Fencing is available in so many materials, styles and colors it’s often difficult to make a choice. Composite Fencing is a popular option for fencing and decks. It comes with a number of advantages.

Like every material, there are also some things that individuals should know to weigh against the benefits when choosing a fencing option. A fence is a significant investment in a home or business and its important to obtain the best value for the money.

Pros

Depending on the manufacturer, it can be constructed with a combination of plastic and wood fibers that are recyclable at the end of the fence’s lifespan. It’s considered an eco-friendly option since fewer trees must be cut for new fencing.

Composite fencing is available in panels and boards to accommodate multiple vertical and horizontal designs. It’s often chosen for privacy fencing due to its durability. Multiple colors and textures are offered and it can emulate the appearance of wood and stone.

The fencing is far less likely to rot than wood. It’s a good idea to give composite fencing a cleaning with hot water, soap and a soft bristled brush in the spring and autumn to maintain its appearance.

The South Florida climate can present a number of challenges to fencing materials that includes salt spray, heat, humidity and exposure to strong UV rays. Composite fencing is low maintenance and holds up well in high heat. It’s also less likely than many other materials to develop mold and mildew. It comes with a warranty of 20 years or more.

Cons

Despite its many attributes, individuals should be aware that composite fencing comes in on the high end of the price range. Colors may fade and while it’s resistant to mold, that doesn’t mean it’s completely mold free. Algae may also be a problem and it can stain from sources such as grass clippings, hard water and chemicals.

Fencing can be constructed board by board or with pre-made panels. Installing fencing panels reduces the time and work required to complete the task and provides individuals with an aesthetically pleasing fence.

Pre-made fence panels are easily obtained at big box stores, but a better option is to purchase them from a fencing company or lumber company. Some sawmills will also fabricate pre-made panels to an individual’s specifications. It’s a good option for those that want to customize their fence or incorporate some ornamentation.

Even though there are a limited range of variations in appearance in panels, even pre-made panels can add value and appeal to a home. It’s vastly easier to erect a fence with panels than individual boards. Panels are available in multiple heights and individuals can select from multiple types of wood species, though most are manufactured of pine or red cedar.

With pre-manufactured panels, individuals can get straight to the business of preparing the ground and digging the holes for the supports. Individuals won’t need many tools, either. Depending on the area to be fenced, the average person can complete the installation in a weekend or over the course of several weekends.

Disadvantages

For individuals that take a DIY approach, pre-made panels won’t allow for much in the way of a custom look or fit. It there are variations in the landscape such as dips or hills, panels don’t allow for customization to ensure that each panel is the same height.

When purchasing from big box stores, the panels are often joined using staples rather than nails. Those assembled with staples are weaker and more likely to develop problems.

Pre-made fencing panels can be heavy and unwieldy. Installing them can be difficult, particularly if an individual is attempting to perform the task alone. Plan on having at least one other person to help.

Individuals are no longer limited to standard fence designs or the gates that go with them. Fencing companies offer decorative fences and unique gates to accommodate an extensive range of tastes.

Fence Options

Fencing can be erected in vertical and horizontal designs and multiple types of materials can be combined. Different types of complementary fencing can be used on the same property and at different heights. Wood is being combined with metal and even frosted aluminum panels to create a unique appearance.

Post caps for fencing come in an extensive array of designs. Lighted elements are becoming more popular in fence design, especially those that operate with solar power, to save money and create ambiance for outdoor gatherings.

Individuals can select from materials ranging from wood, aluminum, PVC and SimTek®. Archways are an elegant way to highlight fencing entryways. Bamboo is a sustainably sourced material that’s gaining traction as a fencing material and it’s offered in multiple colors. For those that want a fence, but want the light to shine in, can choose lattice work. It’s aesthetically pleasing and enables individuals to plant vines or other types of plants for privacy and beauty.

