A gate is the finishing touch for your new fence and there are multiple options from which to choose. You’ll want the style to complement your tastes, preferences and usage. People typically select a gate constructed of the same material as their fence, but individuals can choose from wood, chain link, vinyl or aluminum.

Wood

This type of gate is less expensive than other materials. It offers versatility and the boards can be installed vertically, horizontally., or as a solid piece. However, wood is subject to rot, mildew, and predations by insects. It may need regular painting or staining.

Chain Link

A gate constructed of chain link discourages intruders, while enhancing security. It’s a cost-effective and affordable option for keeping children and pets secure. A disadvantage is that chain link isn’t as aesthetically pleasing and a protective coating will need to be applied to prevent rust and corrosion.

Vinyl

Vinyl gates are long-lasting, versatile and durable. The material is more economical than aluminum, will outlast wood, and requires very little maintenance. The downside of vinyl is that the initial investment will be more costly than wood or chain link.

Aluminum

Next to iron and wrought iron, aluminum is one of the strongest and most versatile materials available Aluminum isn’t prone to rust or corrosion, requires very little maintenance, and is long-lasting. It has the advantage of classic beauty, a sophisticated appearance, and is highly decorative. It can be customized in multiple ways and is effective for deterring people and wildlife.

Other Considerations

The way the gate opens and closes to admit family and friends is also important. Gates can be installed to swing to either side. If space is limited, gates can also be designed to slide sideways to allow admittance. Self-locking gates are a good precaution for homes with children and pets. Individuals can also choose a high-tech solution that utilizes codes or biometrics to gain entry.

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.

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There are many early signs that a fence is being damaged, but they’re often overlooked by property owners since it happens slowly over time. It’s a good idea to inspect fences regularly for multiple types of damage. If left unaddressed, it can result in a significant amount of money to repair and sections of the fence may need to be replaced.

Mold, Mildew, Algae

All of those substances are biologics that easily begin to grow on fencing in the warm and humid South Florida climate. Vinyl fencing can also provide a surface upon which mold and algae can grow.

Rot

This is a particular problem with wooden fences. It’s not always visible as actively wet wood. It often presents as gray or white spores. Another sign of rot is a board that gives when pressed upon.

Leaning and Bending

Fence posts that are leaning or bending sideways from an upright position is a sign of a problem. Wooden fence posts may be rotting under the surface or the soil may have shifted around wood or metal posts. Posts are set and sealed in concrete, but moisture can seep into the smallest of cracks in the concrete.

Cracks

Cracks can occur in the bottom of posts, especially in fencing constructed of wood. Even when wood is treated with chemicals to mitigate the problem, wood dries out and puts pressure on the fibers that can result in cracking.

Insects

Termites are the bane of wooden fences. Property owners can detect an infestation by visible termite mazes, bloated wood or a bad odor. Boring insects of all types will leave telltale holes in the wood. Composite materials are unattractive to insects – unless the fencing material develops a crack or damage where the insects can enter. They won’t destroy modern materials, but they will make a fence a base of operations.

Rust and Corrosion

The two problems primarily affect wrought iron. However, rust and corrosion can impact the hardware used to join fencing materials of all types.

Pool fencing in Florida has to meet specific requirements for safety. The most common fencing that provides safety and privacy is a stockade fence. They’re available in a couple of different styles that meet Florida safety mandates.

Fencing Requirements

The fence must be at least 48 inches high, with uprights that are no more than 4 inches apart, and have an outward opening gate. The fence must be erected a distance away from the pool’s edge so if a child does enter the area unattended, he/she won’t immediately step into the pool.

The fence must be low enough so a toddler can’t climb under it and have no outcroppings that a child could use as handholds to scale the fence. A pool fence must have a self-latching lock on a self-closing gate that small children are unable to reach.

Stockade Fence

A stockade fence is one of the easiest and quickest fencing options and there are two basic styles. All are made of wood. One is constructed in sections with boards laid touching each other. The fencing is typically installed with vertical pickets, but can also be customized so the boards are horizontal. The “pretty” side must face outward. It’s an effective noise blocker, but also prevents air from circulating through.

Staggered

Sometimes referred to as a double slatted fence, it consists of two rows of alternating boards – one on the outside and one on the inside. Individuals that try to see in would have to be at a precise angle to do so.

A double slatted fence is considered more stylish than stockade fencing. It also has the advantage of presenting the same appearance from both sides. It helps dampen sounds and has the added benefit of allowing air to flow through.

Screens

For those that need the barrier of a fence but want something with a little more aesthetic value, there are screen panels that can be erected on the outside of the fence. They’re available in solid colors and can also be obtained with images.

Having a fenced in area for dogs to play and exercise is an ideal solution for pets and their people. When selecting a fencing option, much will depend on the canine’s proclivity to digging, jumping, chewing, and their response to outside stimulus. Dogs typically try to escape when they’re left alone too long and get lonely or bored. Never punish them for escaping.

