Fencing is available in so many colors, styles and materials it can be difficult to decide what to choose. Fencing materials run the gamut from wood, aluminum and PVC/vinyl to SimTek, chain link, and wrought iron. One characteristic will be fairly easy to decide – if the fence will be solid or see-through.

The materials can be utilized in a variety of ways to create solid or see through fences, though some perform best when used in specific ways. Much will depend on the reason the fence is being erected, local regulations, and taking into account personal preferences.

There are advantages and drawbacks to each type of material. Wood will need to be stained, painted, or replaced periodically. Aluminum and PVC/vinyl won’t rust and doesn’t need painting. It’s a relatively low-maintenance option that’s also economical. SimTek is eco-friendly and one of the most versatile and durable materials available.

See-Through Fencing

A stand-alone see-through fence can provide security, safety for children and pets, and doesn’t prevent natural light from entering. The biggest benefit of see-through fencing is that it enables people see out. It can keep intruders and unwanted wildlife out. The fencing styles have the advantage of being decorative and aesthetically pleasing.

Solid Fencing

A solid fence has a variety of benefits, not least of which is privacy and the ability to completely block activities from neighbors and the street. They provide increased security to prevent wildlife and intruders from entering and it’s equally effective for keeping children and pets inside and safe.

Solid fencing can be used in a myriad of situations to address specific problems. It buffers street sounds and noises for a more tranquil environment. It’s also effective as a windbreak and for coastal dwellers as a barrier against blowing sand and debris.

Pick the Purpose

One of the most important decisions individuals can make is why they want a fence. It doesn’t have to provide privacy, safety or a barrier against noise. It can simply be ornamental, decorative, and enhance the aesthetics and value of the property.

Since the process for creating chain link fence was introduced in 1844 by Charles Barnard, the fencing type has remained one of the most effective and economical option for multiple uses. The fencing was based on the cloth weaving process and it was brought to the U.S. in 1891.

Chain link fencing quickly caught on and became popular for providing safety and security for parks and the estates of the wealthy and powerful. It became the preferred backstop method in baseball fields, catch fences at early car racetracks, and even for cage matches in wrestling.

Industrial sites, housing projects and commercial enterprises use chain link fence due to its affordability and versatility. The Department of Homeland Security recommends chain link fencing for the protection of soft targets and those that may be at increased risk of attacks. In high security areas, chain link fencing can be equipped with barbed wire or razor wire.

The fencing is strong, durable, resistant to corrosion, and offers a convenient see-through barricade. Chain link provides an imposing physical barrier and a psychological deterrent to would-be intruders. It’s cost effective to purchase, install, and can reduce the number of guards needed to protect a facility.

It’s an ideal solution for those that have small children and pets. It provides an added level of safety for parents at home and for those operating daycare centers. Chain link is used by animal breeders, animal shelters and in solutions designed specifically for zoos.

Chain link fencing isn’t just for permanent installation. It’s widely used for temporary protection of construction sites where valuable equipment and tools are kept. The fencing utilizes steel posts that can be easily removed from the ground at the end of a project and the distinctive diamond-patterned fencing can simply be rolled up and used in a different location if desired.

It’s available in multiple colors, styles, heights, and thicknesses. The fencing is able to withstand exposure to extremes of weather and coating can be applied to extend its lifespan even further. Chain link fencing is easy to repair if damage does occur and will serve its purpose for many years with only a minimum of maintenance, making it one of the most cost effective options available.

Bigger isn’t always better when considering how high a fence will be. There are a multitude of factors to consider whether it’s a property’s first fence or an upgrade to an existing barrier. Individuals will need to consider the height, material and purpose, along with local rules and regulations governing fencing in the community.

Residential and commercial fencing typically have different requirements and those can vary depending upon specific locations. For residential customers that are contemplating the installation of fencing, the primary concern should be the purpose the fence will serve.

Security

Whether it’s to keep children and pets out or unwanted people and wildlife out, a fence can accomplish all those goals. Solid fencing and those with vertical rails will aid in discouraging trespassers from trying to climb it and security gates and systems can be added. The height will be determined by what individuals are trying to keep in or out.

