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.

There was a time when people only had a choice between wood or wrought iron for their fencing needs. Times have changed and vinyl, also known as PVC, has become one of the most highly sought fencing materials for multiple reasons.

Appearance

Vinyl fencing is available in multiple styles, colors, heights, and with multiple customization options to reflect an individual’s personal style. It can be manufactured to imitate the look of stone or wood, allowing individuals to enjoy the benefits of vinyl and the appearance of high-end materials.

Longevity & Durability

Vinyl fencing is manufactured from high-quality synthetic materials or recycled plastics. A vinyl fence can last from 20 to 30 years and provides a great return on investment. The surface is resistant to scratching, insect predations, fungi, and dry rot. Vinyl maintains its structural integrity even in Florida’s subtropical climate and isn’t susceptible to cracking, warping or fading from UV rays. It’s 5 times stronger than wood and has the ability to flex slightly, making it resistant to wind damage.

Little Maintenance

No one wants to spend copious amounts of their leisure time caring for a fence. That makes vinyl doubly popular as it requires little to no maintenance. It doesn’t require painting, staining or other treatments. Vinyl is a non-porous material and doesn’t absorb moisture from rain or humidity. That attribute makes it easy to clean – just spray it down with a hose to keep it looking good.

Safety

One of the unique attributes of vinyl is that it doesn’t burn easily. Firepits can malfunction and fires from BBQs can occur. Vinyl tends to self-extinguish making it one of the safest options available.

Recyclable

More attention is being paid to recyclable options. For those seeking an eco-friendly fencing solution, look no further than vinyl. Most vinyl fencing is 100 percent recyclable and the material emits few VOCs.

Fencing satisfies the need for beautification, security, safety, and privacy. Once individuals have decided what type of fence they want, it’s time to select a fencing company. There are 5 essential questions anyone should ask before signing a contract.

A competent fence installer will be cognizant of the necessary permits required and be able to obtain them for the project. No matter where the fence will be installed on the property, utility companies will have to be notified and the contractor should handle that. It will keep workers safe and prevent them from inadvertently disrupting electric, gas, phone, or internet service.

Licensing

The fencing company should be licensed within Florida. It demonstrates that it’s passed the requirements to operate within the state. There are a number of unscrupulous individuals that claim to be fence installers, but have neither the expertise, experience or equipment to do so.

Insurance

This is also a critical question. Any contractor that performs work on the property should be fully insured in the event that there’s an injury, damage to property, or poor workmanship. If the company isn’t insured, clients would have to initiate litigation and if a worker is injured on the job, they could be liable for medical bills if the company doesn’t carry Workers Compensation.

Years in Business

Longevity of the business is a good indicator that the company is known for good work, along with the experience and staffing to install the fence quickly, efficiently and professionally.

Project Time

Individuals will want to determine when the company can begin the project, hours of the day when they’ll be working, and when it will be completed. The project will need to be scheduled, especially if the installer is very busy.

Warranty

A warranty against the material and workmanship protects clients in case anything goes wrong and ensures the contractor has to make repairs. The warranty should extend for at least 12 months.

Hurricanes are a fact of life in South Florida. An untamable force of nature, the storms have the ability to wreak havoc on any human-built structure and that includes fences. While no fence is entirely hurricane proof, there are some types of fences that are better able to survive the pounding that the storms bring on shore.

It’s essential that individuals have their fence installed by a licensed professional who understands the unique challenges that the storms present to fences in South Florida. A category 1 hurricane can have minimum sustained winds of 74 mph. That’s strong enough to blow over trees. Individuals have several options when shopping for a hurricane resistant fence.

Chain Link

This type of fencing isn’t the first that automatically comes to mind when planning a hurricane resistant fence, but it’s a very good option. The spaces in the mesh of a chain link fence allows hurricane force winds to pass through it with little to no damage. Coatings can be applied that will make the metal resistant to salt spray.

Aluminum

An aluminum fence is sturdier than most people think. In addition to metal posts, the narrow pickets have spaces between them, allowing wind to move through it with little impediment. Coatings are also available for aluminum fencing.

