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Why Fence Maintenance is Important

Fences beautify and protect, but no matter how maintenance-free a fencing material may be, it will still require some type of regular maintenance. The type of fencing material an individual has will dictate the amount of upkeep it will require and should be explored before opting for a specific material.

No matter what type of fencing an individual selects, there will be certain maintenance tasks that need to be completed, even if it’s only a weekly inspection of the hardware used to make connections. Other types of material will simply need to be washed down with a hose or pressure washer. Individuals should assess the time, effort and expense they’re willing to expend before they buy.

Wood

Fences constructed of wood will weather and become old-looking. They’ll need to be painted or stained – and applying a primer is recommended before painting. Depending on weather conditions, they may need attention every year to keep them looking good.

Wood fencing is also prone to depredations by insects and an application of an insecticide may be required to surroundings. Wood absorbs moisture, making it susceptible to cracking, rot, mold and mildew. The hardware used to join fencing will also need to be checked regularly to ensure it isn’t rusted or pulled out of the wood.

PVC/Vinyl

Five times stronger than wood, PVC/vinyl fencing requires little in the way of maintenance, withstands strong winds, and adverse weather conditions. It’s earned the Dade County Product Approval Certification and only needs to be washed down with a high-pressure hose.

Aluminum

Aluminum is typically treated with a powder coating for protection against oxidation and rust. It doesn’t require painting or staining. It will need to be wiped down periodically to remove dirt and debris.

SimTek®

The material requires the least amount of maintenance of any fencing on the market. The most it needs is a power washing to keep it looking attractive and to remove everything from dirt to graffiti.

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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fence durability

How Long Should a New Fence Last?

The lifespan of a fence will vary according to the construction material, the amount of regular maintenance that has been performed, and prevailing weather and climate conditions. South Florida is well-known for its abundant sunshine and humid conditions, both of which will affect the fence longevity.

Aluminum

The material doesn’t rust and is unattractive to insects. It can be customized in multiple ways and fashioned in the appearance of wrought iron. The metal isn’t vulnerable to rust, corrosion, fading or the effects of rain. It requires little maintenance, doesn’t require staining or painting, and its recyclable. Aluminum fencing can last up to 50 years.

PVC-Vinyl

PVC-vinyl fencing does well in any climate, doesn’t require painting, is 5 times stronger than wood, and its recyclable. A quick hose down with a pressure washer will keep it looking like new and it’s unattractive to insects. It’s resistant to fading and weathering. A PVC-vinyl fence will last an average of 35-40 years.

Wood

Weather, insects, rot and mold are the primary problems associated with wood fences, even though its typically pressure treated to minimize those concerns. It can be painted or stained against damage by water and humidity, but will still require frequent inspections to ensure that connecting hardware is tight and intact. Wood has the potential to warp, crack and split. If properly maintained each year, a wooden fence can last up to 20 years.

Chain Link

Quick to install and more affordable than other options, chain link fencing is less susceptible to wind damage since air flows through it with minimal restriction. Galvanized chain-link will eventually rust, but vinyl-coated chain link will resist rust for many years. The average lifespan of a vinyl-coated chain link fence is 25-30 years.

SimTek®

The unique material is resistant to fading from UV rays, shrinking and warping from shifting temperatures, and offers soundproofing benefits. It’s unattractive to pests and doesn’t require painting or staining. It can withstand sustained winds of 110 mph and gusts of up to 130 mph. Mold, mildew and grass stains can be easily removed with a pressure washer. The material is recyclable. SimTek® fencing can last for up to 50 years.

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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restore fence

Can you Restore a Rusty Fence?

The good news for owners of steel or wrought iron fencing that’s become rusty and unsightly is that the fence can be restored. It will require preparation, primer and elbow grease – or an electric tool to make the job easier and faster. Never attempt to simply paint over a metal fence. The results will look terrible and the paint will flake.

Metal fencing is typically treated with a specialized coating to prevent rusting, but even the best professionally-installed fence has a finite lifespan. If you have an aluminum fence, you won’t see it rust, but it will corrode over time. Metal fencing in South Florida is required to withstand stresses that other locations don’t, primary of which is salt from ocean spray and being drenched in ocean water during hurricanes.

