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Things to Consider Before Fencing in the Yard

A fenced-in yard has aesthetic appeal and can provide an important safety enhancement. However, there are any number of reasons that you may want to install a fence or you may have multiple reasons. It’s essential that you know what purpose the fence will serve before contacting a professional. That knowledge will help you choose the type of fencing, the optimal materials for your specific needs, and get an idea of the cost.

Reason for the Fence

It doesn’t matter whether you’re living on a farm or in suburbia, before you can choose fencing that accommodates your requirements, you’ll need to know why you need or want the fence. Common reasons include establishing safe boundaries for children and pets or to deny access to stray animals and wildlife.

You may want a fence to create a more secure environment, for purely decorative purposes to enhance visual appeal, or establish boundaries with neighbors. Once you determine why you want or need a fence, you can move on to other considerations.

Cost

The cost of fencing varies widely depending on the area to be fenced and the materials chosen. You have multiple options encompassing chain link, wood, aluminum, PVC and SimTek®.

Maintenance Requirements

If you’re not fond of the thought of making regular fence inspections, arduous cleaning tasks, painting or other maintenance chores, there’s a fencing material for you. Conversely, if you have plenty of time and don’t mind spraying for insects, staining or waterproofing your fence, there are also options.

Climate Considerations

The climate in South Florida can be unkind to certain types of fencing materials due to varying weather and climate conditions. Fencing is available that won’t burn should a fire occur and is especially beneficial if you live in an area at risk for forest fires. You can choose eco-friendly fencing materials, those that won’t warp or deteriorate under the sun’s UV rays, and even materials that can withstand hurricane-force winds.

Be Neighborly

You’ll definitely want to talk with neighbors before erecting a fence. Depending on the prevailing rules and regulations, they may be responsible for a portion of the upkeep. You also don’t want to install a fence that intrudes on their pristine view.

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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Don’t Mess with the HOA

For individuals that want a more regimented approach to their community, a house covered by a home owner’s association (HOA) offers a number of benefits. They can provide amenities, a means of controlling property values, and they may take care of chores such as mowing. An HOA also comes with a variety of rules and regulations.

HOAs are very meticulous about their guidelines and have no problem enforcing them which can result in a hefty fine. It’s critical that individuals know the rules in their community before erecting a fence or making any major changes that have the potential of running afoul of the HOA. Always obtain written HOA approval before initiating any changes.

Fencing

There will be rules governing the height of a fence, the type of materials that are acceptable for use, and even regulations as to if you can install a fence at all. You could face fines for every day that the fence violates HOA rules or you could be forced to move it, alter it, or completely take it down.

Paint

If you’re looking to add a little distinction with a colorful new door or other outwardly visible change – think again. HOAs view violations of conformity, appearance, overall style and aesthetics very seriously.

Holiday Decorations

Another common area in which HOAs regulate the environment is through holiday decorations. An HOA will have guidelines for when holiday decorations can go up, when they must be taken down, and the type of decorations that are allowable. The HOA will determine the hours during which the lights can be operated and sound levels for animated or inflatable decorations.

Pets and People

The breed, size and number of pets allowed will be strictly enforced, while some HOAs ban pets of any kind. There will also be restrictions in place as to the number of people that can occupy a home and the length of time that someone can stay for an extended visit.

Other Guidelines

HOAs typically have rules about where trash receptacles can be stored, their placement when it’s time for trash pick-up, how long they can be left in sight, and recycling. If you live in an HOA, there will be regulations about where you can park vehicles and a pass may need to be requested for visitors. Don’t forget to keep up the HOAs maintenance standards on your home and fence.

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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Fence and Gate Safety

A fence is an excellent way to ensure the safety of children and pets, keep stray animals and wildlife out, and discourage would-be intruders. One of the keys to safety and security is the proper gate, but the installation of a gate also comes with the need for gate safety. Gates can be installed that use a traditional key, swipe card, remote control or touchpad.

A gate needs to be locked if it’s to perform its function of keeping people and wildlife out while maintaining safe boundaries for children and pets. However, care must be taken to ensure young children can’t reach the locking mechanism or have access to the key. That consideration is even more important if the fence surrounds a swimming pool.