SimTek®

The fencing can withstand sustained 110 mph winds and gusts up to 130 mph. It’s the only fencing that meets Miami-Dade wind load certification without making any modifications or adding additional reinforcements. If they’re hit by floating or flying debris, they can be dented but won’t splinter and disintegrate. They’re also available with specialized coatings that are resistant to salt spray.

Vinyl

A vinyl fence is typically able to withstand wind speeds of 65 to 90 mph winds before sustaining damage. Vinyl is a versatile material that will flex slightly in the wind. That helps it stay steady during wind storms.

Before engaging the services of a fence contractor, there are 5 basic questions that every potential customer should ask. Knowing the answers will ensure that the fencing is being erected by professionals. Cost will be a factor, but expense doesn’t necessarily translate into a reputable job.

Years in Business

Individuals should choose a company that’s been in business for a significant amount of time and have been conducting business continuously under the same name. Be wary of companies that have made name changes. It also pays to examine the company’s online reputation and its rating with the Better Business Bureau.

Licensing

The installer should be licensed in the State of Florida. Individuals have little recourse if the final result of the fencing is faulty or not as agreed upon in a contract if the installer isn’t licensed. Always insist on a detailed contract and never work with an installer that wants all the money up front. Always make payments to the company, not an individual.

Insurance

It’s absolutely essential that the fencing contractor be insured and that their insurance is current. It provides protection for customers if the company or it’s employees damage anything on the property while performing the installation.

Permitting

Erecting a fence will require permits before any work can begin. An experienced and reputable fence installer will know what permits are required and will obtain them for the work to be done. Be suspicious of companies that expect customers to pull their own permits.

The same is true for contacting utility companies. Installing a fence will impact everything from phone and electric service to water and sewer lines. The contractor should contact all applicable utilities.

Warranty

The fencing should come with a warranty on materials and workmanship. Fencing represents a substantial amount of money and an investment in the home. Never sign a contract that doesn’t include a warranty.

Wind, fire, storms and vandals can damage fencing. Whether a homeowner’s policy will cover the cost to repair or replace fencing will depend on the policy and the cause of the damage. Homeowner’s insurance will typically pay for damages, provided it’s included in the policy’s list of covered causes.

Car Crashes and Vandalism

Vehicles running off the road and crashing into fences is far more common than people think. The driver of the vehicle that caused the damage is typically liable for the costs, but the homeowner’s policy will pay for the repairs or replacement. If the offending driver is known, insurance companies will often seek to recover their costs from the offending driver’s insurer. Insurers will also cover damage due to vandalism.

Fires and Storms

If the policy holder’s home, or the neighbor’s, catches on fire and damages the fence, the insurance company will cover the cost. The same is true if the damage is the result of high winds, a hurricane or a tornado. However, be aware that some policies do exclude damage from floods and winds in Florida.

Trees

There are multiple instances when trees can be the cause of damage to a fence. Homeowner’s insurance will pay for repairs or replacement if a limb comes down in a storm or the neighbor cuts a limb and it falls on the fence. However, the claim will be denied if the insurer believes the homeowner was negligent in some way or if the accident could have been prevented or avoided by the homeowner.

Exclusions

Insurance companies have an extensive list of exclusions that may be written into a homeowner’s policy. It’s critical for individuals to understand their coverage. The normal effects of aging or wear and tear on fences isn’t covered. Neither is damage due to termites and other insects, mold and fungi, dings and dents from lawnmowers, or children playing.

Damage sustained from vandalism or a vehicle accident should be reported to the police immediately and homeowners need to take photos of the damage. Both may be required by the insurance company to provide proof of the damage and its extent.

Like many things in life, erecting a fence requires obtaining a permit. Where to get it and the process involved can be confusing, particularly for those that are unfamiliar with it.

Many residential permits can be applied for online, depending on the municipality. Other entities may require a written application be submitted in person. The permit will be issued in the name of the homeowner or the contractor. The permit is typically good for 180 days.

