial sites, and other facilities that need to protect sensitive areas.

In addition to providing a strong barrier, chain link fences can be used to create boundaries and contain animals or people. It is often the most cost-effective solution for this purpose, and it can be easily customized for specific applications. For example, many schools use chain link to keep children from wandering off school grounds and into unsafe neighborhoods, while sports fields use it to keep baseballs, softballs, and other equipment out of the playing field.

Homeowners who want to secure their property and improve its appearance can choose from a number of color, gauge, and finish options that will meet their needs. They can also install additional features to further enhance their security, such as a bottom rail or expanded metal mesh.

In addition to choosing the height and gauge of a chain link fence, homeowners will need to consider how much material they will need to purchase. This is determined by the perimeter of the area they are looking to enclose, and will be the base for all pricing calculations. Then they will need to decide what gates, if any, they want to include. These can be added to the overall price, and are offered in a variety of styles and heights.

Compared to alternative fencing materials, chain link fences can look harsh and plain. However, with recent product innovations and design options, chain link fences can now be made to look more aesthetically pleasing.

One option for improving the appearance of a chain link fence is to cover it with slats that weave between the links. These slats come in a variety of colors and while they don’t give you 100% privacy, they can significantly reduce visibility. Another option is to add greenery or vines. While this requires some upkeep, it’s a great way to camouflage the fence and add more color and interest to your property.

Vines like ivy are quick-growing and can easily cover up the mesh of a chain link fence. Morning glory, common in backyards, is another fast-growing plant that can add both beauty and privacy. However, if you don’t want to deal with the upkeep, there are also a number of synthetic plants that can be used to cover your chain link fence. The Yaheetech Faux Ivy Privacy Screen, for example, is a great alternative that looks very realistic and will save you the time of waiting for your vines to grow.

Other ways to improve the aesthetics of a chain link fence include painting or staining it. While this is not a practical solution for homeowners, it can work well for businesses that need to protect sensitive areas of their facility. However, the added cost of these measures can make your fence more expensive than it needs to be.

If you’re looking for a more cost-effective solution, try adding wrought iron or aluminum accents to your chain link fence. These are less costly than other alternatives and will still provide security for your business or home.

When it comes to pricing your chain link fence, first determine the number of feet of fencing you’ll need. Then, figure out the height of your fence based on local regulations and any other requirements you may have. Once you know the length and height of your fence, add in the price of the top rails in your chosen finish as well as any gates that you’ll need to allow access.

While chain link fences aren’t prone to significant damage like some other fencing materials, they do require regular maintenance. The key is to catch any issues early before they become more serious, and that starts with a thorough walkaround inspection of the entire length of your fence. Look for holes, bulges in the mesh, signs of tampering or abuse, and connections that are loose or pulling away from posts.

You should also check all gates to make sure they are operating properly. If a gate is sagging, or the latch looks worn or damaged, this should be fixed immediately to prevent it from falling out of operation altogether. Look for any other signs of wear, such as rust or corrosion on metal components.

If you notice any dirt buildup, pool or lawn chemicals residue, mold, mildew, or other grime, a quick rinse with soapy water should take care of it. In more severe cases, you might need to scrub it down with a brush or power washer. If you are looking to spruce up your fence, try painting it with a durable, outdoor acrylic coating that is formulated for chain link fences. Avoid painting the galvanized coating, as this can cause flaking and premature deterioration.

Using the damaged area as a guide, measure a new section of chain-link fabric to size, making it about a link or two longer than the old section. Remove the new piece from the roll of fencing by straightening out a hook on the bottom and unweaving it. Once you have the replacement section, use wire ties to hang it from the top rail.

Once you’ve got the new section hanging from the top rail, mark where it will line up with the soon-to-be-cut end of the old rail. Then use a pair of lineman’s pliers to bend the ends of the wire ties that are holding the old rail to the chain-link fabric and pull them free. Once you have the mark cut, slide the smaller, tapered end of the new rail into place and tighten it down with a rail coupling.

What You Need to Know About Landscaping Companies

Gary Stensland

There are so many different Landscaping Companies Chattanooga TN that it can be hard to know where to begin. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the key components of starting up a landscape business, including the costs, equipment, and supplies you’ll need, legal requirements, and common ways to sell your business.

