This week in Custom Wood Fence Building

We are so grateful to have this amazing warehouse just outside of Culver City, Ca

My dad and I were blessed to have a large amount of fence boards come in. It is a lot of labor to remove them from the fence posts and framing, but this is worth it because we get to recycle the wood.

We have our team help us with the fence board removal.

After they are removed all of the nails need to be pulled out.

After that we clean up the edges on a table saw and then assign different widths to create a cool and artistic pattern for the next gate job.

As we work through the rainy day we just keep staying present to gratitude because we have a covered area.

We save wood and re use as much as possible to help with the environment because there is so much waste in the LA fence building and construction industry.

Super proud of the unique designs that we offer and we get to continue our passion for creativity.

We would love to help you with your next fence, gate or custom woodworking project.

• Schedule a visit to our workshop to see our craftsmanship in person. https://booking.harwelldesign.com/workshop

We look forward to meeting you and helping with the transformation of your yard and home.

Our latest Modern Wood Fences all Over LA May 2022

This past year has been extremely busy and filled with new designs and expansion! We’re grateful for all the projects on the west side of Los Angeles.
We installed many motorized Driveway Gates, pedestrian gates and tons of different types of wooden fences.
Specialized in three different types of lock installations as well. Mechanical locks Are usually the longest lasting for exterior lock installations.

Digital smart locks are becoming more and more popular and we have had pretty good luck using the Yale lock smart lock.

A Standard deadbolt and door knob is going to be the longest lasting because the more simple anything is the longer it lasts.
Please enjoy these creative and artistic fences and gates all over the west side of Los Angeles.

5 Safety Amenities For Added Home Security And Value

Unfortunate events come when you least expect them. Thus, security sits at the top of many homeowners' priority lists. Apart from fortifying your home's security, many of these safety nets bestow appeal and added value to your property. We polished a shortlist of amenities to enhance your household's security tenfold. 

An Automatic Driveway Gate

A usual scenery for affluent estates, automatic driveway gates may also be a fitting amenity for mid-range residential properties with long driveways. These intimidating steel constructs prevent outsider cars from trespassing your property. Most burglars would be discouraged from invading a property with such caliber security features.

Motorized driveway gates come in an array of shapes and make. The arched-top kind is the most popular form, but a flat-top gate may be excellent for minimalists and those who prefer simplicity. You got plenty of options to make this gate harmonize with the details of your property. Some of your options include:

• Sliding gates

• Vertical pivot/lift gates

• Wooden electric gates

• Wrought iron gates

• Swing gates

• Vinyl electric gates

• Aluminum electric gates

• Steel electric gates

On top of the effective thief deterrent attributes, these tall metal gates add curb appeal to every property. Depending on the style you choose, the sleek built vests have a gorgeous aesthetic and absolute luxury. The flair and qualities of a decent driveway gate contribute to a more valued estate.

Pool Covers

Properties with above-ground or in-ground pools need properly installed covers to prevent accidental drowning. Thus, a pool safety cover is a must-have for properties with children exploring different household parts. 

Apart from family members' protection, these covers help save on maintenance costs. You wouldn't need to hire someone or spend the whole day vacuuming the swimming pool. These accessories leave almost no debris or dirt in your pool as it prevents all elements from falling into it. Moreover, covering your mini oasis lessens evaporation and chemical consumption.

If you plan to install a motorized driveway gate, pair it with an automatic pool cover. This type is more secure and opens/closes with a push of a button. This extravagant add-on will wow guests and potential buyers if you intend to sell the estate in the future.

Security Cameras

A motorized driveway gate works best with security cameras and leaving the steel barrier without a monitoring system doesn't make sense. CCTVs can capture the identities of humans or vehicles that go near the fences or gates of the property.

Larger estates require more sophisticated video recording systems installed in strategic points of the manor. Though it may be costly, it's the price to pay for maintaining the security of having such possessions. On the other hand, middle-income households also need entry-level CCTVs for their protection. The ideal spots for these cameras are the porch, entryways, hallways, living area, and garage.

Hidden security cameras are optional add-ons to these systems. Families use them in kids' rooms or living areas. It's perfect to have them fixed in concealed sports whenever homeowners feel like something's not right and undisclosed property observation is necessary. Though you won't always need these hidden CCTVs, it's best to keep one.

