Category: Pro Tips

Ever had a day where a simple frisbee game turns into a comedy of errors? Picture this: you're out in your yard with your dog Chester, chasing down a runaway frisbee when suddenly, it takes an unexpected turn and sails right over the fence. Cue the laughter and the realization that you're now the one on retrieval duty. But as you go to exit, the gate sticks and drags along the ground. If this has been happening repeatedly, you may be at the end of your rope. Before you get frustrated and have a new one installed, let's discuss why this happens and how to fix it for good. At Ladiesburg Lumber & Supply we understand the frustration this causes. That's why we're here to guide you through the most common hardware and installation problems. Here’s what could be causing all of your woes: Misaligned Hinges Misaligned gate hinges and latches can quickly create a stubborn obstacle. If the gate sticks and is refusing to open and close smoothly, it might be due to wear and tear or improper gate installation. If you need to realign hinges on a gate, you can follow these steps: Loosen the screws on the hinges that are attached to the gate and the gate post. This will allow you to adjust the position of the hinges. With the screws loosened, move the gate to the desired position so that it opens and closes smoothly. Make sure the gate is level and aligned properly. Once the gate is in the correct position, tighten the screws on the hinges to secure them in place. Test the gate to ensure it opens and closes smoothly without sticking. If it still sticks, you may need to make further adjustments to the hinges. By following these steps, you can easily realign hinges on a gate and ensure smooth operation. If you need fence gate hardware, we have them available for purchase. Rust and Corrosion It’s important to note that rust and corrosion, primarily caused by the reaction of metal with oxygen and moisture in the air, can weaken your gate’s structure. They often go unnoticed, building up over time and slowly weakening your gate. Look out for discoloration, flaking paint, and pitting or rough spots on the surface. Remember these pesky culprits love to target metal fences, hinges, bolts, and latches. Regular maintenance and protective coatings are your best defense against them. Loose or Damaged Latches A gate without a latch is like a house without a lock; it’s an open invitation to trouble. If you're struggling to close and lock it, the problem could be due to loose or damaged latches. Latches may wear out because they’re used so often. Over time, this can cause them to shift positions. That’s why it's important to regularly inspect and maintain the latches on your property's entrance. You’ll want to make sure they’re still functioning properly. Ignoring loose or damaged latches can leave your property vulnerable to unauthorized access. Tightening screws or replacing faulty latches can help restore your security quickly. Warped or Sagging Did you know that weather conditions and poor gate installation can leave your property’s entryway a bit droopy? This warping and sagging not only looks unsightly but can also make entering and exiting a real pain. Reinforcing the frame or replacing warped sections will have your entrance standing tall once again. Avoiding Problems Did you know that many of these problems can be traced back to the initial installation process? That's why, at Ladiesburg Lumber & Supply, we offer a full-service operation that goes above and beyond simply providing fence gate hardware. When you choose us, we'll walk you through our showroom, help you select the perfect products for your needs, and even fabricate your order and load it into your truck. Plus, if you're a contractor, we'll gladly service your clients in our showroom, saving you time and hassle. And speaking of that, let's talk about lead times. We understand how important having a quick turnaround is, especially when it comes to large orders. That's why we offer quick lead times, typically just two weeks or even same-day service for those last-minute emergencies. So, you can count on us to deliver if you're planning ahead or if you need a solution on the double. Before you resign yourself to a lifetime of entryway headaches, remember we've got all of the fence gate hardware that you’ll need. From adjustable hinges to sturdy latches, we've got everything you need to keep your gates operating smoothly. Quality Solutions for Gate Hardware Issues This isn’t just about fixing what's broken; it's about having an entrance to your property that’s built to last. That’s why we take pride in not only providing solutions to your immediate fence gate hardware issues but also in offering products that are built to withstand the test of time. Our selection of gate supplies including gate hinges and latches is designed with durability in mind to ensure that your entrances remain strong, secure, and fully functional for years to come. Don’t forget that addressing issues promptly is key to maintaining security and functionality. So, when you're ready to tackle those issues head-on? Contact us today, and we’ll make sure to have all the gate supplies you need to get it back in top shape. Your frisbee game, and your dog Chester, will thank you for it!

