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Best Vinyl Fence Company in North Texas

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 16:49:09 GMT

Best Vinyl Fence Company in North Texas (DFW Guide)

If you’re searching for the best vinyl fence company in North Texas , you’re likely comparing quality, experience, and long-term value, not just price. With so many fencing options available across the Dallas and Fort Worth area, it’s important to choose a company that delivers both durability and expert installation.

Future Outdoors® has been serving homeowners and businesses across Dallas, TX and surrounding areas for over two decades, specializing exclusively in high-quality vinyl fencing and outdoor structures.

Vinyl Fence Installation in Dallas, TX & Surrounding Areas

Future Outdoors proudly provides vinyl fence installation throughout North Texas , including:

North Dallas / North Texas communities
Mid Cities (DFW Core) such as Irving, Arlington, and surrounding areas
Fort Worth side suburbs and rural properties

Whether you’re in a fast-growing neighborhood, an HOA-managed community, or a larger property outside the city, vinyl fencing offers a long-term solution that fits a wide range of needs.

What Makes a Vinyl Fence Company the Best in DFW?

Not all fencing companies are the same. Here are a few factors that set top-tier vinyl fence contractors apart:

1. Proven Experience in North Texas

Choosing a company with deep local experience matters. Soil conditions, weather patterns, and property layouts across North Texas require knowledgeable installation practices.

Future Outdoors has:

Installed over 6,000 vinyl structures across DFW
Over 20 years of experience in North Texas
A long-standing reputation as a trusted vinyl fence contractor in Dallas, TX

2. High-Quality Vinyl Materials That Last

The difference between an average fence and a long-lasting one comes down to materials.

High-quality vinyl fencing should include:

Strong UV protection to prevent fading
Impact modifiers for durability
No recycled fillers that weaken the structure

This ensures your fence maintains its appearance and strength for decades—not just a few years.

3. Expert Installation Matters More Than You Think

Even the best materials can fail without proper installation.

Top vinyl fence companies focus on:

Structural integrity
Long-term durability
Installation methods that go beyond minimum standards

At Future Outdoors, every installer is trained specifically for vinyl products, ensuring consistent, high-quality results on every project.

4. Experienced Crews You Can Trust

Experience isn’t just about years in business, it’s about the people doing the work.

Crew leaders with 10+ years of experience
Thousands of installations completed per team
Proven craftsmanship across a wide range of projects

This level of expertise shows in the final product—and in how well it holds up over time.

5. Custom Vinyl Fencing (Not One-Size-Fits-All)

Many companies install pre-made fencing with limited options. The best vinyl fence companies offer customization.

With custom fabrication, you can:

Choose your fence height and layout
Mix styles (privacy, picket, semi-privacy)
Match your home’s design and landscape
Adjust for elevation changes

This flexibility allows you to get exactly what you want—not just what’s in stock.

Why Homeowners in DFW Are Choosing Vinyl Fencing Across

North Dallas, Mid Cities, and Fort Worth areas, more homeowners are switching to vinyl fencing because it offers:

Low maintenance (no painting or staining)
Resistance to rot, moisture, and insects
Long-lasting performance in Texas weather
A clean, modern appearance for years to come

Vinyl fencing is especially popular in HOA communities and growing suburban neighborhoods, where long-term appearance and consistency matter.

Serving North Texas Communities

Future Outdoors proudly serves customers across the Dallas–Fort Worth region, including:

North Dallas suburbs
Central DFW (Mid Cities)
Fort Worth and surrounding areas

Explore our vinyl fence installation service areas in Dallas, TX and surrounding communities.

Get a Free Vinyl Fence Estimate in North Texas

If you’re looking for a trusted vinyl fence company in DFW , Future Outdoors is here to help.

Contact our team today to discuss your project, explore your options, and get a free estimate.

Call (972) 576-1600 to speak with a real person during business hours or request your free estimate online .

Preparing Your Vinyl Fence for Winter in North Texas

Thu, 04 Dec 2025 17:30:02 GMT

Winter Prep Guide: Protecting Your Vinyl Fence in North Texas

Even mild winters can affect posts, panels, soil, and gates—here’s how to get your fence ready.

North Texas winters may be short, but they still bring freezing temperatures, ice, high winds, and periods of heavy moisture. While vinyl fencing is one of the most durable and low-maintenance fencing options available, taking a few simple steps before winter hits can help protect your investment and keep your fence looking great year-round.

Whether you live in Dallas, Fort Worth, Plano, or anywhere in the surrounding DFW region, here’s what you need to know about preparing your vinyl fence for winter.

1. Inspect Your Fence Before the First Freeze

A quick visual inspection goes a long way. Before temperatures drop, walk your fence line and check for:

Loose or wobbly posts
Misaligned or sagging gates
Dirt or debris buildup
Rocks, roots, or objects pushing against the base
Cracks or damage from summer storms or yard equipment

Vinyl rarely cracks on its own, but small issues can worsen with cold temperatures, especially around stress points like gates and corners.

Tip: If you spot leaning posts or shifting soil, get them repaired before winter moisture freezes and expands.

2. Clean Off Dirt, Red Clay, and Mildew

North Texas soil and red clay can leave stains on vinyl if left through winter. Cleaning your fence now prevents buildup during the wet season.

How to clean your vinyl fence:

Rinse with a garden hose
Use a soft brush or sponge
Mix a gentle cleaning solution (dish soap + water)
For tough stains, use a vinyl-safe cleaner

Avoid harsh chemicals or pressure washing too close to the fence panels.

3. Trim Back Trees & Shrubs Before Ice Storms

Ev en lightweight ice buildup can cause tree limbs to droop or break—and falling branches are one of the top causes of fence damage in DFW winters.

Trim anything that could fall or rub against your fence, especially:

Oak and pecan trees
Pine branches
Bushes growing through or under panels

Keeping vegetation clear also improves airflow, reducing moisture buildup around posts.

4. Check Gate Hardware (Freezing Temperatures Matter!)

Gates experience the most movement and stress during winter. As temperatures fluctuate, metal hardware can contract, soil can shift, and posts may move slightly.

Make sure to check:

Hinges (tighten screws)
Latches (ensure smooth opening and closing)
Gate alignment
Gaps caused by soil movement

A misaligned gate in fall can become a stuck or sagging gate during a freeze.

 Pro Tip: Lubricate metal parts with a silicone-based spray for smoother winter movement.

5. Make Sure Soil Around Posts Is Stable

Vinyl fence posts should be set deep in concrete, but North Texas clay soil expands and contracts with moisture and temperature changes.

During winter, this can cause:

Temporary shifting
Leaning
Gate misalignment

To prevent issues:

Ensure soil isn’t eroding around the posts
Add dirt or gravel where needed
Improve drainage to prevent water pooling

If you notice significant movement—especially after a freeze—Future Outdoors can help assess and reinforce the structure.

6. Remove Heavy Objects Leaning Against the Fence

Before winter storms, make sure nothing is pushing against your fence, such as:

Firewood stacks
Outdoor furniture
Landscaping materials
Toys or storage bins

Pressure against panels or posts can lead to bending or shifting when the ground freezes or softens.

7. Schedule Professional Repairs Before Winter Weather Arrives

Small problems are easier—and cheaper—to fix before winter wind and freezing temperatures arrive.

Future Outdoors can assist with:

Replacing damaged panels
Addressing leaning or shifting posts
Adjusting gates
Reinstalling wind-damaged sections
Adding reinforcement if needed

Professional installation and repair ensure long-term durability, especially with North Texas’ unpredictable weather patterns.

Why Vinyl Fencing Performs So Well in Texas Winters

Vinyl is an excellent choice for DFW homeowners because it is:

Moisture-resistant (no rot or rust)
Designed to handle temperature swings
Strong against high winds
Low maintenance compared to wood
Resistant to pests like termites

Even during winter freezes, vinyl holds up exceptionally well when properly installed and maintained.

A Little Prep Goes a Long Way

Preparing your vinyl fence for winter in North Texas doesn’t require a lot of work—just a few preventive steps that protect your fence and keep it looking great for years to come.

If you need help with winter prep, repairs, or are considering upgrading to a low-maintenance vinyl fence, we are the leading vinyl fence installer in the Dallas–Fort Worth area, with over 6,000 vinyl structures installed.

Contact Future Outdoors today for a free estimate or winter inspection!

Why to Hire Professionals to Install Your Vinyl Fence

Tue, 13 May 2025 18:24:29 GMT

Why to Hire Professionals to Install Your Vinyl Fence

There is plenty of information on the internet about building and installing your own vinyl fence. However, that doesn’t always mean it’s a good idea to do it yourself. There are a few advantages that you get from working with a professional fence installer like Future Outdoors.

Advantages of Professional Fence Installation

Time Savings

One of the biggest advantages of having your fence installed professionally is saving time versus installing it yourself. Fence installations can be tricky and time consuming, especially if you don’t have much experience. However, our experienced fence crew can install a new fence in just a day or two – and you won’t have to do any of the work yourself.

Financial Savings

Another major advantage of working with a professional fence installer is that you can actually save money. Depending on the type of fence you want to install you will need to buy materials, tools, and hardware such as screws, nails, or brackets. You will also need to factor in the costs of material delivery and the removal of any waste or old fence materials.

In contrast, the cost of a professional fence install takes all of these factors into account. Plus, professionals have the tools and equipment they need already, and can buy materials in bulk at a discount. These savings are factored into your costs, so you often end up paying less than you would when you install on your own.

Higher Quality

Fence installations can be tricky. It’s important to make sure all the posts are set deep enough, totally secure, and standing straight and level. The panels need to be secure, level, and properly lined up. Corner angles must be measured correctly, and gates need be be secure and strong. If you don’t have the necessary skills or experience, it’s likely you could make a mistake that affects the quality of your finished fence.

Professional fence installers, on the other hand, do have the necessary skills. They can install your fence quickly and without mistakes, and even guarantee the quality of your new fence with a warranty. In other words, you don’t just get a higher quality fence – you also get peace of mind.

Less Stress

Along with ensuring a higher quality result, having your fence installed by Future Outdoors also ensures you don’t need to worry about it. Installing your fence yourself can be stressful, especially if you are trying to get it done quickly or do it in your free time. When you get your fence installed, you don’t need to worry about the process and simply get to enjoy the result.

No Code Violations

Finally, getting your fence installed ensures you won’t suffer from any legal problems. Codes and permits can be big obstacles to DIY fence installations, especially if your home is part of an HOA. You will likely need to provide plans to your local permit office and get the necessary permits for your area.

When you work with Future Outdoors to have your fence installed, though, you don’t need to do any of this work. We take care of all the permits for you, and ensure your fence is built according to code.

Call Future Outdoors Today

If you’re interested in getting a new fence at the best price, without the stress of installing yourself, give us a call today at Future Outdoors. We can help you choose the best fence for your needs and get it installed easily. Call (972) 576-1600 today or visit us on Facebook to see pictures and read reviews from previous customers.

A Guide To Creating The Perfect Backyard In Dallas For 2020

Tue, 14 Apr 2020 21:22:12 GMT

Everyone dreams of having the perfect backyard. The house that has the perfect garden or the go-to spot for all the cookouts and pool parties. Whether you just moved to the Dallas Ft. Worth Metroplex or you want to make some renovations to increase your property value, this will be your roadmap for landscaping in 2020! Future Outdoors is the go-to outdoors expert in the DFW area here in Texas. Our team can create a perfect environment for your friends and family. Reach out to us today to get a free estimate!

How Do I Get My Yard Ready For The Summer?

First things first: you need to get the yard cleaned up. This is by far the easiest part of starting to create the perfect backyard. You’ve survived winter and now that it’s warming up outside, you may find yourself noticing that your property needs some love. Let’s dive into the steps of accomplishing just that.

Raking:

You may have already raked back when fall came, so you may be asking yourself “doesn’t this seem redundant?” However, raking is one of the most important techniques you can utilize to create an environment for green and vibrant grass. When you rake, don’t just skim the grass for dead leaves, but make sure you’re turning up the dirt underneath. By doing so, you end up removing thatch. Thatch is all the dead grass that’s mixed in-between the living grass. It prevents your grass and the root system from getting the nutrients it needs. It’s important to remove it in order for the grass underneath to grow and thrive.

Tree Trimming:

It’s important to trim back your trees (also known as pruning ) for a couple of reasons. First is the overall health of your trees. When your tree grows unchecked and branches are just growing in every which way, it weakens the overall health of your tree. Second, trimming your tree back helps light and rain reach the soil underneath your tree, providing it with important nutrients and preventing dead grass spots under your trees.

Weeding:

We all hate it, but it’s a must and should be done thoroughly. It may become time-consuming, but it’s important to get down and pull out any weeds in your yard and garden. Afterwards, it’s important to treat your yard with preventative chemicals to reduce the chance of future weeds growing back.

Plant A New Tree:

It’s important to pick a tree that can survive in hot and dry conditions. With so many options available for trees, we can limit them down to trees that are native to central Texas. Such as, Cedar Elm trees, a large and strong tree that will be able to the elements of Texas. Another great option being, Texas Red Oak tree, not quite as large as Cedar Elms, so it’s a good option when avoiding towering trees.

Refresh your Fence:

The cooler spring season is a great time to work on your outdoor structures. For instance, the lower temperature days are a great time to paint, stain, or even replace your tired old fence. If you’re tired of having to perform maintenance on your fencing year after year, replacing your wooden fence with a new vinyl fence is a great option. Vinyl fencing is stronger and more durable than wood, and it doesn’t need to be painted or stained.

Providing a Focal Point For Your Yard

One great way to tie your yard together is to create a focal point that everything then revolves around. A fire pit makes a great addition to almost any backyard – it provides a central gathering spot for outdoor activities, adds visual interest to your yard, and can be used for cookouts or just keeping warm during chilly fall evenings.

Fire pits come in a variety of sizes and styles, from simple stone-ringed campfire circles to exquisitely constructed backyard structures. In every case, you’re sure to enjoy the way it looks in your yard and the entertainment it makes possible.

Another great focal point for the yard is introducing a pond to your yard. A pond can completely change the feel of your yard and add that extra touch to it. One of the great things about ponds is how customizable they are.

You can go for a natural pond that gives the feeling that it’s always been there or you can go for a formal pond that has straight borders and a waterfall in the center. Either way, you want to go with your pond, it will become a beautiful addition to your backyard.

5 Things to Consider Before Installing a Vinyl Deck

1. How Do You Want to Use Your Deck?

No two people are alike – and neither are their decks. Planning a deck depends on how you want to use it and what its purpose will be. For instance, a deck built around a pool will be very different from a deck designed for evening entertaining or as an outdoor kitchen. Your contractor can help you come up with options that fit your views.

2. Do You Need a Permit?

Building codes and permit requirements vary from town to town and even sometimes within different neighborhoods. Depending on the size, location, and structure of your new deck, you may need to secure a building permit, HOA permission, or other documentation before you build. This is one step you definitely don’t want to skip – you could face fines or even have to remove your completed structure. Our experts at Future Outdoors can help you plan ahead and secure the permits you need.

3. Where Will You Build Your Deck?

If you’re building a new deck or expanding an old one beyond its original footprint, location is important. Don’t feel like you need to limit yourself to your backyard either – there are lots of options when it comes to deck placement. Here are a few things you can think about when pondering placement:

Where should your deck be located?
Do you want to use it to watch the sunset or enjoy a particular area of your yard?
Do you want to provide secondary access to your deck, such as a side yard?
Where would a deck fit best from an architectural or design point of view?
Do you want to place a vinyl shade structure such as a pergola on your deck?

Considering these questions can help you decide what you value most in your deck. Of course you may also be constrained by your home’s shape, the contour of your property, or other features in your yard, such as a pool or large trees. This is why it’s also important to work with a skilled contractor who can help you solve these issues.

4. Will You Need to Landscape Before Building Your Deck?

Decks require a few things, the most important of which is support. Almost every deck is held up by posts dug into the ground. If you’re planning to place your deck in a certain spot, make sure you talk with your contractor about the positioning beforehand. They might be able to spot potential problems you overlooked and help you avoid a huge headache.

5. What is Your Budget?

Cost considerations aren’t fun, but they are important. You need to know what your budget is for your deck project before you plan so you can get an idea of what is possible. Make sure you discuss this with your contractor so they can give you ideas on how to achieve your goals within the budget you are willing to spend. You might also be tempted to skimp on one of the most important parts of a vinyl deck build – the material itself.

However, a quality vinyl deck pays for itself in ways that cheaper vinyl and wood decks don’t. With a high-quality vinyl deck you may pay more initially, but you won’t have to worry about painting, staining, sealing, or repairing your deck year after year. Over time, vinyl decks cost much less and last much longer than wood.

Building The Perfect Deck

The first step to designing your perfect deck space is to think of the features you want and how the deck will be used throughout the year. Try to envision what you want in an outdoor space: Do you want an enclosure that will protect you from insects and sun? Are you planning on putting a swimming pool in the backyard (or do you have one already)? Will you be using the deck for entertaining guests, or just as an outdoor relaxation spot for you and your family?

A quality deck brings a lot of benefits to a home. It can boost your property values, give you a dedicated space for entertaining and relaxing outdoors, and improve the look and feel of your home and yard. But which material is the best for a new deck: vinyl or wood?

Should I Use Wood Or Vinyl for My Deck?

Up until the last 20 years or so, wood was the only viable material for a long-lasting deck. Today, wood still has some benefits and features many customers like. For instance, wood decks are quick and easy to install, and when they are built with treated lumber they are relatively durable. You can also easily paint or stain a wood deck to match your home.

However, wood decks also have a few drawbacks you’ll want to consider. First, wood decks don’t last forever, and need a lot of upkeep to stay in good shape. Most wood decks need to be treated and stained regularly to avoid fading, splintering, and damage. They can also be harder to keep clean since wood absorbs dirt and stains.

Finally, wood is vulnerable to damage from pests, insects, mold, and mildew. If you do choose wood for your deck, expect to replace it in 5 to 15 years unless you use an exotic (and expensive) hardwood. Also remember to budget for regular treatment and paint or stain to keep it looking good.

The Benefit of Vinyl Decks

In contrast to wood decks, vinyl and composite decking is a relatively new product that many homeowners aren’t familiar with. Also unlike wood decks, manufacturers of vinyl decks have made many improvements to the materials since they started offering them.

Today’s vinyl decks are extremely strong, durable, and long-lasting products. Some people have criticized vinyl decks for problems such as becoming brittle in cold weather, fading in harsh sun, and chalking over time. However, newer formulations of vinyl prevent these problems in new decks.

A vinyl deck built today will remain strong through the harshest heat and cold, and will retain its color and good looks for decades. It is true that vinyl decks can’t be refinished, but modern vinyl decks are built to be easy to repair. The pieces are almost all modular and easy to remove and install, so if you do ever damage your deck it won’t be hard to fix it again. If you’re having trouble deciding between wood and vinyl, consider what factors are the most important to you:

Appearance – Both wood and vinyl decks are beautiful, but only vinyl will keep its looks for decades after you build it.
Maintenance – Wood decks require maintenance such as sealing and staining. In contrast, a vinyl deck is virtually maintenance free after it is built.
Lifespan – Vinyl decks can last for decades. Wood decks need to be rebuilt or replaced after 5 to 15 years at most.
Price – If you’re on a limited budget, a wood deck can be built from relatively inexpensive lumber (but don’t expect it to last very long). Vinyl decks are pricier but will be the last deck you will ever need.

Coming up with answers to these questions will help you plan the features and overall look and feel of your vinyl deck. Today’s vinyl decks can be built with a variety of features built-in, including benches, garden planters, and more. This makes them extremely personable, but it also means you need to know all of the details up front to get the most out of your deck.

Choosing a Look for Your Deck

Vinyl decking comes in a huge variety of styles and colors. It can be used to simulate the look and feel of wooden decking, you’ll need to plan out what you want your deck to look like when it’s finished. Many people will use home and design magazines to help them find inspiration for their deck.

These are a good resource for people who aren’t sure exactly what they want and need some ideas of what is possible. Take a look around for photographs of other vinyl decks, or search online to find more inspiration. To help with these stages, some people also use 3D modeling tools like SketchUp to draw their own plans for what they want the deck to look like.

These tools are pretty simple to learn and use if you give them a little time, and they can help you visualize what your deck will look like and how it will feel in your yard long before you break ground.

Getting Quotes for Your Deck

After you have an idea of what you want in a deck, you’ll have to find a vinyl deck supplier that can make it come to life. A good vinyl deck contractor will be transparent through their whole process and give you advice on what works well for your property and keep you involved throughout the process of building your vinyl deck. When you’re getting quotes from your vinyl decking contractors, keep a few questions in mind:

Where are they located? It’s always better to work with a local contractor, since you can meet with them first-hand and easily address any concerns. Even if the prices are better, it’s usually not worth it to contract with someone from further away just to save a few bucks.
What’s their customer service like? When you call your vinyl deck provider, do they pick up the phone or just let it ring? Does someone return your calls quickly? Do you get the answers you need? If you feel like your chosen contractor doesn’t care for or appreciate your business, don’t work with them.
Do they offer warranty service? Companies that trust their products will work with you to make sure you’re happy. If the contractor or the manufacturer doesn’t offer warranties, or the warranty is conspicuously short or restrictive, ask yourself why.
Can they offer other products? Vinyl decks are great, but you might also want a fence, a shade structure, or other outdoor improvements at the same time. Make sure you work with a versatile contractor that can deliver on a variety of projects.

Once you find a contractor that you’re happy with and can trust, all you have to do is sit back and wait for your perfect vinyl deck to take shape. It will only be a short time until you can enjoy your new outdoor living space all year long.

Choosing a Shade Structure

Once you finish building the perfect deck, you begin to look at installing a shade structure. Adding a shade structure guarantees that you can enjoy your deck during the summer season. Shade structures do just what the name implies and adding a patio cover can allow you to enjoy your deck no matter what the Texas weather brings to you. Let’s look at some of the options you have.

Patio Cover : A patio provides complete cover from the sun and rain. This can always be a nice addition to your backyard, especially in the hot summer months.
Pergola : A pergola is what is commonly thought of when you think of installing a shade structure. However, while they are beautiful and provide shade, it will not protect you from rain while sitting on your patio.
Cabana : Seen at many pools or the beaches of a resort, cabanas are also commonly seen in backyards. This can be attached or detached from your deck or patio, creating a nook in your backyard to enjoy by yourself or with company.
Gazebo : Similar to a cabana, gazebos are another great choice for your backyard paradise. This is typically detached but can be attached as seen below.

What Are My Landscape Opportunities?

When it comes to creating the perfect landscape the options are limitless. It’s all up to your own creativity! Here are some ideas that can create an amazing environment for friends and family.

A small pond, waterfall, or other water feature is a lovely addition to the right home. While it may not look right on every property, with enough space and planning you can make a water feature the centerpiece of your yard. However, they are also big projects that require a lot of expertise.

Gardens give your backyard color and allow for a lot of potential variety. You can use them for flowers, shrubs, ornaments, and even growing fruits or vegetables. Plus, a well-landscaped garden or flower bed gives your yard extra structure. Flower beds can be raised from the ground or embedded and the borders can be made with wood, stone, or any other durable material. You can be very creative with the planning of a flower bed or small garden – just make sure it complements, rather than stands out from, the rest of your yard.

You can plant a variety of plants, shrubs, and trees to bring your backyard to life. It’s important to research your garden and learn what works best in your area. Many plants work best under certain circumstances and work best with other plants.

We dive into some examples of plants that will both make your backyard stand out as well as provide a safe haven for bees, helping to maintain your garden’s health, and improving the overall environment of Dallas Texas.

The Final Step

Now, the final step of the process is to get started on turning your dream into a reality. All of these projects listed above can add visual appeal to your home and backyard and they make great focal points in an otherwise plain space. Don’t be afraid to get creative, and with over twenty years of experience in Northern Texas, the team at Future Outdoors is here to help create the perfect backyard for you. If you have any questions or would like to set up a free estimate just call us today at 972-576-1600 .