Secret Rooms

During a catastrophe or a home invasion, secret rooms or bunkers will serve as the family's temporary shelter. Hence, this facility needs ample supplies and functions to accommodate the needs of all members for three to six months. It also requires a heavy-duty door lock system and location that attackers won't easily discover.

While it is expensive to add custom secret rooms, they tremendously boost the value of your home. Basic forms of concealed spaces are those rooms hidden by bookshelves, which cost around $5,000. Meanwhile, a shelter-like room may have a price tag of $15,000 or more.

Hidden spaces are perfect for protecting precious collections like guitars, antique jewelry, rare vinyl records, paintings, and guns. Still, it is more practical to use them for security purposes.

Impact-Resistant Windows

Households without gates or fences need more than just barred windows. First, most of these types look outdated and won't fit the ambiance of median to high-end communities. Moreover, while they prevent the entry of outsiders, these windows also eliminate your family's chance of escape, especially when a fire breaks out.

Impact-resistant windows tend to be the most viable option for home security. While they prevent forced entries without reducing your odds of escape, they withstand the effects of harsh weather, accidents, and other outdoor elements. Make it even more impenetrable with sturdy locks and frames. 

You can further the security by adding frosted glass films to these impact-resistant windows. Or ask the manufacturer to customize the window by adding this feature. Concealing the content of your home will reduce the likelihood of being included in the burglars' or home invaders' radar.

How to Prep Your Home Exterior for the Spring

Spring is in the air. And while many people are more than ready to hop outside and get ready for all of the fun that warmer weather has to offer, there are a few things you can do as a homeowner to prepare the exterior of your home for the springtime fun that’s sure to arrive.

Whether you love the spring or you’re just kissing the wintertime goodbye, prepping your home for any season is important.

If you’re ready to prepare your home for spring, there are a few things you can do to make sure everything is how you want it, both aesthetically and practically. From landscaping to cleaning up, there’s so much you can do to care for your home. Here’s how you can prep the exterior of your home for springtime.

1. Landscaping

Landscaping can mean plenty of different things. You can practice the basics or take your green thumb to the next level. Especially after just emerging from winter, some building projects can be a bit expensive and time-consuming but are totally worth it if your outdoor space needs it. From the deck to the walkway to the bushes, a nice reset can be just what you need for spring.

2. Garage Door Repair or Replacement

Winter can wear down the aesthetics and the functionality of your garage doors over time. While some garage doors can last for a long time, getting new ones or improving the ones you have not only improves the way your home looks but also adds to the safety and energy efficiency of your home systems.

Getting insulated and watertight doors can assist your HVAC system so it doesn’t have to work as hard to regulate temperatures.

3. Repairing Your Fences

If you happen to have a fence lining your yard, fixing any gaps, holes or creaky doors can be a great way to prepare for the new season. This way, you can prevent any pets from getting out, any pests coming in and of course, keep things aesthetically pleasing. Once you get things in order, you won’t have to worry about it for the rest of the season.

4. Planting Your Garden

If you’ve never gardened before but you want to get started, you can’t exactly start with snow on the ground or a chill in the air. When the first crack of spring rolls around, though, you’ll find yourself ready to plant cool-season vegetables like lettuce, spinach, and root vegetables. Starting small is always best for beginner gardeners, too.

5. Decluttering

Whether you have a bit of clutter in the mudroom, the garage, or even anywhere else in the home, spring cleaning is totally worth it. If you want to make space for recreation and ease this spring, start as early as you can. You’ll thank yourself later when you don’t have to dig for gardening supplies or the lawnmower.

6. Windows and Screens

Checking on your windows and screens, cleaning them, and replacing anything that needs to be replaced is a great way to get on top of things before you actually open the windows up. If you have holes in the screens, try to replace them before warm weather hits. That way, you won’t need to deal with bugs or other critters. Ready to Prep Your House for Spring?

Spring is a beautiful time of year for you and your home. Whether you do a bit of landscaping or gardening or get into spring cleaning, prepping your home early can give you the time to enjoy the warm weather fully when it rolls around. What are you doing to prep your home for the upcoming spring?

