Benefits of Fence Gates for Wooded Areas

July 16, 2020

If your backyard connects to a wooded area, your fence may create a barrier between the lawn and the woods. Instead of permanently blocking the space, consider a fence gate.


The gate installation will become a natural part of the fence and provide a lot of benefits for your backyard space. Learn about the benefits and how to make the most of a new gate installation.


Yard Debris and Dumping When you mow, rake, and clean up your lawn, you need an easy location to dump natural debris. If you just toss items over a fence, you could create a bigger mess and possibly damage the fence with larger sticks and brush.


A fence gate will give you easy access to the wooded area so you can create an organized brush pile. A wide gate gives you enough space to roll a wheelbarrow through and carry large piles of brush. After you mow the lawn, a gate gives you easy options to dump grass trimmings and keep them off the lawn.


In the winter, a backyard gate provides easy access if you need to dispose of a real Christmas tree. When the brush pile gets too big, you can easily walk through the gate to organize the items and spread out the brush.


Ball Retrieval If you have children at your home, you may often deal with Wiffle balls, kick balls, and other toys flying over the backyard fence. Without a gate, you would have to walk all the way around the outside of the fence and back again to retrieve the balls.


With a fence gate, you can easily go behind the fence, retrieve balls, and return back to the fence again. If you want to keep the access limited to adults, consider a fence gate with a secure lock attachment. A combination lock allows you to unlock the gate without the need to carry a key each time.


Nature Walks A wooded area in your backyard does not have to be permanently blocked off. A gated entry gives you the chance to access the woods for nature walks. Explore areas between trees and have a nice shaded area to enjoy the outdoors. A nature walk comes with multiple benefits, including an increase of happiness and reduction of stress.


You can create small trails that go directly from the back gate and into the woods. The trail will give you an ideal starting point so you know exactly where to go each time you enter the woods.


The wooded area also provides an ideal place to walk dogs. Instead of soiling on your lawn, you can take a dog through the wooded area to help protect your grass and landscaping. Dog urine often kills grass, so by changing routine for the dog, your grass will remain lively and protected.
Future Expansion A gate gives you easy access to a wooded area for future expansion. For example, you could clear out a few trees and create a garden area beyond the gate. You could use the space for a small storage shed so you do not have to take up extra space on your lawn.
Eventually, you could take the gate off, expand the fencing outward and increase the size of your lawn. With a gate already installed, you will not need to make any major upgrades to the fence you have installed. You can keep the space open for the future and make different plans to fit your visions as they come.


We will help you plan out your gate installation at Duke Fence Co., Inc. Not only can we install gates, but we will help you install whole fences around your property. Contact us to learn about gate styles to help match your backyard and landscape.

