With New Braunfels growing rapidly, fences have become more than just boundary markers. We sat down with Kustom Fence owner Mike Reneau to learn about the latest trends, material choices, installation challenges, and expert tips that will help you choose the perfect fence for your home.
Mike purchased the company in 2016, after two decades in decks and building leads. Today, crews like Eno (30+ years) and Vicente (25 years) carry expertise going back to the company’s inception in 1978. “When you hire us, you get nearly half a century of experience,” Mike says.
Local HOAs often limit designs to wrought iron or steel, with peeled-cedar “King Ranch” posts allowed in select neighborhoods like Vintage Oaks. Yet in newly developed subdivisions—where lots are smaller and many buyers arrive from out of state accustomed to wooden privacy fencing—solid wood panels are on the rise. “We're seeing an increase in privacy fences around here,” Mike says. People want to enjoy their outdoor space without feeling like they’re being watched.
When asked about his favorite custom projects, Mike instantly said Coyote Fencing. Offering a unique, rustic look, this fencing is a favorite in the office. While more pricey than traditional wood privacy fencing, you can’t beat the one-of-a-kind look offered by this beautiful fence.
Because many customers are visual learners, Kustom Fence includes photos before breaking ground. Whether you’re drawn to sleek modern lines or traditional ornate gates (with personalized initials, pet motifs, or other custom designs), Mike’s 25‑year partnership with a local fabricator ensures a picture‑perfect result. Their crews weld steel square‑tubing and pipe in-house, then prime and paint in your choice of color—black or dark brown for longevity, or even a matching primer shade if you want that rustic, weathered look.
Some materials that Kustom Fence offers include:
- Steel & Iron: Welded in-house to any design, primed and top‑coated. Dark finishes last longer between repaints.
- Bare Pipe: Left unpainted to rust naturally for a rustic patina.
- Wood Privacy Fences: Ideal for seclusion, though staining every year for the first two coats is crucial to maintain color and protect the wood.
Before quoting, Mike asks: What’s your goal? Delineating property lines, keeping kids or pets in (or wildlife out), or boosting security? Answers determine panel height, ranch‑wire opening sizes (smaller for goats, larger for horses), and gate placement. He advises building directly on your property line to avoid neighbor disputes—utility easements typically aren’t an issue, though you may need a gate for access to poles or equipment.
“Include drive‑through gates up front,” Mike stresses. “Adding gates later can double your cost.” After building hundreds of fences, he’s seen too many homeowners regret skipping a second gate—until they plan a pool, shed, or trailer access.
West of the 35, rocky soils are the norm. While softer ground lets crews drive posts four or five feet deep, rocky sites often demand jackhammers. Kustom Fence keeps pricing simple—one flat rate regardless of rock, so customers aren’t surprised by extra fees.
All work carries a one‑year warranty against settling posts, latch failures, or paint peeling. Mike even repainted a customer’s peeled‑brown fence free of charge after three years, switching to a darker hue for durability.
Finishing up our conversation, Mike offers some final words of advice. “Don’t spend more money than you make,” Mike quips, echoing the counsel he gives his son. “Go with a reputable company.” Fly‑by‑night installers often set posts too shallow. A fence may seem simple, but get it wrong and it won’t stand.