Introduction
Fort Worth Deck and Fence is a privately held contracting firm located in Fort Worth, Texas. The company specializes in the design, fabrication, and installation of custom decks, fences, and complementary outdoor living components for both residential and commercial properties. Its service portfolio is characterized by the integration of contemporary design principles with traditional building techniques, ensuring that each structure is both aesthetically appealing and structurally sound. Fort Worth Deck and Fence emphasizes client collaboration, project transparency, and strict compliance with local building regulations. The clientele includes single‑family homeowners, multi‑unit residential complexes, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and corporate offices that require reliable and enduring fence systems.
History and Background
Founding and Early Years
Fort Worth Deck and Fence was established in 2008 by founders James Carter and Maria Hernandez, both of whom possessed extensive experience in the timber and construction sectors. The initial focus was on residential deck construction, driven by a growing demand for outdoor living spaces in the Dallas‑Fort Worth metroplex. The first project - a custom cedar deck for a suburban client - demonstrated the company’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and earned early referrals that expanded its local reputation.
Growth and Expansion
By 2013, the firm had broadened its services to include fence installation and repair. This diversification coincided with an increased interest in security and privacy solutions among property owners in the region. The addition of composite decking options in 2015 further positioned the company as a forward‑looking provider of low‑maintenance outdoor structures. In 2018, Fort Worth Deck and Fence opened a second office in Arlington, Texas, to accommodate a growing client base that extended beyond the immediate Fort Worth area.
Recent Milestones
Fort Worth Deck and Fence achieved a 12‑month period of uninterrupted growth in 2020, reaching an annual revenue of over $5 million. That same year, the company introduced an online project management portal, enabling clients to track progress, view documentation, and communicate with project teams in real time. The firm also established a partnership with the Texas Home Builders Association, gaining access to a broader network of professionals and resources. In 2022, Fort Worth Deck and Fence completed its 1,000th project, a mixed‑use development that included a high‑rise residential tower with integrated outdoor terrace spaces.
Services
Decking
- Custom design and fabrication of deck structures in wood, composite, and metal.
- In‑house engineering for load calculations and structural compliance.
- Installation of deck framing, joists, and decking boards.
- Finish application, including stains, sealants, and protective coatings.
Fencing
- Residential fence systems using timber, vinyl, and metal panels.
- Commercial security fencing featuring perimeter barriers and access control.
- Custom gate design and installation.
- Pest control and anti‑corrosion treatments for long‑term durability.
Outdoor Living Spaces
Beyond decks and fences, Fort Worth Deck and Fence offers comprehensive outdoor living solutions. These include pergolas, patio covers, outdoor kitchens, and integrated lighting systems. Each project is tailored to the client's lifestyle requirements and the site’s architectural context.
Repair and Maintenance
The company maintains a dedicated maintenance team that provides periodic inspections, cleaning, and repair services. This approach extends the lifespan of outdoor structures and preserves their aesthetic appeal.
Design and Construction Methodology
Design Process
The design workflow begins with a preliminary consultation, where client goals and site constraints are documented. Using CAD software, architects and engineers develop detailed plans that incorporate local building codes, wind load requirements, and material specifications. The design phase also includes material sampling sessions, allowing clients to evaluate color, texture, and durability options before final selection.
Site Analysis
On‑site evaluations assess soil conditions, drainage patterns, and existing structures. Geotechnical reports are consulted when necessary to inform footing design. The analysis ensures that all components of the deck or fence meet stability and safety criteria.
Material Selection
Material decisions are guided by performance criteria such as moisture resistance, UV degradation, and maintenance expectations. Common choices include seasoned cypress, redwood, composite blends, and aluminum panels. Each material is evaluated for its life cycle cost and environmental impact.
Construction Techniques
Decks are constructed using engineered lumber or engineered composite systems, with joists spaced in accordance with manufacturer recommendations. Fasteners and joinery techniques are selected to reduce maintenance while ensuring structural integrity. Fence installation follows a modular approach, enabling rapid assembly and future expansion.
Safety and Environmental Practices
The firm follows OSHA standards for construction site safety, including the use of personal protective equipment and fall protection systems. Environmental stewardship is integrated through the use of sustainably sourced timber, low‑VOC finishes, and waste‑reduction protocols that prioritize recycling and responsible disposal.
Materials and Finishes
Wood Options
- Seasoned Cypress – known for its natural resistance to rot and insects.
- Redwood – offers high durability and a rich grain pattern.
- Pressure‑treated Pine – cost‑effective but requires periodic sealing.
Composite Systems
Composite decking is composed of recycled plastic and wood fibers, providing low maintenance and uniform resistance to weathering. The company offers several brands that vary in color range and texture.
Metal and Vinyl
Aluminum fencing delivers corrosion resistance and low upkeep. Vinyl panels provide a plastic alternative with minimal expansion issues. Both materials are available in a variety of finishes to match architectural styles.
Finishes and Protective Coatings
Stains and sealants are applied to wood surfaces to enhance color and protect against moisture infiltration. Composite products typically include a UV stabilizer built into the material. Metal fences may receive powder‑coating finishes that resist rust and weathering.
Selection Criteria
Clients assess materials based on initial cost, maintenance schedule, expected lifespan, and environmental impact. The firm provides detailed comparison sheets to aid decision making.
Installation Process
Pre‑Construction Planning
During this stage, final drawings are reviewed, permits are secured, and a construction schedule is established. Site clearing, grading, and temporary protective measures are also arranged.