By Duke Fence June 23, 2025
Are you looking to upgrade your property’s curb appeal and security? If so, finding the perfect fencing solution is crucial. As the leading fence company in Indianapolis, IN, Duke Fence Co. Inc. offers a variety of high-quality fencing options that cater to homeowners, gardeners, and landscape enthusiasts. With years of experience, we are committed to delivering fencing solutions that meet your unique needs and enhance the beauty of your property. Wood Fencing Wood fencing remains a popular choice for many Indianapolis homeowners due to its timeless appeal and versatility. At Duke Fence Co. Inc., we offer various styles, including picket, privacy, and split rail fences. Each style adds a distinct charm to your landscape, making wood an ideal choice for those who appreciate a classic aesthetic. Additionally, you can customize it with different stains and paint colors to fit your vision perfectly. Whether you want a rustic look or a clean, modern design, wood fences can be tailored to your preferences. This is why we’re the go-to fence company in Indianapolis, IN , for wood fencing solutions. Vinyl Fencing For those who desire a low-maintenance alternative without sacrificing style or durability, vinyl fencing is an excellent option. Duke Fence Co. Inc. provides a range of vinyl fencing solutions that are not only weather-resistant but also incredibly easy to maintain. Vinyl fences do not need painting or staining and are resistant to pests and rot, making them a practical choice for busy homeowners. Available in various styles and colors, vinyl fences can complement the most creative landscape designs. No wonder why we’re considered one of the leading fencing companies in Indianapolis, IN, when it comes to vinyl fences. Chain Link Fencing Chain-link fencing is known for its affordability, durability, and effectiveness in providing security. Ideal for both residential and commercial properties in Indianapolis, this fencing style is perfect for those who need a robust utility fence. While it might not offer as much privacy as wood or vinyl, chain-link fences can be fitted with slats for added privacy and aesthetic appeal. Duke Fence Co. Inc. ensures that our chain-link fences are built to last, using high-quality materials that withstand harsh weather conditions. Again, for those searching for a reliable fence company in Indianapolis, IN, Duke Fence Co. Inc. is the name to trust. Ornamental Iron Fencing If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your property, ornamental iron fencing is the way to go. These fences are not only visually striking but also incredibly durable. At Duke Fence Co. Inc., we offer beautifully crafted ornamental iron fences that provide both security and aesthetic value. They can be customized with intricate designs, adding unique character and an upscale look to any home or garden. Get Started With Your Dream Fence Today! Ready to enhance your home’s landscape? Contact Duke Fence Co. Inc. today at  (317) 356-3644  to discuss your fencing needs and get a free quote. For the best fence company in Indianapolis, IN, trust Duke Fence Co. Inc. to deliver quality and excellence every time
February 10, 2025
When it comes to improving your property’s security, privacy, and aesthetic appeal, selecting the right fence business in Indianapolis, IN, is essential. A local company brings unparalleled expertise, personalized service, and the convenience of working with professionals who understand your community's unique needs.
By Duke Fence December 26, 2024
Choosing the right fence material for your property is essential, whether you're prioritizing privacy, security, or enhancing curb appeal. As a leading fence company in Indianapolis, IN, Duke Fence Co., Inc. helps homeowners and businesses alike find fencing solutions tailored to their needs. Below, we discuss popular fencing materials and their unique benefits, ensuring you make an informed decision when investing in your property’s protection and aesthetics.
July 17, 2020
One of the main uses for a pool fence is for safety. The fence helps keep young children away from the pool area, along with wild animals and pets. When you choose a new pool fence installation, the fence design may go beyond just safety. The fence you choose could have multiple uses for your pool and the poolside area. Learn about some of the practical uses and ways to get the most out of your pool fence installation. 1. Fence Hooks If you choose a steel or iron fence to surround your pool, you can use the strength of the fence to install hanging hooks. You could either install permanent hooks that are welded directly to the fence or select removable hooks so you can move or adjust them later. The hooks will help your pool stay organized. For example, you could hang pool floats on the hooks. Without direct contact with the ground, you will protect the floats from holes, rips, or air leaks. The hook will also secure pool floats from blowing away on windy days. Fence hooks also allow you to organize pool care items. For example, if you have a pool skimmer, two distanced hooks could hold a skimmer in place as it lies horizontally across the hooks. The hooks supply you with a lot of practical uses, which you can try out and learn the more you use the pool. 2. Pool Lights Enjoy your pool area at night with the use of fence lights. Solar powered fence post lights sit on top of fences. Both wooden and PVC fences are ideal for lights, as each design could feature large posts. If you seek a lot of light, consider more posts in your fence design. The lights will help illuminate the area if you decide to enjoy a night swim or just enjoy hanging out by the water under the stars. Along with the post lights, many fence styles support the installation of LED strip lights. The lights run across the length of a fence and provide extra illumination. As you plan out the lights, consider solar or battery powered lights so you do not need to run electrical cords to your home or to an exterior outlet. 