5 Things to Consider When Buying a Pergola

Mon, 03 Sep 2018 20:20:45 GMT

A pergola is one of the best additions you can make to your outdoor space. It adds shade, makes your backyard visually appealing, and makes a great centerpiece for a deck or patio. That said, there are a few things you’ll want to consider before you pick up the phone.

Materials

One of the biggest considerations is what material you want your pergola made from . Many pergolas these days are made of wood, but that doesn’t mean wood is the best choice. A wood pergola has all the same problems that a wood deck or fence has. Namely, wood pergolas need regular upkeep and maintenance, and they are vulnerable to moisture, insects, and time.

A better option for most homeowners is a vinyl pergola . Unlike wood, vinyl pergolas don’t break down or change appearance over time. They are virtually maintenance-free and don’t require any special care or treatment. And they last far longer than wood, making them the only “lifetime” pergolas on the market.

Size

Another important consideration is the size of your pergola . Bigger pergolas provide more space and more shade. You’ll also want to consider the size and shape of other home or landscape elements, like your roofline or the shape of your patio. If you want a custom pergola that follows the shape of its surroundings, we can do that.

Location

You’ll also need to think about where your pergola will go on your property and how you will use it. For instance, if you want your pergola to be a garden centerpiece, you may want a different style and accessories.

If you aren’t sure where a pergola would be best on your property (or you don’t know if it’s possible to install one where you want it), give us a call. We’ll schedule a free no-obligation consultation to answer your questions get you the info you need.

Design

Depending on how you want to use your pergola, you may want it to have a certain “look.” Some people want a pergola that is classic and understated to serve as a simple shade structure. Some want a modern pergola to use as a space for entertaining. Others want a rustic look to complement their garden. All of these looks are possible, but you’ll need to consider them before you buy. Take a look at pictures in our gallery, or check out your favorite home or garden magazine for inspiration and ideas.

Installation

At Future Outdoors, we provide full installation services for our vinyl pergolas. This ensures you get a quality shade structure that is built to last. However, you’ll need to think about the installation process for your pergola. Remember that our installation crew will need access to the site to bring materials and equipment in, so don’t choose anywhere that is too hard to reach.

Call Future Outdoors Today

Want to get the best deal on a quality vinyl pergola in the Dallas metro ? Call Future Outdoors today. Our expert installers are ready to answer your questions and help you design the right pergola for your home. Call 972-576-1600 today or visit us on Facebook to see pictures, reviews, and testimonials from our satisfied customers.

How Do I Know if a Fence is Priced Right?

Wed, 04 Jul 2018 20:14:34 GMT

A new fence is a big investment for a home. Fences last many years, and in many ways, they define the look of the property. If you’re considering getting a new fence, price is one of the biggest factors you’ll have to consider – but how do you know if your contractor is giving you a good price?

What’s In a Quote

Here at Future Outdoors , the first thing we do is provide you with a quote for buying and installing a new fence. The quote includes several different parts:

Material costs for the type of fence you want
Labor costs
Removal costs for your old fence, if applicable
Permit costs

All of our quotes are free and no obligation, so you can feel confident we’re just providing the best information for your fence work.

Fence Types and Costs

In most cases, the biggest expense for your fence aside from labor is material cost . Depending on the type of fence you want, the material costs will be very different.

In most cases, wood fences are the least expensive type of fence. However, the material costs depend heavily on the type of wood you choose. Less expensive woods like pine can be an excellent bargain, but they also don’t last as long and need constant upkeep . More durable woods, such as western red cedar, are more expensive but can last longer if they are regularly stained and sealed .

A quality vinyl fence is comparable in price to a high-end cedar fence, but also lasts far longer and needs virtually no maintenance to keep it in good condition. Even though vinyl might have a higher cost upfront, it’s actually one of the most economical products on the market.

Labor and Other Costs

You might wonder what you are actually paying for when you pay labor costs for fence installation. When you pay for a fence contractor to install your fence, labor costs pay for the wages of the installers , but they also cover several other important aspects such as insurance coverage and training costs . In other words, labor costs help ensure you get a high-quality fence installed by trained professionals.

In contrast, when you build a fence yourself or purchase through a big-box provider like a hardware store, you don’t get nearly the same assurances of quality. Many national chains use general contractors without any specific fence training , meaning your fence won’t be built to the same high standards and won’t last as long.

Getting a Good Deal on a New Fence

So how do you know you’re getting a good deal on a fence? Here are a few things you should do to make sure you understand your quote and final costs:

Ask Questions – If there is something you don’t understand in your quote, feel free to ask about it . We’re always happy to explain our cost breakdowns, and other contractors should be as well.
Know the Terms – It’s helpful to understand basic fencing terms before you get a new fence. That way you know what to ask for and can understand what is on your invoice.
Get Multiple Quotes – If you feel like the quote from one company is too high, look around and try to get more than one. Just make sure you’re asking for comparable products and standards from each contractor.
Read Reviews and Complaints – Finally, check out social media pages, online review sites, and the Better Business Bureau to see how other customers feel about their experience with a fence company. Reputable companies may even provide past customers as references.

Call Future Outdoors Today for Quality Fence in Dallas

If you want a good deal on a new fence in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, call Future Outdoors today at (972) 576-1600 . We’re the most experienced vinyl fence installers in the region , and we have the widest variety of quality vinyl fences for any home. Call today or visit us on Facebook to learn more about us and see pictures from some recent jobs!

Should I Build a New Fence Before I Sell My House?

Mon, 11 Jun 2018 20:05:23 GMT

When it comes time to sell a house, one of the first things many people do is start thinking about improvements that could help it sell faster or at a better price. Many people opt for common jobs like new kitchen cabinets or a bathroom remodel, but a new fence can actually be a great way to help your home sell faster.

How a Fence Affects Home Value

When you’re thinking about how a new fence would affect the value of your home, there are a few things you need to consider.

First, think about your neighborhood. Do the other homes in the area have fences? What sort of condition are they in? If your old fence sticks out like a sore thumb, or you don’t have one at all, building a fence could be an investment that pays off .

Also, consider intangible benefits like higher security , increased privacy , or visual appeal . A new fence can help make up for these flaws by making your property more secure and private. And depending on the type of fence you get, you can also enhance the visual appeal of your property as well.

Finally, think about the type of fence you’re installing and how it differs from other types. A vinyl fence , for instance, is more expensive than a wood fence, but it’s also much more durable and needs no maintenance. You can use this as a selling point when showing your home to help entice buyers.

Why Vinyl Fence is Great for Home Sales

If you are thinking of replacing your fence before selling your home, a vinyl fence is the best option to consider. Why? There are a few reasons vinyl is the number one choice when you’re trying to sell your home:

Transferable Warranty

When you purchase a vinyl fence from Future Outdoors, you also get a limited lifetime warranty from the manufacturer. Even better, this warranty is transferable, so you can pass it along to the new owners (and use it as a benefit when you’re trying to sell as well).

Curb Appeal

Vinyl fence is simply the best-looking fence product on the market. A new vinyl fence will help your home stand out and make a great first impression. Plus, we offer a wide variety of styles, colors, and accents to help your fence match or complement your home.

Long-Lasting Value

Along with being the best-looking type of fence, vinyl fences are also the strongest and most durable fences available . A well-made vinyl fence will last for decades, and could very well outlast the home it’s built around. This also makes the fence appealing for new owners since they’ll never have to worry about replacing it or doing expensive fence maintenance.

Call Future Outdoors Today to Learn More

If you’re interested in getting a new vinyl fence for your property, whether you’re selling it or not, call Future Outdoors today at (972) 576-1600 . As the top vinyl fence installers in the DFW metro, we offer unmatched service and expert work . Contact us today for a free quote , or visit our Facebook page to see pictures, reviews, and more.

Gazebos and Pergolas: Which One is Right for You?

Wed, 11 Apr 2018 19:57:48 GMT

If you’re thinking about adding a vinyl shade structure to your yard, gazebos and pergolas are two of the most popular options. Both of these structures are beautiful additions to almost any outdoor space, but they are also very different in looks and construction. This begs the question: Which one is right for you?

Comparing Gazebos and Pergolas

Gazebos are generally larger structures that form a beautiful centerpiece for a yard or garden. Most vinyl gazebos are octagonal, though there are also many that are round or hexagonal. They always have a roof, and often have railings and a raised porch or deck with stairs.

Pergolas , on the other hand, are relatively simple structures made of vertical beams and an open cross-hatched roof. Unlike a gazebo, a vinyl pergola is generally built over either open ground or a concrete pad. In some cases pergolas have lattice walls that can host climbing plants or vines.

Both gazebos and pergolas are long-lasting , durable structures that will keep their looks for many years. Vinyl gazebos and pergolas won’t yellow, chalk, or fade, and they’re strong enough to stand through high winds, hail, and more.

If you’re not sure whether a gazebo or pergola would be right for you, here are a few of the biggest differences to keep in mind:

Vinyl Gazebos

Larger structure, usually used as the centerpiece of a lawn or garden
Solid roof
Can be built at ground level or as a raised structure, and almost always have a solid floor
Variety of shapes, sizes, and styles

Vinyl Pergolas

Smaller, simpler , and less expensive
Usually have an open roof
Most often built at ground level over bare earth or concrete
Size and shape are customizable but are usually square or rectangular

Which One is Right for You?

Choosing between a pergola and a gazebo can be tough. You’ll need to think about what you most want in a shade structure and how you plan on using it.

For people looking for an outdoor space for entertaining , such as serving meals or holding events, a vinyl gazebo is tough to beat. Because they generally have full roofs and floors, it’s easy to use one as a pavilion or outdoor dining room, even when it is raining. They’re also perfect for parties and gatherings. Many owners wire lights to their gazebos to create a comfortable outdoor space for all hours of the day.

In contrast, a vinyl pergola is best used as an accent piece for a garden, poolside, or patio. Pergolas can be visually striking, especially if you allow vines and flowers to climb the outside. However, pergolas don’t provide as much shelter as gazebos do, so they aren’t well suited to use in rain or wet weather.

No matter which one you choose, our experts at Future Outdoors will make sure your structure is built to last and looks great. Call (972) 576-1600 today to learn more about your options, get a free quote, and start the process. Or, visit us on Facebook to see pictures of some of our past projects and read reviews from other customers.

Should Your Vinyl Fence Be On Your Property Line?

Wed, 21 Mar 2018 19:48:29 GMT

When you’re trying to make the most out of your backyard, it’s natural to want all the space you can get. However, one of the most common mistakes we see with fence installations is fences that are built directly on or over the property line . Make no mistake – building a fence right on your property line is a dangerous gamble, and you could regret it in the long run . Find out why below.

Texas Law and Property Lines

You have probably heard the phrase “good fences make good neighbors.” However, fences can also cause neighbor disputes , and one of the most common is disputes about where one person’s land stops and another ones begins .

When two neighbors share a property line, neither one has any obligation to build a fence or other boundary. If one neighbor chooses to build a fence on the property line, they also cannot create an obligation for the other neighbor to pay for part of the fence, even if they’ll benefit from it. Only when both neighbors agree to pay for and maintain the fence together is it a “common fence.”

What does that mean for you? In short, if you want to build a fence around your lawn and your neighbor doesn’t want to pay for part of it, make sure you build away from the property line . If you build on the line, your neighbor can still build up against it and use it as part of his or her lawn enclosure but doesn’t need to pay for it or maintain it in any way. It’s all your responsibility .

Furthermore, if you build on the property line, you could be forced to tear up and move your fence later on . For instance, if a survey finds your fence is over the line at all, or if a new neighbor wants to build right up to their side of the line, they could take you to court over your fence. Unless you want to spend thousands of dollars on legal fees and fence removal, it’s better to be safe than sorry .

How to Stay Safe With Fence Installation

Get a Survey Done & Stay on Your Side

The best way to make sure your fence doesn’t cause any neighbor problems is to keep it on your property . Get a survey of the property lines done and then have your fence built six inches to a foot on your side.

Share Your Plans With Your Neighbor Ahead of Time

If you’re worried about how your neighbors will react to your new fence, you can share plans for your design ahead of time . They may even want to contribute to the costs of building it in exchange for being able to use their side of the fence on their own property as well. If you do choose to share your fence, you should look into the laws and make sure you know what your responsibilities are.

Give Neighbors the “Nice” Side

Whether your neighbors decide to help with the costs of your fence or not, you should always plan to build it with the finished side of the fence facing them . This is simply good etiquette and will help prevent any complaints from your neighbors later on.

Keep Your Fence in Good Shape

Finally, it’s important to keep your fence clean and in good repair , even if it encloses part of your neighbor’s property. Fortunately, if you get a vinyl fence from Future Outdoors , your maintenance needs will be minimal and your fence will last much longer than any wood fence.

Contact Future Outdoors Today

Looking for a new fence in the Dallas area? Contact us today at Future Outdoors . We’ll build you a quality vinyl fence that won’t make your neighbors mad. Call (972) 576-1600 today to get a free estimate, or visit us on Facebook to see pictures of past projects and read reviews from other satisfied customers.

How to Get Your Yard Ready for Spring Landscaping

Mon, 26 Feb 2018 19:40:37 GMT

Spring is nearly here, and that means you need to be ready for it. If you want to enjoy your outdoor spaces throughout the spring, summer, and fall, you should get a jump-start on these essential outdoor tasks and get your landscaping under contol .

Getting Your Yard In Shape for Spring

Step 1: Clean Up

The first thing you should do before any other landscaping is to clean up any leaves, branches, and other debris that fell over the winter months. It’s important to remove old debris early so the grass underneath can get light and oxygen. Removing debris also helps avoid problems with moisture, and allows new grass to grow more easily.

You should also take care to remove any mulch or debris that piled up against your house or fence over the winter. If left alone, it can lead to mold and moisture problems as well as provide a convenient breeding ground for insects.

Step 2: Treat Your Lawn

If you want your lawn to be healthy all year, you should start treatment early . Here in Texas, it’s very important to apply pre-emergent crabgrass treatment and weed killer early in the spring, before the soil temperatures get too high. If you wait until it’s warmer the weeds will begin to germinate before the pre-emergent can take effect, which makes it all but useless.

It’s also a good idea to apply an early application of fertilizer to your lawn as well. This provides a “jump-start” for your grass in the early months, giving it the nutrients it needs to grow strong early in the year. However, make sure you pay attention to manufacturer guidelines. Too much fertilizer can actually harm your grass.

Step 3: Avoid Re-Seeding

It’s tempting to put down new grass seed during the spring to repair any winter damage and help thin spots grow healthier, but you shouldn’t reseed your lawn in the spring . Why? Because you can’t re-seed alongside pre-emergent crabgrass or weed treatment. Pre-emergents keep all seeds from germinating, including grass seeds. If you put down a new seed at the same time as your pre-emergent treatment, you’re just throwing away time and money.

Instead, it’s better to wait until fall to put down grass seed . This gives it time to germinate and establish roots before winter, and then in spring, it can grow alongside your more mature grass. If you have major damage you need to repair on your lawn in the meantime, sod is your best bet.

Step 4: Mulch and Plant

If you have flower beds or a garden, spring is the best time to put down a heavy layer of mulch . New mulch helps replenish your flower beds and also provides an extra layer of protection against weeds and grass intrusion. You should also trim back any dead branches and remove debris from your garden at the same time. If you want to plant shrubs or other more frost-tolerant plants that can handle early spring weather, this is a good time to do so.

One thing to note is to avoid piling too much mulch up against your fence line . Doing so can lead to problems with mold and mildew, and if you have a wooden fence it can also lead to rot and water damage. Your fence should either be fully clear of your mulch or just barely touching it at the bottom.

Step 5: Inspect Your Trees, Fence, and Yard

Finally your next landscaping task, you’ll want to inspect all of your larger yard pieces including trees, your fence, your deck, and any shade structures or lawn furniture you had out over the winter. Look for damage such as dead or broken limbs, water damage, and any staining or discoloration. Early spring is also a good time to clean your gutters and make sure your roof is in good shape for the coming rainy season.

Step 6: Consider Improvements

Finally, think about what you might want to do with your yard when it gets warmer. Is your current fence in good condition? Would you like to add some shade over your patio? Could a gazebo or pergola add much-needed visual impact in your yard? Spring is an excellent time to consider making improvements that will benefit you all year long.

If you do think of anything you’d like to do with your yard, contact us today at Future Outdoors . We’re the number one installer of vinyl fences, shade structures, and decks in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and we’re ready to help you make the most of your landscaping. Call 972-576-1600 today, or visit us on Facebook to see pictures and read reviews from other happy customers.

Why Patio Covers are Superior to Awnings

Sun, 04 Feb 2018 19:31:35 GMT

There are many ways to provide shade and cover for your deck or patio. Two of the most popular are patio covers and retractable awnings . While both have their advantages, patio covers are almost always the better choice for your home. Find out why a permanent patio cover is the best way to create shade and protection for your patio, deck, or outdoor space.

The Truth About Patio Covers and Awnings

Retractable awnings are often billed as simple, flexible, and easy-to-use additions to your home. But in truth, they have several drawbacks and disadvantages when it comes to being effective covers for your outdoor spaces.

Wind and Weather

The biggest drawback of retractable awnings is that they aren’t made to be permanent structures. Because the main cover of the awning is made from fabric, it is vulnerable to strong winds , falling debris , hail , and heavy storms . Most awnings only provide limited protection from rain, and over time the fabric can stretch and sag, causing water to pool in the low spots.

Awnings are also faded and degraded by sun exposure – the fabric will become more brittle over time, leading to tears and fraying. Finally, they are almost unusable when it is windy outside. The fabric will catch any wind and potentially damage the awning or the wall it is attached to.

In contrast, permanent patio covers can easily stand up to heavy winds and other weather. Patio covers are generally made with vinyl supports and an aluminum roof. This gives your patio a durable cover that works in any weather. They are also securely anchored and able to stand up to high winds without damage.

Placement and Size

Another drawback of awnings is that they need to be hung on a surface that can hold them securely. The wall you use for your awning needs to be at least as wide as the awning itself and strong enough to hold the structure. This can limit your options for where and how you place an awning or how big it can be.

It’s also important to remember that awnings are attached directly to the structure of your house . If they aren’t installed properly they could lead to leaks, mold, or structural damage.

On the other hand, patio covers can be built in virtually any style and size. It is possible to build patio covers that are free-standing and fully self-supporting , which means you don’t need to worry about connecting them to your home if you don’t want to. They can even be built-in custom shapes to cover your entire deck or patio, rather than just a rectangular portion of it.

Durability and Reliability

Finally, awnings simply aren’t as durable and reliable as patio covers. Fabric is convenient, but it isn’t able to stand up to years of sun, wind, and rain. Over time a fabric awning will fade, rip, fray, and leak. The question is simply how long it will take.

Awnings also require regular maintenance and care to prolong their lifespan. They need to be put up and taken down before and after use. Any hinges, joints, and bearings will need to be greased to ensure they work smoothly. And if your awning gets dirty you will need to remove it completely and scrub it down.

Patio covers , on the other hand, are almost entirely maintenance-free . They don’t require any special care and are durable enough to last a lifetime. The vinyl posts and supports won’t fade or chalk, and the aluminum roof will never rust or decay. This makes a permanent patio cover not just the stronger solution but the easier one as well.

Find Your Patio Cover Today

Ready to increase your patio shade? If you want to learn more about our vinyl shade structures and the benefits they have for your backyard aesthetic, contact us today at Future Outdoors . We’ve installed thousands of shade covers in and around the Dallas-Fort Worth metro, and we can help you find exactly what you’re looking for. Call (972) 576-1600 today to learn more or visit our Facebook page to see tips, ideas, and reviews from some of our satisfied customers.

7 Things to Know About Vinyl Fence Installation

Sun, 26 Nov 2017 19:24:56 GMT

With more than 100 miles of fence installed around the Dallas/Fort Worth area, we know a thing or two about fence installation . And since vinyl fencing is becoming more and more popular, you might have questions about installing your own on your property. If that sounds like you, keep reading while we go over some of the most important things you need to know.

Vinyl Fences Can Be Installed Year Round

One of the most frequent questions we get is whether we can install fences in the fall or winter . The answer? Of course! Unlike wood fence, which isn’t temperature-stable and can expand or contract in extreme temperatures, the vinyl fence remains workable year-round. As long as the ground isn’t frozen solid, we will be able to install your fence.

Installations Are Fast

Another benefit of installing a vinyl fence on your property is the installation process is fast and painless . They’re lighter and easier to work with than wood fences, which makes the installation process more efficient. It also causes less damage to your lawn since the lighter posts and panels won’t damage the grass as heavy wood posts do.

Vinyl is Pet-Friendly

If you have dogs or cats in your backyard , then these fences are ideal. Vinyl is very resistant to damage from pets including scratching and jumping, and we can even install vinyl “dog boards” below ground level to keep your pets from digging beneath your fence. These boards will never rot or degrade , unlike wood boards, meaning they provide lasting protection and security for your pets and your home.

Vinyl is Perfect for Pool Fences

If you’re installing a pool fence , vinyl is the best solution. Unlike wood fences, which can become damaged or stained by splashing water and pool chemicals, vinyl is resistant to the wear and tear common to pool fences. It also lasts longer than a wood fence and doesn’t require staining or painting. That means you won’t have to shut your pool down to perform fence maintenance, and you won’t have to worry about the fence stain getting where it shouldn’t be.

We Install Vinyl Fences on Hills

Have a property with a hill or a change in elevation? Unlike many manufacturers, we can install custom fence panels that match the slope of your property . This lets you avoid “stepping” your fence and creates a fence that doesn’t have gaps or uneven heights.

Our Fence Posts Are Deeper and Stronger than Most

When we install a vinyl fence, we make sure it’s built to last. One way we do this is by sinking your posts three feet into the ground (instead of 18 inches or two feet, which are standard for most fence manufacturers). We also use more concrete around the post to ensure it is sturdy – nearly 160 pounds per post . Finally, our fence posts aren’t just vinyl sleeves around a wood post, but durable, purpose-built vinyl posts designed to last a lifetime.

Vinyl Fences Come With a Warranty

When you choose Future Outdoors for your vinyl fence installation, you don’t just get a great fence from an experienced installer. You also get a lifetime of support and care . All of our vinyl products come included with a limited lifetime material warranty , and the warranty is even transferrable if you choose to sell your home. We guarantee you won’t find the same level of support for any wood fence.

Ready to learn more and start your vinyl fence installation? Contact us today at Future Outdoors . Our installers will answer all of your questions and help you decide which style of fence is right for you. Call 972-576-1600 today to begin the process or visit us on Facebook for more helpful tips and advice.

Are PVC Fence and Vinyl Fence the Same Thing?

Mon, 30 Oct 2017 19:15:51 GMT

One common question we get about our vinyl fence products is whether a vinyl fence and PVC fences are the same thing. The simple answer? Yes, vinyl and PVC fences are the same – but they also aren’t. Keep reading to understand what the differences are and what sets our vinyl fence products apart.

What Is PVC?

If you’ve ever done any home improvement projects, you’re probably familiar with polyvinyl chloride , or PVC . PVC is a common formulation of vinyl that is used in a huge number of ways, including plumbing, construction, electrical insulation, and more. PVC has many benefits including a high strength-to-weight ratio , low production costs, and a long lifespan .

Vinyl fences use PVC as the main ingredient, though some also combine it with other formulations of vinyl including polyvinyl acetate (the main component of wood glue) and polyacrylonitrile (a common acrylic fiber). This has led many in the fencing industry to use the terms “vinyl” and “PVC” interchangeably.

However, calling a vinyl fence a “PVC fence” isn’t accurate, because vinyl fences contain much more than just PVC . At Future Outdoors, we fabricate our vinyl with a combination of special materials that all work together to create a durable, long-lasting fence .

Are All PVC Fences the Same?

Since vinyl fences are all made from the same basic chemical, you might think that they’re all basically the same product. This couldn’t be further from the truth. The reality is that they vary widely in terms of quality, even more than wood fences do. If you want a quality fence, you need to make sure you’re buying from a company you can trust.