Landscaping Companies

If you’re thinking of starting a landscaping business, you’ll need the right equipment and supplies. This can include items such as a lawn mower, hand tools, and a sturdy vehicle. You can either rent or purchase these items. It’s important to consider your budget and what you need before making a purchase.

Whether you are preparing a small area for planting or a large plot for landscaping, you’ll need to have the right tools. The right tools will allow you to get the job done efficiently and safely.

One of the newest and most sophisticated pieces of equipment is a power blower. A blower can remove debris quickly. Another important piece of landscaping equipment is a pressurized sprayer that can dispense liquid fertilizer.

The right tools will also help you get the job done better and more quickly. For instance, a good quality lawn mower will improve efficiency and allow you to deliver a superior service to your customers.

Similarly, you may need a heavy-duty flatbed truck to transport your equipment. Some heavy-duty models cost as much as $27,000 to $36,500. Be sure to get one with a dumping mechanism.

In addition, you’ll need a solid list of the most important items you’ll need to start your landscaping business. Your list should also include a comprehensive inventory of your costs. Having an accurate start-up estimate will give you a leg up on your ongoing expenses.

If you’re planning to start a landscape business, you might also need marketing and promotional materials. These will help you spread the word about your business.

Finally, if you need to borrow equipment, a standard home tool kit is a great temporary solution. However, investing in high-quality and durable equipment will ensure your company’s long-term success.

While you might think you need a lot of money to get started in the landscape business, it’s not always necessary to spend a fortune. There are many options for buying and renting lawn care equipment. Choosing a name brand, will allow you to recoup part of your investment.

Landscaping is a great way to increase the curb appeal of your home. While you may be tempted to go all out with a fancy patio and pond, you can still have fun with your yard without spending a ton of money.

Landscapers can help you figure out the most effective way to spruce up your yard. You’ll want to take advantage of their knowledge of the local climate and soil. Some companies charge per square foot, while others will offer a discount to customers who opt for a larger project.

The cost of landscaping varies based on several factors, including the size of your property, the complexity of your project, and your local market. On average, you can expect to pay between $4 and $20 per square foot for professional landscaping services.

Costs can be even higher if you’re looking to have a new retaining wall or playground built. These can add hundreds of dollars to your total. In addition to construction costs, you’ll also need to factor in the cost of obtaining any necessary permits.

Other things to consider include the cost of sod, decorative stone, and mulch. The price of each will vary depending on the type of plants you’re planning on using. Sod costs around $0.87 to $1.76 per square foot, and mulch can run $150 to $400.

Depending on your plans, you can expect to pay between $14,000 and $42,000 for a landscape installation. This includes adding new sod, installing a sprinkler system, building a gazebo, and more.

For the best value, you might want to look into hiring a landscaper to handle the entire project. They can provide professional advice, designs, and other services. To get a free quote, you’ll need to indicate your zip code. If you’re lucky, you may find a company that offers a discounted cost per acre.

Keeping your yard looking its best can be a daunting task. Aside from planting new trees, shrubs, and flowers, you might have to hire a gardener to maintain your yard. Standard lawn mowing, bush trimming, and other periodic tasks can cost anywhere from $300 to $700 a year.

Remodeling Your Home

Gary Stensland

A remodel can be a great way to improve your space when it comes to home renovation. You might be tired of your outdated kitchen and bathroom or want Remodeling. Remodeling might also involve moving appliances or adding an entirely new room, depending on your needs. You might even consider knocking down a wall and creating a more spacious living room or dining area. If these are the reasons for your remodel, read on for some remodeling tips.remodeling

Performing a major remodel means putting in more structural changes and adding more expensive materials to the project. You might need an architect or a building engineer, but you can also perform minor renovations yourself. A remodel will increase the value of your home and can increase the chance of selling it. If you plan to remodel the entire home, you will want to hire a professional. This will require more time, materials, and electrical work. However, if you plan to make large changes to the home, you should be aware of all the legal requirements.