Article by

Rose Morrison
Managing Editor - renovated.com

4 Surprising Benefits of Choosing Picket Fence in Brentwood

When homeowners hear the term picket fence, they immediately conjure up a picture of the old American dream of having a property surrounded by white wooden picket fences. This often gets them thinking that picket fences are no longer the American dream. However, little do they know that they can still use these fences as part of their property without being seen as outdated or old-fashioned. By choosing the right material and color for the fence, they can significantly enhance the property’s curb appeal and enjoy plenty of benefits.

Here are 5 surprising benefits of choosing picket fences in 2021:

Robust Material

Although you can still go for wooden picket fences in Brentwood to add privacy and aesthetic appeal to your home, materials like vinyl make for a better option. This is because these materials stand the test of time and weather better than wood. Whether you live in a region where the sun is ruthless or an area with heavy rainfall or snow, vinyl picket fences can offer you durability, aesthetics, and returns that you would expect. Plus, they are not prone to moisture and the growth of mold or mildew, which is widely considered the major problem with wooden picket fences.

Stylish and Functional

When people visualize a picket fence, they think of a manicured lawn with low white fences. You can still use this style of fencing today, but if you want to take a different approach, you have many modern designed options within picket fences. This means you can still have the style of a picket fence, but with a modern touch. You can either raise the height of your fence or slightly increase the spacing between the horizontal boards or choose a different color to suit your property. No matter which design you choose, a picket fence will add privacy to your property and keep unwanted visitors and animals away, proving their functionality time and again.

Easy to Install

If you like DIY projects, you will have little to no trouble installing a picket fence, many thanks to market-ready fittings and accessories. All you need to do is buy the fence and necessary tools and personalize your property the way you want. However, if you want to decorate your property in a short span or do not have the DIY experience, it’s best to call a picket fencing company in Brentwood and leave the project to the experts.

Affordable

It’s no secret that the white picket fence gained ground because of adding privacy and aesthetic value to the property. However, another reason for its popularity among Americans is affordability. Contrary to other fences, it is inexpensive. Besides, its installation cost is lower than other fencing options, enabling homeowners to take their property’s curb apparel to the next level without breaking the bank.

If you want to install a picket fence at your property, feel free to call Harwell Design today.

Here’s How you Can Pick the Right Fencing for Your House Security

The style of fence you pick will not only play a significant role in the design concept of your home, but it will also offer among the most significant benefits of all residences; protection. A good fence offers every owner the true sense of home that we all expect. You would like the fence to be a protection that safeguards your assets. Yet not all fences fit with every type of architecture. The utilitarian chain link design would dampen the charm of a small, quaint cottage. Similarly, a row of informal pickets will look out of place around an industrial-line urban house.

There are so many fence styles, and it would be impossible to pick one just by looking at them; you need to know some things before making any decision. Here are a few tips that will help you in choosing the best one for your house.

The fence type

Homeowners use fences for their yards, gardens, and empty lawn around the house. All the flowers that grow in the garden tell the sweet tale of the family, how they adore nature and beautiful things. Meanwhile, the fence and its wall that protect these valuables also add more value to the living things. There are different types of fencing and gates, including wood, steel, and custom material you can choose from and ask the professionals to install as per your preference.

Additional equipment

While installing the gates and fences at your property, you can also ask the company to provide additional features such as doorbell or intercoms as well. While ensuring safety as well as the convenience of your property, it is necessary to add another layer of protection with some equipment.

Installation costs

Last but not least, you should consider the installation costs before you choose a servicing agent for your needs. As you will be investing in the purchasing of the fences and their installation, you should be sure that it meets your budget. For this, you should ask the contractor to provide you an estimate of the installation costs before the project begins. This will help you streamline your tasks and make the right decision.

Furthermore, going back to the security part of the discussion, wall topper fences are the most popular choices for the more conservative homeowner. In case you are looking for wall topper installation companies in Westchester, look no further then Harwell Fencing and Gates.

The Best Renovations to Increase Home Value - Fences and Gates are one of the Best Ways!

Every homeowner wants to make money when they sell their house. But what’s the best way to accomplish that? It’s not always easy to tell which projects are worth your while. A rule to remember is that small changes often provide a better return on investment (ROI).

Here are five straightforward updates you can do to increase home value.