Fence Restoration

Restoring your fence if it’s showing signs of rust will aid in prolonging its longevity and maintaining it’s beauty and effectiveness. You can prep the fence and do the work yourself, but it can be a time-consuming task, depending on the method you choose. The alternative is to hire a company that has the tools, technology and experience to do the work.

Before undertaking the project yourself, perform an inspection of the fence to determine the extent of the damage. The fence may simply be showing surface rust and can be restored. If the rust is extensive and has penetrated the surface, it may be a better idea to replace rather than restore.

If you’re performing the work yourself, it’s essential that you remove as much rust as possible. You can remove it manually using a sandblaster, grinder or a liquid rust remover. All the methods are effective, it just depends on how much time you want to invest.

When the fence is free of rust, all that’s left to do is apply a coat of primer and a new coat of anti-rust paint in the color of your choice. You can use a roller paintbrush to apply the primer and paint.

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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pool fence

Florida Fence Laws When You Have a Pool

Every family waits with eager anticipation the installation of their new pool. However, before taking the first dip in your new pool, there are fencing laws to which you must adhere under the Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act. Failure to do so has stiff penalties.

Enacted in 2009, the law is designed to reduce the number of accidental drowning of children. Prior to passage of the law, drowning was the No. 1 cause of accidental death in children of all ages. Now pool owners are required by law to erect a barrier around their pool that adheres to stringent specifications.

Swimming Pools

Outdoor swimming pools are required to be encircled by a fence or other suitable barrier of at least 4 feet in height. It must be low enough to the ground so children can’t crawl under it and include no outcroppings that small children can use to crawl over it.

The fence is required to be a specified distance from the edge of the pool in the event that a child manages to infiltrate the barrier to prevent them from immediately falling in the water. The fence must have a gate that opens outward, be self-closing, and be equipped with a self-locking device.

Indoor Pools

There are some exceptions for indoor pools. If the pool is inside a screened in area, a fence isn’t required as long as the windows and doors that give access to the pool have a wired safety alarm. A fence also isn’t required if there’s a self-closing, self-latching device installed at least 54 inches above ground level.

Kiddie Pools

Small, shallow wading pools are popular for younger children at home. They’re designed to be temporary in nature and aren’t subject to fencing laws. Private community pools and public pools located in condos and apartment complexes are also exempt from the fencing law, but also have more rigorous laws to ensure the safety of children around water. Public swimming pools must be in compliance with the Virginia Graeme Baker Federal Pool and Sap Safety Act.

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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installing a fence

Avoiding Neighbor Disputes when Installing a Fence

 

Installing a fence around your residential property can bear its fruits of providing security, safety, privacy, and many such things which gives access to having a comfortable suitable life to an individual.  One of the consequences included, when installing a fence around your property, is the dispute with your neighbors as it may prove to be a hard puzzle to solve.

 

But the revelation is soon to be revealed as the following blog includes the dos and don’ts when it comes to the matter of avoiding neighbor disputes when installing a fence. The following blog highlights the fence etiquettes related to your neighboring commercial property.

 

Fence etiquette 

 

Respecting each other boundaries

Respect is only earned when it is given to the party and such a thing can be a great element between two neighbors. Each relationship will be successful when the element of respect is there and it is maintained. Related to the fence when it is bordering one’s neighbor, a property survey should be followed to ensure proper placement.

 

Following local rules

Rules vary from place to place and someplace may or may not give you the permit of installing a fence, bordering with your neighbors. Some rules may ask you to install the fence with a certain height limit, color, or material. Following the local rules where your residential property is located can prove to be a great strategy to avoid disputes with your neighbor. 

 

Informing your neighbors

To avoid a dispute with your neighbors when it comes to the moment of installing fences around your property, it is greatly suggested that informing your neighbors would prove to be best as it would give them a moment of heads up and better coordination can be built between the neighbors even though they are separated by a piece of fence. Sometimes it’s not about the quantity but it’s about quality, and a relationship with such a feature can show itself the perfect above all.

        

Living in the 21st century has its perks and such an era where the action is only legal when it is legally passed over as a bill, being agreed by everyone. Such a role can be implemented when installing a fence as a signed agreement can play its role. No matter how hard it may get in the future, such proofs can give you validation as a way of having rights in such an era.

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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backyard makeover

Things to Consider When Planning a Backyard Makeover

A backyard makeover can give people more space to relax, room for entertaining, or new features to enjoy. No matter what the desired makeover, it begins with a plan. The best option for the project’s ultimate planning and execution is to consult with a professional landscaper.