When it comes to remodeling a kitchen, you may want to replace outdated appliances, update the flooring, or install a new sink. You may also want to consider updating the electrical systems, or moving pipes so that you can add a washer/dryer combo. Whether you want to remodel the kitchen or a bathroom, a remodeling project will give your space a fresh look and improve functionality. When you remodel your home, you’ll be happy you did.

A good way to cut down costs is to plan ahead. Most homeowners are unable to afford a complete remodel at once, but by breaking the project up into smaller phases, they can save money. Determine which parts of the remodeling project you can do yourself. If you are an amateur, you may want to tackle a few smaller projects, such as painting the dining room or installing new baseboards. A larger remodeling project might require professional assistance. The first thing to do when remodeling a home is to create a list of things you want done and what you can do without it.

Homeowners usually decide to remodel their homes if they add more people to their family. A new baby may require a larger kitchen, or additional living space. Some homeowners even make small improvements to their homes just to accommodate the new addition. But in every case, home owners carefully select the projects that will bring them the highest value. In order to avoid over-improving a home, it is important to keep in mind the neighborhood’s standards and building codes.

Remodeling is a great way to improve the aesthetics and functionality of your home. However, you should be aware of legal constraints if you want to remodel a historical property. For example, it may be difficult to change the design of a historic building, and there are certain neighborhoods that only accept certain styles. If you plan to remodel a home for resale, it will likely cost you a great deal of time. As a business owner, you might not have time to remodel your home to meet these restrictions.

It is essential to budget properly for remodeling. Remodelers recommends that you budget for a remodeling project, and you should also consider the cost of your home’s current value. Changing the layout of a room is a typical example of a renovation. A major kitchen remodel will likely cost you $500,000, while adding a master bedroom may cost as little as $50K. If you can’t afford that kind of investment, a simple restoration or renovation is probably a better idea.

Before you start a remodel, consider your pets’ safety. While a remodel can be stressful for humans, it can be equally difficult for your pets. Make sure to hire a friend or family member to care for your pet while you are working on a major renovation. Remember that you will be opening doors and changing the structure of the home, so keep in mind the safety of your pets. If your home is equipped with a pet-sitting service, it can be a great way to avoid any unwanted situations.

When deciding to do a remodeling project yourself, it’s important to keep your schedule in mind. A major remodel could take four to six months. In the meantime, you can live in your home while the renovation takes place. A remodeling project will not only disrupt your normal routine, but it may also create a huge mess. However, with a little foresight, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable renovation. After all, remodeling is an investment in your home, so make sure you choose a contractor who has experience in this field.

Decorative Fencing: More Than Just a Pretty Face

Gary Stensland

 

If you’re a home or business owner, you probably already know how important curb appeal is in helping to establish the first impression your property gives off to the people who visit. It not only beautifies the exterior, but it helps to make your property look inviting and well-maintained. In addition, great curb appeal can also make a business look established, credible, and trustworthy. That’s why when the time comes to consider a fence or barrier for your Atlanta-area home or business, few things make a statement like a professionally-installed decorative fence makes.

A decorative or ornamental fence gives off an air of opulence and status, and cranks the luxury factor up a notch on your home or business.

 

Beautiful and Durable

Available in a variety of designs and materials to suit your property, budget, and style preference, a professionally-installed decorative fence can be as unique as you’d like while also maintaining its beauty and durability. Whether you opt for a decorative fence made of wood, vinyl-coated galvanized steel, PVC, aluminum, brick, stone, iron, or any combination of such, it’s important to settle on materials that can stand up to Atlanta’s wide range of seasonal temperatures and weather conditions. From the sweltering heat and torrential downpours of summer, to winter’s sub-freezing temps, snow, and ice, the fence professionals at First Fence of Georgia can help you select the decorative fence of your dreams that also requires little to no maintenance.

 

Form and Function

Besides the aesthetic-enhancing reasons, a decorative fence still makes the standard statement that a fence is supposed to make. Despite its name, a decorative fence isn’t just for decoration. It provides a clear and present boundary between your property and the outside world. Not only does it keep uninvited visitors out of your space, but it also helps provide safety, security, and privacy for the people within the boundary. Most decorative fence styles also allow for clear sightlines and greater visibility, so it won’t disrupt the aesthetics of your property’s design plan.

