Metal Enhancements For Wood Decks & Fences

<p></p> <img src="https://dcr-apis.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/wp_contents/uploads/DCR-ADMIN/Article_Webp/AdobeStock_460893760.webp" alt="undefined" style="height: ;width: "/> <p></p> <p><em>Originally written by Brandon Stieg of Pacific Circle, Inc.</em></p> <p>Natural wood is a popular material for building exterior structures like decks and fences. However, due to wood’s sensitivity to the elements, these types of structures are often prone to functionality and maintenance issues. A good way to prevent such issues is to incorporate metal enhancements. Here are a couple of examples:</p> <p><strong>Metal-framed entry gates</strong><br>Whether in the front or back yard, entry gates are an important part of any fence. However, when they’re built with wood, issues can arise. Since wood expands and contracts with the changing seasons, homeowners often experience trouble with their gates latching properly. This can be addressed by installing a metal frame around the gate, which will keep the wood contained and prevent latching issues. Adding a metal frame to a gate isn’t very expensive, and there are lots of options available for hardware components like levers and handle sets.</p> <p><strong>Cable deck railing</strong><br>Any natural wood deck requires maintenance, and that includes the railings. Unfortunately, wood railing pickets are very difficult to maintain, due to the tedious nature of pressure washing, sanding and staining them. To avoid this, consider installing cable railings. Unlike wood, metal cables are basically maintenance-free, which saves a lot of time and money. As an added bonus, due to their thinness, cable railings won’t obstruct the view from your deck.</p> <p><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/" target="_self">Use Diamond Certified Resource to find top rated companies.</a></p> <p><strong>Local, Top Rated Diamond Certified Companies Related to Your Topic</strong><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/contra-costa-fences/" target="_self">Contra Costa County Fence Companies</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/napa-fences/" target="_self">Napa County Fence Companies</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/sonoma-fences/" target="_self">Sonoma</a> <a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/sonoma-fences/" target="_self">County Fence Companies</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/alameda-decks-patios/" target="_self">Alameda County Deck &amp; Patio Contractors</a> <br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/marin-decks-patios/" target="_self">Marin County Deck &amp; Patio Contractors</a>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Related Articles</strong><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/Fencing/" target="_self">The Homeowner's Guide to Fences &amp; Gates</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/Guide/Decks-Patios/" target="_self">The Homeowner's Guide to Decks &amp; Patios</a> <br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/find-expert-advice/" target="_self">Get Expert Advice From Owners of Top Rated Local Companies</a><br><a href="https://www.diamondcertified.org/membership/" target="_self">Become a Diamond Certified Preferred Member (Always Free)</a>&nbsp;</p>