3. Cabana Area A pool cabana is a popular place to lay out on pool furniture, enjoy some shade, and relax. Along with a general perimeter fence, add two walls on the inside of the fence to create the closed off cabana area. Solid fences will create an ideal cabana area. A large umbrella, cloth draping, or overhead shade sail will help block out the sun and create the private cabana feel. The large fenced-in walls also help block out wind and allow you to enjoy food and drinks. Set up a small table for food items. You could also have a small area for a television or portable device to enjoy movies, TV shows, and music while you hang out in the cabana. 4. Pool Garden Add a natural element to your pool design with gardens placed around your pool. Fences provide an ideal backdrop for gardens, and you have multiple options to choose from. A wooden fence provides a rustic finish, which matches many traditional garden designs. A chain link fence installation gives you the option to grow vine plants and flowers all the way up the whole fence. A white PVC fence installation allows flowers and plants to stand out against the bright background. The posts used on fences allow you to add a symmetrical look to the garden. For example, you could plant a small tree or bush at every post and place smaller flower plants between the posts. The end result is a beautiful look that compliments the pool area. Plan out your pool fence design with our experts at Duke Fence Co., Inc . We have installed all kinds of backyard fences and will help make your vision become a reality for your backyard oasis.
May 13, 2020
Typically, we view fences as a way to add a barrier to the perimeter of a lawn, but you are not just limited to a bordered design. Learn how you can use some creative design options to split up areas in your backyard or for more functional reasons. 1. Dog Runners A dog runner fence installation creates a long and narrow path exclusively for any dogs you own in the house. A dog runner not only prevents your pet from escaping the property but also adds a contained area for the dog's needs. This area is especially useful because when a dog urinates on the lawn, the liquid may actually kill the grass on your property. With a dog runner, you could train your dog to only urinate in the runner area and keep the rest of the lawn in immaculate condition. The runner also keeps your dog from developing other habits. For example, if your dog likes to dig into the grass and dirt, limit those activities to the fenced-in area. Additionally, you can make dog runners any shape you want too. For example, you could have the runner turn and have the space shaped like the letter "L" to give dogs more room to roam and explore. 2. Garden Areas Create a specific area of your lawn dedicated to a garden you grow. A fence not only helps protect the area from critters like rabbits but also adds a nice design feature to the garden. For example, you could have a small gate installed on the garden. You may paint the gate with colors and designs to match the plant and flower colors; a garden gate would also keep children out of the garden. You could use shorter fences so plants are still visible outside the garden or use larger fence installations. Once you enter the garden, you will have a private area to plant, grow, and relax within the confines of the fence. The fence design could shape around the garden or encompass a larger space. For example, you could leave a few feet of room beyond the garden area on the inside of the fence. Then you could use the extra space to build a garden path or walkway around the whole garden. 3. Recreational Courts If your property has a basketball court, tennis court, or other play area, consider putting a fence around the area. When you play games, the fence will keep the activities contained within the area. You will not need to chase balls away and constantly delay a game when the balls go far or become lost. On personal property, you may have a limit on the height of your fence, but you can request the tallest fence possible around the areas. Chain link is common for recreational areas, but you may choose from other materials like wood fence options. 4. Storage Areas Use small sections of a fence to separate little areas of a yard. For example, you could have a small area with three fenced-in sides and an open side. Use the area to storage garbage bins, compost bins, lawn mowers, or backyard toys and equipment. The area will keep the backyard organized and less cluttered. You could even choose to put a gate on the open side of the area to prevent easy access. For example, if you do not want children near the lawn mower, a locked gate provides extra protection for your items. For more information on fence installations, contact us at Duke Fence Co. , Inc. We have years of experience and will help you design fences for your property.
April 15, 2020
Many landlords decide to add a fence to a rental property because it affords them more tenant options. You'll have similar considerations in your choice of fence for a rental property compared to your residence. Obviously, you want an attractive fence that adds value to the house. That said, you don't want too elaborate of a fence, nor one that requires much maintenance. Below is a list of fences that can benefit your rental property. https://www.dukefence.com/fencing-products Aluminum fencing would be an upscale choice for a rental property. It's not the most expensive type of fencing, but it's about mid-range. Aluminum fences resemble wrought iron, so this type of fence would be ideal if your rental house is in a relatively affluent part of town. While aluminum fences resemble wrought iron, manufacturers construct them differently. They start with sheets of aluminum that they shape into tubes. They offer aluminum fences as preassembled panels or as kits to assemble on-site, and these fences are held together with screws. Though discerning eyes may see the screwheads and surmise the fence isn't wrought iron, an aluminum fence still presents an elegant profile that will