 

Trust an Experienced Fencing Contractor

Whether it’s a standard, traditional chain link or wooden privacy fence, or a more elaborate decorative fence, First Fence of Georgia has the skill, competitive pricing, and world-class service Atlanta-area home and business owners desire. With nearly two decades of experience serving metro Atlanta, First Fence has successfully installed over 20,000 fences of all types and sizes. Browse our gallery of beautiful fences to see our handiwork or to gather ideas for your specific fencing project, then contact one of our professional consultants to schedule your FREE, no-obligation consultation to discuss the fence of your dreams!

 

We look forward to serving you!

The post Decorative Fencing: More Than Just a Pretty Face appeared first on First Fence.

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The Season of Giving – The Frederick Rescue Mission

Gary Stensland

 

We have all heard that Christmas time is the season for giving: of time, money, and service to others. But how many of us can honestly say we go out of our way to do even one thing for someone else during holiday times? We want to challenge you to consider how you can serve this month, then do it! We promise that in addition to those you serve being blessed, YOU will become all the more positive, uplifted, encouraged, and blessed by doing the serving.

Sometimes it’s hard to seek out opportunities to serve where we really feel needed. Frederick has a variety of charities, programs, and agencies where you can get involved. Whether you want to give a monetary donation, provide needed supplies and food goods, or physically serve in some way, there are options available!

We would like to draw your attention to a particular ministry that exists right here in downtown Frederick City that is always in need of help serving the local community. It is called the Frederick Rescue Mission. Not only do we believe in and support the purpose of this ministry, but we are also personally connected to it. Charlie, our founder, has been the president of the board at the Mission for the last 2 years.

 

The Frederick Rescue Mission

“Our vision is to change lives through Christ’s love by rescuing people from hunger, poverty, and chemical addiction. We are a Christ-centered ministry providing:

Residential recovery programs to those experiencing homelessness or chemical addiction.

Food to the hungry.

Clothing and personal care items to those in need.

Connection within our community through relationships.”

 

The Mission works through individual programs that minister to the different physical and spiritual needs of the community. . .

The BREAD OF LIFE ministry prepares and serves two meals a day to anyone in the community that wishes to come and partake. Also connected to this ministry is the food distribution center, where those in need can come and pick up grocery items to help them put meals on their own tables at home. The Mission is able to provide these services at a very low to no cost by partnering with local grocery stores, restaurants, and food banks.

Learn more about this ministry and how you can get involved here.

 

The CHANGED LIFE RECOVERY PROGRAM “is a Christ-centered, 6-month residential/6-month transitional recovery program designed to help men reclaim their lives following addiction and/or homelessness. What started as a 10-bed shelter in 1964 can now house over 40 men in residential program and sees an average of 80 men enter our doors to get their lives back each year. The Mission hopes to restore residents back to their families and communities as upstanding, influential men, leading lives of integrity.”

Learn more about this ministry and how you can get involved here.

 

The FAITH HOUSE ministry is a place of refuge for women and children in our

community who are experiencing homelessness. The Mission opened its door in 2016 with the purpose of “helping women in crises overcome obstacles and get back on their feet.” Faith House focuses on health and wellness, spiritual and emotional well-being, life skills, and making connections.

Learn more about this ministry and how you can get involved here.

 

The F.O.O.D. ministry’s main focus is supplementing food to those in need within the community. FOOD stands for Frederick Organizations Optimizing Distribution. The passion of this ministry is to ensure that everyone in Frederick County has access to food. Their objectives are to make sure people in need know where to get food, match the needs of the people with those who desire to help, and reach all areas of the county so that none are forgotten.

Learn more about this ministry and how you can get involved here.

 

The RESCUED TREASURES CLOTHING PROGRAM ministers to the clothing needs of the community.  It “exists to provide free clothing, coats, shoes, backpacks, sleeping bags and linens for those in need, in the name of Jesus Christ.” Once a month, individuals can come and receive free clothing from the Mission. You can either make an appointment to stop by and pick out items, or fill out a form to request a specific item of clothing that you are in need of.