Unfortunately, many “big box” retailers and home improvement stores have given vinyl a bad name. These companies sell cheap, DIY vinyl posts and panels that don’t stand the test of time. They are made using simple or low-cost vinyl formulations and tend to be very brittle and easy to damage .

In contrast, at Future Outdoors we use our own specialty vinyl formulations that are designed to offer maximum performance at the best price . Our vinyl combines raw PVC resin with a number of special additives, including:

UV Inhibitors to prevent fading, chalking, and other damage from solar radiation.
Impact modifiers to make the vinyl more durable and resistant to damage.
Stabilizers to keep the vinyl’s composition even and help it resist changes in temperature.
High-quality dyes and colorants create rich, vibrant colors that match or accent your home.

Other manufacturers use different combinations of these ingredients or don’t use them at all, resulting in a lower-quality product that doesn’t last as long or performs as well.

Get a Quality Fence For Your Home!

Live in the DFW, Texas area and want to learn more about our products and how they can improve your home? Call Future Outdoors today at (972) 576-1600 . As the number one provider of vinyl fences, vinyl decks, and vinyl shade structures in the Dallas metro, we can offer you the best deals and the most experience for your installation. You can also visit us on Facebook to see pictures and read reviews from past customers.

Should I Upgrade to a Vinyl Fence?

Mon, 16 Oct 2017 19:10:45 GMT

If you’re thinking about getting a new fence, you should make sure to consider all your options. Most people only think about getting a new wood fence, since that’s what they’re familiar with and what their neighbors have. However, upgrading to a vinyl fence could be a much better decision for you and your home. Find out if now is the right time for you to upgrade to a vinyl fence.

The Value of a Vinyl Fence

A vinyl fence has many benefits over standard wood fencing. Not sure whether vinyl is right for your Texas home ? Consider the following:

Fresh Appearance – With a vinyl fence, your home and property get a fresh, updated look that won’t go away over time. Vinyl is a durable, modern fencing material, and it will continue to look clean and new for many years. Wood fences, on the other hand, will weather and break down over time.

Less Maintenance – Wooden fences require painting, staining, and other maintenance to stay strong. A vinyl fence doesn’t. In fact, vinyl fence is virtually maintenance-free. You don’t need to stain it, seal it, or protect it in any way from the elements – and even without any special upkeep, it will still last far longer than a wood fence.

Longer Lifespan – Vinyl fence is built to last. When you get a vinyl fence for your home, you get a fence that can literally last as long as the home it surrounds . Because vinyl doesn’t rot, become brittle, or break down over time, it’s possible to get a fence that you’ll never need to replace.

More Strength – Along with being the most durable type of fence, vinyl fences are also the strongest at standing up to damage and abuse . Vinyl’s natural flexibility helps it shrug off impacts and pressure that would damage a wooden fence. It’s also lighter and more temperature-stable than wood, so it won’t sag, lean, or swell and contract with temperature changes.

When is the Best Time to Upgrade?

With all the advantages of vinyl fencing over wood, you’re probably wondering how to tell when you should upgrade.

In general, wood fences last about a decade, with cedar lasting a little longer than pine and other softwoods. If yours is getting close to that age, you should consider upgrading to a new fence . Keeping an old fence around past that age can lead to additional problems as the wood rots and degrades.

In some cases, you might notice signs of damage such as leaning, sagging, or rot even before the usual decade is up. When this happens you can choose to repair your wood fence instead of replacing it – but upgrading might still be a better choice . When you repair large sections of your fence you’re just prolonging the inevitable . You also could end up with a fence that looks half-new and half-weathered, which is never a good look.

Finally, you may want to think about upgrading to vinyl when you’re planning to sell your home . A vinyl fence is a major upgrade in terms of home value and curb appeal. It will improve the overall look of your home, and you can use vinyl’s advantages as selling points to help your home stand out.

Also, remember that you don’t need to wait for summer to upgrade your fence. At Future Outdoors we can install fences any time during the year, even in winter.

Why Future Outdoors?

If you want to upgrade to a vinyl fence, contact us today at Future Outdoors . We’re the most experienced vinyl fence contractor in the DFW area, and we have decades of experience with installing and designing vinyl fences. We also have the best selection of colors, styles, and accessories In Texas, so you can get the exact fence you want at the best price.

Call Future Outdoors today at 972-576-1600 to learn more about our vinyl fence options and to schedule your free consultation. You can also take a look at our Facebook page to see completed projects and learn more about us!

Why Precast Concrete Fence is Great for HOAs

Sat, 07 Oct 2017 18:55:32 GMT

Property upkeep and maintenance is one of the biggest expenses for most home owner’s associations. But there is an easy way your HOA can save on maintenance and repair costs : a precast concrete fence, such as our RhinoRock Fence, is perfect for use around neighborhoods and subdivisions , and it can help your association save money over time. Keep reading to see how.

How Precast Concrete Fence Saves Your HOA Money

Many HOAs, especially those in urban and suburban areas, have fences or walls around the border of the neighborhood. These walls can be great for keeping residents safe and happy and for preserving property values inside, but they often come with a lot of costly upkeep and maintenance .

Wood fences, for example, need to be stained and treated on a regular basis, and they also need frequent repairs to replace damaged or rotten boards. Stone walls require less maintenance than wood fences. However, they are expensive and time-consuming to install, and they are heavy enough to cause problems on soft or uneven ground.

The solution? Precast concrete fencing . Unlike a wood fence, a concrete fence will last for decades without any special maintenance and will be able to stand up to even the most extreme wind, rain, and heat. But unlike a stone wall, a precast fence is fast and easy to install and is light enough to use over any ground. Providing the best balance between the strength and durability of stone and the flexibility of a wood fence . Over time it can save your HOA tens of thousands of dollars in maintenance and upkeep costs without any of the other drawbacks of stone walls.

Other Benefits of Precast Concrete Fence

Along with saving your HOA money, let’s take a look at some of the other benifits that come from these types of fencing:

Appearance

Another great feature is that it mimics the appearance of an old-world stone wall for a fraction of the price . A precast concrete fence is available in many colors and styles to suit the look of your neighborhood, and it won’t fade or degrade over time.

Strength

Another benefit of precast concrete fencing over wood fences is how much stronger it is. Even though the precast panels only weigh 230 lbs. apiece, they are extremely strong . They provide excellent security for residents, and they are able to stand up to heavy winds and snow/ice loads . They’re also dimensionally stable – in other words, it won’t expand or contract with changing temperature or humidity levels. In the end, these fences are one of the strongest and most versatile fencing products on the market.

Ease of Installation

A final benefit of precast concrete fencing is how easy it is to install . Because the precast concrete fence panels are so light, they can easily be brought to almost any installation site. They don’t require any heavy equipment to install and can easily be put in place without disturbing lawns or landscape features. This is a big benefit to HOAs replacing an existing fence as it avoids creating problems with damaged lawns or gardens in the neighborhood.

Learn More About Precast Concrete Fence

If you want to help your HOA save money and spend wisely, you should consider a precast concrete fence from Future Outdoors . We’re the number one provider and installer of RhinoRock precast concrete fences in the Dallas metro, and we can help you decide if a RhinoRock fence is right for your HOA. Call 972-576-1600 today, or visit us on Facebook to see more tips and advice for all types of fence products.

How to Choose an Ornamental Vinyl Fence in Texas

Mon, 18 Sep 2017 19:04:17 GMT

Many times people think ornamental fences are only good for bordering gardens or providing an accent to their front yards. However, ornamental vinyl fences are actually very versatile and can be used in many ways, including as pet enclosures , pool fences , or even a full backyard fence . If you’re considering a vinyl fence for your home, an ornamental fence might be just what you’re looking for.

Choosing the Right Ornamental Fence

An ornamental fence might sound flimsy – after all, it’s just “ornamental,” right? Wrong ! In fact, an ornamental fence is just as strong and durable as any of our other vinyl fences. It can stand up to years of use, even in harsh weather and strong sun. And just like our other vinyl fences, an ornamental fence won’t fade, stain, or become brittle over time.

However, there are a few things you’ll want to think about when you’re considering an ornamental fence, such as:

What You Will Use it For

Unlike a privacy fence, which is mostly used to enclose your yard or property, an ornamental fence has many possible uses . Choosing the right ornamental fence depends on what you want to do with it. If you want a fence to keep pets and children in your yard or out of your pool, you will need to choose a fence at least several feet tall and with closely spaced pickets. In contrast, a decorative garden fence can be very low and have a variety of designs.

What Design You Want

If you’re considering an ornamental fence, aesthetics are probably important to you. Ornamental vinyl fences come in a wide range of designs , but they aren’t all suited to every project. Make sure you consider what design you want, and also think about whether it will work for your intended goal. If you aren’t sure what kind of design to choose, you can walk around your neighborhood and look at your neighbors’ fences for ideas.

Where It Will Go

Another very important thing to consider for an ornamental fence is where on your property it will go and what it will interact with . For instance, a pool fence needs to be strong and tall enough to keep children and animals out – but it also needs to match with the decor of the rest of your yard, and it needs to be equipped with gates to allow access. In contrast, a fence on your property line can vary more in height and design – but it will also need to be a good barrier between you and your neighbor.

What Your Budget Allows

Finally, you’ll need to think about what styles and designs your budget allows. Different heights and styles of fences come with different prices, and you will need to make sure your budget is sufficient to get the fence of your dreams. One benefit of using a vinyl fence is that it costs less over time than a comparable wood fence since it doesn’t require any additional maintenance or upkeep once it is installed. Wood fences – especially ones installed around pools and gardens – are often damaged by chemicals such as pool treatments and fertilizers. They also require you to stain and seal them regularly, which could damage the fence’s surroundings. In contrast, a vinyl fence is maintenance-free and doesn’t require any special care or treatment .

Vinyl fences are extremely durable, but seasonal preparation is still important—especially with North Texas temperature changes. For tips on protecting your fence during cold weather , check out our guide on Preparing Your Vinyl Fence for Winter in North Texas.

Find a Quality Ornamental Vinyl Fence Today

Ready to learn more about getting an ornamental vinyl fence for your home? Future Outdoors can help anyone in the DFW Texas area. We are the number one dealer and installer of vinyl fences in the Dallas metro. With our experience and skill, we can help you find the perfect ornamental fence for your Texas home. Simply call (972) 576-1600 today to set up your free, no-obligation quote and consultation, or visit our Facebook page to get ideas for how we can help you!

Why To Trust Us With Your New Fence Installation

Thu, 29 Jun 2017 18:48:26 GMT

To us, a fence, a deck, or a shade structure is more than just an accessory for your home. These structures are something special – a way for you to get outside and enjoy your property, to create memories with your friends and family.

Our Products Make Us Happy

We started Future Outdoors with the goal of bringing quality outdoor products to people at an affordable price, but that’s not what drives us. Our goal isn’t just to sell more fences or pergolas. We do what we do because we truly believe our products help people feel better and live better lives.

It might sound corny, but it’s the truth. We think that a patio cover, a quality fence, or a new deck will help you be happier and live a better life . Why?

Enjoy Your Outdoor Spaces

More and more often, it seems like our lives are rushing out one door and in another. When was the last time you sat outside in your backyard and simply enjoyed the weather or chatted with a neighbor as they walked by your front porch? If you’re like most people, it’s been a while.

But by creating a comfortable outdoor space , you’ll suddenly find yourself drawn outdoors. A new deck is an invitation to sit out front with a glass of tea or lemonade. A new fence makes you want to get out and do some gardening or play with your family in the backyard. In short, we see our products as a way to let people enjoy the outdoors from the comfort of their own home.

Obey Fencing Regulations

Every township has its own specific code rules and regulations for fencing, and not knowing what they are isn’t an excuse for doing the job wrong. Your vinyl fence company will probably know the rules for your area, but double-check your fence against the code before it goes up.

If you don’t, you could be forced to tear it all down and redo it on your own dime, plus pay a fine. A non-regulation fence can also affect your neighbor’s property values, leaving them upset.

Respect Your HOA

If your neighborhood has a homeowner’s association, make sure to clear your fencing project with them beforehand. Just like with city codes, you’ll need to either provide the HOA with plans or run the design by them to ensure it fits within their statutes.

If it doesn’t, they might fine you or order you take it down – and your neighbors might also complain about your non-regulation fence. It’s much easier to get the proper clearance first than to deal with all the headaches after.

In addition, there are a few other things you can do that, while not strictly required, are definitely nice gestures to your neighbors and community:

Share Fencing Intents Beforehand

One good idea that will help smooth over any potential fencing disputes is to let them know about your plans to install a new fence before you begin the installation. You don’t necessarily have to show them your plans – the fence is on your property, after all – but it can help if you think your neighbor might be interested in paying for part of it.

However, you should show them where you intend to place the fence. Let them know if there are any property line problems you discovered when you ordered the survey.

Ensure Your Fence Doesn’t Stand Out

A sure way to invite the ire of your neighborhood is to install a fence that looks out-of-place for its surroundings. Even if you personally like a particular fencing style, try to match the look of your neighbors’ houses and fences to keep the neighborhood looking good.

A vinyl fence is a great way to keep your property looking nice season after season since they don’t break down or rot over time. They also come in a variety of colors and styles to match the look of any neighborhood or development.

Install it the Right Way Around

In addition to choosing a fence design that matches the look of your neighborhood. You should also install your fence so that the fence rail (if your design includes one) is on the inside. One benefit of vinyl fencing is that the panels often look the same on both sides, making it easy to get a clean and finished look on both the inside and outside of your fence. With a vinyl fence, there’s no “nice side” to worry about – every side is the nice one!

We’re Ready to Help You

As we said before, our ultimate goal at Future Outdoors isn’t just to sell more fences or shade structures. Our desire is to help people get the most out of their outdoor spaces and to create an environment they really love . If that sounds like something you want, we’re ready to help.

Call us today at (972) 576-1600 , or visit our Facebook page to see pictures and read reviews from people we’ve worked with. We’re looking forward to hearing from you!

The Benefits of Solar Automatic Fence Gates

Thu, 15 Jun 2017 18:42:00 GMT

A fence gate is a great way to increase the security provided by your fence. However, they also come with a problem – power. Manual gates require you to get out of your car or truck to open and close the gate, but automatic gates need a power source. It can be tough – and expensive – to run a power line to your fence, especially on large properties. But there is a solution: solar-powered gates .

Solar gates offer all the convenience and practicality of a wired electric gate, but with the advantage of being able to be placed virtually anywhere. Learn more about why you should consider solar power for your fence gate:

Solar Gate Basics

Solar-powered gates operate almost exactly like their wired cousins. You can apply a solar power source to virtually any gate, including swing-open and roll-open gates. That means you’re free to choose a gate based on your fence design and your security needs , not based on the power source.

Most solar gates are designed to provide 10 watts and 12 volts of power, making them appropriate for light to moderate use in a residential or commercial setting. If you have a heavier gate or need a system appropriate for frequent use, you can also get 20 watts, 24 volt solar systems. Solar gates also include a storage battery that charges off the solar panels so your gate can operate day and night.

Advantages of Solar Powered Gates

There are many reasons you might want to consider a solar gate, such as:

Gate Location – If you’re building a fence gate far from your main property, it can be tough to run power all the way to your fence. Solar gates can be placed anywhere that gets enough sun and don’t require any additional power.
Environmental Friendliness – Solar power is naturally green and environmentally friendly. You also get to avoid digging up your lawn, garden, or driveway when you use a solar gate allowing for a cleaner design .
Avoid Outages – When paired with a storage battery, your solar gate allows you to avoid being stuck behind your gate when the power goes out. We can help you choose the right storage battery for your needs.
Lower Electric Costs – The costs of running an electric gate aren’t always huge, but solar power is essentially free.
Tax Credits – When you install a solar power source for your gate, you can apply for a tax credit that could cover up to 30% of the purchase price. This can be a great way to save a little extra money on your gate.

Is A Solar Gate Right for You?

Solar gates have many advantages over wired gates, but they aren’t perfect. If you’re considering solar for your fence gate, make sure it’s right for you by answering the following questions:

Does your fence get enough sun ? Solar gates require about 5 hours of sun or more every day to operate efficiently. If your gate location gets less than that, solar might not be in your best interest.
Can you handle the upkeep ? Solar panels do require some additional maintenance, mostly in terms of making sure they are clean and positioned accurately . If you aren’t interested in taking care of a solar system, these gates might not be what you want.
Do you use your gate often ? Solar systems can easily supply enough power for light gate use (such as for a home), but they might have trouble keeping up with a heavily trafficked business. If you open and close your gate more than 10 times per day , solar systems might not be right for you.

Learn More About Solar Fence Gates

Solar fence gates can be a great way for you to get the gate you want where you want it. If you would like to learn more about our fence gates and other products we have available, contact Future Outdoors located in Dallas, Texas today. We’re the most experienced installers of vinyl fence, gates, and accessories in the Dallas metro. Call 972-576-1600 today to learn more or visit us on Facebook for more helpful posts and information.

How Shade Structures Protect You From Skin Damage

Tue, 30 May 2017 18:35:49 GMT

Anyone who lives in Texas knows the risk of spending too much time in the sun. Skin damage is real, and you need to take precautions to keep yourself safe from UV radiation . Along with traditional measures like SPF sunblock and wide-brimmed hats, one of the best ways to keep yourself safe from the sun’s damaging rays is with a vinyl shade structure from Future Outdoors.

The Danger of Sun Exposure

It’s natural to enjoy spending time outside at your pool, on your patio, or in your backyard. However, the more time you spend exposed to the sun, the more danger you put yourself in with regard to skin damage and cancer risk .

Many people have misconceptions about just how much danger they’re in when they spend time outdoors. You might think you’re safe if you already have dark skin or if you only limit your exposure to a few hours, but the truth is skin damage can happen rapidly to anyone. Even on cool or overcast days, you run the risk of exposing yourself to dangerous levels of UV radiation.

Sun exposure is particularly dangerous for very young children , the elderly , and people with very fair skin . However, you can suffer from skin damage even if you have dark skin or if you’re already very tan. In short, there is a lot of risk to spending long periods in the sun.

How a Shade Structure Can Help

Fortunately, there are ways to keep yourself safe from dangerous levels of sun exposure. You’re probably already familiar with several: wear a high-SPF sunscreen when you’re planning to spend time outdoors; wear long sleeves and pants in a light, breathable fabric; and avoid intentional tanning either outdoors or in tanning beds.

Another great way to protect yourself from the sun is with a custom Dallas Texas vinyl shade structure . When you use a vinyl shade structure, you get a long-lasting and durable cover that protects you from the sun’s harmful rays without blocking you off from the outdoors. You can even customize your shade structure with louvered or solid walls to add more shade and protection.

Keep in mind that a shade structure is not perfect protection from the sun. It’s still possible for UV radiation to reflect off other surfaces or reach you underneath your shelter. However, they do provide a huge benefit over not having any protection.

Shade structures also have a number of other benefits, such as:

Lowering the temperature underneath them
Providing shelter from the elements for your outdoor items and furniture
Adding visual appeal to your backyard, patio, or pool deck
Making it possible to stay outside longer versus not having any sun protection.

The Benefits of Vinyl Shade Structures

All shade structures provide the benefit of additional sun protection. However, vinyl shade structures offer several other advantages besides, like:

Resistance to fading and sun damage – Modern vinyl shade structures are manufactured with high levels of UV radiation inhibitors. These inhibitors keep the sun from fading or damaging the vinyl over time, ensuring your shade structure looks great for decades or more.
Low maintenance requirements – Vinyl shade structures don’t need any painting, staining, or treatment. They are virtually maintenance-free and will keep looking great for many years without any chipping or peeling.
Resistant to weather, insects, and moisture – Unlike wood, a vinyl shade structure won’t warp, rot, split or buckle over time. It’s also not vulnerable to insect damage and doesn’t need to be treated or sealed.
Options to match your home – Our vinyl shade structures are available in several colors to match or complement the exterior of your home.

If you’re interested in learning more about our vinyl shade structures and how they can keep you safe and comfortable outside, call Future Outdoors in Dallas, Texas today. We’re the number one installer of vinyl shade structures and other vinyl products in the Dallas metro, and we’re ready to bring our expertise to your project. Call 972-576-1600 today or visit our Facebook page to learn more and see how we can help you. For a free estimate click here .

How to Landscape Your Backyard into a Honey Bee Habitat

Wed, 26 Apr 2017 18:29:30 GMT

Chances are you’ve heard about the declining numbers of honey bees and the consequences this could have on the environment. But did you know there are things you can do to help? By planting bee-friendly plants and using some simple landscaping techniques , you can use your backyard landscaping projects as a tool for environmental good .

Honey Bee-Friendly Plants

The key to choosing bee-friendly plants is pollen . Bees use plant pollen and nectar for food (and to make delicious honey!), so if you’re thinking of planting a bee garden you’ll need to choose a variety of flowering plants that bloom throughout the year. A good bee garden has a mix of plants that bloom in spring, summer and early fall. Here are a few suggestions:

Almond Verbena : An evergreen flowering shrub that produces white, almond-scented flowers in spring and summer. Almond verbena is very popular with bees and humans alike, and grows well in Texas.
Sweet Acacia : A small evergreen tree with low water requirements and fragrant yellow ball-shaped flowers that bloom in the spring.
Gulf Coast Penstemon : This Texas native plant produces tall shoots of pink or purple bell-shaped flowers that bees love. These are adaptable flowers and will reseed on their own, which makes them perfect for a growing garden.
Flame Acanthus : The perfect shrub for Texas gardens, the Flame Acanthus is a heat- and drought-tolerant plant that produces a brilliant show of red-orange flowers throughout the summer and fall. Great for bees, hummingbirds, and butterflies.
Mexican Mint Marigold : A reliable, native perennial with dainty yellow flowers that bees enjoy. Very heat-tolerant and drought-resistant. The leaves can also be used as an herb with a flavor similar to anise or tarragon.
Salvia : There are many varieties of salvia, but all of them grow well in Texas and make good choices for a bee garden. They require very little water or maintenance and have a wide range of bloom colors to complement any garden.

When planting your bee garden, keep in mind that bees prefer large patches of flowers as opposed to one or two plants. This is why shrubs and trees make especially good options for bee gardens, as their large number of flowers provide lots of food for hungry bees.

Landscaping for Honey Bees

Along with planting bee-friendly plants, there are some other steps you can take to make your bee garden better for your bees and your neighborhood.

Provide Water

Bees get thirsty just like people, especially in the Texas heat. Providing water , such as in a bird bath or ornamental pond , is a great way to help the bees thrive and keep them coming back to your yard or garden.

Provide Shade

Another way to keep the bees happy is to create some shaded spots in your yard alongside the bright, sunny areas. Shade plants like broadleaf trees and shrubs or a shade structure like a pergola or patio cover can give bees a refuge from the sun and make them more likely to return.

Let Weeds Grow

Most gardeners bristle at the sight of weeds taking over their gardens, but if you’re trying to promote bees the best thing you can do is let them grow . Weeds produce flowers and pollen just like other plants, making them an important food source for bees. While it might be difficult not to yank out dandelions and clover when you find them growing in your garden, the bees will thank you for it.

Landscaping Inspiration and More

If you’re looking for ideas on improving your yard or creating your own backyard paradise in Dallas, you’ve come to the right place. The experts at Future Outdoors can help you create the fence, deck, patio or pergola you’ve been dreaming of. Call 972-576-1600 today to schedule a free estimate for your project, or take a look at our Facebook page for more inspiration and ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions about Vinyl Pergolas

Mon, 27 Mar 2017 18:20:15 GMT

As the leading installer of vinyl shade structures in the DFW area. We often get questions from customers about what sets our products apart. Some of the most popular products we offer are vinyl pergolas . To help you understand why vinyl is the best choice for shade structures in your backyard.

We’ve put together some answers to many of the common questions we hear. Let take a look:

What Is a Pergola?

A pergola is a shade structure similar to an arbor, but larger and more versatile . Pergolas are popular as yard and garden structures. Especially for forming seating or entertaining areas. The most distinctive features of a pergola are its open roof and tall vertical columns, which create a space that is visually appealing and noticeable. Pergolas are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a shade structure that feels “unified” with its surroundings.

