If you’re thinking about installing a fence, the first thing to be aware of is that you’ll need a permit to install, replace or repair a fence. South Florida takes the installation of a fence very seriously. The permit rule applies to residential and commercial enterprises, new fence installations, and safety fences around pools. There’s a cost attached to the permit and it varies among locations.

Hire a Professional

There are many advantages of hiring a professional fence installer. One benefit is that the experts know the permit requirements and process in the areas they serve. They will obtain the permit as part of the installation package.

There are a variety of other factors that must be addressed if you’re thinking of erecting a fence. Aside from the primary purpose that you’re installing a fence, there’s material, color and customization options.

Professional Design

Fences need to be designed by a professional fencing company to ensure they comply with all relevant standards. That can include a mandatory set-back away from the property line. You’ll also need to have your property surveyed to establish exact property lines. The consideration may be waived if the property was surveyed within a certain amount of time.

Neighbor’s Permission

You may also need the permission of adjoining neighbors. In some municipalities, the neighbor that shares a property boundary may be partially responsible for the cost of upkeep and maintenance of the fence. That may be an expense they may not want to share.

Specifications

There will be restrictions on the height of the fence. Some types of materials may not be allowed in certain areas. If you’re part of a homeowner’s association (HOA), there may be additional restrictions.

The South Florida soil composition can create difficulties when installing a fence. Specific rules are in place to mitigate problems and ensure they’re anchored properly. The professionals are cognizant of all those specifications.

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

Installing a fence is a far more complicated process than most people realize. Each municipality has its own set of rules and regulations governing fences. Without knowing the rules, individuals can easily find themselves being ordered to take down their newly installed fence. A number of other factors also determine how the fence will be erected

Which Fence

The number of fencing styles, colors, materials, and options available can leave individuals overwhelmed. A professional fencing company will take the time to consult with clients, understand their needs, and help them narrow their choices. The primary reasons people erect a fence is for safety, security, privacy, to set boundaries, minimize outside noise, hide unsightly objects or features, and beautification

Legalities

Every municipality has its own set of specifications governing height and appearance of fencing. Those guidelines can be even more restrictive for those in a homeowner’s association (HOA). Failure to comply with prevailing standards can result in legal issues and the professionals are aware of standards in the areas they serve.

A permit is also required to erect a fence. The experts will know what permitting is required and obtain it prior to the commencement of any work to facilitate the project.

Time and Money

Professional fence installers have the equipment needed to erect the fence properly, are experienced in its use, and are cognizant of how fence posts must be anchored for the South Florida soil. Those attributes ensure efficient installation to save clients time and money.

Aesthetics and Value

Properly installed fences increase property values, enhance curb appeal, and are aesthetically pleasing. The work will be completed quickly, to all required specifications, using quality products, and performed right the first time.

Insurance and Warranty

Professional fence installers are insured in the event there’s an accident and something is damaged. The experts warrant their work and materials if there’s ever a problem.

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

The first step in choosing the right fence for your home is determining what you want the fence
to accomplish. The top reasons for installing a fence are:
 Safety
 Security
 Privacy
 Establish a boundary
 Curb Appeal/Property Value
 Buffer Noise
Safety
Maintaining safety for children and pets is a priority for many people. You’ll want a fence that
children and pets can’t climb over or crawl under. You’ll also want a fence that will be high
enough to deter humans and wildlife from entering the space.
Security
Chain link and aluminum fencing are effective for security purposes. Chain link is less attractive
than other types, but can be affixed with a variety of features to prevent entry. Aluminum
fencing is highly attractive and resembles wrought iron. It’s very durable and can be designed
with spiked tops and similar features.
Privacy
For privacy, nothing beats a solid fence. The fencing can be installed vertically or horizontally.
Solid fencing doesn’t allow anyone to see in or out. Board-on-board installations are similar, but
do allow a small sliver of sight from just the right angle.
Boundaries
Fencing is an excellent way to mark a property line and set a boundary. Erecting a fence is also
effective for keeping pedestrians from cutting across lawns, along with keeping people and pets
away from dangerous slopes.
Curb Appeal
A fence for curb appeal should frame the property and home. It shows off the property to its
best advantage as viewed from the road.
Home Value
The right fence can significantly increase home value. A fence is especially valuable if the home
is going to be sold. It’s an investment that many buyers want and an already installed fence is a
substantial selling point.