The other alternative is a software program that enables individuals to choose different features around the specified space to see how they’ll look. Start with a dream landscape and work to narrow down the available choices. Keep the following in mind when planning a backyard makeover.

Budget

Even a small makeover can be expensive and will depend on multiple factors. It’s important for individuals to decide how much they’re willing to invest in the makeover. Always expect the cost to be more than anticipated as the price of materials can fluctuate widely over time.

Purpose

The first step is to ascertain what’s to be accomplished with the makeover. Some want to create a cozy retreat, a place for entertaining, or a kid-friendly environment. Unless individuals are handy or enjoy puttering around the garden, choose low-maintenance options.

Likes and Dislikes

It can be helpful to walk around the area to be rejuvenated. Take stock of what’s liked and disliked, as well as those things that might be salvaged and incorporated into the new design. That may include removing trees, bushes and existing flower beds.

For those that live in locations rich in wildlife, it may be prudent to keep out deer and other unwanted animals with a fence. Individuals may have their heart set on specific plantings, but let reality be a guide. All plants simply don’t grow well in some areas and may need more time and care to survive than individuals have.

Materials

There are dozens of materials with which to create the makeover, from concrete and pavers to synthetic materials. The makeover can include ponds, fountains and waterfalls. Outdoor furnishings will need to be waterproof and depending on the size of the area, will need to be versatile and serve multiple purposes to avoid overcrowding.

Rules

Every neighborhood and community are governed by specific rules as to what’s allowable, what’s not, and will require specific permits for the work. That’s where the services of a professional are beyond compare. They’ll know the prevailing rules and be able to pull the necessary permits.

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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ZEPCO FENCE COMPANY CORAL SPRINGS

Choosing a Fence by Price

Erecting a fence is a major project that can be extremely expensive. Individuals need to balance the vision they have of the “perfect” fence with budgetary concerns. Other people simply make their fencing selection based on price alone. Multiple elements affect the cost of a fence encompassing the material and height, along with the slope of the land, the type of soil, installation and permits, and gates. That doesn’t include installation costs.

Chain Link

Chain link fencing is by far the least expensive at $5 to $20 per foot, depending on the height.  It’s commonly used for security and safety purposes, keeping children and pets contained, and preventing the entry of human and wildlife intruders. It’s easy and quick to install.

PVC

A PVC fence will run between $15.50 to $18.50 per linear foot. It’s available in a myriad of colors and more than 30 decorative styles. It’s able to withstand high winds and has earned the Dade County Product Approval Certification. PVC is highly durable and won’t split, crack, peel, splinter, warp or rot. It’s a good option for privacy, keeping children and pets within bounds, and preventing entry by intruders and wildlife. It can emulate the appearance of stone or wood.

Aluminum

The cost of aluminum fencing is approximately $22 per linear foot. It’s highly decorative, available in multiple styles and colors, and can be topped with spikes for an additional level of security. It’s low maintenance and has a stately, elegant appearance.

Wood

A wood fence is on the high end of the price scale and will cost between $17 to $45 per linear foot, depending on the type of wood that’s used. It can be installed horizontally or vertically and is a popular choice for privacy.

SimTek®

The material can run anywhere between $70 and $90 per linear foot. It has a 25 year/lifetime warranty. The fencing is highly durable and is available in styles that emulates the look and texture of real wood and stone. SimTek® is offered in multiple colors and it’s fade resistant. The high-impact material absorbs sound, is graffiti resistant and eco-friendly. It’s popular for privacy and security purposes, buffers sound, and can withstand hurricane force winds and ocean spray.

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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When is it Time to Replace Your Fence?

You may want to replace your fence for any number of reasons. You may simply want to update the appearance or it may not be functional for your current needs. However, there are signs that indicate your fence actually needs to be replaced and the signs are easy to spot, depending upon the material with which its constructed.

Cost

It can be more cost effective to replace an entire fence that’s been installed for several years rather than trying to hold it together any longer. You don’t want to invest any substantial amount of money into a fence that will only last a couple of more years before it must be replaced anyway.

Damage

Chipping, cracking and splitting – or missing boards of wooden fencing – is a sure sign the fence needs to be replaced. It’s an easy matter to replace a single board, but when entire sections are missing boards, it’s unsightly. Non-wooden fencing can experience damage in the form of chipping, cracking and splitting that’s unpleasant to view and comprises the integrity of the structure.