Permitting and Compliance
Fort Worth Deck and Fence submits necessary documentation to local authorities, ensuring compliance with zoning ordinances, setback requirements, and fire codes. A licensed inspector may be engaged for final approval.
Excavation and Footing
Footings are poured according to engineered specifications, typically using reinforced concrete. The depth and spacing are calibrated to accommodate local soil bearing capacity and seasonal expansion.
Deck Frame Construction
Joists and support beams are installed, with attention to alignment and bracing. Connections are tightened using steel brackets or lag screws, depending on the chosen design.
Decking and Finish Installation
Deck boards are laid perpendicular to joists, secured with fasteners that meet manufacturer recommendations. After installation, a sanding or smoothing process is performed, followed by the application of the chosen stain or sealant.
Fence Installation
Fence posts are driven to required depths, and panels or boards are attached in a staggered or flush configuration. Gates are installed using proper hardware to ensure secure operation.
Inspection and Handover
Upon completion, the project undergoes a quality inspection by both the contractor and the client. Documentation, including warranties and maintenance guides, is delivered during the handover meeting.
Maintenance and Care
Regular Cleaning
Deck and fence surfaces should be cleaned with mild detergents and water to remove debris and prevent mold growth. Hard‑brush scrubbing is recommended for wood surfaces, while composite panels can be rinsed with a hose.
Inspection Frequency
Clients are advised to conduct visual inspections at least twice annually, focusing on fastener integrity, board alignment, and weather damage.
Repair Protocols
Minor damage such as loose boards or corroded fasteners can be addressed promptly with replacement parts. For extensive damage, a full assessment by a certified contractor is necessary to determine whether restoration or replacement is appropriate.
Protective Treatments
Wood surfaces benefit from periodic re‑staining or sealing every 2–3 years, depending on exposure. Composite materials typically require only a cleaning schedule, as they contain built‑in UV protection.
Pest Control
Wood preservation treatments are applied during initial construction and can be re‑applied as part of routine maintenance to deter termites and other insects.
Customer Experience
Consultation and Project Management
The firm offers a complimentary initial consultation to assess client needs. Project managers coordinate all phases of construction, from procurement to final inspection, ensuring schedule adherence.
Warranty and Support
Fort Worth Deck and Fence provides a limited warranty covering structural defects for five years on wood decks and ten years on composite systems. Fencing warranties extend to twenty years for aluminum products and fifteen for vinyl.
Pricing Structure
Pricing models include fixed‑price quotes for standard projects and cost‑plus arrangements for custom designs. All estimates contain detailed itemization of materials, labor, and contingencies.
Payment Terms
Clients may make a down payment at the time of contract signing, with subsequent payments aligned to project milestones. Payment methods accepted include credit card, bank transfer, and certified checks.
Client Feedback
Post‑project surveys capture satisfaction metrics, which are used to refine service offerings. The company reports an average client satisfaction rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on recent surveys.
Community Engagement
Local Partnerships
Fort Worth Deck and Fence partners with local municipalities on public park renovations, providing fencing and decking solutions for community spaces. The firm also collaborates with non‑profit housing initiatives to supply cost‑effective decks for affordable homes.
Educational Workshops
Annual workshops on deck construction, fence installation, and maintenance are held at the company’s facility. Participants include homeowners, builders, and school maintenance teams.
Environmental Stewardship
Projects incorporate recycled materials whenever possible, and the company maintains a waste reduction target of 80% of construction waste directed to recycling or reuse facilities.
Economic Impact
Employment data indicates that the company supports over 30 full‑time positions, contributing to the local economy through direct wages and secondary spending on suppliers.
Certifications and Accreditations
Professional Associations
- North American Deck Builders Association – member since 2011.
- Texas Home Builders Association – affiliate member since 2014.
- American Fence Association – recognized contractor since 2018.
Quality Management
The company holds ISO 9001 certification, underscoring its commitment to consistent quality processes and continuous improvement.
Environmental Credentials
Fort Worth Deck and Fence has earned the Green Building Initiative certification for projects that integrate energy‑efficient lighting and sustainable material sourcing.
Safety Standards
Adherence to OSHA guidelines is demonstrated through ongoing safety training for all personnel and regular site safety audits.
Industry Impact and Trends
Emerging Materials
The use of bio‑based composites has grown, offering lower environmental footprints compared to traditional hardwoods while maintaining structural integrity.
Smart Outdoor Systems
Integration of IoT sensors for moisture monitoring and automated cleaning systems is an emerging trend, with some projects incorporating real‑time data dashboards.
Design Innovation
Architectural styles that blend indoor and outdoor living, such as cantilevered decks and pergolas with retractable canopies, are increasingly popular in the Fort Worth market.
Regulatory Evolution
Local building codes now emphasize energy efficiency, requiring decks and fences to incorporate shade structures and windbreaks that reduce cooling loads.
Market Growth
Statistical analysis of regional construction permits shows a steady increase in deck and fence installations, with an annual growth rate of approximately 4.2% over the past decade.
Awards and Recognition
- Best Custom Deck Project – Texas Architecture & Design Awards, 2019.
- Outstanding Fence Installation – American Fence Association, 2020.
- Green Construction Excellence – Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce, 2021.
- Top 10 Home Improvement Contractors – Fort Worth Home & Building Magazine, 2022.
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