Noise
Traffic, sirens, barking dogs and neighbors can make it difficult to relax, watch TV or enjoy time
in your yard. A solid fence is an effective noise barrier and can be especially beneficial for those
that work at night and sleep during the day.

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

Dogs are important members of the family and individuals will want to take many of the same
precautions to protect their pets as they would children. Never leave a canine unattended,
even within their enclosure. The following are some tips to help keep pets safely within their
boundaries.
Know the Dog
A 4-ft. fence is adequate for a puppy, but individuals need to plan ahead for the dog’s mature
height. Some breed types have a proclivity toward certain behaviors. Highly intelligent canines
are well able to open locked gates from observing what their human companions do.
Jumping Over
Some dogs are jumpers. Keep doghouses and other items away from fences. Even smaller
canines can be tempted to jump if they can gain elevation.
Crawling Under
A dog may be a digger and if they dig next to the fence, they’ll take the opportunity to escape.
Even worse, they can get trapped underneath it. The simple installation of an underground
barrier can prevent a canine from crawling under the fence or getting stuck.
Climbing Over
Chain link fences are popular dog enclosures, but a determined canine can scale fences if they
can gain a toehold. Chain link fences can be equipped with coyote rollers or inward facing
attachments on top to prevent a dog from climbing up and over.
Squeezing Through
Pay attention to the spacing of fence posts and pickets. Any upright elements should be spaced
closely enough together that a dog can’t squeeze through or get stuck between them.
Blocking the View
Canines can get overly excited when they see people and pets on the outside of the enclosure.
A solid fence will block their view and keep them calmer.
Gates
Dogs can – and do – learn how to operate gate closures. A locking gate is the best precaution.
All closing and locking mechanisms should be located where it can’t be accessed by the dog.

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

Fences in South Florida take a lot of abuse. Heat, humidity, insects, and even salt spray can be
detrimental to the structures. However, the real test of a fence’s sturdiness and longevity
comes with the arrival of a hurricane. There are some measures that anyone can take to help
hurricane proof their fence and give it a better chance of surviving a hurricane’s fury.
Hardware
Fencing is typically connected with nails, screws or nuts and bolts. Galvanized hardware is
resistant to rust and corrosion, but not impervious. Inspect fences regularly and have any
fasteners or joiners replaced that are loose, missing, or corroded.
Pickets and Posts
Fence posts are typically fixed in concrete for stability. Make sure any installer sets fence
uprights in concrete. Promptly replace any pickets that become damaged or loose. Another
thing to look for are any posts or pickets that may have become rotted, chipped, cracked,
warped, or the victim of insect predation.
Materials
Some types of materials are more resistant to damage than others. Materials such as vinyl are
more resistant to rain, wind and UV rays than wood, for instance. Wood fences can be blown
over in high winds.
Steel Frame
One of the best ways to hurricane proof any fence is by installing it with a framework of metal
posts. Metal is more resistant to the high winds that accompany a hurricane.
Spacing
Any fence with spaces between the pickets is going to be more resistant to the winds generated
by a hurricane. Those spaces allow wind to flow through, rather than forming a solid barrier to
be battered by wind.
Gates
An open, flopping gate can be twisted and detached from its anchor and has the potential to
damage the fence. Gates should be closed and locked when a hurricane is in the forecast.