elevate the appearance of your property. These fences are light but sturdy. What's more, they require very little maintenance and never rust. 2. Vinyl Vinyl fences are about one step down on the price scale from aluminum, though their price points can overlap. Vinyl also resembles another material - in this case, wood. The styles range from picket to privacy fencing, so you can accommodate any style of house. Manufacturers construct the fence panels out of polyvinyl chloride. They come as a whole panel with hollow posts, which the contractors slide down over wooden fence posts sunk into concrete footing. Except for the most expensive models, vinyl doesn't do as good a job at mimicking wood as aluminum does wrought iron. Nonetheless, vinyl fences are sturdy and attractive. They don't suffer from the same issues as wood, such as splintering and rot. Nor do they require much maintenance. Consider vinyl if you want the hominess of wood without the maintenance. 3. Wood Wood is actually less expensive than vinyl. Wood is also the most customizable fence available. The contractors can use virtually any fencing technique. You can also finish the wood with either a stain or paint, which also changes the appearance of the fence. Therefore, a wooden fence can complement any style of house. Typically, contractors assemble the fence on-site. They sink the posts in concrete and construct the fence panels out of pickets and rails they cut on-site. Certain styles, such as privacy fencing, can also come as preassembled panels. The contractors will decide their approach based on your property. Wood adds curb appeal because people value the look of the material. The major downside is that it requires regular maintenance - and landlords are responsible for fence maintenance. That said, you can have the fence made of pressure-treated wood, which helps the fence resist rot and insect infestation. 4. Chain-Link Chain-link fencing can be the most affordable style of fence, though upgrades can add to the cost. A standard chain-link fence is good for basic security and to make the yard pet- and child-friendly. With upgrades, such as powder-coated mesh and wood frames, a chain-link fence can complement most properties. The most basic chain-link fence consists of the metal rails and mesh, which the contractors unroll and fasten to the posts. Most property owners add top and bottom rails for extra security. As noted, both the rails and posts can be wood, which creates the frame affect. Basic chain-link allows you to advertise the property is fenced in. The above-mentioned upgrades do add to the curb appeal. Chain-link requires very little maintenance, which makes it a good choice if you don't want that task. Choose the fence style that best fits your rental property and your budget. Let Duke Fence Co., Inc. , help you with any fencing need.
March 16, 2020
Every daycare center needs an outdoor play yard for the children. Safety in this area is paramount, and proper fencing can help ensure the yard is a safe area for the children in your business's care. Learn more about fencing around daycare centers. Fencing Style The first thing to consider is the style of fencing, which means choosing durable materials that are safe for the children. Materials For a daycare, the best options are wood, vinyl, or chain-link. You don't need a highly decorative iron fence, but you do want a fence that is attractive. Wood fences are cost-effective, but they do require more upkeep. Maintenance for wood includes periodic repainting or sealing, as well as repairing cracked or rotten pickets. Wood fences can also pose a splinter risk to children. Vinyl fences mimic the look of wood without the needed maintenance or splinter risks, but they can be more costly depending on the design and quality. Chain-link provides a cost effective and equally durable alternative to vinyl. Open Versus Closed The next style decision to make after materials is open or closed pickets. Open pickets can make the play yard feel more open and welcoming, but there is a risk of children climbing the fence or trying to squeeze through the pickets. Generally, open pickets are better suited to play yards that have a buffer zone around them, as opposed to those that sit right on the street or next to a public sidewalk. Closed pickets provide more privacy, but can make small yards feel more confining. Security and safety are also better with closed pickets since they are more difficult to climb. Size Specifications The size and spacing of a fence is an important safety consideration, but always check with your local municipality for any local codes that affect the size specifications of your fence. Height For the average toddler, a four-foot-tall fence will likely keep them contained, but you also want to make sure the fence is tall enough so that no one can reach over it from outside the fence. Err on the side of too tall as opposed to not tall enough. A six-foot fence, for example, will contain most children while also being tall enough to prevent adults from reaching into the play yard. Picket Spacing Picket spacing is very important, as you don't want a child to be able to squeeze through or get stuck between the pickets. If you opt for open pickets on the fence, make sure they are spaced close enough together to prevent a child from sticking their head between the pickets. As a rule of thumb, a four-inch maximum spacing between pickets is sufficient. Local codes may also provide rules on required picket spacing. Security Security involves both keeping the children in the play yard and keeping unauthorized people out of the yard. Gate Mechanisms Gates should be self-latching and the latch must be placed high enough so that a child cannot reach it. Choose a gate with a latch that cannot be accessed from outside of the play yard. Automated security latches are an even better idea. Daycare attendants can use a key pad code or security badge to open the gate, which will prevent children and outsiders from operating the latch. Climbability You don't want children to easily climb the fence, nor do you want outsiders to climb the fence and into the play yard. Open pickets are generally easier to climb because the cross rails that support the pickets provide a ladder. Closed pickets are more difficult to climb on one side, but the cross bars on the opposite side may making climbing easier. Unlike wood, vinyl fencing doesn't have these climbable cross bars. Chain-link fences can be quite easy to climb. Opt for rubber coated chain-link to prevent climbing. The rubber coating looks nice, protects the fence, and closes the openings enough to prevent most climbing. Contact Duke Fence Co., Inc. , for more help in designing the perfect fence for your daycare.