Wood or metal fencing can be paired with stone pillars for a truly unique look. An increasing number of people are choosing to dress up their fencing with wood or metal decorations that can be changed according to the season if desired. Flower boxes are an easy way to add interest to a fence, but make sure the fence is properly designed to hold the weight.

Gate Choices

No fence is complete without a gate and individuals can choose from gates with scalloped edges and lightweight aluminum with filigreed elements. Gates are available in single and double styles. Dressing up gates with hand-carved elements are increasing in popularity, depicting everything from animals and woodland scenes to elaborate geometric designs and the owner’s initials.

Aluminum gates emulating wrought iron are highly durable and can be customized in many ways. The gates are being adorned with inlays of faux jewels and carved fantasy items such as unicorns and dragons, along with butterflies, exotic animals and birds, and even dinosaurs.

People place barriers around their balconies and decks, never really thinking about the fact that they’re essentially erecting a fence. It’s a critical safety measure to protect people and pets from injuries. Deck fencing can be designed to provide children and small dogs with an outdoor space to safely play.

Balconies

Individuals typically want a more elegant look for their balconies and aluminum is an excellent choice. The metal can be fashioned into a variety of forms with the same great look as wrought iron and its low maintenance. It can be installed vertically or horizontally and it’s a highly durable, versatile and affordable option. Aluminum is environmentally friendly and available in multiple colors.

A newer trend for balconies is tempered glass using steel framing. Tempered glass is about 4 times stronger than traditional glass, it’s heat and scratch-resistant, and provides UV protection. It also aids in sound reduction. If tempered glass sustains an impact, it doesn’t shatter like ordinary glass – it breaks into tiny granules. Tempered glass is available in multiple styles, designs and patterns.

Decks

The choices are almost unlimited when choosing a barrier for a deck. Fencing ranges from elegant to utilitarian and people are only limited by their imagination. Wood is popular but requires painting, staining, and considerable maintenance. It can be customized in multiple ways, but isn’t as durable as other materials.

For a beautiful deck fence that’s almost maintenance-free, consider a composite material like PVC. Another option is SimTek®, a polyethylene plastic. The materials are gaining traction as barriers on decks. Both are strong, and durable and won’t succumb to mold, rotting or insect predations. The materials are eco-friendly and sustainable. They can be customized in various ways and come in multiple colors.

Aluminum and tempered glass are great for balconies and they’re equally applicable for decks. Both materials can be combined with other materials in a myriad of ways for a show-stopping look.

One of the most overlooked accents is fence lighting. Illuminating your yard can be accomplished through underground wiring, but a quicker and more cost-effective method is solar lighting. The optimal method is to have the lighting included as part of the fence installation. However, you can still enjoy illumination, greater security, and enhanced safety with solar lighting.

Solar Lighting

There are so many different types of solar lighting available, it can be overwhelming. Solar units can be installed on fence caps and hung from brackets from fence posts. They’re offered in a myriad of styles from those that look like coach lights to futuristic designs. Solar lights have the advantage of being an environmentally-friendly choice, can be installed anywhere on any type of fencing, and are extremely low maintenance.

Solar lights add ambiance to outdoor environments. The initial cost will depend on the brand and style of lights chosen, but are less expensive than those that rely on underground wiring. Another advantage is that they work even in a power outage. Solar lights are available in different lumen measurements, depending on how much illumination you desire, and can come equipped with motion sensors. There are even models with rotating colors.

Wired Lighting

Best included in the design plan when the fence is installed, wired lighting is tied into a traditional electrical system and requires the installation of underground wiring. They can be installed with a switch that allows you to turn them on or off as desired.

The disadvantage is that they won’t work if a power outage occurs. Many models are also equipped with motion sensors that turn on and off, even if the lights have been doused. Low-voltage lights are typically utilized as accent lighting for plants and pathways and are equally applicable as fence lighting. You can also use strings of lights – full size or miniatures – as temporary lighting for events and gatherings.

