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10. 21. 22

Home Maintenance Checklist for Winter

Posted in: Uncategorized

Ready or not, here winter comes! Autumn is in full swing and before you know it, the snow will begin to fall. Right now is the perfect time to prepare your home for the colder months. If you are unsure of where to begin with winter home maintenance, look no further. We have taken the time to create a checklist for you to consider when thinking about your home winter prep: 

Check your heating system 

How well do you maintain your heating and cooling system? The typical lifespan of these systems can range anywhere from 10 to 20 years. The life of your heating and AC unit relies on how well your systems are maintained. A great way to prolong the life of your heating system is to replace the filters before the weather gets too cold. This would also be a great time to have an HVAC contractor check your heater to ensure it will run properly all winter. While annual HVAC checks are not required, they are recommended as a resourceful way to stay updated on the life of your system.  

Insulate 

Insulating your home plays an important role in keeping your house warm for the winter season. This is because insulation acts as a barrier to keep the cold air outside and reduces its ability to be able to find a way inside. If your home is able to resist the cold air outside and keep the heated air in, this will also benefit you financially. Since your HVAC system will not have to work as hard, or frequently, to keep the temperature in your house regulated, you will see a decrease in the cost of your energy bill. This will not only benefit you for winter but will be useful for summer when you want to keep your home cool during the hot months. 

Clean your gutters 

Gutters are often neglected when it comes to winter home prep. It is common for leaves, pine needles, and other debris to get stuck in your gutters throughout the fall. Clogged gutters are a recipe for disaster as they can cause water to back up and flood out, which damages the exterior of your house. This will cause your exterior to deteriorate quickly, creating all kinds of problems that you will not want to deal with. Save yourself the headache (and money!) by cleaning out those gutters. 

 

Prepare for your snow removal plans 

Have a game plan ready for snow removal. By the time the first snow hits, the last thing you will want to worry about is not being prepared with the right equipment. Make sure you are stocked up with your winter tools and snow removal essentials.  

We know you will be prepared, but if you do find yourself caught in the snow without a way to escape, give us a call! We are happy to provide snow removal services. We offer hand shoveling for roofs, decks patios, and pathways, as well as snowblower and bobcat work for sidewalks, driveways, and roads.  

Caulk around windows and doors 

Caulking is a waterproof filler that is used to seal cracks and gaps. Doors and windows are a sneaky spots that the outside air likes to creep in, but you can beat it before it has a chance by sealing up any trouble spots. A good rule of thumb for this is that if the gap is bigger than the width of a nickel, it needs to be sealed with caulk. 

Turn off exterior pipes and faucets 

Make sure all of your exterior pipes and faucets are shut off. Most faucets are exposed and unprotected outside, which makes them vulnerable to freezing. This can cause splits, and leaking, and could lead to further damage that you will not want to deal with, especially in cold weather. It is beneficial to make sure that the pipes are completely drained and turned off ahead of time before the temperature outside drops too low. 

By the time you get through this checklist, you will be able to relax with a hot cocoa, knowing that you are more prepared for this winter. 

But don’t forget…if it gets deep, we will dig you out!  

Phone: (541) 647-7086 

Email: info@bendfenceanddeck.com 

www.bendfenceanddeck.com 

10. 03. 22

Fencing for Farms & Ranches

Posted in: Uncategorized

Central Oregon has tons of beautiful, vast high desert land for ranches and farming, making it a popular place to settle down. Of course, our minds go straight to fencing when it comes to protecting these expansive properties as having a quality fence can help divide land, improve overall appearance, and keep livestock or crops in secure spaces.

There are many different types and styles when it comes to farm and ranch fencing ranging from simple, practical wire enclosures to more permanent, natural wood installations. If you’re thinking about adding a fence to your property, you’ve come to the right place, it’s time to start planning! Here are a few of the most popular types of farm and ranch fencing:

 

Woven Wire Fencing is suitable for containing livestock and keeping predators out. It can be coated to withstand the fluctuating seasons and can vary in width and height.

 

Welded Wire Fencing is similar but more durable than woven wire, made from thick wires that are welded together to provide maximum strength.

 

Electric Fencing is usually used to keep livestock in or predators out. Keep in mind that you will need a power source or solar energy to utilize this type of fence.

 

Barbed Wire Fencing is durable and great for various types of livestock containment. Be sure to choose a galvanized coating to keep your fence sturdy and strong during the colder months.

Tube Gates are great for pastures and spaces between them. They can also suffice as enclosures for herds.

 

Horse Fencing requires time and planning as it needs to be strong enough to prevent horses from escaping or damaging your fence. Wooden builds are both visible to horses and can last a long time on your farm or ranch.

