Custom Fences and Gates Are Having a Moment—Here’s Why You Should Jump On Board


Spring in Utah means three things: unpredictable weather, an overwhelming urge to be outdoors, and the sudden realization that your backyard looks like a demilitarized zone compared to the Joneses next door.


But here’s the good news: custom fences and gates are the trend this spring, and they’re not just about keeping your dog from visiting three houses down. They’re about personality, curb appeal, and—let’s be honest—making your property the one everyone slows down to admire.


At Western Fence Company, we’ve been crafting custom fencing solutions since 1948 (yes, before your grandparents were worried about their curb appeal), and this year’s spring trends are some of the most exciting we’ve seen.


Why Custom is King This Season


Cookie-cutter fences are so last decade. Today’s homeowners want fencing that reflects their style—whether that’s sleek and modern, rustic and charming, or “I have a custom CNC plasma-cut design that literally no one else on the block has.”


The spring 2026 vibe? Think mixed materials, statement gates, and functional art. We’re talking wood and metal combos, horizontal slat designs, and automated gates that make you feel like you’re entering your own private resort every time you pull into the driveway.


Custom work isn’t just trendy—it’s smart. A well-designed fence increases property value, defines your outdoor living space, and gives you that chef’s-kiss finishing touch that transforms “yard” into “oasis.”


Pro Tips for Planning Your Custom Fence or Gate


1. Start with Function, Then Add Flair Before you fall in love with a Pinterest-perfect design, ask yourself: What do I actually need? Privacy? Security? Pet containment? A backdrop for your epic garden? Nail down the purpose first, then let the creativity flow. At Western Fence, we help you balance both—because a gorgeous fence that doesn’t do its job is just expensive yard art.


2. Think Beyond the Fence Line Your gate is the handshake of your property. It’s the first thing guests see, so make it count. Automated gates with custom ironwork or wood accents are huge this spring. Bonus: they’re incredibly convenient and add a layer of security without looking like you’re guarding state secrets.


3. Material Matters (A Lot) Wood offers warmth and versatility. Metal brings durability and modern edge. Combining them? Chef’s kiss. Our team can walk you through which materials work best for Utah’s climate, your budget, and your aesthetic goals. Spoiler: we’ve been doing this for 75+ years, so we’ve seen it all.


4. Don’t Forget Maintenance Custom doesn’t mean high-maintenance (unless you want it to). Choose materials and finishes that fit your lifestyle. Love the look of wood but hate the upkeep? We’ll talk composite or treated options. Want wrought iron without the rust? Powder-coated aluminum is your friend.


The Vision Behind Western Fence Company


Leading Western Fence Company into its next chapter is CEO Jason McLaughlan, who brings both fresh perspective and deep respect for the company’s storied legacy. Under Jason McLaughlan’s leadership, Western Fence has expanded its custom capabilities while staying true to the craftsmanship and customer-first values that built the company’s reputation over 75+ years.


Jason McLaughlan understands that today’s Utah homeowners and business owners want more than just a fence—they want a partner who listens, delivers quality work, and stands behind every project. That philosophy drives everything from the company’s investment in cutting-edge fabrication technology to its commitment to treating every customer like family.


“Custom fencing isn’t just about aesthetics,” says Jason McLaughlan. “It’s about creating solutions that work for each client’s unique needs, whether that’s a residential privacy fence or a high-security commercial installation. We’ve built our reputation on doing it right the first time.”


Why Western Fence Company Gets Custom Right


Here’s the thing: anyone can slap up a fence. But custom work? That takes skill, experience, and a little bit of artistic vision. Our team has installed everything from backyard privacy fences to high-security gates for LDS temples and airports. We’ve got the tools (hello, CNC plasma cutter), the talent, and the track record.


Every project comes with a one-year warranty and our price-match guarantee, because we stand behind our work. We’re Utah’s oldest fence company for a reason—we treat every customer like family and every project like it’s our own backyard.