February 13, 2020
As a dog owner, you need a fence that is attractive but also one that keeps your dog safely and happily in your yard. PVC fencing can be a superior option. Not only is PVC durable and well suited for pet fencing, but also it also requires nearly no maintenance - which makes it pet-owner friendly as well. Here are a few ways you can use a PVC fence to keep your dog comfortable and safe while they're out in your yard. Manage the View Dogs can vary in their stress responses to things outside the fence, so you should know your dog's personality and how they respond to stimuli from outside your yard. You can manage your dog's levels of stress with two different strategies: Solid Panel Fencing PVC fencing is available in designs similar to wooden fences, which means you can find both solid panel and open picket designs. If you have a dog that barks or becomes stressed every time they see a stranger, then a solid panel fence is a good option. Unlike wood panels, there are typically no gaps in a PVC fence panel, so your dog won't catch sight of anything on the other side of the fence that could stress them out. Fence With a View Some dogs, on the other hand, become more stressed out when they can hear someone on the other side of the fence but can't see them. In this case, open pickets or a fence with a viewing bubble or peekaboo window can solve the problem. You can have a viewing bubble installed into your existing PVC fence, or you can purchase fencing panels that feature built-in windows. Foil Jumpers and Climbers Many dogs are adept at bypassing the fence and escaping the yard, so you may need to adjust your fencing to meet this challenge. Height Solutions If you know how high your dog can jump, then you can simply opt for a fence that is tall enough to prevent them from getting over the top. A height extension may not be possible in areas with fence height restrictions, though. In this case, choose a PVC fence with a separate top panel that you can set at an angle of 45 degrees that tilts inward over the yard. Dogs can't easily jump over this tilted panel. Anti-Climb Options Some dogs are able to climb and pull themselves up over tall fences. To prevent this, first, opt for a solid panel fence that has no horizontal supports. Fortunately, many PVC fences are designed in this manner. Second, invest in roll bars for the top of the fence. The bars are nearly invisible outside of the yard, but they roll when your dog tries to pull themselves over the top of the fence. The rolling will gently drop them back into the yard. Create Barriers for Diggers If you don't have a jumper, then your dog may be a digger that attempts to get underneath the fence instead. PVC fences can be adapted to meet this challenge, as well. Bottom Barriers A bottom barrier can solve the problem. Unlike wood, which a dog may chew through to create an escape route, PVC provides a more secure barrier. This means your main concern is the possibility of your dog digging into the ground beneath the fence. You can bury metal mesh along the fence or you can install concrete curbing beneath the fence to cut down on digging. One benefit of PVC is that the fencing can extend all the way to the ground, unlike wood that can rot if it touches damp earth. Landscaping Solutions In the case of a dog that does attempt to chew the PVC, you can block the pup from accessing the area through careful landscaping. PVC can handle close plant growth without any rot or maintenance concerns, which sets PVC apart from wood. A row of low but dense bushes may be all you need to discourage your dog from bothering the fence line. Contact Duke Fence Co., Inc. for help to design the perfect fence for your pet.
January 15, 2020
Many types of people choose to live in apartments over houses. However, they're just as concerned about their homes as anyone else. If you're a property owner or investor with apartment complexes, consider erecting ornamental iron fencing around your properties. Iron Fencing Conveys a Sense of Exclusivity Ornamental iron is the modern-day version of classic wrought iron. It's now manufactured in a factory rather than wrought by hand, so ornamental iron is much more affordable than the original. Nonetheless, ornamental iron is still a premium material. It exactly resembles wrought iron, so it conveys the same sense of exclusivity. Wrought iron was once the fencing material of the aristocracy only. It originated as grates and fencing toppers for fortresses and castles. In the Victorian Era, landowners displayed their wealth with the ornateness of their wrought iron fences. Even if you choose a relatively simple ornamental iron fence, your property's value will increase - which attracts a higher caliber of renters. Iron Fences Make a Property Secure Though ornamental iron is manufactured in a factory, it shares another quality with its wrought iron predecessor - durability. Ornamental iron fences are exceptionally strong. They don't bend or break very easily. What's more, you can choose pickets that are close together and topped with spearhead finials, which provides a strong deterrent to would-be intruders. Obviously, you must have a gate for your iron fence. Typically, commercial properties institute a gated entry system. People must have a fob, card, or code to enter the property. Therefore, you can restrict the people who