Custom fence construction
A good fence can set a property apart aesthetically while providing some important functions. DirtWright specialises in high end, custom fence design and construction. We build functional art, and can provide fence designs with materials ranging from exotic woods, timbers, metal, concrete, stone, glass, and any combinations in between. We can also build a clean, more conventional treated or cedar fence that will last if that’s what you’re after.
Fence Design
DirtWright can design and build any fence you like. We’ve done metal & wood combinations, regular fences, and custom cedar lattice fences, among others. We’ll work with you to come up with a design that suits your situation. We work with a lot of different materials including stone and concrete, so we may be able to offer ideas you haven’t thought of yet. Put together a few of your rough ideas or a selection of pictures you like so we can get an idea of what you like, and we can make it a reality. If you don’t know what you like, give us a budget and we’ll design an appropriate piece for your property and build it well.
Post Selection
All fences have posts. They do not all need to have the same posts, however. A lot of fences use treated wood posts, but cedar posts can also be used, as well as galvanised steel, concrete, or masonry blocks. Hybrid designs are possible, too. We can install timber posts on concrete piles for added durability & modularity. Choose your posts according to your aesthetic needs while considering durability. Concrete piles will outlast a treated post, but they cost more. Cedar can last longer than treated posts, but again, cost is higher. We can work through the different options with you.
Architectural Custom Fencing
Fence Panel Selection
The second major part of the fence is the panel. This is usually built from wood planks in the stereotypical fence, but vinyl fence uses plastic and chain link uses galvanised steel mesh. Don’t limit your design to these options, though. We can build with stainless steel cable, grating, glass, or custom made wood or metal panels, among other options.
Treated Wood Fencepost Installation
The first part of a wood fence is the posts. A fence is only strong if its posts are set right. We understand the central Alberta climate and seasons, and have a system to set our posts so they last. The key is post depth, to limit wind and frost movement, and drainage, to prevent rot. Our posts are set typically 5-6′ deep, and deeper (8-9′) for gates. Casting posts in concrete locks water into the post and provides an increased surface area for frost to grab, so is avoided. We instead use gravel to set our posts. This provides resilience to wind loads, resistance to frost, and drainage so that the post will not rot over time. The post is also easier to replace if it ever does rot.
Fence Framing
Its a common misconception that common screws are good for framing the structure of decks and fences. This is not the case- not by building code, nor if you even want a project that will last. Fasteners need to be rated for shear to take the loading a fence will take; they also need to be galvanised or treated to prevent corrosion from the exterior exposure and wood preservatives. Regular screws are brittle and can snap if loaded in shear. We use structural screws or galvanized nails to build our fence structure. Fencing boards can be attached with stainless, galvanised, or coated screws or nails- there is less structural load on these so there are fewer restrictions. Choosing stainless fasteners can avoid staining on wood fences.
Wood Fence Maintenance
Wood fences are common because of their lower cost. Though they can be designed for low maintenance, they will get longer life if they are regularly maintained. This usually comes from regular oiling or staining to help protect the wood from moisture and rot. We can help select a maintenance program for your fences.
unique Fences from unique materials
DirWright builds unique fences with quality materials. Cedar fence & treated wood, concrete, exotic hardwoods, steel, glass, and other materials are all within our repertoire. We can build your design or ours, and are excited to create with you. Contact us to get started.