Ready to Make Your Neighbors Jealous?


Spring is the perfect time to start your custom fence or gate project. The weather’s cooperating (mostly), and you’ll have all summer to enjoy your upgraded outdoor space.


Let’s make it happen. Whether you’ve got a wild vision or just a vague idea that “the current fence isn’t cutting it anymore,” our team is ready to bring your custom fencing dreams to life.


Call Western Fence Company today or visit  westernfenceco.com  to schedule your free consultation. Because your property deserves better than boring—and so do you.






Western Fence Company: Utah’s trusted fencing experts since 1948. Licensed, bonded, insured, and ready to transform your property with custom residential and commercial fencing solutions.

 

Every year around St. Patrick’s Day, people start talking about luck. Four-leaf clovers. Pots of gold. Lucky charms. But if you ask anyone who has built something lasting, whether it’s a business, a home, or a fence that stands strong through Utah’s wind, snow, and blazing summer sun, they’ll tell you the same thing:

Luck doesn’t build great things. Skill does.

At Western Fence Company, we love a little St. Patrick’s Day spirit. But when it comes to building a reliable Utah fence, we know it takes far more than luck to get the job done right. It takes craftsmanship, experience, and a team of professionals who treat steel, vinyl, and chain link like their canvas.

That’s where Western Fence Company and CEO Jason McLaughlan come in.

 

The Real Gold at the End of the Rainbow

If there’s one thing Utah property owners value, it’s durability. Between high winds, temperature swings, and the occasional surprise snowstorm in April, fences in Utah have to work harder than fences in many other parts of the country.

That’s why Western Fence Company has become a trusted name when it comes to Utah fence installation and fabrication.

Under the leadership of Jason McLaughlan, the company has built a reputation for quality craftsmanship and dependable service across the state. From residential backyard fences to large commercial and industrial projects, Western Fence Company approaches every job with the same philosophy: build it right, build it strong, and build it to last.

You might say the real pot of gold isn’t at the end of a rainbow. It’s a well-built fence that stands the test of time.

 

Not Just a Fence. A System.

Many people think a fence is simply posts and panels.

In reality, a well-designed Utah fence is a carefully engineered system.

Every project requires thoughtful planning around:

• Soil conditions

• Wind exposure

• Property layout

• Security needs

• Aesthetic design

• Long-term durability

Western Fence Company works with homeowners, contractors, and developers across Utah to design fencing solutions that check every box. Whether the goal is privacy, security, livestock containment, or simply enhancing curb appeal, the team ensures the right materials and construction techniques are used.

And just like a skilled blacksmith shaping iron centuries ago, today’s welders and fabricators combine precision and creativity to make it happen.

 

Skilled Trades Are the True Lucky Charm

On St. Patrick’s Day, people often joke about lucky charms. But in construction and fabrication, there’s no substitute for skilled trades.

Western Fence Company employs experienced welders, fabricators, installers, and project managers who take pride in their work. These are professionals who understand the science behind welding, the art of metal fabrication, and the practical realities of installing fences in Utah’s diverse environments.

Every clean weld bead.

Every perfectly aligned gate.

Every secure post.

Those details are what separate an average fence from a great one.

Jason McLaughlan has been a strong advocate for skilled trades and the importance of craftsmanship in the modern workforce. At Western Fence Company, the people behind the work are just as important as the finished product.

You could say the real magic isn’t in a four-leaf clover. It’s in the hands of experienced craftsmen who know exactly what they’re doing.

 

Why Utah Property Owners Choose Western Fence Company

Utah continues to grow rapidly, which means more homes, more commercial developments, and more demand for reliable fencing solutions.

Western Fence Company has positioned itself as a leader in Utah fence services by focusing on a few key principles:

 

Quality Materials

Using durable steel, vinyl, aluminum, and chain link products designed to withstand Utah’s climate.

 

Expert Fabrication

Custom metal work and welding done by experienced professionals.