When preparing to install an outdoor area worthy of entertaining, the more you know upfront will benefit you in the long run. Whether installing a new deck or fence, or updating an existing one, we have compiled the following tips to help you find and purchase the best materials for your project. This list will help you locate quality materials that will save you money, add value to your home and make you the envy of neighbors in no time. Research is the key to purchasing quality materials at the best price possible. Not all products are made the same. Yes, prices do often reflect quality, but that is not always the case. Do your research before you buy to ensure that you are purchasing materials that are worth every cent. Find a retailer that keeps a variety of materials in stock (extra points if you find a store with a showroom). Dealers that keep stock on the ground tend to offer better pricing to their customers. Price - how many times have you been shopping to find a product you like only to find out except you do not purchase it because the price is higher than what you initially expected. Discard the misconception that beauty and quality mean higher prices. There are stores that may offer lower priced material that resemble the high-end counter parts, but when you look closer you can see the differences between the two. By searching for options before you plan to buy, you will have a better chance at finding a comparable product (or the same one) for a price that falls within your budget. Let’s use Vinyl Railings as an example of how products can vary in quality. Vinyl “T” rails are available in both big-box stores and specialty style supply stores. There are many brands that market “T” rails with a range of prices to go with them. Here are a few differences to look for: Reinforcement: look at the product description and see if the top and bottom rails offer aluminum reinforcement. You will be surprised to discover that many of the lower priced rails do not offer that extra support. Do you want to add railing to your deck that is not reinforced?      2. Profile: the lower price point rails tend to have a plain profile and thinner vinyl wall thickness. Whereas the higher end rails have profiles that are sleek and the support of thicker vinyl walls.      3. Brackets: an often-overlooked area on rails, but one that can make or break a style. Lower priced rails tend to have bulky and cheaply made brackets. These often crack and break and need to be replaced.   Availability: Once you have found quality materials at a competitive price you still need to guarantee that the products will be available to you – and quickly. During the COVID pandemic, when supply was at an all-time low, lead times were through the roof. That is not the case anymore – if you know where to shop. Supplies have replenished; however, stores are selling out quickly since most do not stock enough quantities to meet demand. In a nutshell, this means you will have to wait longer to start the project. Call in advance to check on availability. If they do not have the materials in stock then ask about ‘lead’ times for when they will get them. This will save you time and money in the long run. Where you shop matters – choose a store that specializes in fence and deck materials. Knowledgeable employees will not only know the difference between materials but are willing to pass this information onto you. When it comes to building a deck or fence, the materials you choose should be made to last for years to come. Whether it's a new deck for entertaining or a fence that provides security, you should be confident that the end result will add value to your home. In the end, it is important to research, ask questions and compare products. And most important - find a store that offers the knowledge to assist you in the process. Ladiesburg Lumber carries a variety of quality fence and deck materials in stock and ready to go. Their employees are eager to assist and ready to share details on the products they carry. Stop in or give them a call today!

Taking care of your wooden deck is crucial to ensure that it lasts for many years and maintains its beauty. Here are some tips to help you take care of your wooden deck: Clean the deck regularly: Dirt, debris, and leaves can accumulate on the surface of your deck over time. Clean the deck regularly using a broom or a leaf blower to remove the dirt and debris. You can also use a pressure washer, but be careful not to use too much pressure as it can damage the wood. Remove stains immediately: Stains from food, drinks, or oil can damage the wood if they are not removed immediately. Use a mild detergent and a soft-bristled brush to scrub the stain gently. Rinse thoroughly with water. Apply a sealer or stain: Applying a sealer or stain can protect the wood from moisture and prevent it from cracking or warping. Choose a high-quality sealer or stain that is specifically designed for outdoor use. Apply it once every two to three years. Check for rot and damage: Regularly inspect your deck for any signs of rot or damage. Check the deck boards, stairs, and railings for any cracks or splinters. Replace any damaged boards or parts immediately to prevent further damage. Trim nearby vegetation: Trees, bushes, and other vegetation can drop leaves, seeds, and sap onto your deck, causing stains and attracting insects. Trim any nearby vegetation regularly to keep your deck clean and prevent damage. Don't use harsh chemicals: Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or acids to clean your deck. These chemicals can damage the wood and strip away the natural oils, making the wood dry and brittle. Keep furniture off the deck: Heavy furniture can scratch or dent the wood, causing damage. Use furniture pads or place rugs under the furniture to prevent scratches. By following these tips, you can ensure that your wooden deck remains beautiful and functional for many years to come. Regular maintenance and care will help protect your investment and make your deck a relaxing and enjoyable outdoor space.