Why Vinyl? What Makes Vinyl Pergolas Better?

If you’re considering a pergola for your home, you have many materials to choose from including wood, vinyl, and aluminum. However, only vinyl offers the benefit of high strength and durability without compromising on appearance . A vinyl pergola is strong enough to last through a lifetime of use. Its appearance will never degrade or decay.

Vinyl pergolas are also easy to maintain . Unlike wood, vinyl pergolas don’t need to be painted or stained, and they also won’t rust or corrode as metal pergolas will. In fact, vinyl pergolas are virtually maintenance-free. Making them the best choice for anyone who wants a shade structure without tons of upkeep.

Can Vinyl Pergolas be Customized?

We’re often asked if we can supply custom vinyl pergolas – to which the answer is, “Of course!” We specialize in creating custom vinyl structures to suit your exact needs and desires. Whether you want a pergola that matches the look of your home. A structure sized to fit a particular area or any other type of customization we can work with you to make your view a reality.

Can A Pergola Be Attached to a House?

Another common question is whether a pergola can be attached to a house to form a patio cover, archway, or other built-in structure. We’re are able to attach vinyl pergolas to your home, but you should know the permit process can change for attached pergolas versus free-standing ones.

Do Pergolas Provide Shelter from Rain and Weather?

Pergolas are excellent at providing shade. But because their roofs are open they don’t provide any protection from rain or other precipitation. However, there are options available to give your pergola a protective roof . Some homeowners use polycarbonate sheeting or clear plastic, for instance, to provide more protection from the elements.

Vinyl takes very little energy and resources to produce, which means it can be made more cheaply than wood or metal fences. It doesn’t require you to cut down any trees – just think of all the forests that go into making wood fences every year! Since vinyl fences last longer than wood fences, they also require less replacement, which in turn means they use even fewer resources over time. And finally, vinyl is fully recyclable, meaning your vinyl won’t end up in a landfill if you ever get rid of it; instead it will simply become part of something else.

How Are Pergolas Anchored?

Vinyl pergolas are extremely strong and durable, but they don’t stand on their own. The strength of a pergola depends in large part on how it is secured to the ground. Because every person’s needs are different, we offer several different anchoring solutions to fit your situation. This can include cementing the posts into the ground, securing them to concrete pads with brackets and bolts, or using rebar or auger-style anchors to secure them over the soil. At Future Outdoors we prefer to install posts 3 feet in the ground with concrete, or we can attach the posts to your existing concrete patio. How we attach the posts will depend on your situation.

How Many Posts Will My Pergola Have?

One frequent question we’re asked is how many posts a pergola of a given size or dimensions will have. In general, a square pergola will have four posts , one at each corner. However, this depends on several factors, including:

Whether the pergola is freestanding or attached to another structure such as your home.
How far the pergola needs to span.
The shape of the pergola.

At Future Outdoors we use steel beams and rafters to give your pergola a substantial and durable structure. We will then consider the above factors to place posts where they are needed for maximum support. But our designers and specialists will work with you to ensure they are placed appropriately for your needs and goals.

Do Vinyl Pergolas Fade?

Many people wrongly assume that vinyl pergolas will fade or turn chalky over time. While this may have been true with early vinyl structures, today’s vinyl pergolas are much more durable . Our vinyl is made with a high quantity of UV inhibitors which prevent fading and chalking. Plus, we only use 100% virgin vinyl so you can be sure your pergola is built with quality materials.

Can I Add Anything to My Pergola?

Many customers make custom additions or changes to their pergolas to suit their needs. For example, we often run wire and supports for ceiling fans in pergolas, which increases their utility as an outdoor room. Other common additions include additional supports for a porch swing or plumbing for a plant misting system, and we can always work with you in the design stages to help you get exactly what you want as well.

What is the Warranty on a Vinyl Pergola?

All of our vinyl products, including vinyl pergolas, carry a lifetime warranty on materials. If you want to learn more about our warranty or learn exactly what is covered under it. Feel free to give us a call at 972-576-1600 today.

How Do I Get Started?

Getting a vinyl pergola is as easy as picking up the phone and calling our office. One of our specialists will schedule a free, no-obligation meeting to come to your property and talk over your goals and ideas. Then give you an estimate based on your discussion. From there you simply place your order and our installers will bring it to your home and set it up once fabrication is complete. Wait times depend on demand and the season. But actual installations are usually complete in a day.

If you want to complete your patio, yard, and or garden with a high-quality shade structure. You owe it to yourself to consider a vinyl pergola from Future Outdoors . We’re the leading installer of vinyl shade structures in the Dallas metro. We would love to help you with your project. Call 972-576-1600 today or visit our Facebook page to learn more about our products and services.

Understanding Fence Construction and Terminology

Fri, 10 Mar 2017 17:51:20 GMT

One of the hardest parts about getting a new fence is understanding the unfamiliar terms and concepts fence contractors use. If you’re unfamiliar with fencing and DIY terms. Reading about them can be like learning a new language. We’ve put together a short guide on the different parts and pieces of a vinyl fence and how they all fit together to make a long-lasting product.

Posts

The first part of a fence to know is the fence post. Fence posts are the upright posts that hold the rest of the fence together. Fence posts are the structural base of the entire fence – you can think of them like the fence’s foundation. Because of their importance, it’s vital you or your contractor uses quality fence posts and installs them properly.

Fences can use several different types of posts including:

Line posts: Standard fence posts, spaced regularly along the fence line. Line posts support fence panels or rails on each side.
Corner posts: A post at the corner where two sections of fencing fence panels or rails meet, usually at a 90-degree angle.
End posts: A post that marks the end of a fence line, such as where the fence supports a gate or runs up against a house.
Terminal posts: A load-bearing post for the fence line. Terminal posts can be corner, end, or gate posts.
Gate posts: A post to which a gate is attached with either hinges or latches.

Rails, Pickets, and Panels

It’s common to think of panels or pickets as the “main” part of a fence. These pieces form the “wall” of the fence which keeps out intruders, blocks sightlines, and provides shade and shelter for your property. Though they are similar, panels, pickets, and rails are all distinct pieces of a fence. It’s important to understand them all.

Rails: Rails are the horizontal part of a fence that holds the pickets or panels in place. Many vinyl fences have two rails, one at the top and one at the bottom. It’s not uncommon to see many fences with three rails: top, bottom, and center. The distance between the rails is known as the rail spacing .

Pickets: Pickets are the vertical boards held up by the rails. They form the wall of the fence. Pickets can be arranged on the rails in many ways to allow for different levels of visibility through the fence. There are also different sizes of pickets available for vinyl fences which allow you to create different looks for your fence. Pickets can also be joined together (tongue-and-groove pickets) for complete privacy or spaced apart to allow for some visibility through the fence.

Panels : Some big-box stores offer pre-assembled vinyl fence panels. But they are not as strong or well-built as custom fences. For a custom fence, the panel is simply the arrangement of pickets and rails between each post.

Accessories and Options

Along with the essential pieces of a fence, you can also choose from a wide variety of options and accessories to truly make your fence your own. Here are a few of the pieces you can choose from:

Post Caps: Post caps are decorative accents for your fence that are placed on top of the fence posts. Post caps can be made in many different styles, and can even have solar or low-voltage lights built-in for a decorative effect or for pathway lighting. We offer a variety of post cap styles so you can achieve the look and design you want.

Gates and Gate Hardware: No fence is complete without a gate. There are many different types and styles of gates to choose from, including solid gates, gates with decorative inserts (which can also be used for visibility through the gate itself), and even motorized driveway gates to fully enclose your property. Gates are also available with standard latches or latches that can be keyed to your house key.

Get the Fence You Want

One of the best things about a vinyl fence is how customizable it is. The parts and pieces of vinyl fences come in a huge array of colors and styles. They can be combined in almost any way to create the exact look you want.

If you’re ready to start your vinyl fence project, contact Future Outdoors today. We’re the number one installer of vinyl fences and vinyl products in the DFW metro, and we’re ready to make your fence project a reality. Call (972) 576-1600 today to learn more! You can also visit our Facebook page to see completed projects and reviews from satisfied customers.

Can You Plant Trees Along Your Fence Line?

Fri, 20 Jan 2017 17:38:20 GMT

Choosing the right tree for your property has many benefits. Trees can beautify your property and add to your home’s value . They can block wind , provide shade , and break sight lines . Some even provide homes for birds or grow edible fruits for your family to enjoy. However, when planting a tree in your yard you might find your placement options are limited. There are ways you can plant a tree close to your fence line – you just need to do your research and take some precautions first.

Issue 1: Missing Fasteners

Most wooden fences are held together with a combination of nails, wood screws, and firm metal fasteners designed to keep the wooden panels and boards in place. However, over time these fasteners can loosen and even fall out due to wind, ice, and other natural forces. When inspecting your fence, check to see that nails and screws are regularly placed and that there aren’t holes where nails used to be, or discolorations to indicate a missing fastener.

Issue 2: Loose Connections

Along with missing parts, nails and screws can become loose over time. This is due to several factors. First, the natural action of wood swelling and contracting with heat and moisture can cause nails and screws to lose their grip. Second, rot and decay can make the wood split or rot out around a fastening, leaving it with nothing to hold. Third, rust can cause the nails and screws themselves to break apart over time, letting the wood break free. All of these issues are indicative of a fence in need of repairs or replacement.

Issue 3: Wood Rot

Northern Texas is known for hot, dry summers, but there are still plenty of opportunities for rot to set in. The wet, rainy spring and fall seasons in the Dallas area give moisture plenty of time to seep into your fence. Winter brings snow and ice that can work its way into the pores in the wood, rotting it from the inside out. In all of these cases, wood rot only needs time to cause irreparable damage to your wooden fence. Once wood starts rotting, there’s no saving it. Plus, sealants and moisture repellants only work for so long – you’ll need to reapply them regularly to have a chance of beating the rot.

Issue 4: Cracked or Broken Boards

Cracking is common in older fences, especially in boards that have remained untreated for too long and have been damaged by moisture or high heat. In unprotected wood, moisture can seep into the pores, causing the wood to swell and change shape. Because parts of the wood are held in place by nails or screws, the board can’t extend laterally very much. Instead, it bends and bows. Over time, this deforming motion can cause the board to crack or warp permanently. Cracked boards are obviously not good for a fence – they can cause splinters, can easily break in inclement weather and are a much bigger security risk.

Issue 5: Too Expensive to Fix

In isolation, many of the issues above can be repaired by installing new parts or panels in the fence. However, if your fence is extensively damaged, it may be cheaper to tear the whole thing out and replace it with a new fence. Get quotes from a Dallas-area fencing company and determine how much it would cost to repair your fence versus replacing it outright. If the prices are similar, you may as well replace them. After all, a repaired fence may still need lots of maintenance after the repairs, whereas a new fence will likely last much longer.

Of course, if you are planning on getting a new fence, there’s no reason to limit yourself to wood again. The above issues with a wooden fence will happen no matter what if given enough time. In contrast, a fence made from a material like vinyl will not decay over time or lose its structural integrity. Vinyl fences are known for lasting years longer than wooden fences, and they require virtually no maintenance over their entire lifespan.

To learn more about vinyl fences and their many advantages, contact us today at Future Outdoors® located in Dallas, Texas . We’re the vinyl fence specialists in the Dallas-Forth Worth area, and we’ll give you a free no-obligation quote for your vinyl fencing project. Call us today at (972) 576-1600 or follow us on Facebook to learn more about our products!

How to Remove Old Fence Posts Set in Concrete

Fri, 09 Dec 2016 17:34:06 GMT

One of the biggest challenges of installing a new vinyl fence in Dallas is removing your old fence first. Fence removal is labor-intensive work, and it’s even harder when your fence posts are set in concrete. However, there are a few strategies you can use to get concrete-set fence posts out of the ground easily.

Strategies for Fence Post Removal

Dig the Post Out by Hand

The most common way to get stubborn fence posts out of the ground is simply to dig the earth out from around the concrete base . It is possible to do this with nothing more than a standard shovel or spade and plenty of time. However, Texas’s rocky, clay-rich soil also makes this method the hardest and most labor-intensive way of removing fence posts.

There are a few ways to make this task a little easier. One of the best methods for digging out fence posts by hand is to only remove the dirt around one “face” of the fence post. By digging slightly deeper than the base of the concrete, you can then tip the post into the hole and lift it out.

Use a Jack to Remove the Post

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A much easier, but more complicated, method for post removal is to use a jack to “pull” the post directly out of the ground. This method does require investment in more tools and materials, but it also can save lots of time and make a big job much easier.

The key to this method is to use a tall bumper or farm jack with a long lever to provide lots of leverage. Don’t use a floor jack – the smaller wheels and flayed base can make it very difficult to lift a post out of the ground.

Once you have the right jack, you’ll need to connect it to the fence post in a way that allows you to lift it out of the ground. There are several methods you can use here, such as:

Connecting a 2×4 or 4×4 to the post with heavy-duty bolts , then placing the jack underneath the bolted-on section and lifting it.
Wrapping a chain or tow strap around the post and connecting it to the jack, then using it to pull the post out of the ground.
Connecting the jack to the post with ratchet straps or some other removable connector.

When the jack is securely connected or positioned under the post, simply operate the jack the same way you would to lift a car or other heavy object. The jack should loosen the concrete base of the post enough to either pull it out directly or position a pry bar underneath it to finish the job.

If you’re having trouble, it can help to soften the ground first by soaking it with water an hour or two before attempting to remove the posts. You can also position the base of the jack on top of another 2×4 in order to spread the load evenly over the ground.

Use Heavy Machinery to Pull Posts

The easiest way to remove stubborn fence posts is to pull them out with machinery like a digger or loader. However, this is also the most expensive method, and it’s not possible for every homeowner.

The biggest advantage of using machinery to pull posts is speed and ease. A digger can easily lift most posts straight out of the ground, and if you do need to dig any out it saves the labor of removing dirt as well.

However, machinery can also be expensive to rent on your own, and it can leave unsightly tracks in your yard or damage your grass if you aren’t careful. Plus, in some cases it’s simply impossible for a digger or loader to access a lot, such as when houses are close together or when there are trees or bushes in the way.

If you do choose to rent your own machinery to do the job, make sure you pull the posts gently. Concrete is very strong when compressed, but when it is pulled it is actually relatively fragile . Tugging it out of the ground with too much force could lead to broken or fractured post footings. These in turn will be a big obstacle when it comes to placing new fence posts.

Removing Broken Fence Posts

One of the biggest challenges to removing fence posts set in concrete is when the post itself breaks off close to ground level. The above methods can work for broken posts, but it’s not always easy to make them work.

If you plan on lifting the concrete base of the post out of the ground with a jack or machinery, you will need to securely attach a strap or chain to the concrete first. There are a few ways you can do this, such as:

Drilling holes in the concrete and installing concrete lag bolts in the holes. Note this will require you to use a carbide-tipped drill bit and a hammer drill to properly drill the holes.
Wrapping metal wire around the base of the concrete and attaching the wire to the jack or digger. This will require you to dig out around the top of the concrete footer on all sides of the post.
Digging out one side of the footing (such as in the first method described above) and tipping it into the hole, then wrapping a strap or chain around it to lift it out.

In some cases it is also possible to lift the concrete footing out of the ground by attaching bolts to the broken post . Unfortunately, many wood fence posts break because they are rotten at the base. If this is the case with your fence, you will need to either lift the concrete out directly or dig the post footings out.

Can a Contractor Remove Fence Posts Set in Concrete?

When it comes time to get a new fence, most people have old fence posts and panels they need to remove first. At Future Outdoors , we offer fence removal services alongside new fence installations. With our fence removal, you get a new fence installed as fast as possible, and you get to rest easy knowing all the work was performed by professionally-trained fence contractors.

How We Can Help!

If you’re ready to install a new fence around your property, Future Outdoors located in Dallas, Texas is ready to help. Call (972) 576-1600 today to schedule your estimate and learn about your options for getting a new fence in the DFW area, or visit our Facebook page for more tips and ideas for improving your property and home.

How Much Does a New Fence Cost in Texas?

Mon, 28 Nov 2016 17:11:29 GMT

If you’re thinking about getting a new fence in Texas , you have a lot to consider. You’ll need to choose a contractor you can trust and you’ll need to determine just what you want your fence to look like. You’ll also have to think about the price. Getting a new fence isn’t always cheap, but you can help keep your costs down by understanding the different factors that influence its price.

Leveling Your Yard Step 1 – Mark the Area

The first step to leveling any piece of ground is to mark out the area that needs to be leveled. If you’re planning to install a fence, this will probably be at or near your property line, so you might want to have someone from your township come and mark your property’s limits to be safe. In the case of a vinyl shade structure, you’ll simply need to mark out the approximate area you’re installing your new structure upon.

The best way to mark and level ground quickly is with a string level. Drive stakes into the ground that are about a foot tall, and attach a string to the stakes a few inches above the ground. Then, level the string between each stake to find the high and low points in your yard. Most of the time it’s easiest to bring the ground up to the highest point, though in some cases you may find it easier to remove ground instead.

Once your strings are level between posts, measure the height from the ground level to the string on the post. The difference between the heights on each post will be the amount of earth you’ll have to add (or remove) to make your yard level.

Step 2 – Breaking Ground

Once you know approximately how much ground you’ll have to move, break out your shovel and work gloves. You might be tempted to use heavy machinery like an excavator or heavy grader, but fight that urge. Most of the time heavy equipment just results in too much ground getting taken out, and that means you’ll have to backfill it later on. Since backfilled ground has more air and moisture in it than most topsoil, it will settle differently and result in an unlevel site.

Use your shovel to remove the grass in your work area, as well as any dirt above the level you need to achieve. Then, start adding in your soil mix to bring the rest of your site up to the proper height. Depending on your ground and whether you want grass to grow back you may use a mix of soil, sand, and compost to level the site.

Step 3 – Tamping

After you’ve added the proper amount of soil mix, you’ll need to tamp it down to ensure the ground is level and it doesn’t settle too much. There are different ways to tamp the ground depending on your project.

For a vinyl fence, the best way to tamp is either with a tamping tool or the flat side of a soil rake. The narrow area you’ll need to level makes it better to use a small hand tool for the sake of convenience and speed.

If you’re leveling a site for a vinyl shade structure, you may want to consider a lawn roller or a plate compactor to do the work faster. Since you’ll be working over a considerable area, these tools make the work much quicker than trying to do it all by hand.

Remember to check your levels after tamping and add or remove any soil necessary. Proper tamping could change the level of the soil significantly, so always get your level out and ensure you didn’t make your site unlevel again by tamping it too much.

Step 4 – Settle Down

Once you’ve tamped the ground, you need to let it settle for at least a few days to ensure it’s going to stay leveled. The longer you can let the ground settle after tamping, the better. You should also periodically (every few days or so) mist the ground with water to help the settling process, especially if you haven’t gotten any rain.

Step 5 – Install Your Fence or Shade Structure

After the ground has settled, it’s time to install your new vinyl fence or shade structure. Most of the time contractors will handle this step for you, but you can be certain they’ll appreciate having a properly leveled site to work on!

Want to get the best deals on a vinyl fence or vinyl shade structure in the Dallas metro? Contact Future Outdoors today! We’re the leaders in the vinyl fence industry in Dallas-Fort Worth with hundreds of miles of fence installed around the metro area. Take a look at all of our different vinyl fencing and shade products on our website. Call us today at (972) 576-1600 or visit our Facebook page to learn more about our vinyl fencing products!

Vinyl Decks and Railings: Everything You Need to Know

Tue, 08 Nov 2016 17:08:26 GMT

A backyard deck is one of the best ways to enjoy the outside and expand your living space, and a vinyl deck is one of the best decks you can get. If you don’t have any experience with vinyl decks, though, you might have questions or concerns about installing one at your home. Here are a few of the most common questions we hear about vinyl decking .

What Are Vinyl Decks Made Of?

The vinyl we use for our vinyl decks is similar to the vinyl used in our other vinyl products, but it’s formulated especially for decking. At Future Outdoors we offer VekaDeck vinyl decking , a 100% PVC vinyl deck made with cellular PVC technology. These decks are made of extruded PVC with a high amount of UV blockers and impact modifiers for added strength and durability. Unlike cheap composite decks or standard wood decks, a vinyl deck from Future Outdoors will never corrode, chip, blister, or warp. These decks are also extremely fade-resistant and virtually maintenance-free.

Are Vinyl Decks Better than Wood?

In the case of decking, “better” is a subjective term. Wood decks have many great qualities. That said, there are several reasons someone might want a vinyl deck instead of a wood one:

Vinyl decks are more durable than wood. A well-built vinyl deck will last a lifetime , in contrast to a wood deck which will need to be replaced eventually.
Vinyl decks require far less upkeep and maintenance than wood ones.
Vinyl decks keep their appearance better than wood. They don’t weather or fade over time and never rot.
Vinyl decks are a better value than wood over time, since they need virtually no upkeep or repair. Once you buy a vinyl deck you may never need to spend money on it again.

How Do I Care For a Vinyl Deck?

Unlike wooden decks which need regular painting or staining, a vinyl deck doesn’t need more than the most basic maintenance . You’ll never need to stain or seal a vinyl deck and it’s not vulnerable to rot, insect damage, mold, mildew, or other natural hazards.

You may occasionally want to spray your deck down with a hose or wash it with a mild soap to clear away any dirt accumulation, but even this isn’t strictly necessary. One of the best things about vinyl decks is they are virtually maintenance-free , even in a punishing climate like ours here in Texas.

Common Misconceptions About Vinyl Decks

One common criticism many people level at vinyl decks is that they look plasticy or “fake.” This may have been true of older vinyl decks using simple manufacturing methods, but the story is different today. Modern vinyl decks approximate the look and texture of wood without the drawbacks. They come in a variety of colors, too, including colors that look like wood, allowing you to get the look you want without paint or stain.

You Can’t Grill On a Vinyl Deck

Many homeowners enjoy cooking out on their back porch or placing an elevated fire pit on the deck for cool nights. Contrary to popular belief, there is no problem with doing these activities on a vinyl deck if you take the right precautions. Vinyl can melt when exposed to fire or very high heat, but grills – which are raised off the ground – and shielded fire pits are not an issue. You can also place heat shield tiles or pavers below your grill or fire pit for extra protection. Plus, our vinyl decks at Future Outdoors self-extinguish in the event of fire, making them much safer than wood or composite decks.

Expert Vinyl Decking in Dallas-Fort Worth

Looking for a new deck for your home? A vinyl deck will last longer, need less maintenance, and cost less over time than wood. If you’re ready to get a vinyl deck in or around Dallas, call Future Outdoors today at 972-576-1600 . We’ll help you decide what kind of deck is right for you and give you all the information you need. You can also follow our Facebook page for more updates and ideas on how to improve your home.

How to Create Shade and Privacy with Vinyl Screens

Mon, 23 May 2016 17:01:16 GMT

One of the best ways to enjoy the outdoors is under a vinyl shade structure . And while most people are fine with the shade provided by the structure itself, some need some extra sun protection – or some extra privacy . One way to achieve this is with a vinyl shade screen, but which style is right for you?

Different Types of Screens for Shade Structures

There are several different types of shade screens available for vinyl shade structures. Here are a few of the more popular varieties:

Lattice

Lattice screens are a popular option for creating shade and privacy . They are the most versatile type of shade screen for vinyl shade structures and allow for many different looks. Lattice screens are especially popular under pergolas and other “open” shade structures because they let a good portion of the sunlight through but still create extra shade and some privacy.

Advantages of Lattice Screens

Great for airflow since they allow breezes to come through into the shade structure.
Provide a fair amount of shade but still let some natural light through.
Make a great structure for some climbing plants or vines to create additional shade or visual appeal .

Louvered Panels

For a balance between shade and openness, louvered panels are an excellent shade option. These slanted panels allow some sun and air through but are more effective privacy options than lattices. Louvered panels are excellent at creating a “beach-y” look and are a great choice for cabanas and other shade structures.

Advantages of Louvered Panels

Open structure allows air through the panels to avoid stuffiness.
Slanted design provides a good amount of privacy and blocks most sun.
Better for protecting items from wind or rain than lattice is.

