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wood fence installer Coral Springs

Why are my Fence Boards Warping?

Wood remains one of the most popular materials for fencing. It’s affordable and can be
installed in an array of vertical and horizontal designs. However, wood fencing is prone to
warping.

Moisture Content
Wood absorbs moisture from humidity and rain, both of which abound in South Florida’s
subtropical environment. When the sun comes out and boards begin to dry, they do so at an
uneven rate. Warping occurs over time when one part of a board dries faster than another. The
portion that dries fastest will experience shrinkage. The process places stress on the boards and
changes their shape.

EMC
Wooden fence boards expand and shrink until the board’s moisture content is equal to the
relative humidity. It’s known as equilibrium moisture content (EMC). Even though fence board
undergo a process to cure them prior to sale, different species of wood have a natural moisture
content unique to them. All wood fencing boards will eventually attain EMC, but the process
can take days, weeks or months, depending on the wood.

Variables
Thicker pieces of wood will take longer to release or absorb moisture and the end grains
require less time to reach EMC. Painting or staining the wood extends the time to achieve EMC,
but warm temperatures accelerate the process.

Wood Types
Some wood species are more resistant to warping than others – cedar, redwood and fir. Cedar
is very dense and resists cracking. Redwood contains a natural chemical compound that
prevents it from absorbing moisture. Fir is extremely stable once it reaches EMC.
The straighter the grain pattern, the less likely wood is to warp, no matter what species it is.
Boards that come from a tree’s center are also less likely to warp. The way a board is cut, dried,
processed, stacked, and stored will also have an impact on the likelihood of warping, but
consumers have no control over those variables. It can help to seal the ends of the boards to
reduce shrinking and warping, as can staining or painting the wood once it has attained EMC.

 

Zepco Fence…South Florida’s Premier Fence Company
Since 1981 Zepco Fence has been providing superior quality fence products and installations to all of South Florida Residential and Commercial Property owners.

Serving all of Broward and Palm Beach County areas, we are the #1 Fence Company in South Florida.

We encourage you to contact us below to get started with a free estimate on your next fence project.

Call Today at 954-410-9570

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What Type of Fence is Best for Security?

Security is becoming an increasing concern for homes and businesses. There are two basic
types of security fencing and individuals will need to evaluate which best fits their budget,
needs and aesthetics.

Aluminum
An aluminum fence offers the beauty, strength and durability of iron. The fencing is available in
multiple heights and can be customized in a variety of ways. Logos, emblems and designs can
be worked into the gates for an added touch of luxury. The fencing has the beauty and security
of wrought iron, but without the cost.

Aluminum fences are exceedingly difficult to climb by unwanted visitors – both human and
animal. Sharp, pointy spikes can be affixed to the top of pickets as an added deterrent. Small
solar panels can also be incorporated into the design to light the area, making entry particularly
undesirable. No intruder wants to have their actions illuminated.

The pickets on an aluminum security fence can be spaced as closely as the individual desires.
Even small spaces between pickets is beneficial in storms, as it allows wind to flow through
instead of battering at a solid wall. Aluminum fencing fits in well with any environment.

Chain Link
The fencing is used for security purposed on construction sites, manufacturing plants, utility
installations, and correctional facilities. While it provides security, it doesn’t have the aesthetic
appeal of aluminum. However, it’s a viable option for those on a budget and allows for wind to
flow through to prevent the accumulation of stagnant air.

Available in various heights, it’s difficult to climb. The fencing can be designed with angled
extensions at the top that project outward to prevent humans and animals from crossing over
the top. Another precaution is what’s known as coyote rollers. They’re roller bars placed at the
top of the fence to prevent intruders from obtaining a grip. Fencing can be equipped with
deterrents for animals that dig.

 

Zepco Fence…South Florida’s Premier Fence Company

Since 1981 Zepco Fence has been providing superior quality fence products and installations to all of South Florida Residential and Commercial Property owners.

Serving all of Broward and Palm Beach County areas, we are the #1 Fence Company in South Florida.

We encourage you to contact us below to get started with a free estimate on your next fence project.

Call Today at 954-410-9570

Read more
security fences coral springs

By Law, do You Need a Fence in Florida?