 

Cattle Fencing must be tall and daunting which is why wire is commonly used. Barbed wire or electric fences are appropriate options when meeting these desired needs.

 

Deer Fencing is necessary in most of Central Oregon as they are often found grazing. In these cases, you want a sturdy fence that is mostly invisible when deer approach it. Mesh or wire are great options, and don’t forget to pay attention to the size of the openings to avoid deer getting tangled or caught on your property.

Our team can help you get started! Whether you’re gathering information or ready to get your project rolling, we have the experience and knowledge to steer you in the right direction.

 

We specialize in premier fencing, offering custom designed projects for residential and commercial properties. We can design a great looking fence for any space with a variety of materials and styles. On top of that, we always strive to and will work with you to complete every project on a realistic timeline, within your desired budget.

 

  • Cedar & Wood Fences
  • Vinyl Fencing
  • Horizontal & Decorative
  • Fences
  • Ranch Fencing
  • Chain Link Fencing
  • Gates and Lattice
  • Wrought Iron
  • Residential and Commercial

 

 

We’ve done it all! Contact us for all your farm and ranch fencing needs!

 

Phone:
(541) 647-7086

 

Email:

info@bendfenceanddeck.com

www.bendfenceanddeck.com

09. 08. 22

Get Your Outdoor Space Ready for Fall

Posted in: Uncategorized

The trees are starting to change color and while you may still be holding onto warm summer days, now is the perfect time to prep your property for some cold, wet weather. The last weeks of summer are a great time to do some landscaping, yard clean-up, and annual maintenance around your home. Here are some items to add to your to-do list before the weather turns!

Decks: The type of maintenance needed to prepare for fall and winter will depend on the type of deck you have. Follow these tips to keep things looking good through the colder months!

  • Wooden Decks: We recommend a careful inspection of your deck for signs of fading, peeling, or rot. If these issues aren’t taken care of, they will be much worse in the spring. Wooden decks generally require sanding and staining/painting every 2-5 years. Fall is a great time to get this taken care of so your deck can withstand rain and ice. Replace any rotten or warped boards to further prolong the life of your deck. With careful maintenance, a cedar deck can be expected to last 10 – 30 years before needing any major repairs. 
  • Composite Decks: We recommend a semi-annual low pressure wash. Composite decks are extremely durable and don’t require any other maintenance other than cleaning twice a year. These decks are made of durable, long lasting materials that can be buried in snow for the winter and still look good as new in the spring. You will be able to enjoy your Trex composite deck for up to 50 years before needing to replace it.

If your deck is beyond needing a little seasonal maintenance, reach out to us for help with repairs and installs. We are certified TrexPro® and TimberTech® Elite Installers, and have extensive knowledge about and experience with these products and how to install them.

Landscaping: Cleaning up your yard and surrounding landscaping before autumn hits is a great way to make sure it comes back great in the Spring. You’ll want to trim bushes and branches away from your house, your deck, and any other structures on your property. Pulling weeds and removing any excess debris are great tasks to check off as well.

Fencing: As you work on your landscaping, keep an eye out for areas along your fence line that may need attention. If boards are loose or posts are wobbly, you’ll want to get them fixed before the snow starts piling up on and around the structure. We can help with any needed repairs or a fresh install if you’re looking to add a new fence or replace your existing one. As Bend, Oregon’s premier fencing contractor, we can design a great looking fence for any space with a variety of materials and styles. We offer cedar, vinyl, ranch fencing, chain link, gates, lattices, wrought iron, and more. We’ll work with you to create a design that fits your style and budget.

Home Exterior: The outside of your home is just as important as the inside. Keep things looking great through the end of the season by checking on these important items.

  • Gutters: As the leaves start to fall, you may end up with a big job to do on a cold November day. Start clearing them out now and stay on top of it for the next couple of months to avoid a big clean-up project.
  • Windows: Take some time to examine your windows as well. You’ll want to make sure everything is sealed tight before the temperatures drop. Energy-efficient windows can save you between $126–$465 a year on your power bill, so if you’d like to have any or all of them replaced, we can help! We have lots of styles to choose from to keep the cold air out on crisp winter nights.
  • Siding: Summer sun and winter storms can take a toll on the siding of your home. As you work on your maintenance projects, look out for areas that may need replacing. Siding can either make or break the overall appearance of a house. Faded, warped, and buckled siding are all signs of needed repair. We have over 25 years of construction experience in the Central Oregon area and we understand the climate, which is a key factor when deciding what type of siding is best for your home. Give us a call if you notice any spots that need to be fixed!