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

A fence around the pool isn’t just a must-have precaution against drowning incidents – it’s
required by Florida law. It was enacted in 2009 to reduce the number of children of all ages lost
to accidental drowning. Before the law was passed, drowning was the No. 1 cause of death in
children. The law requires swimming pool owners to install a barrier around their pool that
conform to strict specifications.
Outdoor Pools
The entire pool must be contained within a fence or similar barrier. The fence is required to be
at least 4 feet high and low enough to the ground to prevent children from gaining access by
crawling under it. Fences can’t have any outcroppings that a child can use as hand or footholds
to climb over it.
Fences must be set back a specific distance away from the pool edge. If by some chance a child
dies manage to breach the barrier, they won’t immediately fall into the swimming pool. There
are also regulations regarding gates. A pool is required to have a gates that opens outward, be
self-closing, and equipped with a self-locking device that can’t be reached by small children.
Indoor Pools
The law addresses indoor pools in a slightly different manner and has some exceptions. A fence
isn’t required for an indoor pool – provided doors and windows where a child could gain access
are equipped with a wired safety alarm. A self-closing gate and self-latching lock must be
installed a minimum of 54 inches above the ground.
Exemptions
A fence isn’t required for the small, round, shallow pools, commonly known as kiddie pools,
that are used at homes. Private community pools and those utilized in condos and apartment
complexes are exempt from the fencing law. However, those types of pools have even more
stringent laws to which they must comply for child safety.
Public pools are exempt from the fencing law, but owners must comply with the Virginia
Graeme Baker Federal Pool and Spa Safety Act. The Act went into effect on Dec.19, 2008 and
sets standards for drain covers and configurations, along with anti-entrapment systems.

The Sunshine State is known for its warm weather – along with the extreme weather
conditions. Hurricanes are just one of the high-risk weather conditions with which Florida
residents must contend. One of the primary concerns for residents that want to install a fence
is which material will best survive the onslaught of high winds, storm surge and flooding,
torrential rain, and flying debris.
Chain Link/Wire Mesh
The holes in chain link and mesh fencing allows wind to pass through them instead of beating
against them. The metal is a great choice for withstanding a storm, but not necessarily the most
aesthetically pleasing. Chain link and wire mesh are quick and easy to install, while providing a
budget-friendly option.
Aluminum Fencing
It’s stylish and can emulate wrought iron. The spacing of the pickets allow wind and smaller
debris to pass through. It won’t rust or corrode when exposed to rain or salt water and rivals
steel for strength. Posts are typically set in concrete, which provides additional strength and
rigidity. Aluminum fencing is the most expensive option.
Vinyl (PVC)
A vinyl/PVC fence can withstand winds of up to 130 mph. The material doesn’t rot when
exposed to rain or salty ocean water. It offers a high level of durability and doesn’t rust or warp.
Vinyl/PVC contains UV inhibitors to prevent degradation, color fading and discoloration.
Vinyl/PVC fencing is more expensive than chain/mesh and less expensive than aluminum.
SimTek®
It’s the only fencing that has a Miami-Dade wind rating that will withstand 110 mph winds and
gusts up to 130 mph. It also withstands temperatures of up to 140° F. It’s highly attractive, can
be customized, and imitates the look of real wood or stone. Powerful UV inhibitors keep the
fencing from fading, The material doesn’t warp, is easily cleaned with soap and water, and
offered in multiple colors. It's on a par with aluminum fencing in terms of cost.

Choosing a fence is a distinctly personal choice. Individuals have very different needs when they decide to have a fence installed, along with materials from which to select. There are a variety of factors to be fully considered. Individuals should place serious thought into why they want or need a fence before erecting one.

Needs

The most common reason for installing a fence is to protect children and pets. The right fence contains youngsters and pets from getting into traffic. It provides safety and security against people entering the yard, along with predations from dangerous domesticated animals and wildlife.

A fence is an effective boundary marker for neighbors, passers-by and would-be intruders, while providing an increased level of privacy. Individuals may want additional curb appeal, to hide unattractive elements in the yard, or conceal valuable property. For those living near waterways or dangerous slopes, bluffs or cliffs, fencing aids in preventing accidents, injuries and even the potential of a fatality.,

Pricing

It’s essential that individuals know what their budget is for fencing. The cost of a fence will vary considerably, depending on the area being fenced, the gate design, labor costs, and the type of material chosen. Individuals will also need to weigh the cost against practicality and functionality.