Learn more about this ministry and how you can get involved here.

 

The OUTREACH ministry is the Mission’s way of ministering directly to the

community by through various events from week to week. There is a Bible study on Tuesdays from 1:30 – 2:30 that is held via zoom. No RSVP is needed and all are welcome to participate! Another branch of the outreach ministry is the Hot Shower ministry (not available currently due to COVID). The Mission offers hot shows to the community from 2pm – 4pm Monday through Friday and they provide all the soap and towels as well, even razors! Additional events are put on by the Mission within the community such as summer camps like the Summer Enrichment Camp 2021, support groups, free haircuts, holiday events, and much more.

Learn more about this ministry and how you can get involved here.

 

 

The Frederick Rescue Mission is a wonderful example of how Jesus conducted His ministry while he was on earth. Jesus did not simply meet the spiritual needs of the people, or just their physically needs. He met BOTH. He had compassion on the sick, poor, and disabled and met the needs of those He came in contact with. But while doing this, He never failed to share the purpose of why He came to earth.

Jesus told those he encountered that He came to save the world from eternal separation from God.  He came to pay a dept he did not owe for a people who owed a dept they could never afford to pay. He would soon pay that debt by dying on a cross and rising again on the third day, and in doing so, providing eternal life to those who put their faith and trust in Him.

“Jesus answered, ‘Everyone who drinks this water [from Jacob’s well] will be thirsty again,but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.’” John 4:13-14

On another occasion, Jesus told a parable that emphasized the importance of meeting physical needs in addition to spiritual needs:

“’Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in,I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.’” Matthew 25:34-36

 

 

It is always a great time to get involved at the Mission, but maybe never more so than now. At a time when we get to celebrate the coming of Jesus into the world, it is also the best time to remember WHY he came and share the good news of the gospel with those whose physical needs we are also ministering to.

 

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How to set Yourself up for Gardening Success Next Year

Gary Stensland

The end of the growing season can be a very tough time for avid gardeners. It is not easy to gaze upon the place where your once flourishing garden was and see that it has been replaced with drapes of brown, dead vines and rotting produce. How depressing! We want to encourage you to direct your thoughts and hopes to next years garden and all the possibilities for growth and improvement.

Create a plan

Start off with a good brainstorming session. Create a list of things you want to accomplish in your garden next year. Consider how you and when you con accomplish those ideas and dreams by preparing now. Try to determine how much it will cost and make a budget.

Feel free to utilize this list of possible options to get your imagination up and running. . .

ExpandInstall raised bedsCreate a strategy for pest controlInstall a new watering systemGet a soil test doneAmend the soilPlant a number of new varietiesGo organicStart a composting pileStart plants insideInstall a rainwater barrelPlant a new bed designated for herbs, perennials, annuals, etc.Grow for preservationProperly fence the garden in

 

Clean up (but not everything)

It is important to remove any diseased plants from your garden in their entirety. Also get rid of weeds just like you would in the regular growing season. This will lessen the possibility of them returning next year. Any plants that are healthy are allowed to stay where they are. Simply break them down and allow them to work into the soil over the winter. Existing plants will feed the soil and provide necessary nourishment that will benefit your growing next year.

 

Test the soil

If you really want to go all out to ensure that your plants do their best next year, we suggest investing the time and money into getting the soil tested. It can be a multiple week process between ordering the test, sending the sample, and waiting for the result. A soil test will tell you the nutrition level of your soil and also how acidic the soil is. As you probably know, some plants require high acidic soil, some require soil that is alkaline. Testing the soil might especially be a good idea if you experienced some unexplained diseases or other issues with your plants in the past.

 

mend the soil

If you have chosen to have a soil test done, you will know exactly how to improve the soil for next year. There are usually a variety of amendments that you can add in order to achieve each purpose, including more expensive vs. budget options. It is important to consider the needs of your plants and what type of soil they like before you start adding amendments. For example, asparagus love alkaline soil, so how you amend the soil here will not be the same as how you amend the soil for tomatoes, carrots, and cucumbers.

If you have chosen to forgo the soil test, there are some generally beneficial amendments that you can add to your soil, no matter what state the soil is in.