Many dog breeds are small in stature, but they’re excellent jumpers and very athletic. They encompass Rat terriers, Jack Russell terriers, Pinschers, Pomeranians, Pembroke Welsh Corgis and Chihuahuas. They’re highly intelligent and their skill sets can be extensive – including opening gates.

Chain Link

A chain link fence is an obvious choice, but it can be climbed. Plastic slats can be inserted in the chain link to make it more attractive and block out things that stimulate the dog to escape. A fence at least 4 ft. tall will discourage most canines, but not all. Don’t leave objects near fences that they can use to give them a boost. Metal fencing is especially beneficial for dogs that chew.

Stockade

Some canines are especially susceptible to outside stimulus. They’ll bark and try to escape. That’s when a stockade fence can help. It blocks the dog’s view of what’s happening on the outside of the fence. Stockade fencing is a good solution, but not for canines that chew.

Preventative Measures

No matter what type of fencing that’s installed, there are some preventative measures that can be employed. It’s also a good idea to equip the dog’s collar with a GPS tracker. Individuals can easily track their dog if they do escape.

Devices known as coyote rollers can be installed at the top of fences to help keep climbers in check. Extensions can be added at the top that form an inward angle, preventing canines from going up and over.

Underground safety cables can be installed to discourage diggers or a concrete footer can be poured under the fence’s perimeter. Gate latches that automatically lock are a good precaution, as are double gates to keep canines from escaping. Make sure the locking mechanism is out of the dog’s reach.

Many people are so caught up in the excitement of their new fence they forget the finishing touch – the gate. Fences are designed to keep things in or out and a gate is essential for a fence to accomplish its purpose. Individuals will obviously want a gate that’s complementary to their fence. There are multiple concerns to consider when choosing a gate.

Material

A gate will typically be constructed of the same material as the fence. It provides continuity, strength and durability.

Children and Pets

Consider the closing mechanism of the gate carefully and its positioning. It should be out of easy reach of children to prevent them from wandering out of the yard or into traffic. Canines can and do learn how to circumvent and open locked gates. That holds true whether the gate is manually operated or utilizes keypads, video access or electronic locks.

Space

Fence gates swing inward to permit passage of vehicles in and out. There may not be enough room for the gate to swing back far enough due to plantings or other obstacles. A gate that slides to the side may be a better option. If an electric gate is planned, it will require electrical work to ensure access to a power source.

The width of the gate should comfortably accommodate the size of the vehicles that will arrive and depart, along with any trailers used to transport recreational vehicles. If any home improvement projects are planned, individuals will need to consider the size of those vehicles.

Single or Double

Individuals can choose a one-piece gate or a double gate that contains two separate panels. There’s typically less stress placed on the hinges of a single hung gate.

Designs

Gates can be as plain or ornate as desired. Individuals can have a custom gate created that features their family crest, company logo, or initials. Some are even unique works of art in their own right. Just make sure the personalization doesn’t compromise the security of the gate.

Chain link fencing is popular for multiple locations. It can provide an added level of security, protect children and pets, and its one of the most affordable options available. It’s equally applicable for residential, commercial and industrial uses. The disadvantage is that it will rust if a vinyl coating isn’t applied.

Chain link fences are constructed from galvanized steel or aluminum with a zinc coating to make it last longer. Galvanized steel takes a long time to rust, but it will. Aluminum won’t rust, but it does corrode. Chain link fencing typically lasts 20 to 30 years and individuals will want it to retain its appearance for as long as possible.

A vinyl coating for chain link fencing typically comes with a 10-to-15-year warranty against fading, peeling and chipping. The coating is either plastic or a synthetic resin and the smaller the gauge of wire used, the stronger the fence will be. However, eventually the metal will begin to deteriorate. A coating is effective for delaying that process, easy to maintain, and it’s relatively inexpensive.

Without a vinyl coating, individuals will need to periodically clean their fence with a good stiff brush to remove rust that appears. It also requires the time-consuming task of inspecting the fence for rust and corrosion.

Vinyl coatings are available in black, brown, green and white to accommodate a range of aesthetic concerns. A black vinyl coating gives the fencing a softer appearance and tends to blend with plantings. A green coating also blends with foliage, but it is typically more obvious than black.

White vinyl coatings evoke a clinical sense, but can be effective in certain types of landscapes. A brown coating tends to complement multiple settings and is a color that’s popular for individuals that practice Feng Shui in their natural environment.

Installing a fence can beautify properties, provide security, deter intruders, and ensure safety for children and pets. Before installing any fencing, it’s critical that individuals know exactly where their property lines run. Failure to do so can lead to fines and an order to remove a newly installed by local governing entities.

Individuals often think they know exactly where their property lines are, but without having it surveyed, there’s no way to be absolutely sure. Subtle variances and errors can be made over time. A survey is absolutely essential for two important reasons. The first is that some jurisdictions allow a fence to be erected directly on a property line.

The second reason is that some locations have a setback rule, stating that a fence has to be established a specific distance away from the property line toward the fence owner’s property That means that individuals could lose up to 12 inches of their property usage due to a setback law. If a fence is installed on any part of a neighbor’s property, the individual erecting the fence will have to move it.