Full Vinyl Panels

Finally, for high levels of privacy and protection, nothing can beat a full vinyl wall on your shade structure. Vinyl walls are extremely durable and completely block all sun , wind, and sightlines into the shade structure. If your shade structure is easily visible from outside your lawn or if the sun is simply too strong underneath it, a vinyl wall can be the best way to achieve extra shade and privacy.

Advantages of Vinyl Walls

Provide the highest level of privacy of any shade screen.
Very durable , and require no additional maintenance.
Keep belongings and occupants safe from harsh sun .

Of course, depending on the effect you want to create you can also use combinations of different panel types. For instance, you can place a full or louvered panel on the side of your shade structure closest to your neighbor’s house, and a lattice on the second wall for some sun protection without blocking airflow. It’s easy to combine different panel types and get the exact shade structure you want .

Plus, shade and privacy screens have other advantages beyond making more shade or more privacy. For example, you can use a shade panel to create defined walls for an outdoor room or social area, or even to direct traffic towards or away from different areas. They are perfect for entertaining, and they are also excellent at making your shade structure more comfortable and usable.

For more information about vinyl shade screens and shade structures , contact us today at Future Outdoors . We’re the top installer of vinyl fence and vinyl shade structures in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. You can also follow us on Facebook for news and updates or give us a call at (972)576-1600 .

Good & Bad Climbing Plants for Your Pergola

Fri, 15 Apr 2016 16:32:33 GMT

One of the best things about pergolas is they are customizable. Many people leave their pergolas plain without any extra decoration, but a pergola can look just as good when it is surrounded with vines, plants and flowers. That said, not all vines are created equal. If you’re looking for the best plants to accent and shade your vinyl pergola, look no farther!

The Best Climbing Plants for Your Pergola

There are many climbing plants that are a good choice for your garden. These plants strike a good balance between looks , the level of care they need, and how well they stand up to our Texas weather . Some of our favorites are:

Climbing Roses

Bougainvillea

Clematis

Virginia Creeper

Pergola Plants to Avoid

Unfortunately, not all plants are a good choice for vinyl pergolas. Some climbing plants are more trouble than they’re worth . They can cause damage, overrun your yard, or swallow up the rest of your garden. If you’re thinking of planting any of the following climbing plants, you should reconsider.

Chinese & Japanese Wisteria

Japanese Honeysuckle

Porcelain Berry

English Ivy

How We Can Help!

For more tips on beautifying your backyard and adding shade to your home or garden, contact us today at Future Outdoors in Dallas. We’re Texas’s experts in vinyl shade structures including pergolas, gazebos, cabanas and more. Call 972-576-1600 to speak to one of our vinyl experts, or follow us on Facebook for more helpful tips!

Using Vinyl Picket Fence for Your Yard or Garden

Wed, 23 Mar 2016 16:10:40 GMT

The classic picket fence is an enduring symbol of American life. If you’re looking for a way to add appeal to your home that is both functional and attractive, a picket fence is a great choice. But what is the best material for a picket fence – wood or vinyl?

What is a Retaining Wall?

Retaining walls are both functional and aesthetic additions to your home. The chief reasons for building a retaining wall are:

Holding dirt and ground in place on your property.
Controlling erosion on slopes.
Creating landscaping opportunities by changing the level of the land.
Creating more usable lawn space by adding soil and surface area.

How to Know if You Need a Retaining Wall

There are several situations where you might need a retaining wall on your property. The most common uses for a retaining wall is:

Preventing Slope Failure

Often, steep slopes can erode and fail due to rain or other weather. A retaining wall can hold the soil in place and prevent erosion or sliding. This lets you build or landscape on ground that may have been unavailable otherwise.

Stopping Flooding from Runoff

Slopes can also lead to runoff which can cause flooding, pooling, or other problems on your property. By reducing the slope of a hill a retaining wall can control runoff and prevent flooding.

Preventing Foundation Damage

Homes built on or near a slope face special challenges. Erosion and shifting ground, for example, can lead to major foundation damage. Retaining walls can help solve these problems. A retaining wall can contain the slope and prevent the ground from shifting. This allows you to avoid costly repairs down the line.

Retaining Wall Materials

Retaining walls can be built from many materials, including wood, concrete and vinyl. Each material has its own advantages, but the choice is largely personal preference. Some of the most popular materials include:

Vinyl – Vinyl retaining walls are becoming increasingly popular. They don’t break down over time and stay strong for many years.
Poured Concrete – Concrete retaining walls are extremely strong and long-lived. Yet, some people don’t like the look of regular poured concrete. There are options for making poured concrete more attractive, though they can change the cost of the project.
Concrete SRW – Segmental Retaining Wall, or SRW, is another option for a concrete retaining wall. Instead of being poured on site, concrete SRW walls are pre-cast and then assembled by the contractor on your property. SRW walls are extremely durable and last for many years. Plus, their looks make them great for a wide variety of uses. Pavestone and Whiz Q are just two examples of SRW.
Wood – Wooden retaining walls are popular with many buyers for their great looks. However, they aren’t as durable or long-lasting as walls built from other materials. Pressure-treated wood looks great, but it isn’t the best option for buyers who need a long-term solution.

How We Can Help!

If you’re looking for a retaining wall in Dallas, Texas, contact us today at Future Outdoors . We build vinyl, concrete, and wood retaining walls in the Dallas metro area. Our business can serve both residential and commercial properties. Contact us today at 972-576-1600 to get a retaining wall estimate for your property. You can also Like our Facebook page to get more updates and advice from our experts!

The Pros and Cons of Different Shade Structure Materials

Fri, 11 Mar 2016 16:53:32 GMT

Shade structures are one of the best ways to enjoy your Dallas backyard. With a little shade you can transform a bare patio or yard into a comfortable outdoor living space. But not all shade structures are created equal. There are pros and cons to each style and material of shade structure, and you’ll have to consider them carefully to choose which type of shade structure is right for you.

Materials for Building a Shade Structure

One of the most important considerations for a shade structure is the material it’s made of. Different materials offer many advantages and disadvantages including durability, price, and ease of installation.

Fabric

One of the simplest and most common materials for shade structures is fabric. Fabric is a good material for simple shade structures, but it’s not always appropriate for a permanent structure.

There are many ways you can use fabric to create shade in your backyard or on your patio. Some of the most popular ways to use fabric for shade include umbrellas, fabric awnings and shade sails.

Fabric has several advantages for shade, including ease of installation and many different available colors and styles. It’s one of the simplest ways to create shade outdoors, and it also is inexpensive compared to other shade structures.

The problem with fabric as a shade structure is that it’s much less durable than a more permanent solution. Fabric shade structures must be put up and taken down each year, and they should also be taken down before any heavy rain or storm. Not doing so risks letting the fabric stretch, tear, or blow away. Fabric structures also need more frequent replacement than other shade structures do.

Wood

Another popular option for shade structures is wood. Wood shade structures are extremely flexible and can look great, but they still have some problems you should be aware of.

Many people choose wood for their outdoor shade structures, and there are plenty of reasons why. Wood shade structures can be relatively inexpensive to build, very attractive, and can match almost any style of home. They’re also flexible – you can use wood to build a pergola, a gazebo, or even a covered patio.

Unfortunately, wood also has some drawbacks you should be aware of. The biggest one is durability. Compared to shade structures made of metals or vinyl, wood is far less durable and long-lasting. Wood shade structures break down over time due to moisture and weather exposure, and they’re also susceptible to pests like termites and ants. Plus, wood shade structures require lots of regular maintenance including staining, cleaning, and repairs.

Metals

If you want a structure that is extremely durable, it’s possible to build a shade structure out of aluminum or steel. Metal shade structures are popular especially for awnings or patio covers attached to the house. But like other materials, they are not without their drawbacks.

The biggest advantage of metal for shade structures is strength. Aluminum and steel are very strong and lightweight, making them great at standing up to weather and time. They are also very corrosion-resistant, and you can build metal structures in many colors and styles.

One disadvantage of metal shade structures is cost. While aluminum shade structures are priced competitively with other materials, steel can often be more expensive. Also, aluminum and steel need regular maintenance to keep them in top condition. Finally, if they are ever damaged, repairs to steel or aluminum structures can be challenging.

Vinyl

Finally, vinyl shade structures are becoming increasingly popular for homeowners. Vinyl structures have several unique advantages that make them a great choice for shading your backyard.

Vinyl’s biggest draw is its durability. Like aluminum and steel, vinyl is extremely strong and very corrosion-resistant. It’s not vulnerable to pests, and it also won’t break down over time from weather or sun exposure. Vinyl shade structure owners can also add different accents or left with straight, clean lines to suit their preferences and style.

Vinyl shade structures are somewhat more expensive than wood or aluminum structures, but they’re also stronger and more durable than any other material. For most homeowners a vinyl shade structure is a lifetime product – it will last as long as the house it sits beside.

Get Your Dallas Shade Structure Today

Whether you like the classic look of wood or the durability of vinyl, Future Outdoors can help you create your perfect outdoor shade structure in Dallas, Texas. We build gazebos, pergolas, patio covers and more, and we’ll customize your shade structure to suit your needs and style. Call (972) 576-1600 today to set up your free quote. Or, visit our Facebook page for more outdoor improvement ideas from our expert team.

What is Precast Concrete Fence?

Fri, 11 Mar 2016 15:47:06 GMT

If you’ve ever passed a brick or stone wall outside a development or around a private home, there’s a good chance it wasn’t actually brick or stone. Many houses, developments and businesses build strong, long-lasting walls and fences using precast concrete fence . These fences offer all the advantages of a traditional privacy fence. Plus they also add the benefits of concrete’s strength and durability. Read on to learn more about this exceptional fencing product and why it could be right for you.

Precast Fence vs. Other Fences

So what exactly separates a precast fence from a wall? The idea of precast concrete fencing is confusing at first, to be sure. But there are some important differences between a concrete fence and a concrete wall. These differences set concrete fence apart from both wooden fences and concrete or stone walls.

The chief difference between a precast concrete fence and a concrete wall is thickness . While concrete walls are often a foot thick or more, a precast concrete fence is only a few inches in thickness. This has many benefits, the biggest being weight savings. A traditional concrete wall can weigh thousands of pounds for just a few feet of fence. In contrast, a precast concrete fence panel weighs less than 250 pounds for one 9-foot panel. This makes them much easier to transport and install. It also allows them to be placed on the softer ground without issue.

Along with thickness and weight, another important difference between precast fences and other fence types is strength . Concrete fences are extremely strong and durable. They stand up to weather and debris better than any other type of fence. A precast concrete fence is every bit as durable as a thicker concrete or brick wall.

Finally, the last major difference between precast concrete fences and other fence types is cost . A precast fence is much less expensive than a standard concrete or masonry wall. Often the costs are comparable to installing a well-made wood or vinyl fence. If you want the look and feel of stone without the price tag, a precast concrete fence is perfect.

What Sets Precast Concrete Fence Apart

Along with its advantages over walls and fences, a precast concrete fence has several other special qualities. These qualities include:

Variety – One of the biggest benefits of working with a precast concrete fence is its variety of colors to suit any home or style. You aren’t tied to the look of bare concrete. In fact, it can be hard to tell concrete fences aren’t made of actual stone until you examine the fence panel.
Repairability – Unlike other types of concrete fences, our precast concrete fences are designed to be easy to repair. If your fence does suffer any damage, you can almost always repair it with a standard masonry patch. These patches are available at any hardware store. If serious damage occurs, you can order a new panel and install it in less than an hour.
Seasonal Durability – You can never tell exactly what the weather will be like in North Texas. Fortunately, a precast concrete fence isn’t affected at all by extreme temperatures. These concrete fences are freeze-thaw tested by the manufacturer. This ensures they aren’t damaged by cold temperatures. They are also heat-resistant and UV-stable. Finally, they can withstand wind loads of up to 140 miles per hour. This is about the same as an F3 tornado or a Category 4 hurricane.
Environmental Friendliness – Another benefit of precast concrete fencing is it’s better for the environment than other types of fences or walls. More than 50% of the fence’s material is made from recycled substances. That makes the fence a great choice for environmentally conscious buyers.
Maintenance-Free – Finally, precast fences are virtually maintenance-free. They need little to no seasonal upkeep. You’ll certainly appreciate this aspect over regularly treating and staining a wooden fence.

Who Can Use a Precast Concrete Fence?

A precast concrete fence looks great on virtually any property, including:

Homes – Homeowners love the durability and the high-end appearance of precast concrete fencing. They also appreciate these fences come in colors to match their home or neighborhood.
Businesses – Precast fences are great for businesses. They’re extra secure and strong and do a lot to set your business apart from its surroundings.
Developments and Properties
– Precast fence makes a great border fence for developments, properties, and large tracts of land. Their low cost-per-foot makes them a more economical option than a stone wall. Yet they’re still much stronger and more durable than a wooden fence.

Want to learn more about our precast concrete fencing? Call (972) 576-1600 today to speak to us at Future Outdoors located in Dallas, Texas . We’re the number one fencing contractor in DFW area. Give us a call or visit our Facebook page to get more ideas and information for your fencing project.

Can A Vinyl Fence Prevent Pests?

Fri, 19 Feb 2016 14:24:25 GMT

Maybe you plant vegetables in your backyard. Maybe you have some prized flowers you want to protect. Perhaps you just want to keep neighborhood dogs away. Regardless of your reasons, it can be tough to keep animals out of your yard. Could a vinyl fence be the answer to your animal woes?

Common Backyard Pests

Before you decide on a fence to keep animals away from your property, it helps to know what kind of pests you’re dealing with. There are many common yard pests in the Dallas area, including:

Rabbits – Rabbits are common in neighborhoods, especially if your area has a vacant lot or grassy field nearby. They’re proficient diggers and very persistent at getting into yards.
Deer – If you live outside of the metro, chances are you’ve seen a deer around now and again. Deer are excellent jumpers and can wreak havoc on an unprotected yard or garden
Gophers and Moles – These persistent diggers can be hard to spot since they are primarily active underground.
Raccoons and Opossums – Both of these animals are excellent climbers and can be difficult to keep out of a yard. They’re often attracted to fruit and vegetable gardens as well as garbage cans or compost piles.
Neighborhood Animals – Along with wild animals, neighborhood pets like dogs and cats can also cause problems in your yard.

Why Vinyl Fence is Good for Pest Prevention

So if you’re having trouble with any of these pests, could a vinyl fence be a solution? Vinyl is actually a great option for keeping animals out of your yard. Unlike many other fence types, vinyl combines durability with great looks to protect your yard in many ways.

First

vinyl is durable. This can be a key factor in keeping animals out of your yard, especially larger animals that could potentially do damage to your fence. Vinyl fences are extremely strong and impact-resistant, making them excellent for animal protection.

Second

vinyl fences can be built very tall to help avoid jumping and climbing animals. While 6 feet is the standard height for vinyl fence, we’ve built vinyl fences that are 12 feet high. This is more than tall enough to prevent jumping animals from getting into your yard.

Along with being hard to jump, vinyl fences are also harder to climb than other fence types. Vinyl is smoother than wood and doesn’t have as much traction for animals’ claws or feet. That makes it harder for pests like raccoons, squirrels, and neighbors’ cats to climb onto.

Finally

vinyl lasts longer than other fencing materials. Unlike a wooden fence, a vinyl fence can potentially last for decades. Vinyl is also not susceptible to rot, fading, or damage from insects like termites, ants or carpenter bees.

Accessories to Protect Your Property

If you’re serious about keeping animals and pests out of your property, you can augment your fence with additional accessories. Some of the best pest-prevention methods you can use include:

Netting or Webbing – Nets and webs make a good supplement to a vinyl fence. You can use fence netting in many ways, such as a supplemental fence around your garden or for an additional barrier against climbing animals.
Digging Boards – To protect against digging animals like rabbits, gophers or dogs, you can place underground digging boards below your fence. These protective barriers will prevent animals from tunneling beneath your fence.
Electric Wire – For serious pest prevention, you can add an electric wire to the top or inside of your fence. You’ll need to install a dedicated circuit to power the wire, but you’ll get the highest level of protection as a result, even from large pests like deer.

Other tips

Be Careful Not to Separate Families – Often animals enter yards to look for a place to build a home. Be careful when you exclude animals from your property that you aren’t cutting a mother off from her babies.
Set Up a Camera and Monitor – Not sure how animals are getting into your yard? Need to know what type of pest you’re dealing with? A camera and monitor can be a good way to find out what you need to know.

Want the highest quality fence to keep pests out of your yard? Contact us today at Future Outdoors . We build vinyl fences in Dallas and the surrounding metro for homes and businesses. Call us today at 972-576-1600 to learn how we can help you, or visit our Facebook page to get more tips and advice.

Do I Need a Commercial Fence for my Business?

Thu, 04 Feb 2016 14:16:53 GMT

At Future Outdoors, we know that vinyl fence is ideal for residential properties. But what about vinyl for commercial fencing? There are several reasons why business owners should consider a vinyl fence for their commercial fencing project in Dallas.

Cleaning a Vinyl Fence

Though it might seem like a big job, cleaning a vinyl fence is actually very simple and painless. Over the winter, wind and ice can cause grime to build upon your fence, and mud and dirt can also accumulate near the bottom due to splashing rain. Fortunately, this grime is very easy to wash off – usually, a simple spray with the garden hose is more than enough to clean a vinyl fence. If it’s been a while since you’ve washed yours off, you might want to wipe it down with a soapy cloth or towel (much like you would when you wash your car) or spray it with a power washer. Either way, it shouldn’t take much time or effort to clean your vinyl fence this spring.

Here are a few tips to make your cleaning go quickly and smoothly:

If you need to scrub your fence down, use a simple, biodegradable soap or cleaner to avoid sickening your grass or garden.
Power washers are a great tool to make the cleaning go faster. You can even add cleaning solutions to many power washers to increase their effectiveness.
You can use the same strategies to clean vinyl decks and shade structures if you need it!

Cleaning a Wood Fence

If you don’t have a vinyl fence, you’ll probably need to invest some more time and effort into your spring cleaning. Wooden fences tend to grab and hold onto dirt and moisture, and they deteriorate at a much quicker pace than vinyl. Keeping your wooden fence looking new and clean will take some work.

Like a vinyl fence, you can use a pressure washer to remove the worst of the dirt and debris from a wooden fence. However, this is only if your fence is stained and not painted. If you did paint your fence, be wary of using high-pressure cleaning, since it can easily strip the paint right off your fence. Test an inconspicuous area first, and avoid any places where the paint is chipped or peeling.

If your wooden fence has mold or mildew on it, you can use a bleach-based cleaning solution to kill the fungus and remove dirt at the same time. You’ll need to scrub the affected areas thoroughly with a stiff brush, and you should be sure to wear gloves to protect your skin.

Here are a few more tips for cleaning wooden fences:

If you pressure-wash your fence, be sure to wait until it’s fully dry to paint, stain, or seal it. Water in the wood can affect the way these substances adhere.
If your wood fence is warping or bowing, don’t worry too much – that’s relatively normal for wooden fences more than a few years old. It shouldn’t be too hard to pull off boards or panels and replace them with new ones.
Cleaning your fence from the top down prevents sections you’ve already cleaned from getting dirty again.

Fence Repairs & Replacement

Occasionally you’ll need to do more than clean your fence to get it ready for the next year. Spring is storm season in Texas after all, and high winds, hail, and debris can easily damage your fence. Depending on the type and extent of the damage, you may need to do some significant repairs or even replace your fence entirely.

Some homeowners choose to go the DIY route, and there are a few benefits to that choice. First, you can save money over hiring a contractor by doing the labor yourself – but remember that contractors often do the same work with better quality and in less time. Also, doing your own fencing is a good way to get exactly the project that you want, assuming you’re skilled enough to create it.

How We Can Help!

For most homeowners, though, fencing isn’t a DIY project. In that case, you should call an experienced Dallas-area vinyl fence contractor such as our team at Future Outdoors®. We can repair or replace any vinyl or wooden fence, and we’ll also help you choose the exact style and color to meet your needs and match your home. Call (972) 576-1600 to schedule your free estimate or visit our Facebook and Twitter pages for more information and tips.

Do You Need a Retaining Wall in Dallas?

Tue, 26 Jan 2016 14:13:35 GMT

If your property is built on a hill or you have steep slopes near your home, you may need a retaining wall on your property. Retaining walls can benefit your property in several ways. Yet, not every homeowner needs one. To find out whether a retaining wall could be right for your home, keep reading below.

What is a Retaining Wall?

Retaining walls are both functional and aesthetic additions to your home. The chief reasons for building a retaining wall are:

Holding dirt and ground in place on your property.
Controlling erosion on slopes.
Creating landscaping opportunities by changing the level of the land.
Creating more usable lawn space by adding soil and surface area.

How to Know if You Need a Retaining Wall

There are several situations where you might need a retaining wall on your property. The most common uses for a retaining wall is:

Preventing Slope Failure

Stopping Flooding from Runoff

Slopes can also lead to runoff which can cause flooding, pooling, or other problems on your property. By reducing the slope of a hill a retaining wall can control runoff and prevent flooding.

Preventing Foundation Damage

Retaining Wall Materials

Vinyl – Vinyl retaining walls are becoming increasingly popular. They don’t break down over time and stay strong for many years.
Poured Concrete – Concrete retaining walls are extremely strong and long-lived. Yet, some people don’t like the look of regular poured concrete. There are options for making poured concrete more attractive, though they can change the cost of the project.
Concrete SRW – Segmental Retaining Wall, or SRW, is another option for a concrete retaining wall. Instead of being poured on site, concrete SRW walls are pre-cast and then assembled by the contractor on your property. SRW walls are extremely durable and last for many years. Plus, their looks make them great for a wide variety of uses. Pavestone and Whiz Q are just two examples of SRW.
Wood – Wooden retaining walls are popular with many buyers for their great looks. However, they aren’t as durable or long-lasting as walls built from other materials. Pressure-treated wood looks great, but it isn’t the best option for buyers who need a long-term solution.

How We Can Help!

Why are Vinyl Gazebos Perfect for Weddings in Texas?

Mon, 30 Nov 2015 14:07:04 GMT

Outdoor weddings in gazebos are becoming more and more popular. Brides and grooms love the idea of a classic, natural setting. Outdoor weddings also provide lots of opportunities for creative and beautiful photography. A vinyl gazebo is a perfect way to start offering your own gazebo weddings at your venue. Here are a few reasons why:

They’re Durable

A vinyl gazebo shares many characteristics with other vinyl products. Chief among those are strength and durability. A vinyl gazebo from Future Outdoors is much stronger than a wooden one with the same dimensions.

Especially in north Texas, durability is important for outdoor structures. A gazebo will need to stand up to snow, ice, wind, hail, rain, heat, flooding, drought, and who knows what else. Fortunately, a vinyl gazebo from Future Outdoors is up to the task. Our vinyl is up to two times stronger and three times more flexible than wood. That means your vinyl gazebo will be around for many wedding seasons to come.

They’re Flexible

No matter what kind of wedding venue you have, a vinyl gazebo can be the perfect addition to it. Vinyl, unlike wood, can come in a range of unique styles to suit your particular desires. Want a large gazebo at the end of the porch for some additional shade? Sure thing. Want a small, picturesque freestanding gazebo in the middle of the lawn? No problem. If you can dream it up, we can build it for you.

They Save You Money

If you build a wooden gazebo, you can expect to paint or stain it every year or two. You can also expect to regularly replace old or worn-down boards and supports. You may need to fix rotten sections of the wood. You might also have to fight off termites, carpenter ants, carpenter wasps, and other pests. In short, you’ll still be paying for a wooden gazebo years after you buy it.

In contrast, a vinyl gazebo is very nearly maintenance-free. Other than a light wash with the garden hose occasionally, vinyl doesn’t need any upkeep whatsoever. It doesn’t attract pests, it doesn’t rot or warp, and it doesn’t wear out with regular use. In short, vinyl is a long-lasting solution.

They Can Accessorize

Many weddings take place under arbors, lattices, or other outdoor structures. We can make all of these other structures from vinyl as well. Accessorize your vinyl structure with a lattice archway, arbor, and more.