Keep enjoying those warm summer nights on the deck or patio, you’ll have earned it after taking care of all these projects! If you want us to take any work off your plate, don’t hesitate to reach out and contact us for a quote!

Phone: (541) 647-7086

Email: info@bendfenceanddeck.com

07. 29. 22

Our Pick- Trex® Decking

Posted in: Uncategorized

If you think it’s too late to plan for your own outdoor area with a beautiful custom deck, think again! In our eyes, decks can be enjoyed all year round here in Central Oregon and so long as you’re on the books before the winter comes, we’ll be sure to complete the deck of your dreams.

 

We work with a variety of decking materials including concrete, wood and composite. We are certified TrexPro® and TimberTech® Elite Installers which means we understand the products and are very knowledgeable about composite decks and how to install them correctly.

 

Composite decking is great because not only does it look the part, but it is also low maintenance and easy to install. Say goodbye to rot and splints and forget about the wait, we’ll have that deck up in no time.

 

We recommend Trex composite decking to our customers all the time. Sustainably manufactured, and high-performance, Trex is the go-to brand for custom, long-lasting satisfaction. Choose your colors, add a wood-like finish, and decide on size and shape. This decking is versatile and perfect for all of our varying Central Oregon seasons.

 PHOTO CREDIT: @deckmasters_fargo

 

With over 25 years of experience and hundreds of decks built throughout Central Oregon and the surrounding areas, we are your local deck experts and if you read our last blog, you’ll see that not only do we help with new deck design, but we can also restore or replace those older builds you may not be so fond of.

 

Let’s revisit the most common signs your deck may need an upgrade:

 

  • Visible damage
  • Rust
  • Rotting wood
  • Lifted boards
  • Loose railings
 

 

If you notice any of these things happening to your deck, feel free to reach out to us for a consultation, we’d be happy to steer you in the right direction.

 

With Trex decks, you won’t have to worry about the same deterioration that you experience with wood AND you’re doing your part in picking more environmentally friendly products for your space. Trex composite decks are made up almost entirely of the combination of reclaimed wood and recycled plastic film. Ease your mind knowing your deck is certified green and highly durable at the same time!

 Photo Credit: @a.place.in.the.garden

Of course we’re all about Trex decking these days but if that’s not entirely your style, we’ve got you covered. We’re also well versed in:

 

  • Cedar and Red Wood Decks
  • Paver Patios
  • Ranch Fencing
  • Multi-Level Decks & Stairs
  • Cable Railings
  • Glass Panels

 

Whatever your vision, we can make it a reality. Let’s get inspired! Contact us today about your custom deck!

 

Phone: (541) 647-7086

Email: info@bendfenceanddeck.com 

06. 28. 22

Reading the Signs: Is it Time to Replace Your Deck?

Posted in: Uncategorized

It’s that time of year when everyone is getting out of their barbecues, relaxing outside, and enjoying the beautiful Central Oregon Summer. There’s nothing like a great outdoor space that allows you to enjoy a warm evening in the sun. Are you noticing some signs of wear and tear as you set up your patio furniture? We get this question a lot: How do I know when it’s time to replace my deck? It’s important to do regular inspections to make sure nothing needs fixing. Here are the top signs to look out for:

Visible Damage. Many things can cause damage to your deck. Weather, insects, and use over time to name a few. Examine all areas to check for any major signs of wear and tear. If you see any large cracks or boards that are broken, it’s definitely time to consider replacing the wood in those areas. In some cases, you may have enough damage to consider replacing the entire structure.

Lifted Boards. Your deck should feel solid and secure. When boards begin to bow and lift, things may start to wobble and feel unstable. This can also create tripping hazards which become a liability for you. This can be caused by water, the age of your deck, and even insects, so pay special attention to the condition of your boards. Be sure to check the joists as well.

Loose Railings. This is a major safety concern that shouldn’t be ignored. Railings prevent falls, and yours should be safe and secure at all times. Especially if your deck sits on any kind of ledge or overlook. Also, check railings along stairs for any issues. Many people need these railings to aid them upstairs, so they need to be sturdy enough to support someone.

Rotting Wood. This one can be tricky as rot is often more prevalent than it appears. When inspecting your deck, look closely at suspected areas to see if the rot goes deeper than it looks on the surface. Rot travels fast and you’ll want to address it as soon as possible. The structure of your entire deck may be at risk. If it spreads far enough, you may need a full replacement. We’ll help you inspect the issue and can share some more weather-proof alternatives you may want to consider.

Rust. You may have to go underneath your deck to examine the hardware. Here you’re looking for anything that might be rusted, loose, or missing. You’re more likely to find this kind of damage if your deck is older. Be sure to fix it promptly as missing or damaged hardware can compromise the safety of your deck. 

