Wood remains a popular fencing material in multiple environments. Anyone thinking of installing wooden fencing as a DIY project may be tempted to save some money by purchasing lumber that hasn’t been pressure treated. Don’t do it – there are a number of very good reasons why professional fencing companies use pressure treated wood. Some building codes even require pressure treated lumber for projects.

Lumber that’s been pressured treated undergoes a process to make it more durable and less likely to succumb to a variety of elements that can shorten its lifespan. The process removes air from the lumber’s cell structure and chemicals are forced into the pores. The wood is then cured and dried. In some instances, a fire retardant is infused into the lumber’s structure using a pressure system.

Extended Lifespan

Pressure treated lumber resists the ravages of weather, UV rays and ocean salt much better and far longer than untreated wood. Building supplies that are pressure treated are more durable and has a longer lifespan than untreated wood. The life expectancy will depend on the chemicals used and the type of wood.

Fungi

When lumber is pressure treated, it’s more resistant to multiple species of rot-causing fungi. Wet rot occurs when the wood is exposed to an excessive amount of water and is most obvious closer to the ground. Dry rot is often mistaken for insect damage. White rot is the result of fungi that breaks down the cellular structure of the wood.

Insects

Wood that’s pressure treated has an increased resistance to the depredations of insect pests that include termites, carpenter bees, wood-boring beetles, horntail wasps, and carpenter ants.

Weathering

Using pressure treated wood aids in minimizing the potential of the fencing getting a weathered look. Stains and sealants can be applied for an extra level of protection.

Privacy is the No. 1 reason why most individuals install a fence and one of the most popular material choices is PVC. Before erecting a privacy fence, it’s important to understand exactly what it does. The short answer is that it conceals property and activities from neighbors and passersby.

A privacy fence enables families and friends to enjoy time together without interruption. It’s also an effective method for concealing vehicles, equipment and other valuable assets from public view. PVC fencing acts as a sound buffer against outdoor noises that disrupts tranquility. The higher the fence, the more sound disruption it provides and PVC fencing is available in a variety of heights.

Privacy fences have many other benefits of which individuals may not be aware. The fencing is an effective and decorative way to keep children and pets contained in their own yard. Conversely, the fencing aids in keeping stray animals, wildlife and trespassers off the property. The fencing can be utilized for vertical gardening for prized specimens or to create a relaxing botanical getaway.

PVC privacy fencing is available in over 30 decorative styles that complement homes and properties. There’s an extensive range of colors from which to choose and it can be obtained in styles that emulate the appearance of real wood or stone. Multiple customization options are available for horizontally or vertical installation.

Durability is a benchmark of PVC. It’s five times stronger than wood and is manufactured with UV inhibitors to prevent fading, yellowing and brittleness. The material is able to withstand severe winds and saltwater, and has the Dade County Product Approval Certification. PVC won’t crack, peel, split, splinter, rot or warp and it’s unappealing to insects.

Warm, humid conditions can lead to algae, mold and mildew growth. PVC is resistant to all of those problems and the material requires a minimum of maintenance. When PVC eventually comes to the end of its considerable lifespan, the eco-friendly material is recyclable and minimal energy and resources are used in its production.

Non-toxic to children and pets, PVC also makes an excellent wind break that enables individuals to enjoy their outdoor spaces even when its breezy. PVC has emerged as one of the market’s most valuable materials for privacy fencing in a wide variety of environments.

A multitude of fence design options are available and choosing just one can be difficult. The first step is deciding the purpose for which the fence is being erected. With the wide range of materials available, it’s possible to combine form and function into stunning fencing that serves it’s intended purpose and enhances property value.

Depending on the usage, individuals can fence all or a portion of their property. Homeowners can choose from wood, aluminum, chain link, PVC and SimTek® materials. Fencing is offered in multiple colors and varying heights to accommodate multiple requirements. Individuals can also select fencing that emulates the appearance of wood and stone.

Kids Safety

Children are naturally curious. A solid fence is an ideal way to keep them safely contained within a specific area and secure from prying eyes. Chain link is an effective barrier, but doesn’t provide a decorative element or prevent others from seeing in.