They’re Great For More Than Weddings

Because of their picturesque beauty and their durable utility, a vinyl shade structure is perfect for more than just wedding ceremonies. We’ve had customers use their vinyl shade structures to host anniversary parties, family reunions, quinceañeras, and outdoor events of all types and sizes.

How We Can Help

Want to learn more about installing a vinyl structure on your property? Call Future Outdoors located in Dallas, Texas today! We’re the vinyl experts in the DFW area, and we’d love to help you decide what kind of vinyl gazebo is right for you. Give us a call at 972-576-1600.

5 More Common Mistakes when Installing Vinyl Fence

Fri, 09 Oct 2015 13:52:05 GMT

We’ve talked before about common mistakes people make when installing their own vinyl fences . Many people underestimate fencing projects, and this can lead to big, costly mistakes. In this post, we’ll discuss a few more common mistakes homeowners make when installing their own vinyl fencing, as well as how to prevent making them yourself.

Mistake 1: Not Digging Post Holes Deep Enough

We’ve touched on this topic before, but this problem is so widespread that it bears repeating. Even though vinyl fencing is stronger and more durable than a wooden fence, it still needs to be set deep in the ground to avoid leaning later on. This is because of the type of soil we have here in Texas. Some areas, even within the DFW metro, have more ground movement than others. Dry weather conditions can also affect the amount of movement in the soil. At Future Outdoors we install our fences to minimize the effects of this natural occurrence, but many DIY fence installers don’t.

Most fencing experts recommend setting fence posts in concrete at least two feet into the ground. Our vinyl fence installation experts at Future Outdoors always set vinyl and wood fence posts 3 feet into the ground for our 6-foot and taller fences for extra stability and strength. The mistake most homeowners make, though, is thinking that a 3-foot-deep hole equates to setting a post 3 feet deep.

The best way to ensure your holes are deep enough is to rent an auger with a 10″ auger bit and dig to the 3-foot mark. You will need to run a string line for the top of the post and the horizontal post-placement. This ensures your fence is straight and consistent at the top and all your posts are lined up in a straight line. Be sure to use a level on each post before the concrete starts setting to be sure they are straight vertically. This will leave you with a professional-looking fence.

Mistake 2: Not Setting Fence Panels Square

Most properties have square corners. If you’re like most homeowners, you want your fence to follow your property line as close as possible. That means you’ll need to set your fence panels square to each other – a task that is easier said than done.

There are many ways to make sure your fence posts and panels are laid out at 90-degree angles, but the easiest method only requires two tape measures and some simple math. This method is often called the 3-4-5 triangle method.

In short, the 3-4-5 method states that for any triangle with sides that measure 3 feet, 4 feet, and 5 feet, the angle between the two shorter sides will always be 90 degrees. The same rule holds for multiples of 3, 4, and 5 – so you can create a 6-8-10 triangle or a 9-12-15 triangle and know the angle is perfectly square.

To use the 3-4-5 method in your fencing project, layout markings or guide strings for one side of your fence. Then, starting at the corner, measure three feet back down the guideline and make a mark. Next, use two measuring tapes or measuring sticks to measure 4 feet from your corner and 5 feet from your 3-foot mark. The point where they intersect is where your fence should go.

Confused? Take a look at this simple video to see the 3-4-5 rule in action.

Mistake 3: Not Accounting for Sloped or Graded Ground

Even a minor slope or grade in your property can create huge problems for a fence installation. Sloped ground requires special techniques and planning to make sure your fence looks good and functions properly.

There are two popular methods for dealing with sloped ground during a vinyl fence installation: the step method and the racked method. At Future Outdoors we also offer a third solution: custom-built panels that follow the slope of your property.

A stepped fence

This a popular choice for many homeowners, especially those using complete fence panels to install their fence. With this method, the fence ends up looking like a set of steps – each panel sticks out straight from the post, leaving a gap underneath that must be filled in with another material. Depending on your preference, you can fill the gaps below the finished fence with brick, railroad ties, planters, or even cement walls.

One unfortunate truth about stepping a fence is that it won’t work with most prebuilt fences, since they come with the connecting holes already routed into the posts and panels. Unless you want unsightly holes in your fence – and have the tools and expertise needed to reroute your fence – stepping it isn’t an option.

Racked fencing

This a more complicated solution, but it prevents your fence from having gaps beneath each panel. Building a racked vinyl fence requires each panel to be custom-manufactured for your yard, so this isn’t a good method if you don’t have some extra funds for custom pieces. A racked vinyl fence is most common with a picket-style fence where the upright pickets are only attached to one side.

At Future Outdoors, we also offer a third solution for sloped ground. Since we are a vinyl fabricator, we can use custom fabrication to create personalized fences designed specifically for the slope of your property. These fences aren’t racked – they’re actually built to the slope of your ground, making them a perfect fit for your home and yard.

Mistake 4: Not Installing Gates Properly

Mistake 5: Trying to Do It All Yourself

One of the biggest mistakes DIYers make when installing a vinyl fence is thinking they can do it all alone. A fence installation is a job best tackled by two or more people, especially when it comes to the job of hanging panels and gates from fence posts. Even though the vinyl fence is lighter and easier to handle than wood, it’s still not a task you should attempt alone.

If you’re looking for help installing your vinyl fence, or if you want to avoid all this backbreaking work entirely, call us today at Future Outdoors located in Dallas, Texas . Our expert vinyl fence contractors are standing by and waiting to talk to you about installing a vinyl fence on your property. Call (972) 576-1600 today to learn about all of our vinyl fencing products and options, or follow our Facebook or Twitter pages to get more advice and tips.

What Do You Need to Know about Vinyl Fence Gates in Dallas?

Fri, 25 Sep 2015 12:29:04 GMT

A Dallas vinyl fence is a great way to keep the outside world out of your backyard, but what do you do when you need to get to the other side? A vinyl fence gate is an important part of every vinyl fence. That said, it isn’t always easy to choose the right gate for your needs. Here are a few questions to ask yourself when deciding on what kind of gate you want for your Dallas vinyl fence.

How Big Do I Need My Gate to Be?

Before deciding anything else about your vinyl fence gate , you need to know approximately how big it should be. Vinyl fence gates are available in a huge variety of sizes, from very narrow to wider than a two-car driveway. The placement of the gate, though, will affect the construction of the rest of your vinyl fence. Placing gates after the fact is much more difficult than planning ahead and knowing where your gate will be from the start.

Most walk-through gates are three or four feet wide, about the same width as an interior door in your house. That said, it’s easy to get a gate that is wider or narrower depending on your preference. It can also help to think about what your primary purpose for your gate will be.

What Will I Use My Gate For?

To help you choose how wide you want your vinyl fence gate to be and where you want to place it, think about what you will use it for and if you need it to meet any special needs. For instance, you may need a wider gate close to the street if you have a backyard garage. A pool gate needs to be low enough that you can easily reach over it to lock and unlock it. A gate on a large property might need to be wider to accommodate riding lawnmowers or recreational vehicles.

Remember to think about occasional or uncommon gate uses as well. You might not need to push a wheelbarrow through your vinyl fence gate very often, but you’ll be thankful it’s wide enough if you ever do. A good rule of thumb is to go a foot or two wider than the widest piece of equipment you regularly use (such as a lawnmower, four wheeler, garden cart, etc). This will give you some extra room to grow in the future.

What Do I Want My Gate to Look Like?

Vinyl fence gates come in a huge variety of styles, and our gates at Future Outdoors are no exception. Along with matching the look of your vinyl fence, you can also get a gate with an accent or additional feature to make it stand out. Here are a few popular vinyl fence gate additions you might want to consider.

What Should My Gate Be Made Of?

For most fences and fence gates, vinyl is the perfect material . It’s strength allows it to withstand years of use and weather. It’s light weight makes it easy to open and close, and it also reduces stress on the fence posts and hinges. And vinyl’s durability means your fence gate will stay looking brand-new year after year. Plus, we build our vinyl fence gates with a powder-coated and painted steel frame to ensure they never fall out of square or break down.

That said, we also understand that in some applications you need something other than vinyl. For example, if you’re looking for a sliding security gate for your home or business, you might need it to be made of metal rather than vinyl. At Future Outdoors, we can install gates made of steel, ornamental iron, aluminum, and other materials so we can always meet your fencing needs.

How We Can Help!

Do you have questions about your vinyl fence gate project in Dallas ? Call (972) 576-1600 today to speak to one of our vinyl fence specialists here at Future Outdoors. As the leading provider of vinyl fence and vinyl structures in the Dallas metro, we have the experience and knowledge to answer all of your questions with ease. Call today or visit our website, or follow us on Facebook for more updates and helpful tips.

Four Classic Yard Structures that Improve Your Home

Thu, 24 Sep 2015 19:25:16 GMT

No matter what time of the year it is, it’s never the wrong time to plan improvements to your home or yard. To give you some ideas for great, simple outdoor improvements that you can make to your home, we at Future Outdoors have compiled a list of the best outdoor features that add visual interest and functionality. Read on to find some great inspiration for your own backyard!

Add a Deck or Patio

Decks and patios are a great addition to almost any home. They can be made in virtually any style, and are only limited by your imagination (and your budget!). Depending on the style of your house, you may want to go with a raised wooden or vinyl deck, or a stone or tile patio that lies flush with the ground. Either way, a patio or deck is a great way to add a functional outdoor space to your house that also makes it more attractive to the eye.

Put Up a Pergola

Pergolas are an increasingly popular outdoor addition to many homes. Their simple looks and clean lines make them perfect for almost any style of home, and they look great in gardens, under trees, or alongside the house itself. They can also be trimmed with lattice for additional sun protection and to promote the growth of vines. These shade structures come in wood or durable vinyl, and there are many sizes and designs available.

Plant a Flower Bed or Garden

Green spaces give your backyard color and allow for a lot of potential variety. You can use them for flowers, shrubs, ornaments, and even growing fruits or vegetables. Plus, a well-landscaped garden or flower bed gives your yard extra structure. Flower beds can be raised from the ground or flush and can be ordered with wood, stone, or any other durable material. You can be very creative with the planning of a flower bed or small garden – just make sure it complements, rather than stands out from, the rest of your yard.

Place a Water Feature

A small pond, waterfall, or other water feature is a lovely addition to the right home. While it may not look right on every property, with enough space and planning you can make a water feature the centerpiece of your yard. However, they are also big projects that require a lot of expertise. Don’t think you can just go out and dig a hole in the ground – you’ll be better off if you do some research and find a qualified professional.

How We Can Help!

All of these projects can add visual appeal to your home and backyard, and they make great focal points in an otherwise plain space. Don’t be afraid to get creative, and if you have any questions you’re always welcome to talk to us at Future Outdoors located in Dallas Texas ! We’re the number one vinyl fencing and shade structure contractor in the Dallas metro, and we can help you get your backyard just the way you want it. Follow us on Facebook for more inspiration and great ideas!

How to Safely Use a Fire Pit on a Vinyl Deck

Fri, 18 Sep 2015 12:21:32 GMT

There’s nothing nicer than sitting outside in the evening with your friends and family, gathered around a warm, inviting fire. A fire pit is a great way to get the bonfire experience outside your own home. But if you have a vinyl deck , you need to be sure you use your pit safely. Here are our tips for using a fire pit when you have a vinyl deck.

Choosing the Right Fire Pit

There are many types of pits available for you to purchase, but not all of them are suitable for use on a deck, whether it is vinyl or wood. You’ll need to choose the right one to ensure you and your deck stay safe.

Put Up a Pergola

Positioning Your Fire Pit

Along with choosing a fire pit that is safe for your deck, you’ll also want to put it in a safe place. Proper positioning for your fire pit can help you avoid accidents and leave you free to enjoy your fire.

First, make sure your fire pit isn’t underneath anything , including umbrellas, awnings, shade structures, or tree branches. This might seem like common sense, but you’d be surprised how many fires each year are caused by inattentive placement of outdoor fires.

Second, keep a distance of at least a few feet from any railings or walls. A strong wind can easily blow the heat from your pit sideways. Leaving a healthy buffer zone is the only way to be sure you won’t accidentally damage your deck or home.

If you’re using a wood-burning fire pit, make sure you have enough space to position the pit in the center of the protective mat or tiled area. Embers can travel several feet, especially on a windy day, so don’t take any unnecessary chances.

Finally, don’t sit too close to the fire , even if you’re only burning propane or natural gas. A sudden change in the wind or a simple trip or stumble could lead to a major accident. Back up and ensure you have enough room to move around comfortably.

Stay Aware of Rules and Regulations

If you are considering installing or using a pit on your vinyl deck, make sure you’re also aware of any rules or regulations for your area. For instance, here in Dallas, your township or even neighborhood might have rules about fire placement that differ from what the state of Texas allows. Also, during hot and dry times of the year outdoor fires might be prohibited altogether.

It’s also a good idea to keep safety equipment nearby just in case anything does go wrong. A fire extinguisher or a bucket of water or sand can help extinguish any unexpected fires – always keep them close at hand when using your fire pit.

Got Any Questions?

A fire pit is a great way to get outside and enjoy your vinyl deck from Future Outdoors . Our decks are built with the highest-quality vinyl in the industry, making them ideal for any kind of outdoor activity. Call us today at (972) 576-1600 to learn more about our vinyl deck options, or visit our Facebook page to follow us and get more updates and special offers!

Matching a Vinyl Shade Structure to Your Dallas House

Mon, 27 Jul 2015 11:32:06 GMT

Thinking about making your outdoor living space more livable by adding a vinyl shade structure to your home in Dallas? Along with thinking about the advantages of vinyl over wood and where you want the structure to go, you’ll also need to think about matching the structure to your house. Here are a few things you’ll want to consider when trying to match a shade structure with the style of your house:

Color

Obviously the biggest aspect of matching an outdoor structure with your existing home is getting the color scheme right. Many people like to match the color of their vinyl structures with the color of their house, and this ensures a consistent, pleasant appearance. However, some people instead choose to make their vinyl structure the same color as their home’s trim or accents, or even to make it a complementary color (such as dark brown for a tan house). This can add some extra visual interest to the shade structure and give it more “weight” in the landscape.

Design

One of the chief benefits of working with vinyl is how easy it is to create custom shapes and designs to fit your exact specifications. For instance, say you want a vinyl pergola for your back patio, but the design of the patio is curved or irregular. Instead of a straight-edged pergola that hangs out over the lawn, a vinyl pergola can be built to exactly match the curvature of your patio’s edges. The extreme customization that vinyl allows means almost any design is possible, and it also means you can get something that exactly matches the existing style and limits of your house.

Accents

Many shade structures feature accents that add to their visual appeal or change their look significantly. These accents can be as simple as the railings or posts on a gazebo or the shingles on top of a cabana. In most cases, it’s good to try to match these accents with the design of existing accents on your home so they appear consistent. Look around the outside of your house for existing accented elements such as shutters, roof edges, columns, and railings for cues about how your shade structure should look.

Size

One thing many people don’t consider about their shade structure is that the size should be proportionate to the rest of their house. For a patio cover or attached structure this is easy, but standalone structures can often look too big or too small when compared to the home they’re next to. If you want your vinyl shade structure to look like it belongs in your backyard, consider how it will look when viewed alongside your house and whether it would look better if it were bigger or smaller.

Flow

It can be tough to determine in advance whether or not an outdoor structure will “flow” well with the rest of the house, but there are a few ways you can help make sure your vinyl structure’s flow isn’t bad.

For attached structures like patio covers, try to avoid placing pillars or posts in high-traffic areas or sight lines, and make sure the roof is high enough to keep it from feeling too enclosed. For standalone structures in the yard or apart from the house, think about how people will get to the structure – will there be a path or walkway? Also, make sure your shade structure feels comfortable and not crowded. You can look at our recent blog on creating a comfortable outdoor room for more tips on that.

A vinyl shade structure can be a great way to make your backyard more livable and comfortable during the hot Texas summers. Plus, vinyl shade structures are durable enough to last for years without needing any maintenance or treatment.

How We Can Help

If you want to learn more about getting a quality vinyl shade structure for your Texas home , contact us today at Future Outdoors®. You can also visit our Facebook or Twitter pages to get more advice and read what others have to say about our products and service.

5 Vinyl Fence Myths You Shouldn’t Believe

Fri, 10 Jul 2015 11:22:53 GMT

After working for decades as vinyl fence experts in Dallas Texas , we’ve heard plenty of myths and misconceptions about vinyl fences. Many people still think vinyl fences are inferior products to fences made from wood or other materials. The truth, however, is that vinyl fences are very far from the cheap “plastic fences” you might be thinking of. Take a look at some of these common myths about vinyl fences and learn the truth about this durable, versatile fencing option.

Myth 1: Vinyl Fences Will Fade Over Time

If you grew up in the 60s or 70s, you probably remember people replacing their old wooden siding with fancy vinyl on their houses. And then you got to watch as that siding slowly faded and turned yellow or brown with exposure to the sun, rain, and time.

It’s true that old or cheap vinyl fades with exposure to solar radiation and outdoor conditions. However, vinyl produced using modern processes – such as the vinyl we make our fences out of here at Future Outdoors – is very different from those old-school vinyl products. Modern vinyl makes use of special blends of UV protectants and tougher materials to produce a product that never loses or changes its color. When you buy a quality vinyl fence, you’ll get a fence that will keep its amazing good looks for decades. Compare that to a wooden fence that needs to be restained every few years just to look nice.

Myth 2: Vinyl Fences Don’t Handle Cold Weather Well

One of the most enduring myths about vinyl is that it becomes brittle and easy to break when it’s exposed to cold weather. While this isn’t much of a problem for most of the year in Texas, our occasional ice storms and sub-freezing winters give many fence buyers pause. After all, why would you want a fence that’s going to snap if it gets too cold out?

Fortunately, this is one myth that is simply untrue. Vinyl does lose a little flexibility when it gets cold out, but the change is almost unnoticeable. Vinyl fences, much like other outdoor vinyl products, are plenty tough enough to handle wide temperature swings over the course of the year without bending, breaking, or becoming weak and brittle.

Myth 3: Vinyl Fences Aren’t As Strong

When you buy or build a fence on your property, you want something that will last for a long time and stand up to years of weather, use, and abuse. It’s easy to think that vinyl won’t be up to the challenge, but you would be incorrect if you did.

In truth, vinyl fences are some of the toughest and strongest fences you can buy. While not all vinyl is created equal, a quality vinyl fence will outlast virtually any other fencing material. Because vinyl is slightly flexible, it stands up to impacts from normal use and occasional accidents better than wood or metal. Vinyl also doesn’t rust, warp, or rot – exposure to outdoor conditions like wind and rain will not make it weaker over time. Plus, vinyl isn’t susceptible to damage from insects or pests, either. In almost every way, vinyl fences are tougher and more durable than wood or metal fences.

Myth 4: All Vinyl Fencing Looks the Same

We’re frequently asked by potential customers if they can order a vinyl fence in any other color than white. In the past, vinyl fences did tend to look similar, and it was difficult to get the lasting color to adhere to the vinyl.

Today, however, this is simply no longer true. Modern vinyl fencing comes in a huge array of colors that can match the color of your house or even be styled to resemble wood fencing. Additionally, vinyl fences come in many styles, including privacy, semi-privacy, and accented privacy, picket fence, and even ranch rail fence. You can truly get the perfect look for your home, even if you want a very particular style.

Myth 5: Vinyl Fence is Bad for the Environment

There’s an unfortunate connection in many people’s minds between plastics and pollution. Many people think vinyl products are naturally bad for the environment, and that wood and other materials are more environmentally friendly. But in truth, vinyl is one of the “greenest” materials you can use for your fencing project.

How We Can Help!

If you’d like to learn more about the benefits of owning a vinyl fence, contact us today at Future Outdoors . We’re the vinyl fencing experts in the DFW, Texas area, and we can answer any questions you have about vinyl fences, vinyl shade structures, or any other vinyl products. Call today at (972) 576-1600 or visit our Facebook or Twitter pages to learn more.

How to Fix a Leaning or Sagging Fence in Texas

Fri, 19 Jun 2015 10:24:32 GMT

One of the biggest problems with wooden fences is that, unlike quality vinyl fencing , wood doesn’t always maintain its shape and strength over long periods. Over the years, the constant exposure to wind, water, heat, and freezing temperatures can cause your once-attractive fence to sag, bow, lean, or buckle. Fixing these problems isn’t exactly the work of a moment, but it is possible to rescue your leaning fence and give it a longer life.

Fixing Leaning Fence Posts

In most cases, fences will begin to learn at the posts. There are many things that can cause a fence to lean, including excessive moisture softening the ground, rot weakening the fence posts, and wind or ice putting too much strain on the panels. Regardless of the cause, you don’t want to ignore a leaning post – it will only get worse as time goes on.

To fix a leaning post, you’ll need to perform the following steps:

Dig Out The Old Post

You’ll need to dig a hole around the old post on both sides of the fence until you hit the bottom. Most posts are set at least two feet into the ground, though some might be deeper.

Break Up The Footing

Often, fence posts are set in a concrete footer that keeps them weighted down and in place. If your fencing has concrete footers, you’ll need to break it up with a sledgehammer and chisel or a jackhammer in order to free the post. Make sure you remove the concrete debris from the hole as well – it will only get in the way later.

At this point, you’ll need to determine exactly what the problem with the post is. In some cases, the post itself will still be in good condition, in which case you can skip step 4 below. However, if your fence post is rotten or broken you will need to replace it first.

Replace The Post

Use a claw hammer to remove the nails holding the fence panel to the post. Remember to brace the panels with some boards before removing the post – you can use 2x4s positioned at a 45-degree angle on both sides of the fence to keep it from falling over. Once you have the post free, replace it with a treated 4×4 post – never use untreated lumber.

Plumb The Fence Post

The next step will be making sure your post is straight and level. Use a carpenter’s level or square level to position the post correctly, and then nail some long 2×4 boards to the post at a 45-degree angle to brace it against the ground and keep it in place. Once the post is temporarily secure, pour a new concrete footer around the base and allow it to cure according to the instructions. This should be enough to secure the post and ensure it doesn’t move again.

Fill In Your Hole

The final step to resetting your post is to fill in the hole you dug. When this is complete, your fence should be as good as new.

In some circumstances, a fence can be badly damaged by leaning, or it might be too much work and effort to get it back in shape again. And sometimes, even after repairs, it can still look aged and ready to break down again soon. In these cases, you might be better off replacing your entire fencing with a new, stronger vinyl fence.

Besides the fact that they stay looking like new for decades, vinyl fences are also stronger than wooden ones and less likely to lean or buckle due to weather or shifting ground. Since the posts never rot, you’ll never need to replace them due to age or moisture. This makes them perfect for the homeowner that wants a dependable, long-lasting fence for his or her yard.

How We Can Help Homeowners In Dallas Texas

If you’re interested in replacing your current fence with a high-quality vinyl fence, contact us today at Future Outdoors® . We’ve installed hundreds of miles of tough, dependable vinyl fencing in and around the Dallas metropolitan area, and we’d love to make your fence our next project. Call us today at (972) 576-1600 or visit our Facebook page for more information and helpful advice.

The Advantages of Building a Vinyl Fence

Fri, 12 Jun 2015 10:19:27 GMT

For more than 20 years, Future Outdoors® has been building and installing vinyl fences and shade structures throughout the DFW, Texas area. Often, we get customers asking us what makes vinyl fences so much better than fences built from other materials. Here are just a few of the things that make vinyl fences the best fence you can buy:

They Last Longer than Other Fences

The chief benefit of vinyl fences is that they are tougher and last far longer than fences built of wood or most metals. Vinyl stands up to outdoor elements like sun, rain, wind, and hail better than any other material, and it doesn’t fade or warp over time. Even if you have had your fence for decades, it won’t break down or age. That means that a vinyl fence offers a tremendous amount of value – once you buy it, you won’t have to replace or repair it.

Vinyl Fences Are Virtually Maintenance Free

Another major benefit of vinyl fences is the fact that they take far less maintenance than wooden or metal fences in order to keep them looking brand-new. Here is a comparison of some different fencing materials and the maintenance tasks they require:

Vinyl Fence

Very occasional washing with a hose or power washer to remove dirt or grime.