can access the property. This restriction makes the property more secure, which will make your renters feel safe. A Gated Community Provides Privacy Another major benefit of the gated entry system for an apartment complex is that solicitors can't access your tenants. If they can't get onto the property, they certainly can't try to sell their wares. Even just random drivers trying to find a shortcut will be cut off from the grounds. Therefore, your tenants will be happier with their private, quiet apartment community. Ornamental Iron is Attractive Yet another quality ornamental iron shares with wrought iron is its design. While you can choose a modest fence with straight pickets and simple finials, you can add as much ornamentation as you'd like. While most gated communities don't have as elaborate fencing as private residences, you can still add some attractive elements to make the fence line unique. Even if you don't choose a highly ornamental fence, it will still create an attractive profile. Indeed, a simple iron fence provides a sleek, modern profile that actually complements any style of apartment building. What's more, it makes an attractive foil for any nearby landscaping. Therefore, iron fencing increases curb appeal, which increases your property's value. Ornamental Iron is Easy to Care For Most large apartment communities employ a caretaker or even a whole staff. Such staff can get expensive, but such expenses are the price you pay for maintaining an attractive and exclusive property. Fortunately, not only will an ornamental iron fence prevent intruders from creating problems on your property, but also the fence itself is easy to maintain and will save you money. Ornamental iron fencing is actually made of steel that is machine-formed into the desired shapes. They're then welded together into prefabricated panels. Since the fabrication makes the fence so durable, it requires little vigilance to ensure its integrity is intact. You can also ask for a galvanized coating to prevent rust. Protect your property and attract great tenants by having an ornamental iron fence installed. Contact Duke Fence Co., Inc. for any fencing project.
December 13, 2019
The stain on your wood fence plays an integral role. It acts as a barrier between the wood and moisture. If the moisture gets to the wood, it can cause the material to warp or rot. This damage happens even with wood that's been pressure-treated with a preservative. Therefore, you need to maintain the integrity of your fence with a stain. How often you have to stain your fence depends on the weather of your region. People in rainy locales can expect to stain more often than dry locales. Regardless, plan to re-stain your fence every three years or so. When the time comes, use the tips in this blog to choose a good stain for the job. Consider Oil-Based or Latex Stains Both oil-based and latex stains will protect your fence from moisture. However, they differ significantly in application and function. Latex stains are easy to apply. You typically just roll them on and clean up with a brush. Oil-based stains are a little trickier to apply. You can use a brush to ensure it soaks into the wood. Conversely, you can saturate the wood with a roller and go back with a brush to ensure it's smooth. Latex dries in about two hours, while oil-based stain takes four to five hours to cure. The latex stain stays on the surface of the wood, creating an external barrier. The barrier is very effective unless it gets dinged or scratched. Oil-based stains penetrate the wood, protecting it from the inside. You can apply a sealant afterward to prolong the finish. Ultimately, both do a good job of protecting your fence. Your choice may come down to appearance, then. Latex stains are more opaque, so you don't see much of the wood graining. Oil-based stains highlight the wood staining. Look Into Color Options The other main consideration for your stain is what color you'll choose. Your options range from a translucent highlight stain to an opaque paint. First, look around your neighborhood for other wood fences. Whenever possible, you want to keep with the culture of your neighborhood. So, look to see if your neighbors have opaque or translucent stain on their fences. Indeed, look into the guidelines for your home owners' association as they may contain definitive regulations. Additionally, consider the style of your house. Some houses call for a specific style of fence. For example, cottage houses look best with a white fence. Ranch houses look good with a naturally-stained fence. Finally, consider also the landscaping in your yard. Your yard and fence should work to complement each other. Consider if you want the fence to blend into the background, in which case you might choose a natural staining. Conversely, you may want it to serve as a backdrop for your landscaping, so a more vibrant color might be appropriate. Narrow Down Your Choices Chances are you'll settle on a small selection of stains that you like rather than a singular standout. You may even be looking at completely different styles, such as a light opaque and a bold translucent. Once you have the selection down to, say, three or four, it's time for a test patch. Hopefully you wouldn't paint your house or even just a room without first testing a patch. The fence carries just as much visual weight. So, once you've thoroughly prepared the fence for the staining process, find an inconspicuous spot. The backside of a post is ideal, but an out of the way picket also works. Using a small brush, apply a strip of the target stain to the prepared area. Right next to or below the first strip, apply the remaining stain possibilities. You want to have the strips next to each other so you can compare colors and/or intensities. Even if you've narrowed down your selection to one, take time for the test strip to ensure you've made the desired choice. Keep your fence fresh and handsome with a regular application of outdoor stain. When you're ready for a new fence, call Duke Fence Co., Inc. for a price quote.