The State of Florida has no law that mandates homeowners erect a fence – unless they have a
swimming pool. However, under Homeland Security’s anti-terrorism laws, some types of
businesses are required to install perimeter fencing around their facilities ranging from
chemical plants to food processing sites.

Residential Fences
Homeowners are advised to speak with their neighbors before erecting a fence, as they may
have a financial stake in maintaining it.

Swimming Pools
Any outdoor pool is required to have a fence or barrier at least 4 ft. high around the perimeter
of the aquatic feature. It must be sufficiently far enough away from the pool edge to prevent a
child that breaches the fence from immediately falling into the pool.

There can be no gaps in the fencing. A self-closing and self-locking gate that opens outward
must be installed. The closing and locking mechanism must be high enough to be out of the
reach of children. The fencing must extend low enough to the ground to prevent a child from
climbing under it.

Exceptions
Indoor pools and those in screened in areas aren’t required to be fenced. However, doors and
window that provide access to the pool are required to have a wired safety alarm or a self-
closing and self-locking gate that’s at least 54 inches high.

The shallow pools known as kiddie pools don’t have to be fenced. Private pools at condos,
apartment complexes, and similar facilities, along with public pools, are exempt from the
fencing requirement. Public pools must be in compliance with the Virginia Graeme Baker
Federal Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGBA). The Act went into effect on Dec. 19, 2008 and sets
standards for drain covers to prevent entrapment.

Child Safety
The statutes governing pools were put in place to prevent child drowning. Swimming pools
were the leading cause of child deaths prior to the state’s laws being enacted.

Zepco Fence…South Florida’s Premier Fence Company

Since 1981 Zepco Fence has been providing superior quality fence products and installations to all of South Florida Residential and Commercial Property owners.

Serving all of Broward and Palm Beach County areas, we are the #1 Fence Company in South Florida.

We encourage you to contact us below to get started with a free estimate on your next fence project.

Call Today at 954-410-9570

Read more
fence company coral springs

Does a Fence Add Value to Your Home?

A well-maintained, professionally installed fence can add up to 10 percent more value to your
home. If you’re selling your home, there are variables over which you have no control. The new
buyer may want a fence, but not the style or material that you installed. Much depends on if
the fence is decorative in nature or designed for functionality.

Visual Appeal
Real estate agents call it curb appeal, as a fence can enhance the aesthetics of a dwelling when
potential buyers view a property from the street. Aluminum fencing that emulates wrought iron
is considered by many to be the most attractive. Vinyl fencing and SimTek® are equally sought
for their high-quality appearance, safety, security, and ease of care and maintenance.

Security
If break-ins or crime are a concern, aluminum fencing provides value, beauty and peace of
mind. The fencing can be equipped with additional security measures if desired. It’s available in
multiple styles, colors and has a luxury look that enhances the appearance of any property. For
families with small children or pets, the ability to keep human and animal intruders out makes
this an invaluable asset.

Privacy
Finding a bit of privacy in today’s hectic world can be difficult. Solid SimTek® or vinyl fencing
provides an oasis of privacy in the midst of any neighborhood, keeping activities and valuable
equipment or recreational vehicles are hidden from prying eyes. The materials are an effective
barrier against intrusions by people and wildlife.

Both materials help buffer street noise and require minimal maintenance. The materials are
strong, durable, and impact resistant. SimTek® and vinyl are available in finishes that emulate
the appearance of natural stone or wood.

SimTek® fencing can withstand 110 mph winds and gusts up to 130 mph. It’s manufactured
with recycled and recyclable plastic. Vinyl can also be recycled.

Personal Preference
A fence can add up to 10 percent in home value, whether owners are keeping or selling their
property. The style of fencing can aid in advancing a sale, depending on the buyer’s needs,
preferences and priorities.

 

Zepco Fence…South Florida’s Premier Fence Company

Since 1981 Zepco Fence has been providing superior quality fence products and installations to all of South Florida Residential and Commercial Property owners.

Serving all of Broward and Palm Beach County areas, we are the #1 Fence Company in South Florida.

We encourage you to contact us below to get started with a free estimate on your next fence project.

Call Today at 954-410-9570

Read more