Common household items: used coffee grounds (not too much), Epsom salt, eggshells.

You can store these up and use them in your compost, or sprinkle them over the soil as quickly as you use them, even daily.

Animal waste: horse manure, chicken poop, cow manure, chopped up leaves.

These items are more useful to the soil when composted, but if you are applying them in the fall like we are discussing, they will successfully compost over the winter and early spring.

Soil amendments you can purchase: hummus, compost, peet moss, kelp meal, lime.

 

 

If you are considering fencing in your garden, feel free to call and discuss our best options! Whether it is to repel deer, keep smaller critters out, or just to look good. . . we have the fence for you.  Call and schedule an appointment today at 301-663-4000.

 

 

The post Blog first appeared on Frederick Fence Company.
Did you miss our previous article…
https://cummingfenceinstallation.com/?p=287

How to Restore Rusty Wrought Iron Fencing

Gary Stensland

 

There is something about the characteristics of wrought iron that just cannot be mimicked with any other type of fencing. We love and admire these beautiful fences that usually adorn older estates and historic homes. The one drawback to wrought iron is that it is susceptible to rust. Over time, rust can begin to penetrate into the iron and cause aesthetic and integrity problems down the road. Continue below for our do-it-yourself guide to cleaning and restoring your wrought iron to its former glory.

 

 

Step 1) Roll up your sleeves.

Cleaning and restoring a rusty fence will require some elbow grease. There will be a lot of manual scrubbing, scraping, and sanding going on here. Getting into every nook and crevice is important in this process. So make sure you are able to pay attention to detail during this process as well. We don’t want to leave any space for rust to reside and begin to grow again. If you want lasting results you will need to take your time and avoid cutting any corners!

 

Step 2) Remove the rust.

Any loose or peeling paint, chunks of rust, dirt, and grime need to be removed from the surface of the fence. Some tools that would be worth purchasing to help you with this step are steel wool, steel brushes, and sandpaper with differing grits. Using a drill with a wire attachment can make it much easier to cover larger surface areas like the posts and along the rungs. Smaller brushes might be needed to get into the crevices of more ornate styles of fencing. Be sure to penetrate through the entire rust layer. Sand it and buff it out really well to ensure it is totally gone.  Rust is like a cancer that will simply grow back over time if not removed or killed in its entirety.

 

Step 3) Apply a chemical or natural rust neutralizer.

CRC, Permatex, Rustolium, Gemplers, and Loctite are all common bands that produce rust neutralizers. Look for the best reviews and choose a product you are comfortable using.  If you do not wish to use a chemical-based remover, there are more natural solutions available on the internet. They will all include one or two of the following common household ingredients: lemon juice, white vinegar, borax, baking soda, and salt. Choose one that best suits your needs and go to town! Be sure to follow the directions of each solution carefully as some require a certain amount of time to sit and work into the fencing and then might need to be washed away with soap and water.

 

Step 4) Paint with rust resistant products.

Not all paint and primer products fight rust, but you can find products on the market that are specifically engineered for the purpose of painting over old rusty fences like these. It is best in this situation to use a primer as well as a paint. Apply at least 2 coats of each to ensure your fence has a strong, lasting, weather and rust resistant coating to see it through the years to come.

 

Step 5) Give up?

If you just don’t think you have the time and energy to spend restoring your old rusty wrought iron, consider replacing it with a new aluminum fence product. It won’t be quite the same, but we can just about match the style of your current wrought iron fence and guarantee that our powder coated product will give you years and years of rust-free fencing delight!

 

 

We would love to walk you through the process of getting a new fence. Call anytime to schedule a free onsite estimate with one of our sales representatives. You can call 301-663-4000 or email our scheduler at [email protected].

The post Blog first appeared on Frederick Fence Company.
Did you miss our previous article…
https://cummingfenceinstallation.com/?p=283

The Importance of Finding a Reputable Fencing Contractor

Gary Stensland

As a homeowner, there are few things as daunting as a large-scale home improvement project. After all, your house isn’t just you and your family’s safe haven, but it’s also the most expensive thing you will ever buy; it’s your lifelong investment. Therefore, it’s worthwhile that you find a reputable contractor to help you with your project. Here are just a few more reasons why it’s essential that you hire a contractor whose reputation is as durable and long-lasting as the things they build.