As you can see, vinyl fence requires far less maintenance and upkeep than fences made of other materials. That means you’ll spend less money over time and perform less work to keep your fence looking brand new and beautiful.

Vinyl Fencing Comes With A Variety of Options

One of the most common misconceptions about a vinyl fence is that it all looks the same. In the past this was somewhat true – most vinyl fences came in only a few colors, and there was very little you could do in terms of customization. Today, however, the situation is very different.

With modern vinyl fences you can choose from more than 30 colors and styles, including vinyl that simulates the look and feel of real wood but without the need to paint or stain to keep the fence looking good.

We can also build a vinyl fence in a variety of styles, including privacy, semi-privacy, picket, and ranch rail fence. Plus, since we fabricate our own vinyl, we can customize your fence to your exact specifications including height, base material, color, and style.

Ready to Buy A Vinyl Fence?

If you think a vinyl fence would be right for your home, contact Future Outdoors® located in Dallas Texas today. We’re the number one supplier of vinyl fences, vinyl shade structures, and vinyl decking in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. To learn more about our vinyl fences and other products, call us today at (972) 576-1600 or visit our Facebook or Twitter pages to get more tips and information.

Fencing Tips to Avoid Neighbor Disputes in Texas

Fri, 29 May 2015 10:14:35 GMT

Often, customers install vinyl fences in Dallas because they want privacy from their neighbors and passers-by. It’s ironic, then, that fences can cause many of the disputes they’re meant to help avoid. Putting in a new fence on your property without consulting your neighbors. Or without following proper neighbor etiquette, is like asking for trouble. To help you avoid any neighborly disputes over your vinyl fence, we’ve put together some tips for installing your new fence dispute-free.

Things You Should Do When Installing a Fence

There are a few things you definitely must do when installing a new vinyl fence, such as:

Check the Property Lines

Another fencing tip is to look at property lines which is one of the biggest causes of fencing disputes, so it’s vital that you check the property lines before getting your new fence installed. Don’t just rely on where your old fence was or what you’ve always thought the property line was.

Doing so could land you in hot water if your neighbor takes issue with the fence. Instead, hire a surveyor and study the property map or plats to be absolutely sure your fence is where it’s supposed to be. You can also ask your Dallas vinyl fence company to install your fence slightly inside the property line to be sure it’s safe.

Obey Fencing Regulations

If you don’t, you could be forced to tear it all down and redo it on your own dime, plus pay a fine. A non-regulation fence can also affect your neighbor’s property values, leaving them upset.

Respect Your HOA

In addition, there are a few other things you can do that, while not strictly required, are definitely nice gestures to your neighbors and community:

Share Fencing Intents Beforehand

However, you should show them where you intend to place the fence. Let them know if there are any property line problems you discovered when you ordered the survey.

Ensure Your Fence Doesn’t Stand Out

Install it the Right Way Around

Maintain the Fence

Our last fencing tip for when you install a fence on your property, it’s your duty to take care of it and make sure it looks good on both sides. Vinyl fences are a perfect way to lower your maintenance obligations. Vinyl doesn’t need heavy cleaning or staining to keep it looking good year after year – it will keep its good looks for a long time all on its own.

Hopefully, these fencing tips helped! Wanting to know more about installing a fence in the DFW without causing neighborhood disputes? Call us today at Future Outdoors® located in Dallas Texas ! We’re the number one provider of vinyl fence and vinyl structures in the Dallas-Forth Worth metro, and we’d be happy to bring our experience and expertise to your vinyl fence project. Just call today at (972) 576-1600 or visit our Facebook or Twitter pages to learn more.

Creating a Functional Outdoor Room with Vinyl

Fri, 15 May 2015 10:06:50 GMT

Whether you have a small back patio or a huge backyard, your outdoor space doesn’t have to be plain and boring. A vinyl fence, deck, or shade structure from Future Outdoors® can help you turn the outside of your home into a functional and beautiful outdoor living space. Here are a few tips and ideas for making any outdoor area into a new outdoor room.

1. Landscaping is Important

Just like with a room inside your house, an outdoor room or living space needs to have a good “flow.” You can’t just put up a shade structure and set some furniture down and have a functional space. Consider the entrances and exits to the space, any paths or walkways, and your own ideas for what you want the area to be – for instance, a dining room, a conversation space, or a comfortable lounge. You can also add additional elements like planters, shrubbery, or deck rails to change the flow and create a more cohesive space.

Issue 2: Loose Connections

Issue 3: Wood Rot

Issue 4: Cracked or Broken Boards

Issue 5: Too Expensive to Fix

Outdoor Spring Cleaning Tips for Your Dallas Fence

Mon, 20 Apr 2015 10:03:08 GMT

Now that spring is underway, you’re probably thinking about going outside one weekend and giving your yard and house a thorough spring cleaning. One area that homeowners often neglect, however, is their fence. Cleaning a vinyl fence in Dallas isn’t difficult, but it can help it stay fresh and new-looking throughout the rest of the year. Read on to get some helpful tips for revitalizing your fence and yard this spring from Future Outdoors®.

Cleaning a Vinyl Fence

Here are a few tips to make your cleaning go quickly and smoothly:

If you need to scrub your fence down, use a simple, biodegradable soap or cleaner to avoid sickening your grass or garden.
Power washers are a great tool to make the cleaning go faster. You can even add cleaning solutions to many power washers to increase their effectiveness.
You can use the same strategies to clean vinyl decks and shade structures if you need it!

Cleaning a Wood Fence

Here are a few more tips for cleaning wooden fences:

If you pressure-wash your fence, be sure to wait until it’s fully dry to paint, stain, or seal it. Water in the wood can affect the way these substances adhere.
If your wood fence is warping or bowing, don’t worry too much – that’s relatively normal for wooden fences more than a few years old. It shouldn’t be too hard to pull off boards or panels and replace them with new ones.
Cleaning your fence from the top down prevents sections you’ve already cleaned from getting dirty again.

Fence Repairs & Replacement

How We Can Help!

The Most Common Vinyl Fence Installation Mistakes

Tue, 31 Mar 2015 09:44:50 GMT

Even though we offer installation for all our Dallas-area vinyl fences, some people prefer the accomplishment that comes with installing their fences themselves. A vinyl fence is actually a very good DIY project – they’re easier to install than wood fences and the materials are lighter and easier to handle. That said, you can still make mistakes when installing your vinyl fence. Here are a few of the most common vinyl fence installation mistakes we see.

Mistake 1: Not Planning the Job

In some ways, poor planning is not just the biggest mistake a homeowner can make when doing a fencing job, it’s the only mistake. Before buying a fence or charting your property or tearing anything down, make sure you plan out every step of the project beforehand. That way you know you’ll have the tools, materials, permits, and anything else you’ll need to get the job done. If something unexpected does happen, you’ll always have your plan to fall back on.

Mistake 2: Not Following Property Lines

If you’re installing a vinyl fence yourself, it’s vital that you follow your property lines closely and avoid accidentally installing your fence on someone else’s land. Making installation mistakes can result in fines or fees from the government, civil suits from your neighbors, and the high cost of having to move and reinstall your fence in the right place. Similarly, you might find that your property lines are further than you originally thought, which could result in running out of fence.

Fortunately, you can avoid this mistake pretty easily with some careful measuring and forethought. Request either a property plat (a chart that shows your property lines and measurements) or a blueprint of your property from your township. so you can verify the location of your property line. You can also pay to get a survey done by professional surveyors to ensure you don’t make any mistakes. Either way, don’t trust the existing fence line or your gut – always measure and double check.

Mistake 3: Not Following Fencing Laws

Many townships and neighborhoods (especially those that have HOAs ) don’t allow all types of fences or require owners to have a specific type or style of fence to ensure uniformity across properties. If you build your own fence without following the zoning laws or fence regulations, you could end up facing costly fines, and you might even have to replace your fence to conform to the rules.

The best way to avoid this mistake is to check with your local permit office or planning commission to see if there are any restrictions or regulations about the types of fences allowed in your area. If your neighborhood does have an HOA, you should also check with them about the same thing.

Mistake 4: Not Marking Utility Lines

Fences require digging and digging means you could hit a utility path. Unfortunately, many DIY vinyl fence installers think that by simply placing their new fence posts in about the same place as their old ones, they’ll avoid striking anything. This is not the case. The process of removing old fence posts and installing new ones can easily put your shovel or post digger in contact with a gas, electric, or another utility path.

Instead of trusting your gut, call 811 at least two days before you dig and have your property and project information ready. The 811 operators will contact the relevant utility companies, who in turn will come out and mark your utility lines so you can dig safely. There’s no cost for this service except the time it takes to do, so do it early and stay safe.

Mistake 5: Not Installing Your Fence Properly

This final mistake is actually several mistakes in one. There are a multitude of mistakes a homeowner can make when installing their fence, from setting posts improperly to cutting sections prematurely to failing to account for sloping ground. Any one of these mistakes can ruin a fencing project if you aren’t careful.

The best way to avoid these mistakes is to read guides or product manuals that specify the right way to handle different situations or circumstances. For instance, vinyl fence posts must still be set at least three feet into the ground to avoid shifting later on. If your property is on a grade, you’ll need to measure the angle of the grade and compensate for it by either buying angled fence panels or cutting your panels to match the grade. Not taking these aspects into account can result in a weak or unstable fence that won’t last more than a few years.

All things considered, installing a vinyl fence isn’t the hardest job in the world, but it’s not the easiest either. Unless you’re a skilled DIY-er, you might be more comfortable allowing a professional vinyl fence installer to handle the work. At Future Outdoors® , we’ve installed hundreds of miles of vinyl fences in and around the Dallas metro area. And that means we have the experience and skill to install your fence right the first time. Contact us today at (972) 576-1600 or visit our Facebook learn more.

The Top 4 Reasons to Install a Vinyl Privacy Fence

Fri, 06 Mar 2015 09:37:01 GMT

For homeowners, business owners, and property managers, a fence is a great investment for many reasons. A privacy fence isn’t just a barrier between your property and the outside world – it’s a feature in its own right. There are several good reasons you should consider a vinyl privacy fence for your property.

Reason 1: Privacy

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that increased privacy is one of the chief benefits of a privacy fence. Vinyl privacy fences are perfect for enclosing your property and keeping out prying eyes, which makes them perfect for homeowners in suburban areas with houses that are close together. A quality privacy fence makes it easy to create your own backyard oasis where you’re free to do what you like. Privacy fences also make your yard safer for children to play in, and they prevent dogs from barking and howling at passersby.

One of the best things about choosing a vinyl fence for your privacy fence needs is that you can make them as private as you want. Full privacy fences block virtually all sightlines between inside and outside, but they can also be ordered with open accents or in semi-privacy styles that allow limited visibility through the fence.

Reason 2: Security

No matter where you live or work, keeping your home or business safe is probably a priority for you. A quality vinyl privacy fence is perfect for increasing the security of your property. Along with strong and durable six-foot fence panels, vinyl privacy fences are also available with sturdy and secure locking gate options for increased security. Because of vinyl’s increased durability compared to wooden fencing, it’s the perfect material for a long-lasting privacy fence.

And remember, a privacy fence doesn’t only secure your property from the outside – it also keeps things on the inside safe and secure, too. Your children and pets will be able to play safely and securely inside your fence without worry that they could escape.

Reason 3: Durability

When you install a privacy fence around your property, it isn’t with the expectation that you’ll have to do it again in just a few years. However, if you don’t take care of a wooden fence at least every other year, you’ll find that it breaks down and weathers much faster than you’d like. In contrast, a vinyl fence will stand strong for years upon years – from 30 to even 50 years – without needing any maintenance at all beyond a simple wash with a garden hose.

Plus, vinyl privacy fences stand up to difficult conditions like wind, hail, and ice storms better than wooden fences do. Unlike a wooden fence, a vinyl privacy fence never becomes waterlogged and never rots or warps due to temperature and humidity changes. That means your vinyl fence will last far longer than a comparable wooden fence, with far less maintenance.

Reason 4: Value

Along with all the other reasons, a vinyl privacy fence is a great investment for your property because it holds its value better than wooden fences. Since it lasts so much longer and it’s so much more durable, vinyl fences cost much less over time than wooden fences do – especially when you factor in the costs of staining and repairing a wooden fence over time.

Vinyl fences add value to the properties they’re on, too. If you’re trying to sell your home, a vinyl privacy fence is a big plus to many potential buyers. They’ll see it as a maintenance-free solution that won’t require lots of repairs and replacement down the line. When you buy a vinyl fence from Future Outdoors, it comes with a lifetime warranty on the material from the manufacturer, and that warranty is one-time transferable to a new homeowner.

How We Can Help!

If you’re interested in learning more about vinyl privacy fences and why they’re a great option for homeowners and business owners, contact us today at Future Outdoors® located in Dallas, Texas . We’re the top provider of vinyl privacy fences and other vinyl fencing and shade structures in the Dallas-Fort Worth metro. Contact us to set up your free vinyl fence estimate, or follow us on Facebook for more helpful tips and information.

Creating the Perfect Four-Season Vinyl Deck

Fri, 20 Feb 2015 09:31:56 GMT

Most people see a deck as a summer-only space. With planning, though, you can create a vinyl deck that serves as a perfect outdoor living space the whole year-round. And the vinyl decking and fencing experts at Future Outdoors can help you do just that. Here’s how.

Step 1: Plan Your Ideal Deck

The first step to designing your perfect deck space is to think of the features you want and how the deck will be used throughout the year. Try to envision what you want in an outdoor space: Do you want an enclosure that will protect you from insects and the sun? Are you planning on putting in a pool in the backyard (or do you have one already)? Will you be using the deck for entertaining guests, or just as an outdoor relaxation spot for you and your family?

Coming up with answers to these questions will help you plan the features and overall look and feel of your vinyl deck. Today’s vinyl decks can be built with a variety of features built-in, including benches, fire pits, garden planters, and more. This makes them extremely personalizable, but it also means you need to know what you want to get the most from your deck.

Step 2: Choose a Look

Vinyl decking comes in a huge variety of styles and colors. It can be used to simulate the look and feel of wooden decking, or you can get a more sleek and modern look with other types of vinyl. Either way, you’ll need to plan out what you want your deck to look like when its finished.

Many people will use home and design magazines to help them find inspiration for their deck. These are a good resource for people who aren’t sure exactly what they want and need some ideas of what is possible. Take a look around for photographs of other vinyl decks, or search online to find more inspiration.

To help with these stages, some people will also use 3D modeling tools like SketchUp to draw their own plans for what they want the deck to look like. These tools are pretty simple to learn and use if you give them a little time, and they can help you visualize what your deck will look like and how it will feel in your yard long before you break ground.

Step 3: Get Quotes

After you have an idea of what you want you’ll have to find a vinyl deck supplier that can provide it. A good vinyl deck contractor will be transparent through their whole process and give you advice on what works well for your property, and they should also keep you involved through the process of building your vinyl deck.

When you’re getting quotes from your vinyl decking contractors, keep a few questions in mind:

How long have they been in business? A company with a longer record and more experience will most likely provide better products than one that’s only been in the business for a few years.
Where are they located? It’s always better to work with a local contractor, since you can meet with them first-hand and easily address any concerns. Even if the prices are better, it’s usually not worth it to contract with someone from further away just to save a few bucks.
What’s their customer service like? When you call your vinyl deck provider, do they pick up the phone or just let it ring? Does someone return your calls quickly? Do you get the answers you need? If you feel like your chosen contractor doesn’t care for or appreciate your business, don’t work with them.
Do they offer a warranty service? Companies that trust their products will work with you to make sure you’re happy. If the contractor or the manufacturer doesn’t offer warranties, or the warranty is conspicuously short or restrictive, ask yourself why.
Can they offer other products? Vinyl decks are great, but you might also want a fence, a shade structure, or other outdoor improvements at the same time. Make sure you work with a versatile contractor that can deliver on a variety of projects.

How We Can Help!

Future Outdoors® is an experienced and qualified vinyl fence and deck company in North Texas. We work with customers around the Dallas-Fort Worth metro to bring quality vinyl fencing, vinyl decking, and vinyl shade structures to their homes. Contact us today to get a free no-obligation quote on your fence or deck project. You can also follow us on Facebook or Twitter to get news and updates on our services.

Visit Future Outdoors at the 36th Spring Texas Home & Garden Show

Fri, 06 Feb 2015 09:26:38 GMT

Want to learn about the latest and greatest updates in home and garden solutions? Visit the 36th annual Spring Texas Home & Garden Show on March 6th through the 8th at the Dallas Market Hall. We’ll be one of the hundreds of exhibitors showing off great indoor and outdoor products and innovations to make your home beautiful.

At the Future Outdoors booth, you’ll find all the information you need about our fantastic vinyl fence and deck products as well as details about our vinyl shade structures and contracting. We’ll be able to tell you all about our vinyl products, including:

What makes vinyl so much stronger than wood and other materials;
Why vinyl requires less maintenance than other fencing types;
How vinyl fences and shade structures hold their value better and add more value to your home;
What kinds of options you can get with your vinyl fence, deck, or shade structure.

Additionally, we’ll have a full display of our vinyl products available at our booth so you can see the quality of the vinyl as well as the color options you can choose from. Our colors include Chestnut Brown, Redwood, and Weathered Cedar, as well as the traditional white vinyl.

Finally, you’ll be able to talk to our knowledgeable contractors and salespeople at the event, giving you plenty of opportunities to learn about the benefits of vinyl fencing and shade structures compared to wood and other materials.

Attending the Show

If you’re interested in attending the show, you can purchase tickets at the door or ahead of time at the Texas Home & Garden show website. Tickets cost $10 for general admission, $8 for seniors and military, and nothing at all for children age 14 and under.

In addition to the Future Outdoors booth, you can also visit some of the other attractions and events at the show, including:

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) pavilion, where you can talk to expert home remodelers and even show them home plans for advice and tips.
The Dallas County Master Gardeners Stage, where master gardeners will give you advice and answer questions about your garden projects.
Saturday and Sunday workshops on a variety of topics and subjects, suitable for any home and garden enthusiast.
An expanded KidsZone featuring inflatable rides and educational classes and projects to entertain the little ones all day.

How We Can Help!

If you’re interested in learning more, visit the Texas Home & Garden show website. And to get updates on the latest vinyl fencing and shade structure projects from Future Outdoors, follow us on Facebook or Twitter . You can also call us at (972) 576-1600 to get answers to your questions and set up an appointment for your free vinyl fence or shade structure quote.

Signs That You May Need to Replace Your Fence

Thu, 08 Jan 2015 21:50:11 GMT

Nothing is forever, and that goes doubly true for wooden fences. At the top end, a good wooden fence will last for a decade, but eventually all wood rots and degrades. If you have a wooden fence in your yard, you know that you need to regularly maintain it with stain and paint. However, you should also make sure to inspect it regularly to see if it’s experiencing any of these issues. If it is, it may be time to replace the fence with a new one, such as a quality vinyl fence .

Issue 1: Missing Fasteners

Issue 2: Loose Connections

Issue 3: Wood Rot

Issue 4: Cracked or Broken Boards

Issue 5: Too Expensive to Fix

How to Level Your Yard for a Vinyl Fence or Shade Structure

Thu, 18 Dec 2014 21:44:08 GMT

Vinyl fences and vinyl shade structures are great additions to virtually any home. They add value and provide durable and functional appeal to any outdoor space. However, if you’re thinking of installing a new vinyl fence or vinyl shade structure , you’ll need to plan out and prepare the site you want to put it on, and that includes making sure the site is level .

Leveling ground for a vinyl fence or shade structure can be tricky, which is why we’ve put together this short guide on how to do it yourself. Of course you can always hire an outside contractor (or let us at Future Outdoors do it for you when we install your new fence), but many homeowners prefer the satisfaction and savings of doing it their own way. If that sounds like you, keep reading.

Leveling Your Yard Step 1 – Mark the Area

Step 2 – Breaking Ground

Step 3 – Tamping

Step 4 – Settle Down

Step 5 – Install Your Fence or Shade Structure

Tips for Tearing Down an Old Fence

Sun, 30 Nov 2014 21:35:02 GMT

So you want to install a new vinyl fence on your property, but you already have an old wooden fence. What do you do? Well, you could pay someone to come in and take the fence down, but why bother when you can just as easily do it yourself? Read these tips on how to tear down an old fence and you’ll be ready for your new vinyl fence in no time.

Tip 1: Do Your Homework

Before getting the crowbar out and prying down fence boards, you’ll need to make sure your fence is actually yours to tear down at all. Many times fences are built on property lines and partially owned by both property owners. If you tear the fence down without your neighbor’s permission, they can actually sue you. Check with your local city planning office to see if there are records for your property on file, or have a surveyor come and mark where the property line is in relation to the fence. Of course, you can always just get your neighbor’s permission, too – but make sure you get it in writing.

Tip 2: Check Your Utilities

Buried gas lines, electric cables, and other utilities can make removing and installing a fence more difficult. Before you start your project you should have someone mark the location of your utility lines on your property, especially if your fence is close to an electrical panel or utility monitor. In the Dallas area, you can simply call “811” at least 48 hours before digging to get in touch with your local utility company and have them mark your utility lines for free. If you accidentally damage a gas line or electrical cable, you aren’t just facing inconvenience – the company could fine you for a service disruption.

Tip 3: Go Slowly

When you’re removing the boards or panels from your fence, patience is key. Going too fast could result in splintering or otherwise breaking the boards, which in turn means more work and more cleanup for you. You also want to avoid hurting yourself on any old or rusted nails sticking out from boards and fence posts. It’s much easier to stay safe and pay attention when you aren’t in a hurry, so try to take your time when taking down a fence.

Tip 4: Break Up Old Footings Before Removing Them

However, there is an easier way to do it than digging them out by hand. Take a sledgehammer (or a stone splitter if you can find one – it looks like a heavy pickaxe) and break up the concrete footer as much as possible before trying to remove it. Breaking the footer into pieces will make it easier to pull out of the ground and will also require you to do less digging in the dirt around the footer, keeping your lawn in better shape. It might also help to cut down your fence posts with a chainsaw first, so you don’t have to worry about hitting the post while you break the concrete.

Tip 5: Easy Ways to Dispose of Old Fence

Once you’re done with the job, you might feel stuck with a bunch of old wood clogging up your yard. Luckily there are a few options for getting rid of it. You can call your local dump or garbage collection agency and see if they’ll do a special pickup – but you might have to pay for it. You can also put an ad up on Craigslist or other social sites advertising the free fence wood. Much of the time you’ll find someone to take you up on the offer. Finally, you can recycle the wood as much as possible to use in other projects.

How We Can Help!

After you’ve disposed of your old fence, your new vinyl fence from Future Outdoors is only a few small steps away. Call us today at (972) 576-1600 to get a free vinyl fence estimate based on the look and options you desire or contact Future Outdoors located in Dallas, Texas to learn more! Future Outdoors is the number one vinyl fencing company in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and we would love to bring our expertise to you.

Tips and Tricks for Personalizing Your Vinyl Fence

Thu, 20 Nov 2014 21:24:23 GMT

One of the best things about being a homeowner is that you can make your home truly yours. You can paint, accessorize, and customize it until you achieve the exact look you want. Why should your fence be any different? At Future Outdoors , our vinyl fences are extremely customizable, so you can achieve the perfect look for your home.

Colors

When we say our fences are made of vinyl, many people think plain white vinyl siding on cookie-cutter houses. But that image couldn’t be farther from the truth. Vinyl fences from Future Outdoors come in a rainbow of colors to match the style of any house.

For vinyl traditionalists, we have classic vinyl colors such as white, tan, and khaki. These vinyl fence colors look great with any style of home. They’re easy to care for and require virtually no maintenance. Plus, the colors won’t fade over time with sun exposure or weathering. Vinyl fences retain their good looks years longer than wood.