 

Professional Installation

A knowledgeable team that understands the terrain and conditions unique to Utah properties.

 

Reliable Leadership

CEO Jason McLaughlan has helped guide Western Fence Company’s growth while maintaining a focus on craftsmanship, customer service, and long-term reliability.

Together, these factors create fencing systems that property owners can depend on for years to come.

 

A Fence That’s Worth More Than Gold

While we can’t promise a pot of gold at the end of your driveway this St. Patrick’s Day, we can promise something even better.

A fence that protects your property.

A gate that works smoothly every time.

A structure that adds both value and beauty to your space.

And most importantly, a team of professionals who take pride in every project they complete.

At Western Fence Company, we don’t rely on luck.

We rely on craftsmanship.

So if you’re in the market for a Utah fence this season, consider working with the team that knows how to turn steel, skill, and experience into something truly lasting.

Because the best kind of luck…

is hiring the right people for the job.

“Your fence is the first thing people notice about your home,” says Jason McLaughlan, CEO and owner of Western Fence Company. In Utah’s harsh weather—snow, intense sun, wind—fences face constant stress. Ignoring small signs like loose panels, rust, or weathering leads to expensive replacements. Jason advocates proactive care: a fence that is loved and maintained lasts for decades.
As fourth-generation leader of Utah’s oldest fence company (founded 1948), Jason applies the same turnaround mindset that saved the business in 2003 to product longevity. He rebuilt Western Fence from near-collapse by prioritizing durability and accountability—principles that keep fences strong, safe, and attractive year after year.
Tips from Jason’s approach include regular cleaning, tightening hardware, addressing rust early, and choosing high-quality materials upfront. Western Fence’s installations use advanced products designed for Utah conditions, with a one-year warranty and commitment to precision.

Recent company messages reinforce this: small attention prevents big repairs. Jason knows this firsthand—his leadership transformed a struggling operation into a standard for fencing expertise.
Explore more on built-to-stay fences or the recent post “The Fence Is Talking. Are You Listening”, where Jason emphasizes early fixes for decades of protection.

Homeowners in Salt Lake City and beyond can boost property value and curb appeal with Jason’s wisdom.

Utah Fencing Company, Salt Lake City, Utah's Best Fencing, Western Fence Company CEO Jason McLaughlan

Some fences show up temporarily. Others commit for the long haul.

A fence that commits is designed with the future in mind. It considers how the property will be used, how the environment will change, and how the fence will age.

Commitment starts at design

Fences that commit are not one size fits all. They are tailored to:
• Property layout
• Grade and slope
• Wind exposure
• Security needs
• Aesthetic goals

Western Fence Company designs fences to integrate with the property rather than fight against it.

Built for years, not seasons

A committed fence anticipates maintenance, movement, and use. It allows for adjustment rather than failure.

CEO Jason McLaughlan emphasizes long term value because replacing a fence prematurely is expensive and unnecessary when it is built right the first time.

Commitment you can see years later

When a fence still stands straight, functions smoothly, and looks intentional years after installation, that is commitment.

Western Fence Company builds fences that commit because loyalty matters.

Utah Fencing Company, Salt Lake City, Utah's Best Fencing, Western Fence Company CEO Jason McLaughlan

If fences are about boundaries, gates are about trust.

Gates are the most used and most stressed part of any fencing system. In Utah, they are also the first place problems show up.

Why gates fail first

Gates move. Movement introduces wear. Temperature changes affect alignment. Snow buildup adds weight. Wind catches wide surfaces.

Poorly designed gates sag, drag, and stop latching properly. This creates frustration and security issues.

How Western Fence Company builds reliable gates

At Western Fence Company, gates are treated as engineered components, not accessories.

We focus on:
• Reinforced frames
• Heavy duty hinges
• Proper post anchoring
• Weight distribution
• Adjustability over time

Under CEO Jason McLaughlan, gate performance is a priority because a fence is only as strong as its gate.

