# Austex Fence & Deck - Website Overview ## Company Overview Austex Fence & Deck is a Central Texas contractor with more than 30 years of experience and over 200,000 completed projects. The company designs and installs fences, decks and patio covers for residential and commercial customers. ## Services ### Fencing Services - [Fences](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/fences/): Overview of fencing options offered by Austex Fence & Deck, covering materials, styles and applications with links to wood, iron and vinyl fences. - [Wood Fences](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/fences/wood-fences/): Details on wood fencing, including types of wood (spruce, cedar etc.), maintenance requirements and design options along with privacy and customisation benefits. - [Iron Fences](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/fences/iron-fences/): Description of ornamental iron fencing emphasising durability, security and aesthetic appeal. - [Vinyl Fences](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/fences/vinyl-fences/): Information on low-maintenance, long-lasting vinyl fences and the benefits of choosing vinyl for privacy and durability. ### Deck Construction - [Decks](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/decks/): Summary of deck construction services, discussing design consultation, choice of materials (wood, composite etc.), customisation options and integration with existing outdoor spaces. ### Patio Covers - [Patio Covers](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/patio-covers/): Information about patio cover options, highlighting styles, materials and how a cover can expand usable outdoor living space. ## Company Information & Resources - [Our Work (Gallery)](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/gallery/): Photo gallery showcasing finished fences, decks and patio covers to demonstrate quality and variety of workmanship. - [About Austex](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/about-austex/): Background on the company's history, mission and values. - [Service Areas](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/service-areas/): List of regions in Central Texas where Austex offers services. - [Customer Reviews](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/about-austex/customer-reviews/): Testimonials from customers describing their experiences with Austex Fence & Deck. - [FAQs](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/about-austex/faqs/): Frequently asked questions covering materials, installation process, maintenance and other common concerns. - [Online Payments](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/contact-us/online-payments/): Instructions for making payments through the company's secure online portal. - [Financing Options](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/about-austex/financing/): Information about available financing plans for fencing and decking projects. - [Warranty](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/about-austex/warranty/): Details on product and workmanship warranties provided by Austex. - [Get a Quote](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/fence-cost-estimator/): Link to an online fence cost estimator for obtaining an instant quote. ## Blog Articles The blog features articles that educate customers about outdoor living, fencing, decks and patio covers. Below are representative posts as of September 2025. - [17 Types of Wood Fences That Look Great & Provide Privacy](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/types-of-wood-fences/): The article introduces horizontal fences with metal or wood posts, fences with cap and trim, fences with top slats, cedar privacy fences and good-neighbor fences, explaining their aesthetics, durability and customisation options. - [12 Surprising Benefits of Adding a Pergola to Your Outdoor Space](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/benefits-of-a-pergola/): The article lists benefits such as enhanced usability, UV protection, increased home value, plant support, aesthetic appeal, privacy, low maintenance and weather protection, along with custom design options. - [How a Pool Fence Can Save Lives](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/how-pool-fence-save-lives/): The article emphasises the importance of pool safety and how four-sided pool fences prevent child drownings. It also describes local fence requirements and compares materials like iron, wood and vinyl. - [18 Dog Fence Ideas: Styles & Solutions for Every Yard & Dog](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/dog-fence-ideas/): The article advises readers on choosing the right fence based on purpose, dog size, behaviour, budget, space, privacy, regulations and whether to DIY or hire professionals. It then presents ideas such as wood fences with doggie windows, wood fences with iron gates, bull wire fences and various horizontal designs for different breeds and yard layouts. - [Horizontal Fence Ideas: Austin Inspiration for Your Modern Yard](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/horizontal-fence-ideas/): The article notes that horizontal fences not only provide safety and privacy but also dramatically enhance curb appeal. They offer a clean, organised look that complements craftsman, contemporary, Spanish and Mediterranean homes. The post outlines multiple horizontal fence ideas, including fences with exposed posts, cedar fences with gates for slopes, board-on-board fences, basket-weave patterns and modern mixed materials. - [21 Unique Cedar Fence Ideas from Our Favorite Central Texas