People that want safety fencing for their pet without a visible structure often choose underground fencing. It uses a combination of what manufacturers call a static-like shock in combination with sound as a deterrent.

People have used what’s been called hidden fencing to keep their pets contained for years. Old-style fencing worked via a transmitter collar or a sensor attached to the dog’s regular collar. When the dog neared the boundary, the sensor or collar gave the dog a shock as a form of aversion training. Dogs trained this way with the old-fashioned shock fencing often displayed fear and behavioral problems.

The new evolution of hidden fencing emits an audible warning sound and a “static” shock as a deterrent. Manufacturers of the fencing indicate the shock portion of the collar is similar to a static shock a human receives after rubbing their feet across a carpet and then touching metal. It also has multiple shock levels.

The process of teaching the dog his/her boundary begins with small flags that are placed in the ground along the underground cable as a visual clue to the canine. Once the dog has learned where the boundaries are, the flags can be removed.

The problems that people encounter with underground fencing is that it requires a time investment to train the dog rather than simply turning them loose and letting the collar shock them into submission. Depending upon the canine, that can take time that some people are unwilling to expend. However, some companies install the fencing and a pet trainer provides initial training.

Hidden fences are viewed as a convenient way to keep pets safe in their own yard. The downside is that it won’t prevent someone from coming into the yard and stealing the dog, a crime that happens far more often than people know. As a thief is taking the dog across the underground boundary, the canine will experience a significant amount of distress and pain.

A gate can be the crowning touch for your fence. A sturdy gate can deter intruders, burglars, keep children and pets in, while preventing unwanted people and wildlife from entering. Installing a gate isn’t a simple matter of creating a barrier. There are multiple concerns that individuals should consider before a gate is installed.

Permits and Regulations

Many cities and municipalities require a permit to install a gate on an already existing fence. The installation of a gate is typically covered under a permit to erect a new fence. Consulting with a fencing professional is critical as they will be cognizant of local regulations. Some communities also have height limits on gates.

Width

The width of the gate will be a critical consideration. Gates wide enough to fit most passenger cars and trucks won’t be sufficient for larger model vehicles. The width may not accommodate delivery vehicles, many types of trailers, or even some types of equipment for lawn care or home renovations.

The space for the gate will need to be slightly larger than the driveway entrance. Additionally, the wider the gate span is, the more likely it will be to eventually sag. Heavy-duty hinges and some type of bracing – either decorative or utilitarian – will be needed for single swinging gates.

Single, Double or Sliding

Individuals have the option of a single gate hinged on one side or a gate with two panels, both of which swing open and closed independent of the other. A sliding gate is an excellent solution for smaller entrances – as long as there’s sufficient space for the door to slide back with no impediments such as trees, flowerbeds or decorative hard features.

Latches, Locks and Automation

For those with young children and large dogs, it’s essential that latches, locks and opening mechanisms be above their reach. It’s especially important if automated gates are installed or if individuals live near busy highways.

Equally important, the mechanisms should also be out of reach and inaccessible from people on the outside of the gate. Access control can be incorporated to screen individuals through video intercoms before they enter the property for an additional level of safety and security.

The terms rust and corrosion are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference. Rust is a form of corrosion, but rust only affects iron and associated alloys that includes steel. Metal fencing is subject to the chemical process of oxidation. Modern metal fencing typically contains a powder coating for aesthetic and practical reasons to inhibit corrosion, but for corrosion resistance in metal fencing, nothing can come close to aluminum.

South Florida Elements

Many metals rust when exposed to the conditions prevalent in the South Florida climate. They corrode when exposed to high humidity levels and water – particularly saltwater. Aluminum fencing is corrosion resistant and provides any property with elegance, security and durability. The material is highly versatile and can be customized into multiple styles and designs.

Research into the metal indicates that aluminum has the ability to last for a whopping 10,000 years before it begins to break down. It tolerates saltwater, significant rainfall, elevated humidity levels, and UV rays without fading or deteriorating.