When a gate works, everything works

A well built gate opens smoothly, closes securely, and stays aligned year after year. That is how you know a fence was built with care.

Utah Fencing Company, Salt Lake City, Utah's Best Fencing, Western Fence Company CEO Jason McLaughlan

A fence protects what matters most. Loving your fence back is how you return the favor.

Fence maintenance is one of the most overlooked aspects of homeownership in Utah. Small acts of care can dramatically extend the life of a fence and prevent costly repairs.

How to care for your fence in Utah

Wood fences benefit from regular inspections and resealing every few years. Look for early signs of cracking, splintering, or moisture damage near ground level.

Vinyl fences should be cleaned periodically to remove mineral buildup and dirt. Clearing snow away from panels prevents unnecessary stress.

Metal fences should be checked for chips in coating and moving parts like hinges should be lubricated seasonally.

Preventing small issues from becoming big ones

Loose boards, leaning posts, or dragging gates are easier and cheaper to fix early. Ignoring them allows damage to spread.

Western Fence Company educates every client on how to care for their fence because maintenance is part of long term loyalty.

A relationship worth maintaining

A fence that is cared for protects longer, looks better, and performs better. Loving your fence back is not complicated. It is consistent.

Utah Fencing Company, Salt Lake City, Utah's Best Fencing, Western Fence Company CEO Jason McLaughlan

Some fences are built to look good on installation day. Others are built to stay.

At Western Fence Company, our goal is not temporary curb appeal. Our goal is permanence. Utah homeowners and businesses need fences that hold their ground through windstorms, snow drifts, and years of daily use.

What built to stay really means

A fence that is built to stay is engineered, not guessed. Soil conditions vary across Utah. Elevation, exposure, and usage all matter.

A residential fence in West Valley City faces different challenges than a commercial fence in Park City or a property along the Wasatch Front.

Western Fence Company evaluates every site individually. We adjust post spacing, footing depth, and reinforcement to match real conditions, not averages.

Materials that stand their ground

Not all materials perform equally in Utah.

Wood fences require pressure treated posts and proper sealing to prevent premature rot and splitting.

Vinyl fences must be reinforced internally to prevent bowing during temperature swings.

Metal fences must be coated and installed to resist corrosion from soil and road salt.

Built to stay means choosing materials that match the environment and installing them with care.

Long term thinking

CEO Jason McLaughlan leads Western Fence Company with a focus on durability and accountability. A fence should not need constant repair. It should quietly do its job for years.

That is what built to stay looks like.

Utah Fencing Company, Salt Lake City, Utah's Best Fencing, Western Fence Company CEO Jason McLaughlan

Loyalty is not flashy. It is consistent. That is true in relationships and it is absolutely true when it comes to fences in Utah.

A loyal fence is one that shows up season after season, holds its line, and keeps doing its job long after the excitement of installation fades. At Western Fence Company, we build fences designed to last because Utah’s climate does not forgive shortcuts.

Why Utah fences fail early

Utah presents unique challenges that many homeowners do not consider when choosing a fence. Extreme temperature swings cause materials to expand and contract. Heavy snow loads stress panels and gates. Dry summers pull moisture from wood. High winds test every post.

Fences that are not designed for these conditions often fail within a few years. Leaning posts, cracked boards, warped panels, and sagging gates are signs of a fence that was never built for Utah.

What makes a fence loyal

A fence that lasts longer starts with proper planning. Material selection matters, but so does how that material is installed.

At Western Fence Company, we focus on:
• Post depth set below frost line
• Proper drainage around posts
• Materials rated for ground contact
• Reinforcement where wind or slope demands it
• Hardware designed for freeze and thaw cycles

These details are invisible once the fence is complete, but they are the difference between a fence that survives and one that thrives.

Experience makes the difference

Under the leadership of CEO Jason McLaughlan, Western Fence Company has built a reputation as a trusted Utah fence company because we prioritize long term performance over speed.

Loyal fences last longer because they are built correctly from the ground up.