1. Minor Bathroom Changes

Could your bathroom use a little work? You don’t have to install a new toilet, shower and vanity to add value to your house. A few simple changes will make a big difference. These renovations are ones 26% of homeowners make before they sell.

Try a weekend project like re-caulking the tub. If you have more time, you can install new tiles and add fresh paint. These are inexpensive updates that make your bathroom look more modern and clean — and best of all, they take little effort.

2. Adding Backyard Fencing and Gates

A spacious backyard is a feature most people want. They can enjoy that outdoor room with their family and pets. But what about fences? A barrier between you and your neighbors ensures privacy and safety. Adding that extra touch can be a great way to attract specific buyers.

The cost to install fencing varies. You’ll pay more for materials like wrought iron. In general, it’s best to pick fencing that’s durable and attractive. Wood fencing is a great way to lower the cost of your fences while also ensuring that your yard is beautiful and secure. You want an option that can hold up against weather and time — but also something that complements your home’s appearance.

Like fences, installing driveway gates is another great way to create extra security for your home while also increasing the value of your home. Gates will ensure that your home stands out from others if you go to sell.

3. Front and Garage Door Updates

Anything that improves your house’s facade will generate a quality ROI. The concept of curb appeal is something that attracts most homebuyers. If they’re looking for a flipper, you won’t be marketing your house to them anyway.

Updated front and garage doors bring in 75% and 97% ROIs, respectively. It’s worth considering getting new doors if yours are damaged or dated. The results will be beautiful — and you can ensure your home and garage are safe from weather damage.

4. Creating a Home Office

It’s more common than ever to work remotely. More kids are taking online classes, too. If you’re wondering how to use some extra space, you should consider a home office. Plus, you can use this area in the meantime before you sell your home.

A quiet area with outlets and hookups makes for a great office. Try adding a built-in bookcase and other extras to ensure the space is fit for work and school. Keep in mind that this room should still be versatile. If your buyers don’t need an office, they should be able to change that without too much work.

5. Increasing Natural Lighting

There’s nothing better for a space than natural lighting. The last thing potential buyers want to live in is a dark, cramped home. By replacing old windows and opening closed rooms, you can create a brighter space that sells for more.

You can see up to a 73% ROI when you invest in new windows. The cost to install replacements depends on which material you choose and how many windows you replace. If you don’t need to buy new windows, you might want to knock down a wall or two to make your home more open. This trick allows the light from your current windows to be more effective.

Try These Projects to Get the Biggest Bang for Your Buck

If you’re selling your home, you want to ensure you’re getting most of your money back. A few simple projects can make your house that much more appealing to buyers. Try these ideas to add value to your home before you sell.

“We appreciate the collaboration on this article. Thank you Rose”

—--Arian Harwell - Owner - Harwell Fencing

Article by

Rose Morrison
Managing Editor - renovated.com

While Driveway Gates Are Quite Sturdy, They Nevertheless Need Routine Maintenance

A nice, beautiful-looking house deserves an aesthetically designed driveway gate. Apart from improving curb appeal, a driveway gate can add value to the property and keep the residents fully secured. But no matter how strong and efficient a driveway gate is or whether it is a modern wooden driveway gate or a gate made from iron, it is important you take its maintenance routine seriously and get in touch with repair professionals immediately if you notice any issue.

In this blog, we’ll be taking a look at some issues for which you should call repair professionals. Let’s take a look at them.

• Needless to say when a vehicle ramps into your gate, you will need to repair it. But it is important to understand that even those negligible-looking collisions can very easily cause misalignment. Even if a motorcycle collides with the gate, make sure you have it checked for alignment purposes

• Automatic driveway gates are some of the most popular gates for residences. Such gates rely on stable electrical power source to open and close without any issue. After big power outages, especially when your driveway gate starts exhibiting some issues, you should have it inspected so that proper functioning of the automatic gate is not affected

• Another issue that driveway gates sometimes experience is the improper closing of the gate; they fail to close fully due to either chain damage or blocked tracks. The issue behind incomplete closing of the gate can be an internal problem if nothing seems to be blocking the gate. So, in order to maintain your residence’s safety, have this problem inspected immediately