It’s essential that individuals always make sure the gate is securely closed, locked, and that older children understand the importance of maintaining gate safety. Even the most high-tech fence and gate won’t keep people or pets in and intruders out if it’s not closed and locked. One solution is automatically locking gates.

Gates should be installed at the same height as the fencing to ensure they perform the function for which they were designed. A gate that’s too short or tall will also mar the aesthetics of the fence and home.

Always install a lock on the inside of the gate that can’t be accessed from outside. It will need to be high enough that children can’t reach it or climb up for access. Another consideration are pets. Depending upon the type of lock involved, large dogs can accidentally open some types of gates if they jump up – and don’t ever assume that the family pet can’t learn how to open a gate.

A gate and lock are essential elements for any fence to ensure safety. Self-closing and latching gates are great for fencing around the entire yard. They’re critical if the fence surrounds a swimming pool. Gate safety should never be taken for granted.

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 Installation: Know your Property Lines

Erecting a fence on your property is more complicated than you may anticipate. There are legal regulations that must be adhered to and permits that will be required. However, the process of installing a fence all begins with knowing the exact location of your property lines.

Installing a fence without knowing where your property lines are can result in legal action by adjacent land owners. Without that knowledge, you can easily find yourself responsible for removing and relocating your freshly erected fence. It can also affect your ability to insure your home.

Check Your Deed

The deed to your property will have a legal description of your property and its boundaries. Older deeds may not include the information and will refer you to an older document. However, older documents may reference landmarks or other features that don’t exist any longer.

Plat Map

A plat map is a document that defines property lines and includes data about structures, elevations, and bodies of water. A plat map may be included as part of your deed and if not, you can view it at the city or county assessor’s office or online in some locales.

Perform a Survey

One of the easiest ways to determine exactly where your property lines are is to have a new survey performed. It’s a very precise measurement that identifies where all existing boundaries are located. The cost of a survey will vary among companies licensed to do the task.

Stakes and Markers

When a survey of your property was made, the survey company will have left a wooden stake or metal marker to mark the boundaries. If that marker is still available, you can tell where your property lines lie. The markers may be flush with the ground or sticking up several inches above the ground.

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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Fence Durability has Come a Long Way

Fencing has played a roll in safety and beautification of properties for centuries. In the beginning, there was only wood, rock or metal in its most basic forms. Today, individuals have access to an extensive range of modern materials made possible through technological advances that provide greater durability while remaining aesthetically pleasing.

Wood

Individuals can still choose wood for their fencing needs. The difference is that new treatments have been developed that can be applied to ward off insects and protect against rot. In this instance, the wood hasn’t changed but the methods to extend durability has.

Metal

Powder coatings and sealants for anti-weathering protection have extended the lifespan of metal fencing. In the case of chain link, newer and more lightweight materials, combined with the practice of dipping the metal in steel, has made the fencing more cost effective while improving durability. Wrought iron is popular for fencing, but it’s more typically constructed of an iron core surrounded by a steel polymer. That polymer makes the metal resistant to UV rays and rain.

PVC/Vinyl

The development of pvc/vinyl fencing in 1981 created one of the most enduring alternatives to wood. The technology available enables it to appear as wood or stone and it’s a popular substitute since it won’t warp like wood. New manufacturing techniques enable it to be produced more cost effectively. Some manufacturers even provide lifetime warranties on their pvc/vinyl fencing since it doesn’t peel, crack or chip and its resistant to pests, mold and mildew.

SimTek®

A relatively new addition to the fencing industry, SimTek® has quickly become one of the most preferred materials for fencing in multiple environments. It’s an eco-friendly solution that combines plastic and galvanized steel. It can withstand hurricane winds, is impact resistant, blocks sound, and it’s available in textures that mimic wood and stone. In terms of maintenance, it simply needs to be hosed down to remove dust and dirt.

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

Read more

Are Fences Covered by Homeowners Insurance?

Homeowners insurance will typically cover the cost of a damaged fence, but it will depend largely on how the damage was caused. Fence damage may fall under the “other structures” coverage of the policy and may be limited to damage that occurs as a result of vandalism or storms. It’s essential that individuals understand their policies and what it covers.