 

More Quality

They say that “if a job’s worth doing, it’s worth doing well…” And that stands true when it comes to your fence installation project, as well. Not only do projects run the risk of running over budget and timeline, but a job done poorly will only require added expense, additional maintenance and/or replacement over the long run. While better building materials may cost a little more initially, a reputable fencing contractor will take the time to explain the difference quality materials and craftsmanship will make in helping your fence or wall withstand the test of time.

 

More Choices

An experienced fencing contractor can offer a greater array of options when it comes to selecting the type of fence you want in order to match your specific design aesthetic. In addition, a great fencing contractor will also offer a great selection of materials that not only give you the look that you want, but at a budget you can afford.

 

More Experience

When shopping for fencing contractors for an upcoming project, it’s important that you find a professional contractor that specializes in the installation of fences. After all, you wouldn’t choose a brain surgeon to perform open heart surgery, would you? Therefore, you shouldn’t choose a painter, roofer, or some jack-of-all-trades handyman to install the fence or wall for your home or business. The experience a professional fencing contractor brings to the table allows them to more accurately estimate what your specific project requires, both in time and money. They can walk the fine line with you to assess your list of wants while also evaluating potential budget constraints.

 

Also, an experienced fencing contractor should have a list of references and reviews for work they’ve done in the past. After all, you’re not just buying a fence, you’re buying a service, so it’s important to check on the type of service they’ve given past customers. You can also ask the contractor for photos of their past projects.

 

If you’re in the Greater Atlanta area and are considering boosting your home’s curb appeal while also boosting its resale value with a brand new, professionally-installed fence, contact the best fence contractors in all of Georgia — First Fence of Georgia, and request your FREE, no-obligation consultation today!

The post The Importance of Finding a Reputable Fencing Contractor appeared first on First Fence.

Choosing the Correct Fence Height for Your Home

Gary Stensland

Residential fence heights range from about three feet tall to about eight feet tall, but there are several factors to consider when choosing the height of your fence. To choose the perfect fence height for your home you will want to determine the style and purpose of your fence, consider its location, and adhere to any local laws and regulations.

Determine Your Fence’s Purpose

What purpose do you want your fence to serve? Do want privacy from nosy neighbors? Do you want to keep out trespassers? Do you want to keep your dog and children in your yard? Do you want to secure your swimming pool?

Common Fence Heights

By determining your fence’s purpose, you will narrow down the height and material options.

Decorative: These ornamental fences tend to be more for aesthetics than for security. Typically around three to four feet high, decorative fences are often created with wrought iron, vinyl panels, tubular bars, and other metals.Privacy: Available in wood, vinyl, and chain link, six-foot high privacy fences are normally sufficient to prevent your neighbors from looking into your windows and yard.Boundary: Often added to a home to create a clear boundary between your yard and a street or neighbor, these picket or ornamental fences are often three feet high in front yards and six feet high in back yards.Dog: The important question is “How high your dogs can jump?” A four-foot fence is adequate for most dogs, but a six-foot dog fence might be necessary for larger breeds or higher jumpers.Pool: Pool fences keep uninvited guests out and keep people and pets safe. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission provides general guidelines on pool fencing (usually at least four feet tall), but it is important to check the specific laws where you live.Garden: A three to four foot garden fence allows you to show off flowers or vegetables, while keeping out large animals. If smaller animals are a concern, consider a solid fence.

Check Local Laws and Regulations

Counties, cities, and homeowners associations often have their own regulations regarding fence height, color, materials, and location. It is very important to be aware of these laws and regulations before beginning your fencing project.

Partner with First Fence of Georgia on All Your Residential Fencing Projects

At First Fence of Georgia, we can install and repair all fence types and help you find the height that best suits your needs. To schedule an appointment with one of our estimators, please call us at (770) 214-4235 or contact us through our online form today.

The post Choosing the Correct Fence Height for Your Home appeared first on First Fence.