Privacy

The height of a privacy fence will depend on the slope of the land and the size of the area to be shielded, such as a patio, pool or hot tub. Homeowners may want to have a barrier that provided privacy in one place or throughout the entire property. A privacy fence will typically be constructed of material with little or no space between sections. A fencing professional will be able to ensure that the fence meets local regulations, and provides the privacy required for the desired area.

Noise Barrier

Living on a busy street can be extremely noisy, making it difficult to listen to music, watch TV or even sit outside in a peaceful atmosphere. Solid fencing materials are available that dampen noise and can be installed for any desired height. They can be solid or have small spaces between the boards to let light filter in, and can be paired with plantings if desired.

Wind Block

Fencing does more than beautify properties. It’s also very effective at blocking or interrupting wind from areas where homeowners entertain, especially if they have a fire pit or other outdoor flame. A fence can be especially beneficial for those that live in coastal areas as a means of preventing sand from blowing into the yard and are usually no more than three feet in height when used as a sand barrier.

Swimming Pool Safety

Most communities have very specific laws that require pools to be fenced, gated for safety, and state minimum height requirements. They should have an automatic locking gate, no handholds with which children can climb, and security systems can be installed to alert owners when the gate is opened.

Before Fencing

It’s best to hire a fencing professional that is knowledgeable in local laws governing fencing heights and if there’s a required setback on the property. A professional can help clients choose the right type of fencing for their needs that also conforms to community specifications.

Modern aluminum fencing offers a wealth of opportunities for beautifying properties, providing a secure barrier to protect children and pets, and offers exceptional durability. It presents a visually appealing appearance and can be customized in a variety of ways.

Even though aluminum isn’t heavy, it’s no lightweight when it comes to strength. Many fences that appear to be wrought iron in locations such as parks, swimming pools, commercial projects, and housing developments are actually crafted from aluminum.

Choosing a fence design isn’t as easy as people might think. There are a number of factors to be examined and a simple online search isn’t sufficient to fully grasp all the available options. Individuals can select from materials encompassing wood, PVC, and different types of metal that are decorative, provide privacy, and secure premises.

Installing a fence is a complicated process. There’s a wealth of fencing materials, styles and colors from which to choose and regulations with which to comply. Property owners can begin by knowing why they’re installing a fence. It could be for:

• Privacy
• Safety
• Security
• Noise control
• Curb appeal
• Establish boundaries
• Conceal unappealing sights

Most people think of fences in terms of safety and security, but they’re much more versatile than that. They can be constructed in a variety of decorative ways to protect plants, camouflage generators, and air conditioning units, to provide privacy, and add interest to the landscape. There are multiple ways that barriers can be used to add character to the landscape.

Swimming pools are one of the most popular places to put a decorative barrier. To soften the appearance of a security fence at the poolside, a fun nautical theme can be created with rope, netting, and round posts. It’s the type of decorative barrier that can be recreated throughout the landscape and on decks, porches, and patios.

There are all types of unsightly objects that home and business owners want to keep hidden and out of site ranging from dumpsters, garden hoses and reels, and air conditioning units to pipes, meters and emergency generators. Just because they’re necessary doesn’t mean they have to become an eyesore in the landscape. There is a myriad of methods for hiding them.

The best way to hide objects while maintaining access to them is with a decorative fence or panel. It’s an ideal solution that’s also affordable and doesn’t have to be extensive to be effective. Even a single fence panel can make a big difference and fencing can be used to conceal just about anything that individuals want to keep out of sight.

A fence can serve a variety of purposes, from privacy and security to safety and curb appeal. Individuals have a variety of materials from which to choose that will complement their landscape, but even low-maintenance fences will need some care to prolong their lifespan.

Most modern fences require very little care to maintain their appearance. Some materials can last for 20 years or more and are eco-friendly. They’re highly-durable, but chemicals to control weed growth and insect pests in the surrounding landscape can result in staining.

Florida is home to a wide variety of unwelcome and dangerous wildlife and one of the best ways to provide children and pets with protection is with a chain-link fence or alternately, an iron or PVC fence. It keeps youngsters and pets from venturing too close to a situation that has the potential to be dangerous and the ability to keep wildlife predators off the lawn.

A chain-link fence is strong, durable, and cost-effective. As an added benefit, Zepco Fence installs all of its gates with self-closing springs and childproof locks, along with a bottom cable to keep unwanted wildlife from digging under the enclosure while keeping children and pets inside.