There may also be monetary limits attached to the amount of coverage provided in the form of percentages. Flood damage is typically excluded from standard coverage policies. Damage resulting from earthquakes is also excluded, even though Florida is tied with North Dakota for the fewest number of earthquakes. An earthquake is Florida is rare, but they have occurred.

Sinkholes are a very real concern for Florida residents and companies are required to offer catastrophic ground cover collapse. However, the coverage is only available as an add-on to an existing policy and individuals will incur additional costs for the coverage.

Fences can be exposed to a variety of damaging conditions and situations. While many of those may inflict damage that mars the cosmetic appearance of the fence, they won’t be covered by homeowners insurance. Fences can be struck by debris from lawn mowers, children driving “ride-on” vehicles, and landscaping mishaps – those aren’t covered. Fences afflicted with mold, fungi, insects, and normal wear and tear aren’t covered, either.

While a car crashing into a fence doesn’t happen very often, if one does damage a fence the homeowner’s policy should cover it. Individuals will also have the option of filing a claim against the driver’s auto insurance, assuming that the driver has an auto owner’s policy.

Trees and limbs falling on a fence from the policy holder’s yard are covered expenses. The insurance company can choose not to cover the damage if it decides the tree or limb fell due to negligence or lack of appropriate maintenance on the part of the homeowner.

If the damage occurs due to a neighbor’s tree, the insurance company may hold the neighbor responsible for the entire cost. The company may also choose to split the cost 50-50 between the homeowner and the neighbor, with homeowners paying the deductible.

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

Read more
privacy

Yard Enhancements that add to Your Home’s Value

People are always looking for ways to increase the value of their home and one of the best ways to enjoy the great outdoors is by creating a unique environment in your own back yard. There are a number of ways that you can increase your home’s value in the event you decide to sell. Even if you don’t plan to sell, you can enjoy the features yourself.

Decks and Patios

Decks and patios provide you with an outdoor space for entertainment and give you approximately 9 percent ROI on your investment. Patios typically offer the same ROI and provide the same benefits.

Fencing

One of the most jealously guarded assets of any home is privacy and fencing can provide that while improving home values. Fencing also provides efficient camouflage for undesirable elements such as trash bins, utility meters, and AC units. ROI will depend on the scope of the fencing and materials.

Fire Pit

A fire pit can provide an average of 67 percent return on investment, depending on the type of fire pit that’s selected. It’s a good idea to check with the local fire department, county commission or homeowner’s association as there may be restrictions on the type that’s allowed.

Irrigation System

An irrigation system takes the work out of watering and ensures a lush and attractive lawn for curb appeal. It’s an easy solution that will give you about 86 percent ROI, while also saving water and money on your water costs.

Landscaping

Privacy is in high demand and homes that have been landscaped for privacy have the potential to recoup 100 percent of the costs during a sale. You don’t have to spend a lot to create an oasis of calm and privacy. Even a small amount of landscaping can add curb appeal and seal the deal for buyers.

Outdoor Kitchen

An outdoor kitchen can provide approximately 71 percent ROI. Meals can be cooked outside without messing up the indoor kitchen. Your outdoor kitchen can encompass everything from a wet bar and pizza oven to refrigerator and elaborate grill/burner combos.

Pool and Outdoor Shower

A pool is one of the most often added features to a home’s landscaping. An added bonus is an outdoor shower alongside the pool area. The shower can increase home values by up to 7 percent.

Sound System

A sound system is always a bonus and can provide the soundtrack for a patio or pool party to the feel of a tropical island. With modern technology, there’s no need to install an expensive wired system.

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

Read more

How to Choose Pet Fencing

Fencing is the easiest and most effective way to protect pets from harm. There are multiple fencing materials from which to choose that will keep a pet safely contained while providing beauty to the home environment. There are multiple elements for individuals to consider when choosing a pet fence.

Size of the Pet

That cute puppy that’s so tiny now will eventually mature into a full-size dog. If a fence is erected with spaces between the uprights, the gaps must be small enough to prevent the pet from slipping between them. Fencing with solid panels offers the most protection since there are no gaps through which an animal can escape. The size of the pet as an adult must also be considered.

Skill Sets

If a pet is seeking an escape route, some will try to jump a fence while others are more likely to attempt a breakout by digging under the fence. Still, others are agile climbers. Some pets develop skills on their own that include opening gates. There’s no way to tell if a pet will be skilled at escapes, but a child-safe gate is always a good option.