Materials

Chain link is the cheapest and easiest to install. Wood is the next least expensive option, with pine being the cheapest. Exotic woods such as teak and redwood are available at premium costs. They’re followed by vinyl/PVC fencing, composite fencing, aluminum, brick and stone, and wrought iron.

Beauty vs Practical

Everyone wants a beautiful fence that will enhance property value. However, the most attractive fencing may not be the most practical for the property owner’s needs. There may also be restrictions on the type, height or material that can be used, depending on where the property owner lives.

Water is one of the most damaging elements any fence will face, particularly wooden fences. While a sprinkler system won’t affect other fencing materials as radically, water will still result in damage that requires repairs and extra maintenance.

It’s just one of the reasons that irrigation systems should always be installed by a professional and never near fencing. They have the knowledge needed to adjust irrigation heads so water isn’t deposited on fences and other undesirable areas. Even if the heads in your irrigation are adjusted correctly, you may not be as fortunate if the system is your neighbor’s.

Rotting

Wood is a porous material that allows water to penetrate the surface. Even with stain, paint ot wood protectants, any tiny untreated spot will allow moisture to enter. That moisture will cause the wood to rot – at an accelerated rate than normal. It shortens the lifespan of the fence and disrupts its functionality.

Shifting

The amount of water applied through sprinkles doesn’t seem like much, but over time it can cause shifting of fence poles and the surrounding soil. This is especially true if it rains soon after the lawn has been watered.

Discoloration

Even fencing constructed from the most modern materials can experience discoloration from sprinklers. Minerals in water supplies, such as iron or calcium, can build up with repeated drenching from sprinklers.

Biologics

Algae, mold and mildew are all biological agents that can affect a fence. They flourish in South Florida’s subtropical environment. Watering a fence simply adds additional moisture that biologics need to grow and multiply.

Maintenance and Money

The rotting, shifting, discoloration, and growth of biologics all combine, resulting in additional time and money in maintenance costs for property owners. It’s a situation that also disrupts the overall form, functionality and appearance of the fencing. It’s not just the fence that will require extra maintenance. Nearby flower beds can sustain damage from water runoff of the fence.

Few people consider a gate opener when installing their fence, but it’s convenient and practical. An automatic gate opener is equally applicable for those in the country and city dwellers.

Enhanced Security & Safety

The property owner is in control of who enters, providing an elevated level of safety. It’s an effective way to reduce theft, vandalism and shrinkage for business owners and an alarm system can be combined with the gate opener for home or business safety. An automatic opener can be especially beneficial for homes with children and pets, or that raise prize livestock.

Perimeter Control

This is especially important for those that have large yards or tracts of land, along with businesses that handle sensitive documents or certain types of products. Owners know exactly who is on the premises at all times and the gate openers can be combined with card readers, pass codes or biometric readers.

More Privacy

Since fences are typically set back from structures, an automatic gate opener gives homes and businesses an added level of privacy. It prevents anyone from getting too close to the home or business before owners know who is approaching. The distance involved from the gate to the home or business is also beneficial for preventing the prying eyes of neighbors or would be intruders.

Value and Curb Appeal

There’s something intrinsically appealing about a fence with an automatic gate opener and that works to the owner’s benefit if they’re selling the property. Potential buyers see a valuable feature that they don’t have to install themselves. The openers can be combined with any type of security or decorative privacy fencing for added curb appeal.

Convenience

Nothing can compare with the convenience of an automatic gate opener. It means people don’t have to leave their vehicle during inclement weather to lock and unlock a gate. It also means parents don’t have to leave their children in a running vehicle while they unlock the premises. Gates can be equipped with opener models that contain sensors and will close automatically after a vehicle has passed through.