Projects](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/cedar-fence-ideas/): The article highlights that homeowners need not settle for plain cedar boards; there are numerous unique cedar fence designs. Examples include cedar board-on-board fences (some built on retention walls), cedar fences with top caps for sloped landscapes, shadowbox fences that look good on both sides, basket-weave patterns, good-neighbor fences, vertical slatted fences with gates and lattice-topped designs. - [Is It Safe to Grill on a Wooden Deck?](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/safe-to-grill-on-wooden-deck/): The article explains the risks of grilling on a wooden deck and offers safety tips, such as placing the grill away from railings or combustible materials, using a grill mat to prevent sparks and grease from damaging the deck, keeping flammable items away and having a fire extinguisher or baking soda nearby. - [What Is the Deck Building Process Like?](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/what-is-the-deck-building-process-like/): The article outlines Austex's deck-building process: a design consultation to determine size, height, materials and additions; setting and framing footings with concrete and rebar; installing the deck using clips, screws or anchors; and final inspections to ensure stability. - [Checking Your Deck's Safety](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/checking-your-decks-safety/): The article provides a deck safety checklist that includes inspecting the ledger board and tightening bolts, checking flashing to prevent water seepage and rot, probing wood for rot or insect damage, examining fasteners for rust or looseness, inspecting support posts for straightness, and ensuring stairs and railings are stable. - [How to Take Care of Your Deck](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/how-to-take-care-of-your-deck/): The article recommends cleaning the deck annually using deck-cleaning solutions or a high-pressure hose, inspecting for weak spots or loose nails, refinishing and staining every two to three years to protect the wood and sealing with waterproof, UV-protective products. - [Pergolas vs. Gazebos - What's the Difference?](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/pergolas-vs-gazebos-whats-the-difference/): The article clarifies the distinctions between gazebos and pergolas. Gazebos are typically hexagonal or octagonal structures with a fully covered roof and open sides that are placed away from the home, such as beside a lake or pool. Pergolas have an overhead lattice roof instead of a solid roof, providing shade while still allowing breeze and light to filter through. Often made from durable cedar that can be painted or stained, pergolas may attach to a porch, outdoor kitchen or stand alone, and they support climbing plants. - [5 Ideas for Lighting Your Deck](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/5-ideas-for-lighting-your-deck/): The article presents deck-lighting options, including string lights that add ambiance but minimal light, solar lights that are versatile but dependent on sunlight and proper placement, recessed lighting installed in posts or overhangs for bright, long-lasting illumination, in-floor lights for safety near stairs, and under-rail lights that create a subtle glow on steps and rails. - [How to Use Your Deck in the Fall](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/how-to-use-your-deck-in-the-fall/): The article suggests adding heat sources like fire pits, heat lamps or table-top fireplaces to make the deck comfortable in cooler weather, installing a pergola to contain heat and provide shade and incorporating solar, string or electric lighting to enjoy the deck despite early sunsets. - [31 Decorative Fencing Ideas](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/decorative-fence-ideas/): The article offers inspiration for decorative fences, highlighting modern horizontal wood fences with or without metal accents,spin, ornamental iron fences that provide custom designs with low maintenance, lattice-top fences combining wood fences with lattice for elegance, rustic split rail and post-and-rail fences with wide gaps and mixed-material fences that combine stone, metal and wood for unique designs. - [Outdoor Lighting Ideas for Your Backyard](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/outdoor-lighting-ideas-for-your-backyard/): The article shares backyard lighting suggestions, including string lights for quick installation and a festive glow, lanterns made of various materials for adjustable brightness, uplighting installed on the home or ground to highlight features, and pendant lights that hang from pergolas or structures for targeted illumination. - [Privacy Fence Styles for Central Texas Properties](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/privacy-fence-styles/): discusses the popularity of privacy fences for security and containment, and introduces scalloped-top fences with downward-sloping beams, lattice-top fences that combine wood and lattice, and dog-eared-top fences with trimmed edges for charm. - [Choosing a Fence to Match Your Home Style](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/choosing-a-fence-to-match-your-home-style/): The article advises matching fences to home style. For traditional homes, vertical wood fences provide privacy, iron fences add an upgraded look and vinyl fences offer low maintenance. Contemporary homes may benefit from horizontal wood and basket-weave fences or contemporary-styled vinyl. - [Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Fences?](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/does-homeowners-insurance-cover-fences/): The