It’s just one of the reasons that the services of a professional fencing company are preferable to a DIY approach. The experts will know the prevailing rules in a particular area. They’ll also know what permits are required and be able to obtain them. Failure to obtain proper permitting can also result in individuals being ordered to remove their fence.

Another consideration are neighbors. In some areas, half of the upkeep and cost of fencing will fall upon the neighbors. It’s a responsibility and cost that many don’t want to incur. Individuals may even need their neighbors’ permission before installing a fence. Neighbors will also have the right to remove branches, bushes and growths that infringe on the fence, even if it’s a prized planting belonging to the fence owner.

People look forward to erecting their very own fence for privacy, safety, security and curb appeal. What they may not realize is that their neighbor might also has a stake in the fence and it may be considered shared property. It’s just one of the reasons that individuals need to thoroughly explore their community’s laws regarding fences prior to contacting a contractor.

The first thing to establish is exactly where their property line runs. That means the property will have to be surveyed. Some municipalities allow fences to be installed directly on the property line, meaning its shared property.

Other locations have a setback rule, indicating that it has to be installed back away from the property line. That would mean relinquishing up to 12 inches of an individual’s usable lawn space. However, if the fence rests entirely on one side of the property line, it belongs to the person that installed the fence.

Depending on the community, individuals may have to notify their neighbor of their intent to install a fence. If fencing is considered shared property, it’s a good idea to inform the neighbors of pertinent laws, especially since they’ll be equally liable for the structure’s upkeep.

It’s a responsibility and expense a neighbor may not be prepared to shoulder for any number of reasons, particularly since they won’t have any say in what type of fence is being installed. A fence isn’t so much of a problem if it’s just going across the front of a property. For those enclosing their entire yard, they’ll have to notify any neighbor whose property adjoins where the fence will be constructed.

If it’s a shared fence, neighbors will have the right to cut tree branches, trim bushes, and address problems with plants that may be infringing on the structure, as long as it’s on their side of the fence – even if it’s a prized possession of the person who installed the fence.

Home owners often don’t understand the extent of the coverage their home insurance policies provide. The good news is that homeowner’s insurance will cover damage to a fence – provided the damage was due to a covered cause. Depending on the policy, a covered cause may include damage due to a fire, storm, wind or vandalism.

Trees and Storms

If a neighbor’s tree or limb falls on a fence, a homeowner’s policy will typically pay to repair the damage. The same is usually true if a neighbor is cutting branches on their own tree and it damages the policy holder’s fence. Home owners should know that even if the insurance company covers the damage, they may seek to recover the money they paid out on the claim from the neighbor.

The situation can be different and no coverage provided if the insurance company decides the damage could have been prevented or avoided through regular upkeep and maintenance, or if the damage was due to the policy holder’s negligence. In hurricane prone South Florida, an insurance company may exclude damage caused by flooding and winds from the average homeowner’s policy.

Car Crash

While it’s not a regular occurrence, there are instances in which a vehicle leaves the road and crashes into a fence. A homeowner’s policy should pay for the damages. Typically, the driver of the offending vehicle is liable for the damage and their auto policy is responsible for paying for the damage. The home owner’s insurance company may fix the fence, while seeking restitution from the offending driver.

Not Covered

Damage occurring from normal wear, tear and aging of a fence isn’t covered under a homeowner’s policy. Insurance companies won’t pay for damage due to mold, fungus, termites and other detrimental insect pests. Dings and dents from lawnmowers aren’t covered. If damage to a fence was due to vandalism or a vehicle crashed into it, filing a police report is essential and may even be required by the insurance company.

Some domestic animals have a penchant for climbing and it can be extremely difficult to keep them safely within bounds. However, pets aren’t the only animals that individuals have to worry about. A range of wildlife can, and will, climb a fence to get to something they want. That includes alligators, bears, bobcats, coyotes, opossums, raccoons and skunks.

The solution to keeping wild animals out of yards, gardens and away from backyard chickens is a fence of at least 6 ft. tall. Chain link works best, but the spacing in the mesh must be small enough to prevent smaller animals from simply squeezing through.

At the top of the fence will be an extension that bends 90 degrees toward the outside of the fence. Wildlife may attempt to climb the fence, but when they reach the 90-degree angle they’re unable to make the physical “flip” necessary to push themselves up and over.

Rollers can also be placed at the top. The rollers prevent an animal from gaining purchase to pull themselves up. They spin, deny the animal traction, and dumps them back on the ground. Installing rollers can be a bit expensive, but they have an attractive appearance. They’re highly effective and provide a non-lethal way of dealing with unwanted wildlife. They’re commonly called coyote rollers.

One area that people typically forget when establishing a no-climb fence is the gate. Wild animals can be far cleverer than people think. They can learn to manipulate latches and closures on fence gates. It’s equally important to ensure that there are no gaps between the gate and fence where animals can wiggle through.

Florida is home to a wealth of wildlife and many species have learned to co-exist in urban environments. Many view dogs, cats and backyard chickens as an easy food source. No-climb fences provide an effective barrier against many species of wildlife, while providing a safe space for pets to play.