Reputable and experienced fence contractors will normally apply for the permit on behalf of the customer. The expense can be anywhere from $150 to $400 and will be included in the cost of the fencing project.

However, there are a number of other issues that come into play when erecting a fence of which individuals may not be aware. There are limits on how tall the fence can be and in many locales the appearance and materials will also come under scrutiny. Contractors may be required to submit a plan of the project detailing where the fence will run.

Installing a fence impacts water and sewer lines, along with phone and electric service. It will be up to the fencing contractor to contact the relevant utilities to ensure the safety of the fencing crew and that the installation doesn’t interfere with the delivery of any of those services.

There will be rules as to how many feet the fence can come within a right of way, easement or corner. Individuals may not be able to have the fence installed directly on their property line. There may be a required set back, meaning the fence will have to be a specified distance from the property line. That will mean a loss of yard space for the fence owner.

Before any of those steps can be taken, home owners will need to know exactly where their property lines are. That can mean having the property surveyed if there hasn’t been a recent survey.

If you live in an urban location, you’ll almost certainly need a permit of some sort giving you permission to erect a fence. If you live in an HOA, you’ll typically need additional permissions from the HOA. However, that’s not always true if you live in a rural area. The need for a permit will depend on the zoning and regulations of the city, community or even county in which you live.

While you may want to turn fencing into a DIY project, failure to obtain a required permit or trying to install a fence that exceeds height requirements can land you in serious trouble. The same is true if you don’t observe set back regulations. The body responsible for enforcing codes can make you take the fence down and all of your money, effort and labor will be wasted.

Don’t purchase fencing unless you’ve checked with your local governmental office, HOA, and any neighborhood associations with which you may be affiliated. You may need to provide the city council or other municipal body with a copy of a survey of your property, along with the fence plan and specifications. You’ll also have to pay for the permit.

The beauty of hiring a professional fence installation company is that the experts will be cognizant of the permitting requirements for your area and will usually pull the permit for you. When you’re choosing your fencing, they can advise you on any height, material or other restrictions that are in force. You’ll also need to know where any underground utility lines are located.

If you hire a professional, the cost of the permit will be included in the cost of the fence installation and they’ll often present all the materials to the city council for you. There’s a wide range of requirements and restrictions that may apply, depending on the type of fence material is being used, if the fence is for a residential or commercial property, and if it has a gate with electrical components.

Installing a fence doesn’t mean that people have to give up on greenery. There are a variety of plantings that complement fences. The most common reason people want plants next to their fence is to camouflage it, particularly if it’s chain link fencing.

However, individuals may also want to hide fencing that has become weather worn, if they don’t want to paint or stain it, or if they don’t want to replace it. There are numerous plants that enable people to hide their fence and enjoy a wealth of blossoms using the fencing as a support.

Vines

When it comes to fences, vines are the most often selected solution, especially those that twine rather than lean. Bleeding heart vine is a fast grower with white or red flowers but it’s not a rampant grower. The Queen’s Wreath Vine produces cascading purple flowers, blooms off and on all summer, but needs trimming to keep in contained. Pandora vine has pale pink flowers with a rose-colored center, light scent, and can be trained to form a small bush.

Bushes and Hedges

A unique choice near fences are cycads. They’ve been around since the time of the dinosaurs, come in a multitude of sizes, shapes and heights, along with a distinctive appearance. They’re highly valued for their attractiveness, rarity and add value to properties. These descendants of ancient species are sure to cause a sensation.

Hibiscus, which includes Rose of Sharon, loves the South Florida climate. They’re tolerant of heat, humidity, poor soil, air pollution and drought. Flower colors include red, blue, lavender, pink, white and bi-colors. They’re available in single and double flowering varieties.

Small Trees

People that prefer small trees to hide their fence can choose from Jelly King Crab that grows to 13 ft., redbud that grows to 10 ft., wintersweet that can grow up to 15 ft., and dwarf chestnut oaks that grow to a maximum of 20 ft. Many varieties produce blossoms in colors ranging from red and pink to yellow and white, and provide a source of food for birds, bees and butterflies.