Privacy Fence Installation Garland TX | Call Orlando Contreras

Garland's intense summer heat and high humidity cause wood to expand and contract rapidly. Over time, this repeated moisture fluctuation leads to warping, splitting, and gaps. Direct sunlight accelerates drying on one side, while shaded areas retain moisture, creating an imbalance. Orlando Contreras selects heat-treated or local cedar and applies proper sealing techniques to minimize warping.

Signs include a latch that sticks, doesn't align with the strike plate, or the spring feels weak. Heat can warp the gate frame, shifting the latch position. Listen for squeaks or see if the gate drags on the ground. Orlando recommends checking alignment after a hot spell and replacing worn galvanized or stainless-steel latches for better heat resistance.

The most durable fix is to replace both the latch and the strike plate with heavy-duty, heat-resistant hardware—preferably stainless steel. Orlando also reinforces the gate frame with pressure-treated lumber to prevent future warping that misaligns the latch. He ensures the gate swings freely and the latch engages smoothly, even after temperature swings.