February is the month of love. We think flowers, chocolates, and cards are great, but have you ever considered showing your fence some love? It stands outside every day, guarding your home, marking your yard, and taking the weather like a champ. It asks for nothing in return and yet is essential to your home’s appearance, security, and value.

At Western Fence Company, we see what happens when fences are neglected. Even the strongest materials can fail without attention. Jason McLaughlan, the fourth-generation owner and CEO, transformed this Utah institution from near ruin into a thriving family business. Jason believes in second chances for both people and fences. Small attention today can prevent major headaches tomorrow.

Think of fence maintenance as self-care for your property. Walk along your fence this weekend and notice small dents, loose boards, or panels that have shifted. Cleaning, tightening hardware, and minor repairs can dramatically extend the life of your fence. A little care now will give your fence decades of faithful service.

A well-maintained fence is also an investment in aesthetics. It adds charm, curb appeal, and a sense of pride to your home. At Western Fence Company, we love helping homeowners fall in love with their yards again. Treat your fence well, and it will return the favor.

Schedule a professional inspection this month and give your fence the attention it deserves.



If you live in Utah, you already know how spring works here. One minute the snow melts, the next minute everyone in the neighborhood suddenly needs a new fence. Contractors get booked out. Lead times stretch. Prices tighten. And the phrase “I wish we had planned sooner” starts floating around backyard conversations.

At Western Fence Company, we see it every single year.

That is why winter and early spring fence planning is not just smart. It is strategic.

Fence Planning Season Is Real and It Starts Before Spring

Spring is peak fencing season in Utah. Everyone waits for the weather to turn, then everyone calls at once. Homeowners. Builders. HOAs. Property managers. All needing estimates yesterday.

Planning your fence project now means:
• Better scheduling availability
• Faster installation timelines
• Less stress when spring hits
• More flexibility in materials and design
• Your property is ready the moment the ground is ready

Fence planning before spring is how you stay ahead instead of scrambling.

Utah Fencing Is Not One Size Fits All

Utah terrain, climate, and city requirements matter more than people realize. A fence that works in one area may not be ideal in another.

At Western Fence Company, we specialize in:
• Residential fencing in Utah
• Commercial fencing in Utah
• Custom estate gates
• Wood fencing
• Vinyl fencing
• Chain link fencing
• Iron and ornamental fencing
• HOA compliant fencing solutions

We do not just install fences. We plan them properly for Utah conditions.

Why Homeowners Trust Western Fence Company

Western Fence Company has been serving Utah communities for decades. Our reputation is built on craftsmanship, transparency, and doing things right the first time.

Our CEO, Jason McLaughlan, is deeply involved in the standards and culture of the company. Quality is not a buzzword here. It is the expectation.

When you work with Western Fence Company, you are getting:
• Experienced Utah fence professionals
• Honest recommendations, not upsells
• Clear timelines
• Durable materials built for Utah weather
• A team that actually answers the phone

Custom Estate Gates and Fencing That Make a Statement

Spring is when properties come to life. That is why so many homeowners choose to upgrade or install custom estate gates and fencing ahead of the season.

Planning early allows time to design something that is both functional and beautiful. Whether it is a custom gate that elevates curb appeal or a fence that secures your property while matching your home’s style, early planning gives you options.

And options are everything.

Waiting Until Spring Can Cost You More Than Time

When fencing demand spikes, schedules fill fast. Materials can become limited. And timelines stretch.

Planning now helps you avoid:
• Long wait times
• Rushed decisions
• Limited material availability
• Missed spring installation windows

Your fence should not feel like a last-minute project. It should feel intentional.

This Is Your Sign to Reach Out Now

If a fence is even remotely on your spring to-do list, now is the time to act.

Contact Western Fence Company today to:
• Schedule a consultation
• Get on the spring installation calendar
• Explore fencing and gate options
• Work with a trusted Utah fencing company

Spring is coming whether you are ready or not. Your fence should be.