article explains that fences may be covered under the “Other Structures” provision of homeowners insurance, typically up to 10% of the total policy. Coverage depends on damage cause - storms, vandalism and healthy trees falling are generally covered, while damage from neglected trees or the homeowner's own vehicle may not be covered. - [Fence Etiquette Tips for Sharing a Fence with Your Neighbors](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/fence-etiquette-sharing-a-fence-with-your-neighbor/): The article outlines etiquette when sharing fences: identify ownership and communicate with neighbors before repairs or installation, define property lines using surveys, discuss design and HOA rules, maintain the fence and choose low-maintenance materials like vinyl or aluminum, and give neighbors the good side of a wood fence for curb appeal. - [The Ultimate Guide to Shadowbox Fences](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/features-of-shadowbox-style-fences/): The article explains that shadowbox fences use alternating pickets on either side of the rails to create a shadow effect while maintaining privacy; it then describes multiple style variations, from durable cedar or cypress and low-maintenance vinyl to dog-eared, horizontal, flat-top, Gothic, arched, scalloped and lattice-top designs. It highlights benefits such as visual interest, wind resistance, pet and neighbor friendliness, customizable materials and finishes, and balanced privacy. - [How to Child Proof Your Deck](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/how-to-child-proof-your-deck/): The article offers child-proofing tips such as adding high locks to deck access points, installing gates with child-resistant latches on stairs, covering rail gaps with mesh or plexiglass, blocking stair access, positioning furniture away from edges to prevent climbing and maintaining the deck by checking for splinters, loose boards or exposed nails. It also advises that new decks should have rail gaps under 3 inches, railing heights of at least 36 inches and high-quality materials. - [5 Things to Know Before You Build Your Fence](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/5-things-to-know-before-your-build-your-fence/): The article lists considerations before building a fence: check city and HOA regulations and permits, consider functionality (e.g., secure pets with privacy fences or buffer street noise); seek design inspiration tailored to wood, iron/aluminum and vinyl fences; talk to neighbors about the project; and research installers for quality work. - [Deck Privacy Ideas for an Intimate Outdoor Oasis](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/deck-privacy-ideas/): The article offers 21 ideas for adding privacy to decks, such as incorporating landscaping with trees and shrubs, adding patio canopies and pergolas, installing fences for maximum privacy and using umbrellas as affordable, movable shade. Additional suggestions include lattices, planters, screens, decorative panels, breeze blocks, outdoor curtains, privacy walls and portable privacy solutions. - [Guide to Fence Materials](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/guide-fence-materials/): The article explains the difference between component fences built from individual boards and rails versus preassembled panel fences, then reviews fence materials: wood offers natural aesthetics but requires regular sealing; vinyl is durable, low-maintenance and often made from recyclable materials; composite fences mimic wood but are more expensive with minimal upkeep; metal fences like wrought iron and aluminum offer traditional or modern looks but may rust or be less strong; and chain-link fences provide affordable, rust-resistant enclosures but little privacy. - [Vinyl vs. Wood Fences: Strength, Maintenance & Costs](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/vinyl-vs-wood-fences/): The article compares vinyl and wood fences. Vinyl fences cost more upfront but are stronger, more durable and require less maintenance than wood; wood fences are cheaper initially and offer a more natural look and higher resale value. The article notes that vinyl doesn't warp or fade and rarely needs repairs, while wood requires staining, cleaning and periodic replacement. It also has a pros-and-cons table that summarises maintenance, durability, cost and aesthetics. - [Pergolas vs. Arbors - What's the Difference?](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/pergolas-vs-arbors-whats-the-difference/): The article explains that pergolas are larger outdoor structures built with vertical beams and a horizontal grid to provide shade and define living spaces. They support vines, can be attached or freestanding and use durable wood like cedar. Arbors are smaller gateway structures used primarily for decoration; they provide less shade but add an inviting entrance and are ideal for supporting climbing plants. - [How to Shade a Deck or Patio](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/how-to-shade-a-deck-or-patio/): The article discusses shade solutions for decks and patios. Large umbrellas offer movable, concentrated shade; retractable screens provide barrier and shade but can be costly; planting trees offers natural shade but requires time and investment; and pergolas use horizontal slats on vertical posts to create permanent shade and enhance curb appeal. - [Deck Care and Maintenance](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/deck-care-and-maintenance/): The article emphasises that maintaining a deck involves