Noise Buffer

A solid fence is an effective noise barrier to reduce the sound of traffic and that of nearby neighbors. An added advantage is that it reduces the amount of sound emitted to neighbors and passersby. Some materials are more effective than others.

Pets

The most often used fencing for dog containment is chain link and it can be equipped with an underground cable for dogs that dig. Solid fencing is particularly beneficial for canines that are overly excited by outside stimuli. Chain link can be fitted with a special tarp to block the dog’s view, but lacks aesthetic value.

Privacy

A solid fence prevents others from seeing in and can be highly decorative. It’s equally effective for entire properties or just to enclose a family area.

Security

Chain link is great for security, but isn’t very decorative. Aluminum provides security and an aesthetically appealing appearance. Solid fencing materials can be an equally effective barrier and prevent intruders from finding handholds with which to climb over.

Wind Barrier

SimTek® is an excellent wind barrier that can withstand sustained hurricane force winds up to 110 mph. It’s durable, environmentally-friendly, isn’t damaged by salt water or UV rays, and is almost maintenance free.

Most homeowners know the value of including a gate in their fence installation, but many people overlook the benefits of a lock. They assume that the mere presence of a gate will deter untoward actions. Whether you choose a manually operated or convenient electronic option, every fence gate should have a lock.

1. Safety

Your fence gate provides completion of a solid enclosure where children and pets can play in safety. Without a lock, anyone can enter the property at will by simply pushing open the gate. Children can do the same. Be sure to install locks above the reach of children and pets. Canines have been known to learn how to operate manual locks.

2. Theft Protection

You may have expensive vehicles, outdoor furnishings, lawn equipment and other assets that you’ve worked hard to acquire. Without a gate lock, anyone from your neighbor to a thief can come in and make off with your valuables.

3. Liability

If you’ve never discovered that someone has entered your property to enjoy the amenities, consider yourself lucky. There are an increasing number of people that pay no attention to boundaries. They think nothing of slipping onto your property to use your pool, spa, hot tub, or trampoline. In the course of their marauding, they can injure themselves on toys or tools left in the yard. Depending upon the exact circumstances, your homeowner’s insurance may not cover the costs of any damage or injuries an intruder sustains. You could be liable for the expenses.

4. Insurance Requirements

You probably have items in your yard with the potential to cause an injury or that would be expensive to replace. Good examples are pools and spas and the chemicals to maintain them, treehouses, ziplines, swing sets, trampolines and even ordinary outdoor grills. Installing a strong gate lock can be a requirement of your homeowner’s policy.

5. Deterrent

A fence will discourage most people from unauthorized entry, but others will assume you’re hiding something valuable. A securely locked fence gate is a powerful deterrent to would-be intruders. Few individuals will want to take the time to scale your fence if they can’t gain entry through the gate.

Erecting a fence can beautify and add value to homes and businesses. Installing a fence can provide safety, security and privacy. A fence is beneficial for discouraging the neighbor’s weeds from encroaching on the property, keeping out wildlife, concealing unattractive features, and delineating property boundaries. Bear in mind that local laws may dictate that an individual consults with their neighbors before erecting a fence.

Land Limits

Even if an individual has a plat map or legal description of their property, it will probably provide little assistance in determining exactly where their property lines are since most people won’t be able to convert those descriptions into the physicality of their land.

It doesn’t matter whether individuals are performing a do-it-yourself project or hiring a professional fence installer. Without an accurate and very recent survey, individuals could easily discover that they’ve erected their fence on the neighbor’s property. Many fence installers won’t even attempt to erect a fence without a survey.

Improper Materials

Municipalities typically have rules and regulations about fences, including their height the appearance of the gate, and the type of materials from which they can be constructed. Those rules can be especially stringent for those governed by an HOA.

Consequences

Erecting a fence on the neighbor’s property will have consequences. Individuals will be required to engage in the very costly removal of the fence. Any attachments or structures that encroach of the property line as a result of the misplaced fence will also need to be removed such as children’s playsets, greenhouses, gardens, a treehouse or swimming pool, and patios or decks.

Litigation

Depending on the neighbor’s mood and the individual’s relationship with them, overstepping the bounds of the property can result in an expensive lawsuit. It will still end with the removal of the fence and any other installations that are on the neighbor’s land. Individuals may also face fines from the local government entity.