• Apart from collisions, severe weather conditions can also cause damage to the gate. After a massive rainstorm, make sure to check the proper functioning of the gate as well as its appearance to note any visible damage. Since automatic gates work with the help of electrical components, torrential rains and high winds could affect such components so have them checked by repair professionals afterwards

• If your driveway gate is making unusual noises while opening and closing, then there is a need for an adjustment or some sort of repair job to be done on its moving component. Those noises sound like scraping, grinding, and squealing

Harwell Fencing & Gates makes some of the best driveway gates in Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach, and Manhattan Beach. The gates we make our aesthetically pleasing, reliable, and long lasting. You can go for our steel driveway gates installation service as most of our clients find it quite strong and perfect for their security purposes.

How Refinishing Your Deck and Fence Can Boost Your Curb Appeal

Are you looking for ways to boost your curb appeal and increase your home’s value? A new or improved deck and fence could be projects worth pursuing. What makes these projects worth the investment? 

Let’s take a look at how refinishing and focusing on your deck and fence can boost your curb appeal. Plus, we’ll look at various remodeling options for your deck, fence, and backyard.  

Decks and Fences Increase Home Value 

At a base level, investing in your deck and fence makes excellent financial sense. Not only do these two additions look fantastic, but they’re also terrific ways to increase your home’s value. How much do these projects impact home value? 

According to various reports, a brand new wooden deck can increase your home’s value by around $10,000. The return on investment (ROI) for a wooden deck ranges from 76-86%. In other words, adding a wooden deck adds around $10,000 to your home’s ticket price. Beyond that, you can expect to recoup 76-86% of what you spend on improving your deck. 

Some experts say that adding a fence provides an even better ROI, but it’s a difficult thing to measure. A safe bet for any curb appeal projects is around 150%.ROI. However, some experts have seen curb appeal projects provide ROIs of up to 1,000%.

To play it safe, you can expect to recoup around 150% of what you spend on improving your home’s fence in the sale of your home. Though, fences provide a lot of value that isn’t monetary. 

For pet owners and parents, fences provide a boundary to keep their pets and children safe. For others, fences offer privacy and safety from the outside world. Many homebuyers won’t even look at a house or consider a home that doesn’t already have a fence. 

Clearly, having a deck and fence installed are fantastic ways to increase curb appeal and boost home value. 

However, what if you already have a deck or fence? Are there ways to improve what’s already there? What are some other deck and fence remodeling ideas to boost curb appeal? 

4 Projects to Boost Your Curb Appeal with Your Fence and Deck

These four ideas are some of the best options for taking your fence and deck to the next level. 

1. Refinish Your Wooden Fence or Deck – Weather and wear can do a number on wood. It’s essential to periodically refinish your deck and fence to protect your investments and keep your deck and fence looking great for years to come. Refinishing can include: 

• Pressure Washing

• Repairs 

• Adding Sealants 

• Adding Stains

• and More

2. Consider a Unique Material – While wood might be the go-to material, there are other options. White picket fences and metal gates are both popular choices. Composite decks are also increasing in popularity. You don’t have to go with traditional wooden decks and fences to boost your curb appeal. 

3. Consider a Pergola – If you already have a deck or building a deck isn’t feasible for your backyard, consider a pergola design. You can have a pergola constructed professionally and refinished, or you can even go for a DIY pergola if you’re on a budget. Like decks, pergolas provide a comfortable sitting area in a backyard and increase curb appeal and home value. However, pergolas are often cheaper to install and maintain. 

4. Add Inviting Touches – An increasing number of homebuyers are looking for homes with inviting backyards that provide a place to relax and entertain. A deck and fence help create idealistic backyards. You can further increase the inviting feeling by incorporating comfortable furniture on your deck. You can also consider including rustic art and hanging lights on your fence to illustrate a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. 

Boost Your Curb Appeal with a Fence and Deck

Decks and fences can add a significant amount of value to your home. They increase curb appeal and help bring more interested buyers through the door. Even if you already have a fence or deck, refinishing and adding inviting touches could be just what you need to bring these features to the next level.

Matt Greenfield is the owner of the Innovative Building Materials blog and a content writer for the building materials industry. He is focused on helping fellow homeowners, contractors, and architects discover materials and methods of construction that save money, improve energy efficiency, and increase property value.