Leaning

A leaning fence is a sign that its lost structural strength. If a single section is leaning, it can often be repaired or replaced. If there’s a generalized leaning along the entire fence, it’s time to be replaced.

Loose & Missing Hardware

Fences use metal fasteners that can encompass nails to screws to hold all the pieces together. Over time, the hardware can rust or loosen due to wind, rain and salt spray. You have a choice of replacing the entire fence or making repairs, depending on the age of the fence. The fence may sustain further damage by trying to repair it.

Rotting

Rot is a common problem in areas of high humidity and rainfall. Florida residents have the additional concerns of hurricanes that result in storm surges and high winds that can exacerbate any existing problems. Signs of rot will appear on fencing where it’s closest to the ground and while preservatives can help, eventually a full-blown case of rot will set in.

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

Follow us on Social Media

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Fencing Ensures the Safety of Your Children and Pets

One of the most common reasons for having a fence installed is for the safety of children and pets. Most people would be surprised at how quickly small toddlers can move when they’re determined to get somewhere. Professional fence installers can erect fencing for pools, the entire property, or just a portion of your yard for a variety of safety concerns.

Chain link is the fencing of choice for containing children and pets, but there are many other styles and materials from which to choose. A professional fence installer can present all the available options and assist you in selecting the fencing that best fits your budget and any prevailing architectural considerations.

Children

Youngsters love to climb and explore. That necessitates fencing that a child can’t climb over and doesn’t provide enough room for them to crawl under. Fences can be equipped with automatically locking gates and other preventative methods to provide an additional level of safety.

Fencing should be tall enough to prevent anyone from reaching over the fence. Chain link fencing can also be equipped with privacy screening or slats. It’s effective but not as aesthetically pleasing to view. Vines, bushes and other plantings can be installed for an eco-friendly privacy option.

There are other types of fencing that emulate the appearance of stone, wood and granite. Materials are available in multiple heights, styles and colors. The fencing offers an alternative that requires little maintenance, will last for years, and is able to withstand hurricane force winds.

Pets

If you get a puppy, there’s no way to know if he/she will be an escape artist that prefers to jump, dig or climb their way out of confinement. Fence professionals can help you determine the height of the fence you’ll need based on the dog’s adult size. Fencing can be designed with automatically locking gates and methods to aid in keeping pets, wildlife and intruders from scaling it.

There are also underground preventative measures that can be incorporated during the installation for pets that dig or are small in size. Even if a dog is small in stature, the fence will need to be tall enough to prevent passersby from reaching into the fence and scooping up your canine companion.

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

Follow us on Social Media

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Chain Link Fence is Great for Pet Enclosures

The installation of chain link fencing is the preferred method of corralling rambunctious canines whether it’s in the back yard or at the local dog park. There are multiple benefits to chain link fencing for pet enclosures that aren’t available with other options.

Safety

The pattern in chain link fencing provides pet parents with safety and security for their dog. Available in multiple heights, it’s a deterrent to canines that try to jump and can be installed with preventative measures for those that try to burrow. It’s effective for keeping out unwanted wildlife. Fencing can be installed with child-proof latches and self-closing springs for another level of safety.

Puppies like to explore and a very real danger is that a puppy will try to climb between the rails of traditional fencing and get stuck or actually make it through to the other side. The same is true of smaller dogs. Chain link fencing has a close-knit pattern too small for puppies or small dogs to wiggle through.

Cost

Expense is a major consideration for homeowners or communities that want to create a dog park for residents. Chain link fencing is highly cost-effective. A vinyl coating can be applied in multiple colors to coordinate with surroundings and it’s an easy matter to attach relevant signage for the public spaces to make individuals aware of pertinent rules.

Durability

The average chain link fence will last up to 15 years and choosing a smaller gauge wire can increase the strength. It’s also quick and easy for professional installers to erect, meaning the amenity can be offered to residents in fairly little time or homeowners can allow their canines to begin exploring their own backyard unfettered.

Easy Maintenance

Chain link fencing requires very little in the way of maintenance. If a section of fencing becomes damaged, it’s a simple matter to repair it or to replace the damaged portion.

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

Follow us on Social Media

Read more