Fencing materials are desired that don’t provide any way for a pet to gain purchase with their feet for climbing and fences with an underground safety cable are effective in mitigating under-fence escapes. Be sure the fence is high enough to discourage jumpers.

Maintenance

Some pets are more destructive than others. Wood fencing isn’t a good choice for these pets. Vinyl and metal options require little maintenance and aren’t as likely to be destroyed should a pet become restless or bored.

Raise the Roof

While most people are concerned with fences to keep canines contained, a great many cat owners want to give their feline the benefit of fresh air in a safe manner. The same precautions should be considered when erecting a fence for cats as for other pets, but with the added addition of a securely attached overhead barrier to keep the cat from climbing up and over.

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

Concealing Eyesores and Toys

A homeowner’s association (HOA) can be a blessing or a distinct disadvantage, depending upon what it is that an individual wants to do with their property. For those that desire uniformity, an HOA provides very specific rules about every aspect of the home and surrounding environment. For individuals that want a little more leeway in what’s in their yard, fencing panels are the ideal solution for concealing things of which an HOA may not approve.

There are many things that an HOA can’t tell residents they can’t have, but depending upon the HOA agreement, individuals may be required to have them out of sight. Features considered an eyesore by an HOA can be camouflaged with fencing panels – just make sure they meet the rules set forth by the HOA in terms of height, material, and color. Don’t erect fence panels without the pre-approval of the HOA. Panels are effective for concealing:

  • Air Conditioning Units
  • Certain Plants
  • Clothesline
  • Electrical Boxes
  • Electric Car Charging Stations
  • Generators
  • Lawn Furniture
  • Outbuildings
  • Satellite Dishes
  • Solar Panels
  • Toys
  • Trash Bins

Out of Sight, Out of Mind

There are many things that an HOA doesn’t want to see and may view as a detraction to the overall plan of the community, even if those items are allowed or essential to the operation of homes – such as electrical boxes. There are dozens of fencing options that can assist individuals to camouflage things that an HOA wants to keep out of sight.

Fencing doesn’t need to encompass an entire property to be effective. Individual panels can be strategically placed to conceal virtually any type of undesirable feature. Modern fencing materials can emulate the look of high-end stone, granite, and wood to provide an elegant appearance that blends tastefully with local surroundings.

Individuals can select from aluminum, PVC, wood, chain link, and SimTek® fencing materials. There are dozens of options for screens to hide unsightly items within a yard. They can also offer a handy foundation for trailing or climbing plants for those that enjoy gardening.

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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zepco fence - coral springs florida

Tips for Choosing Fence Material for Your Yard

Homeowners have multiple material choices for their fencing. You can choose from metal, PVC, wood, vinyl, composite, SimTek®, and masonry styles with a wealth of design options within each material type. There are pros and cons for each type and you can use the following tips for selecting the fencing materials that best fits your individual needs.

Building Codes and HOAs

Communities often have their own set of building codes about the type, style, color, materials, and height of the fencing that can be erected. If your area has a homeowners association (HOA) your options may be limited to what the HOA allows.

Cost

Fencing and the installation can represent a significant expense and you’ll need to know how much you can or are willing to spend. You may need to budget more to the project or seek a more cost-effective alternative, depending upon what you envision for your property.

Durability

The predations of insect pests, mold, and degradation from wind, rain, sun, and salt spray are very real considerations. The ability of your fence to withstand those elements and the unique climate will also be a consideration for the long-term durability of the fencing you choose.

Maintenance

Some types of fencing require regular inspections and periodic maintenance, while others are almost maintenance-free. Some may need to be painted, stained or sealed. An additional consideration in Florida is hurricanes and the associated damage they can sustain or inflict. Some types of fencing are able to withstand hurricane-force winds.

Objective

It’s important to know why you want a fence. They can be used for beautification, safety and security, to contain children or pets, minimizing road-noise, or to establish boundaries. The reason you want a fence will influence the material that’s selected.

Style

You may want a fence that blends into the surrounding architecture and prevailing styles or you may want something that’s a marked departure that makes your home stand out. You can choose from highly elaborate styles or no-frills options, but you should always research any relevant codes and regulations before making a decision.

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