However, some people want the classic look of a wooden fence. For these buyers, Future Outdoors also stocks a line of wood-grain vinyl fences that simulate the look and feel of wood without any of the disadvantages. These fences have a similar texture to wood and come in colors such as Redwood, Chestnut Brown, and Weathered Cedar. With these fences, you truly get the best of vinyl – durability, strength, and ease of maintenance – combined with the classic good looks of a wooden fence.

Jumping

Some dogs loathe to let all four feet leave the ground at once, but others can soar gracefully through the air at surprising heights. The world record for a dog jump is 68 inches from the ground – almost six feet! If your dog is one of these champion jumpers, you’ll need to keep their abilities in mind when getting a fence installed.

For smaller dogs and those that aren’t so jump-happy, a fence that’s more than three or four feet high should be enough to contain them. Fences at this height come in a variety of styles, such as pickets, full panels, and semi-private fences with and without accents. However, dogs that can jump higher will obviously need higher fences. A six-foot privacy fence is generally enough to contain even the springiest of dogs.

One other thing to consider when you have a jumping dog is that it may start a jump and get stuck. Fences with accents at the top, or picket fences with open slats, should be designed in such a way that your dog’s paws or head can’t get stuck. Another good idea is to outfit your dog with a quick-release collar when they’re in the yard by themselves. These collars break open under pressure, keeping your dog from getting trapped or strangled by them should they get stuck.

Digging

Dogs don’t only escape over the tops of fences. If you want to make sure your dog is truly secure, or you already know that your dog is prone to digging, you’ll have to put some below-ground defenses in place when installing your new vinyl fence.

There’s no one way to keep a dog from digging under a fence. Digging is an instinctive behavior and it can be tough to curb. For the most part, the only way to keep your dog from escaping under the fence is to install a barrier underneath the fence itself.

One common solution is to bury a line of chicken wire under the ground at the bottom of the fence, with the sharp edges turned inwards. In most cases this should be enough to keep a dog from escaping – the wire is uncomfortable for them to dig against and difficult to breakthrough. However, determined or especially strong diggers may need a tougher solution. In these cases, burying rocks or bricks under the fence, or even laying down a shallow concrete trench, can keep your pooch in his place.

Another solution that we offer at Future Outdoors is a “dog board,” a vinyl board buried below the bottom edge of the fence that the dog can’t dig through. We bury this board when we build the fence, and it’s completely invisible once the fence is complete. Plus, since the dog board is vinyl, it won’t deteriorate from sitting in the ground (unlike a wooden board).

Patrolling and Pacing

Some dogs don’t try to escape, and instead choose to spend their outdoor time restlessly pacing up and down the fence line, looking for intruders or simply entertaining themselves. In these cases, it can be best to choose a fence that offers a more limited view of the outside. This can help your dog calm down and also prevents other dogs, animals, or people from tormenting your pet through the fence.

Another solution that can be helpful is landscaping on the inside of your fence line. Dense shrubs like holly or boxwood can force dogs away from the edge of the fence, reducing their urge to patrol. Additionally, shrubbery can help prevent jumpers and diggers from escaping by limiting their activity next to the fence itself.

Vinyl fences are great for dogs, but they’re even better when you choose one that fits your dog’s personality and habits. Talk to the experts at Future Outdoors located in Dallas T , the number one provider of vinyl fences in North Texas, to see which fencing products are right for you and your pets. You can also follow us on Facebook for more updates and information.

Not All Vinyl Fences Are Created Equal

Thu, 23 Oct 2014 21:19:42 GMT

When it comes time for you to get a new fence, you should know that vinyl fences are stronger, more durable, and better-looking than wooden and metal fences. You should also know that not all vinyl fences are the same. Differences in vinyl quality and fence construction can have a large impact on how strong your fence is and how long it lasts.

There are several factors that can affect the quality of vinyl used in a fence. Two of the biggest are the addition of impact modifiers and UV protectants. Without these additions, the vinyl in your fence will not be anywhere near as strong as it could be.

Impact modifiers are special polymers added to the vinyl that make it more ductile, or impact-resistant. Vinyl made without impact modifiers is extremely brittle, which causes it to break easily when it’s hit. In contrast, vinyl produced with impact modifiers can absorb the energy from an impact better. In effect, the vinyl is “springier” and tends to bend or bounce rather than break.

Is UV A Risk To Vinyl?

UV protectants are also very important for vinyl used in fences. Because your fence is outside all year, it is exposed to a great deal of UV radiation from the sun . When coupled with our long Texas days, vinyl without UV protection starts to fade quickly. In contrast, vinyl fences made with UV protection additives can keep their original color and finish for many years, despite constant exposure to sun and rain. Plus, any fading that does eventually occur will be slight and uniform, making it almost impossible to notice.

Compare the performance of vinyl to wooden fences, and the advantages of using vinyl are clear. Vinyl made with impact modifiers and UV protection is extremely tough, even in the face of wind, hail, and blown or falling debris. It doesn’t warp in the sun or rain, it doesn’t fade over time, and it doesn’t need to be painted or treated. In contrast, wood breaks easily and needs regular comprehensive maintenance to keep its appearance and functionality. Vinyl is clearly superior in nearly every way.

How We Can Help!

At Future Outdoors, we fabricate our own vinyl to only the highest standard. Our vinyl products include fencing , gazebos , pergolas , and other shade structures , and they are all produced using the highest grade of PVC vinyl, as well as high-grade impact modifiers and UV protectants. What’s more, because we produce our own vinyl, we can easily create custom fencing and shade structure solutions that match what you want exactly.

If you need a new fence for your home, pool, or ranch, do yourself a favor and take a look at a vinyl fence from Future Outdoors located in Dallas, Texas . We’re the number one vinyl fencing contractor in northern Texas, and we’d love to bring our expertise to your project. Contact us today!

Four Vinyl Products to Simplify and Beautify Your Home

Thu, 16 Oct 2014 21:10:55 GMT

It’s no secret that we think vinyl is the best material for outdoor structures. We’ve devoted ourselves to installing vinyl fences, shade structures, and more throughout the Dallas metroplex. But if you’re curious about how vinyl can simplify your outdoor routines and make your home and yard more attractive and inviting, read on.

Vinyl Fence

Good fences don’t just make good neighbors – they make good yards, too. A fence is crucial for protecting your yard or garden from animals and prying eyes. If you have a pool , you need a fence to make sure it’s safe. And nothing builds a better fence than vinyl does.

Due to their superior strength, flexibility, and weather resistance, vinyl fences simply last longer and look better than wood fences do. And they’re guaranteed to stay strong and functional for years.

Vinyl Shade Structures

Anyone who has lived through a Texas summer knows how necessary shade is when you’re outside. But shade structures made from canvas can wear out after just a few seasons, and wooden ones aren’t much better, especially after they’ve seen an ice storm or round of hail. In contrast, a vinyl shade structure will keep its shape and appearance for years without any problem.

If your home has vinyl siding or gutters, we can design your shade structure to match, so you get a perfectly seamless, coordinated look between your home and outdoor living space. Plus, vinyl shade structures require very little maintenance – and that maintenance never includes painting, staining, or sealing.

Vinyl Decks and Patios

You might be thinking that there’s no way a vinyl deck could be as strong as a wooden one. You’ve seen people put holes in their siding with a weed trimmer or pressure washer – how could a vinyl deck hold up to extended use? Though it sounds surprising, modern vinyl is far tougher than wood, even when it comes to hands-on applications like decking and railing. Run-on it, jump on it, drag your deck chairs around – a vinyl deck or vinyl patio will take the abuse for years.

Plus, because the color of a vinyl deck is part of the vinyl itself, your deck will stay looking like new for years longer than stained or painted wood. It won’t fade, either – Future Outdoors only uses high-quality vinyl produced with a high level of UV protectants. That means your deck’s color will stay bright and clean for years.

Vinyl Gazebos & Pergolas

Want to create an oasis of shade and comfort away from your home? A vinyl gazebo or vinyl pergola could be just right for you. Easily placed in any yard or garden, vinyl pergolas and gazebos provide a free-standing and appealing option for shade, while also beautifying any space they’re placed within. With our gazebos and pergolas, we can create any look, from clean and modern to classic and elegant.

Like all of our vinyl products, a vinyl gazebo or vinyl pergola from Future Outdoors is almost maintenance-free, extremely strong, and guaranteed to last for years. These structures won’t fade, rust, or rot, making them perfect all-season yard structures or garden fixtures. With these products, you can create the perfect look for your outdoor living space and then maintain that look for years with only a small amount of effort.

Vinyl Fences and Dogs: What You Need To Know

Thu, 11 Sep 2014 20:16:58 GMT

Fences have many uses. Some of us use them for privacy. Others use them to secure a pool , yard, or garden from outside intrusion. And still, others use them to give their pets a safe and sheltered area outside of the home. For homeowners with pets, a fence isn’t just a decoration – it’s a necessity. And for many of those homeowners, they’ve found the security they want for their pets with a vinyl fence from Future Outdoors .

Vinyl fences are tough enough to stand up to abuse from animals and humans alike. That said, there are still a few things to consider when you’re looking at getting a vinyl fence to secure your pets.

Aggression

Especially if you have dogs, you’ll want to think about how aggressive they are to strangers when choosing a specific style of fencing. If your dog is more aggressive, you’ll want to choose a fence type that blocks or limits outside visibility. The less your dog can see of the outside, the less aggressive he or she will be.

For less aggressive pets, your options expand considerably. Semi-privacy fences allow some visibility through the panels while still maintaining security for your four-legged friends. These are good options for friendly or curious dogs that aren’t aggressive towards strangers. However, keep in mind that giving your dog an outside view might encourage him or her to try and escape the yard.

Jumping

Digging

Patrolling and Pacing

Simple Tips for Cleaning and Maintaining Your Vinyl Fence

Tue, 15 Jul 2014 20:04:47 GMT

Now that summer is here and storm season is winding down, many people will be turning their attention to grooming their yards and gardens for another summer of fun and outdoor activity . One important step in this process is maintaining your fence. While wood fences might need repainted or re-stained, not to mention replacement for any warped or damaged boards, a vinyl fence makes your summer maintenance program easy.

It’s a well-known fact that having a strong, sturdy fence around your yard can boost your property values. The exact percentage of the value boost is based on a number of factors; for instance, your home’s value will go up more if you’re in a neighborhood where most of the other houses already have fences.

Of all fencing types though, the kind that holds and displays its value the best is a quality vinyl fence. What makes vinyl superior to other types of fencing?

Cleaning Your Vinyl Fence

Vinyl fences are incredibly tough and keep their appearance for many years – but they still get dirty. Strong Texas winds and spring rains can kick up a lot of dirt and debris, at least some of which will end up on your fence. Fortunately, cleaning a vinyl fence is a relatively simple activity.

Clear the Area

Before cleaning your fence itself, it’s important to make sure the area around your fence won’t interfere with your maintenance. If you have trees or shrubs planted near your fence, this is a perfect time to trim them back to ensure they aren’t touching or growing against the fence. A rubbing branch can wear down your vinyl fence over time, and leaves and branches growing against the fence can cause damage or unsightly wear.

You’ll also want to clear away any leaves, fallen branches, or other material resting against the base of your fence. Wood and leaves rot, and they can leave ugly stains on your vinyl fence if they’re allowed to sit for too long. By clearing these materials away you ensure your fence will keep looking brand-new for years.

Spray it Down

After clearing away the debris from around your fence, it’s time to start cleaning. Most people will use a garden hose and a simple cleaning solution to wash dirt and other material from their fence. A hose will be able to remove most of the marks and debris that are on your vinyl fence, but in the event that some remain, you might have to use a cleaning solution.

There are a variety of cleaning solutions you can use on a vinyl fence. They include:

Soap and water: The simplest way to clean a vinyl fence is often just with a little dish soap and water, along with a cleaning cloth or non-abrasive pad. You’d be surprised how much dirt and grime a little bit of soap can take off.
Bleach and water: If your vinyl fence has more stubborn stains, such as mud, grass stains, or mildew, you may need a stronger cleaner. A diluted mixture of bleach and water is an effective cleaner for stubborn stains on vinyl fences. Mix approximately 4 to 5 parts water to one part bleach, and then apply it to the fence using a cloth or non-abrasive scrubbing pad. Make sure to wear rubber or vinyl gloves while working with this cleaner, too, as bleach will quickly harm your skin. Also, if your fence is colored (as opposed to white) you will want to test an inconspicuous area of the fence first, to make sure the bleach will not affect the color.
Other cleaning solutions: Sometimes a vinyl fence gets stained by something that you can’t remove with simple household products. This can include tar, paint, wood stain, or driveway sealant. If you get any of these products on your vinyl fence, and you can’t get the stain out with household cleaners, give us a call and we’ll help you find a solution to get your fence back to top condition.

Power Washing a Vinyl Fence

Instead of using cleaning solutions, some people choose to use power washers or pressure washers to clean their fences and other outdoor equipment. In the right hands, a pressure washer can be a great way to save time and labor, but they also require considerable care. Improper use of a power washer can severely damage your fence.

To power wash a vinyl fence, you’ll want to choose a spray tip that has a wider, cone-shaped spray and a lower PSI, around 300 or so. If you use a higher pressure spray tip or too much water pressure, you run the risk of denting or cracking the vinyl. At that stage, the only option is to replace the damaged fence – not an ideal solution.

Remember also to not get too close to the fence as you’re washing. The ideal distance for using a pressure washer on a vinyl fence is about 3 feet between the nozzle and the fence. If you get too close, you could cause dangerously high pressures that could easily lead to damage. Keep a little distance and stay safe. If there are any areas that you can’t get to from further away, use a regular hose and some cleaning solution instead of risking damage to your fence.

How We Can Help!

Do you have more questions about care for your vinyl fence? Or perhaps you’d like to know how you can get one of these low-maintenance fences for yourself? Contact Future Outdoors located in Dallas, Texas to get the answers you need! We’re the number one provider of vinyl fences and structures in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, with years of experience helping customers get the right fence or shade structures for their homes. Our friendly representatives are waiting for your call!

Why Vinyl is Perfect for Pool Fences

Sun, 06 Apr 2014 19:42:20 GMT

With the weather warming up , chances are you’re getting ready to enjoy your swimming pool – or maybe you’re just starting to think about putting one in. But whether you’ve had your pool for years or it’s still in your dreams, a vinyl pool fence is the perfect way to keep your pool safe and secure.

Of all fencing types though, the kind that holds and displays its value the best is a quality vinyl fence. What makes vinyl superior to other types of fencing?

Do I Have To Have A Pull Fence?

According to Dallas law , every in-ground pool and any above-ground pool less than 48 inches tall must be completely surrounded by a fence. The law says nothing about what kind of fence you must-have, though. Whether you want it to be wood, metal, vinyl, or anything else, it’s OK as long as it meets the minimum requirements.

That isn’t to say that all pool fences are created equal – far from it. The fact of the matter is that vinyl fences offer superior durability and a longer lifespan than other kinds of fences, and they look better too.

Will Vinyl Hold Up?

Pool fences need to be durable. Unlike privacy fences and decorative garden fences, pool fences get a lot of abuse. We hang our towels on them, splash them with pool water, and open and shut the gates dozens of times a day. Your pool fence needs to be able to stand up to both constant use by you and your family, and constant exposure to sun, rain, and other weather.

That’s why vinyl is the perfect material for a pool fence. Unlike wood and metal, vinyl doesn’t deteriorate over time from exposure to the sun, rain, or normal use. Wood fences swell and shrink when they get wet or dry, and metal fences like chain-link can rust over time. Vinyl is the only product that keeps 100 percent of its strength for its entire lifespan.

Another advantage of vinyl is that it keeps its appearance just as well as it keeps its strength. Vinyl fencing doesn’t fade in the sun, doesn’t stain from water or rust, and doesn’t need to be painted or otherwise protected. This makes it great for pool fencing – after all, you already have enough maintenance to worry about with taking care of the pool itself. Why would you want to add your fence to that list?

How We Can Help!

At Future Outdoors, we can install a great, high-quality vinyl pool fence in your yard at the lowest prices you’ll find anywhere in the greater Dallas area. All of our pool fences feature code-specified safety features including self-closing and self-locking doors and correct height and spacing requirements. Plus, they’re far stronger and more durable than wood or metal fences, meaning once you have them you’ll have them forever! Call Future Outdoors located in Dallas, Texas today to get a free quote on your vinyl pool fence, or follow us on Facebook for updates and special offers.

Vinyl Ranch Rail Fence – The Best Choice for Your Farm or Ranch

Thu, 13 Mar 2014 19:06:08 GMT

Livestock owners know the importance of a decent fence. If you have cows, horses, or other animals on your ranch, it’s vital your fence is able to stand up to years of use and abuse. After all, a poorly constructed or broken fence could cause a massive loss, both in repair costs and veterinary bills for injured animals. That’s why vinyl fencing is the best choice for your ranch or farm.

Vinyl is more durable than wood. A vinyl fence doesn’t absorb water, doesn’t bend or warp in the heat or cold, and doesn’t rot as wood does. Wood fences can’t compete with vinyl in terms of durability, and they need much more maintenance over their lifespans, such as regular painting, staining, or sealing to avoid water and sun damage. This makes them much more costly to maintain over a long period of time.

Vinyl is also superior to wire fences, the most common type of ranch fencing. Though wire is cheap, it breaks easily, meaning you have to devote large chunks of time to monitoring and repairing your fence line. Plus, animals can easily become tangled or cut themselves on barbed wire, increasing the chance of injuries.

With vinyl rail fencing, you never need to worry about a stain, paint, or other treatments, and you encounter a much lower chance of injury to animals. The vinyl fence is ready to install right off the truck, and it stays the same for as long as you use it – no warping, stretching, or other problems. Plus, vinyl fences are much more visible than wire, making it less likely your animals will harm themselves. You avoid losing functionality in your fence due to exposure, and you get a classic, traditional look for your ranch. And with vinyl, you get to enjoy that look for as long as you have the fence.

Vinyl Vs. Wood

Vinyl ranch rail fence is also stronger than wood or wire, making it particularly good for standing up to adverse conditions. With four times the tensile strength of wood and five times the flexibility, vinyl ranch rail fencing can handle strong winds, hail, debris, and abuse from animals as well. With wood rail fencing, split beams and damage are common, which can detract from both the usefulness and the appearance of your fence (and your ranch). Meanwhile, a wire can break, and the wooden posts are susceptible to the same problems as a wooden fence. Vinyl fences have none of these issues

Detractors will tell you that wood or wire fences are easier to fix than vinyl in the event of serious damage, or that vinyl will fade and crack as it ages, or that it’s too expensive to be useful. But with modern vinyl ranch rail fences, these complaints hold no water. Modern vinyl fencing is made with a high quantity of UV inhibitors to protect it from the sun, and the modular fencing panels make fixing damage a breeze. And while vinyl is more expensive, it pays for itself in lower maintenance and less frequent damage.

How We Can Help!

In short, vinyl ranch rail fencing is the best option for a ranch or farm in nearly every case. And if you want the highest quality vinyl fence for your property, you need to contact Future Outdoors located in Dallas, Texas . We’re the number one vinyl fence contractor in the Dallas metro, and we would love to show you how a vinyl fence can give you years of reliability and performance. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about our vinyl fencing options, or follow us on Facebook to get special deals and updates!

How Does Fencing Affect Home Value?

Thu, 27 Feb 2014 18:34:55 GMT

Spring is the most popular time of the year for home sales. If you’re looking for simple ways to boost your home’s curb appeal before you sell, there are plenty of things you can do. One of the most popular improvements you can make to boost the value of your home is to add a vinyl fence around your property.

Of all fencing types though, the kind that holds and displays its value the best is a quality vinyl fence. What makes vinyl superior to other types of fencing?

Why Vinyl?

First, vinyl is more versatile than other types of fencing. Vinyl fences can be used in every way a traditional wood fence can, but you can also use them in locations where wood would rot or deteriorate quickly, such as areas with lots of sun or rain. Vinyl handles adverse weather better than wood does in every circumstance.

Is Vinyl Stronger Than Wood?

Vinyl is also stronger than wood fence. Because it has higher tensile strength and greater flexibility, it stands up to wind and debris better than wood. A vinyl fence won’t chip or break from a hailstorm, and you can safely use your weed eater right along the side.

Because vinyl fences are stronger than wood, a vinyl fence keeps its original appearance much longer than wood fences do. Vinyl fences never need to be stained, painted, or treated – they keep the same look even after years in your yard. Many vinyl fence products come with lifetime warranties. Try finding the same offer on a wooden fence.

All of these factors combine to create a product that is attractive, durable, and an excellent overall value. When you put a vinyl fence on your property, that value transfers to the property itself – some estimates say that a well-built vinyl fence can add thousands of dollars of value to your home.

How We Can Help!

Future Outdoors located In Dallas Texas is the number one provider of vinyl fencing products in the DFW metroplex. If you’re interested in learning more about our vinyl fences, or you want a quote for your home, call us today. You can also follow us on Facebook for updates and special offers!

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Vinyl Fence Installation in Dallas, TX & Surrounding Areas

What Makes a Vinyl Fence Company the Best in DFW?

1. Proven Experience in North Texas

2. High-Quality Vinyl Materials That Last

3. Expert Installation Matters More Than You Think

4. Experienced Crews You Can Trust

5. Custom Vinyl Fencing (Not One-Size-Fits-All)

Why Homeowners in DFW Are Choosing Vinyl Fencing Across

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Preparing Your Vinyl Fence for Winter in North Texas

Winter Prep Guide: Protecting Your Vinyl Fence in North Texas

1. Inspect Your Fence Before the First Freeze ﻿

2. Clean Off Dirt, Red Clay, and Mildew

How to clean your vinyl fence:

3. Trim Back Trees & Shrubs Before Ice Storms

4. Check Gate Hardware (Freezing Temperatures Matter!)

Make sure to check:

5. Make Sure Soil Around Posts Is Stable

To prevent issues:

6. Remove Heavy Objects Leaning Against the Fence

7. Schedule Professional Repairs Before Winter Weather Arrives

Why Vinyl Fencing Performs So Well in Texas Winters ﻿

A Little Prep Goes a Long Way

Why to Hire Professionals to Install Your Vinyl Fence

Why to Hire Professionals to Install Your Vinyl Fence

A Guide To Creating The Perfect Backyard In Dallas For 2020

Table of Contents

How Do I Get My Yard Ready For The Summer?

Raking:

Tree Trimming:

Weeding:

Plant A New Tree: ﻿

Refresh your Fence:

Providing a Focal Point For Your Yard ﻿

5 Things to Consider Before Installing a Vinyl Deck

1. How Do You Want to Use Your Deck?

2. Do You Need a Permit?

3. Where Will You Build Your Deck?

4. Will You Need to Landscape Before Building Your Deck?

5. What is Your Budget?

Building The Perfect Deck

Should I Use Wood Or Vinyl for My Deck?

The Benefit of Vinyl Decks

Choosing a Look for Your Deck

Getting Quotes for Your Deck

Choosing a Shade Structure

What Are My Landscape Opportunities?

The Final Step

5 Things to Consider When Buying a Pergola

Materials

Size

Location ﻿

Design

Installation

Call Future Outdoors Today

How Do I Know if a Fence is Priced Right?

What’s In a Quote

Fence Types and Costs

Labor and Other Costs

Getting a Good Deal on a New Fence

Call Future Outdoors Today for Quality Fence in Dallas

Should I Build a New Fence Before I Sell My House?

How a Fence Affects Home Value

Why Vinyl Fence is Great for Home Sales

Transferable Warranty

Curb Appeal

Long-Lasting Value

Call Future Outdoors Today to Learn More ﻿

Gazebos and Pergolas: Which One is Right for You?

Comparing Gazebos and Pergolas

Vinyl Gazebos

Vinyl Pergolas

Which One is Right for You?

Should Your Vinyl Fence Be On Your Property Line?

Texas Law and Property Lines

How to Stay Safe With Fence Installation

1. Inspect Your Fence Before the First Freeze

Why Vinyl Fencing Performs So Well in Texas Winters

Plant A New Tree:

Providing a Focal Point For Your Yard

Location

Call Future Outdoors Today to Learn More

Step 1: Clean Up