keeping it clean by sweeping and using grease catchers or shoveling snow, ensuring the deck is properly sealed to protect against water and sun damage and promptly repairing exposed nails, loose boards or rot to maintain safety. - [Board on Board Fences: The Fence Type for Ultimate Privacy](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/board-on-board-fences/): The article explains what is board-on-board (board-and-batten) and describes how overlapping boards conceal gaps to create privacy. It also highlights various styles: wood board-on-board fences using cedar, cypress or redwood; horizontal board-on-board fences with a modern look; fences with top caps and trim for moisture protection; dog-ear fences with angled tops; lattice-topped and kickboard designs; and board-on-board vinyl fences that mimic wood while requiring little maintenance. - [28 Patio Privacy Ideas for Your Backyard in 2025](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/patio-privacy-ideas/): The article presents a broad range of patio privacy solutions and cost estimates. Options include installing a privacy fence using wood or lattice, using a privacy lattice for decorative screens, building wooden or minimalist fences, adding privacy walls, living walls and slat fencing, hanging outdoor curtains, decorative panels or old shutters, and incorporating portable screens, bamboo fencing and retractable screens. Plant-based ideas include ornamental grasses, potted palms and suspended or faux greenery. - [Fence on Slope Ideas for Your Backyard](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/fence-on-slope-ideas/): The article discusses installation methods for fences on sloped yards. A stepped fence uses panels positioned like stairs to follow the terrain, whereas a racked fence adjusts rails to match the slope while keeping posts vertical; the choice depends on slope angle. Other options include building a fence atop a retaining wall for added stability and height and using angled fence panels in wood or iron for yards with varying slopes. - [How to Choose a Deck Material](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/how-choose-deck-material/): The article compares popular deck materials. Ipe is a dense Brazilian hardwood that resists rot and insects and can last over 25 years with minimal maintenance; cedar is affordable, naturally weather-resistant but needs periodic washing and resealing; redwood offers rich tones and durability but is more expensive and requires maintenance; composite decking combines wood fibers and plastic for a low-maintenance, long-lasting material. - [Parts of a Wood Fence](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/parts-of-a-wood-fence/): The article breaks down the components of a wood fence. Posts support the fence's weight and are set in concrete; post caps protect posts and add aesthetic options. Pickets (or in-fill boards) come in various sizes, thicknesses and top styles, and can be arranged tightly for full privacy or spaced for a shadowbox effect. Rails (backer rails) run horizontally to attach pickets and typically consist of two or three boards. Additional components include cap boards that cover picket tops to prevent moisture damage. - [Cedar vs. Composite Decking: Choosing the Right Material](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/cedar-decking-vs-composite-decking/): The article compares cedar and composite decking. Cedar decks have a natural look, are cheaper to install and environmentally friendly but require regular cleaning and resealing and typically last 15-20 years. Composite decks are more durable, fire resistant and require minimal maintenance, can be designed to mimic wood and may last 30-50 years, though they can be hot or slippery and are less eco-friendly. - [Landscaping Ideas Around Your Deck](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/landscaping-ideas-around-your-deck/): The article provides tips for landscaping around decks. It suggests features like plants, trees, hardscaping, stone, gravel, mulch and raised flower beds, and lists suitable plants such as caladium, begonia, lavender, ornamental grasses, hydrangea, succulents and roses. For raised decks, low-growing foliage and occasional taller plants emphasize height, while small decks benefit from evenly spaced low plants and large decks look best with potted plants and hedges. - [Choosing the Best Wood for Your Central Texas Deck](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/blog/choosing-the-best-wood-for-your-central-texas-deck/): The article explains that selecting deck wood for Central Texas requires considering durability, heat resistance, maintenance, sustainability, cost and availability. Western Red Cedar is highlighted as a top choice for its balanced performance, heat resistance and curb appeal. The article compares options like tropical hardwoods (long-lasting but costly), pressure-treated woods (budget-friendly but shorter lived), redwood (durable and attractive but expensive) and composite materials (low-maintenance, high longevity). ## Additional Resources - [Terms of Use](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/terms-of-use/): Legal terms governing the use of the website and services. - [Privacy Policy](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/about-austex/privacy-policy/): Explanation of how customer data is collected, used and protected. - [Sitemap](https://austexfenceanddeck.com/sitemap/): Structured overview of the website for easier navigation. ## Contact Information - Phone: [512-258-5000](tel:512.258.5000) - Email: [info@austexfence.com](mailto:info@austexfence.com)