If you notice any of the items above, it might be time to consider getting the affected areas repaired or replaced. A new deck is definitely a financial investment, but the safety concern of a failing deck makes for money well spent. We can help you decide what options would best fit your needs and what options you may want to consider to extend the life of your new or existing deck so you can avoid future damage.

Bend Fence and Deck work with a variety of decking materials including concrete, wood, and composite. We have the knowledge and certifications required to have a solid understanding of each material and how it could be beneficial for you. Here are the options you may want to consider for your project:

  • Cedar and Redwood Decks

  • Composite Decks from Trex and TimberTech

  • Paver Patios

  • Multi-Level Decks & Stairs

  • Cable Railings

  • Glass Panels

Don’t miss out on a summer making memories in your beautiful outdoor space! We’d love to help you get things fixed up so your family can continue to safely enjoy their time outside. Let us know how we can help!

Contact Us!

Phone: (541) 647-7086

Email: info@bendfenceanddeck.com 

05. 10. 22

Outdoor Living- Backyard Design

Posted in: Just for Fun, Uncategorized

When it comes to backyard design, we’ve seen it all. From pergolas to pavilions, fire pits, to built-in BBQ’s, we’ve helped many of our customers create beautiful and functional backyard spaces to suit their needs. Outside of premium fencing, deck design and installation, window replacement, and siding repair, we specialize in stunning outdoor design. And with Central Oregon roots, we know how important that fresh air can be! So, what does your dream backyard look like? Are you picturing a pool deck? What about a beautiful gazebo? Or imagine an outdoor kitchen! If you can dream it, we can build it. Our local team has over 25 years of combined experience improving backyards and homes and we are passionate about every project we take on. We love all the things the great outdoors has to offer- especially at home. Now let’s start dreaming!

Bring The Fun Outside With An Outdoor Kitchen

 It’s the perfect time of year to prep your home for the warmer months, and this includes your backyard. Why not bring the fun outside this summer with an outdoor kitchen? As outdoor kitchens become more and more popular in Central Oregon, adding one to your home can be a great investment! Say goodbye to basic built-in BBQ’s and hello to granite countertops, high-end appliances, and even wood-fired pizza ovens! You name it, we can make it happen. Let’s take a look at some other benefits of this unique backyard addition.

 

Cheaper energy bills. Keeping your home cool in the summer can be expensive. Entering and exiting your home and even cooking can bring in extra heat, causing your air conditioner to work harder and thus, raising your energy bill. But prepping and cooking your meals outside can help you keep the cool air in and the warm air out. So why not save some money and enjoy the outdoors?!

 

Perfect for entertaining. Outdoor kitchens are a luxury your friends and family will be excited to enjoy! Bring a more interactive element to your next dinner party or BBQ with a common space outside for cooking and mingling. No separation of space, no crowded kitchens, entertain your guests in a space they won’t find anywhere else. Add some string lights and even a firepit for even more evening fun.

 

Keep smoke and cooking smells outside. Smoke and unpleasant cooking smells are common but that doesn’t mean you have to put up with them year-round. Skip the smells and cook your meals outside! Your friends and family will thank you.

 

Add value to your home. Outdoor kitchens are investment, making your home more alluring if you ever decide to sell. Who wouldn’t be drawn to built-in space to utilize and share? The higher quality appliances and features you include the higher rate of return on investment. People are always searching for that “wow factor”, and this is a perfect way to make your home stand out.

 

Expand your space. Expand your living and entertaining space into the backyard. You can combine an outdoor kitchen with comfortable patio furniture, dining sets, and stunning garden or landscape design. Create the atmosphere of your dreams and expand the space your home already has to offer!

Need some design inspiration for your backyard kitchen? Just give us a call and we’d be happy to come out to your property to discuss your ideas and maybe even offer up some suggestions that you hadn’t considered like your budget, size of your space, materials, equipment, city codes, and maintenance. 

Design ideas and add-ons:

 

-Outdoor or open-concept bars

-Built-in BBQs or grills

-Urban farms

-Colorful backsplashes

-Natural materials

-High-end appliances

-Hot tubs

-Pavilions or pergolas

-Fireplaces or firepits

 

The possibilities are endless!

 

Although Central Oregon is not known for long lasting summers, we do know how to appreciate the outdoors, no matter what season it is! Backyard kitchens are an awesome way to enjoy your yard and the meals you share at the same time!

 

Let’s get in touch about your home’s backyard design! Our calendar is filling up quickly!

 

Phone:

(541) 647-7086

 

Email:

info@bendfenceanddeck.com