Pest Resistant

Another attribute of aluminum fencing that’s particularly appealing is its resistance to insect pests. A wide variety of insects can infiltrate other types of fencing materials, resulting in damage that facilitates and accelerates rot. Aluminum fencing doesn’t attract or retain insects.

Low Maintenance

Aluminum fencing is one of the lowest-maintenance materials that can be selected and its equally at home in a variety of environments. Owners won’t have to spend time painting or staining it and it has no special maintenance requirements. If a section of aluminum fencing is damaged due to unforeseen circumstances, it’s a simple matter to replace it in the same color and style as the original.

For those seeking an environmentally-friendly fencing option, aluminum fits the bill perfectly. It’s 100 percent recyclable and can be recycled multiple times. Utilizing aluminum fencing provides a corrosion-resistant way to enjoy beauty, security and durability, while providing an eco-friendly option that saves trees.

You might decide to plant a hedge next to your fence to present a more aesthetically pleasing view from your perspective inside the fence. There are some important considerations for success that apply when planting a hedge against a fence.

Make a Plan

Before purchasing plants for your hedge, you’ll need to do some research on the different types of shrubs available. You can choose from evergreens, those that add interest when they drop their leaves, and flowering varieties. The shrub may litter the ground with spent blossoms or seeds, or require frequent trimming and shaping. Some shrubs that are commonly planted as hedges have thorns or poisonous fruits and shouldn’t be planted around children or pets.

Hedge Size

You’ll need to determine the size of the hedge you want, which will also help eliminate some types of shrubs from your list. There are dwarf varieties that achieve a height of 2 feet, while larger species can attain heights of 6 to 8 feet.

Distance From Fence

A planting distance of 18 to 24 inches away from the fence is typically sufficient for traditional, classic types of shrubs, but it will depend on the type of hedge. Yew is a good choice since it tolerates shade, while you may prefer the formality of boxwood or the blossoms of flowering quince. Tall hedge plants will typically need additional room for the plant to grow appropriately. Planting too close will result in a hedge that’s full on one side and “flat” on the side next to the fence.

Time Investment

Some hedges require a significant amount of time and effort to keep them looking good and within their allotted boundaries. You may not have the time required to perform those tasks yourself. However, you always have the option of hiring a landscape professional who has the knowledge and expertise to keep your hedge looking great.

There are dozens of ways that you can increase your home’s value and one of the most effective is with a fence. The installation benefits you and is an attractive feature for potential buyers should you decide to put your home on the market.

It Shows You Care

A well-maintained fence projects the perception of a home and grounds that have been cared for in the best way possible.

Positioning

Where the fence is positioned affects the look and feel of the property. A fence has the ability to make property look larger or smaller. A backyard fence that blocks an undesirable view can make the property infinitely more attractive, while a fence in the front yard can detract from the home and reduce curb appeal.

Purpose

Fences serve a variety of functions from privacy and safety to security. They prevent intruders from entering the property, keep nosy neighbors and passersby from knowing your business, and keep children, the elderly and pets safe. Privacy, safety and security are all major concerns for homeowners and potential buyers. Fencing that serves those purposes can add immensely to home values and make your property more attractive to potential buyers.

A fence doesn’t have to be one that encompasses the entire property. A small or minimal fence is effective for hiding unsightly items that includes generators and A/C units, power boxes, and trash receptacles. Keeping those items out of sight increases the curb appeal of the entire property.

Material

The type of material chosen for your fence will seriously impact your property value. While a chain link fence is an expedient and relatively inexpensive solution, it’s not as visually appealing as wood, PVC or SimTek®. PVC and SimTek® also have the advantages of being able to withstand hurricane force winds.

Installation

Fencing that has been professionally installed wins hands down over a barrier that was a DIY project. Having your fence installed by professionals ensures that it endures and demonstrates that you care about the property, thereby maximizing its value.