Security is becoming an increasing concern for homes and businesses. There are two basic
types of security fencing and individuals will need to evaluate which best fits their budget,
needs and aesthetics.

Aluminum
An aluminum fence offers the beauty, strength and durability of iron. The fencing is available in
multiple heights and can be customized in a variety of ways. Logos, emblems and designs can
be worked into the gates for an added touch of luxury. The fencing has the beauty and security
of wrought iron, but without the cost.

Aluminum fences are exceedingly difficult to climb by unwanted visitors – both human and
animal. Sharp, pointy spikes can be affixed to the top of pickets as an added deterrent. Small
solar panels can also be incorporated into the design to light the area, making entry particularly
undesirable. No intruder wants to have their actions illuminated.

The pickets on an aluminum security fence can be spaced as closely as the individual desires.
Even small spaces between pickets is beneficial in storms, as it allows wind to flow through
instead of battering at a solid wall. Aluminum fencing fits in well with any environment.

Chain Link
The fencing is used for security purposed on construction sites, manufacturing plants, utility
installations, and correctional facilities. While it provides security, it doesn’t have the aesthetic
appeal of aluminum. However, it’s a viable option for those on a budget and allows for wind to
flow through to prevent the accumulation of stagnant air.

Available in various heights, it’s difficult to climb. The fencing can be designed with angled
extensions at the top that project outward to prevent humans and animals from crossing over
the top. Another precaution is what’s known as coyote rollers. They’re roller bars placed at the
top of the fence to prevent intruders from obtaining a grip. Fencing can be equipped with
deterrents for animals that dig.

The State of Florida has no law that mandates homeowners erect a fence – unless they have a
swimming pool. However, under Homeland Security’s anti-terrorism laws, some types of
businesses are required to install perimeter fencing around their facilities ranging from
chemical plants to food processing sites.

Residential Fences
Homeowners are advised to speak with their neighbors before erecting a fence, as they may
have a financial stake in maintaining it.

Swimming Pools
Any outdoor pool is required to have a fence or barrier at least 4 ft. high around the perimeter
of the aquatic feature. It must be sufficiently far enough away from the pool edge to prevent a
child that breaches the fence from immediately falling into the pool.

There can be no gaps in the fencing. A self-closing and self-locking gate that opens outward
must be installed. The closing and locking mechanism must be high enough to be out of the
reach of children. The fencing must extend low enough to the ground to prevent a child from
climbing under it.

Exceptions
Indoor pools and those in screened in areas aren’t required to be fenced. However, doors and
window that provide access to the pool are required to have a wired safety alarm or a self-
closing and self-locking gate that’s at least 54 inches high.

The shallow pools known as kiddie pools don’t have to be fenced. Private pools at condos,
apartment complexes, and similar facilities, along with public pools, are exempt from the
fencing requirement. Public pools must be in compliance with the Virginia Graeme Baker
Federal Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGBA). The Act went into effect on Dec. 19, 2008 and sets
standards for drain covers to prevent entrapment.

Child Safety
The statutes governing pools were put in place to prevent child drowning. Swimming pools
were the leading cause of child deaths prior to the state’s laws being enacted.

Security is becoming an increasing concern and fences are the most popular means of protecting properties ranging from homes and businesses to production plants and utilities. With the many choices currently on the market, homeowners don’t have to eschew style when seeking security.

Aluminum

One of the benefits of aluminum is that it can be customized and fashioned into a myriad of decorative designs that rival wrought iron creations. The pickets can be spaced to prevent anyone from climbing it and the fencing can even be equipped with spikes at the top to further deter would be intruders.

Aluminum fencing is available in multiple colors and heights. People on the outside can still see inside your yard, but won’t be able to access it. Potential trespassers also won’t have a place to hide, since you can see through it. Aluminum fencing is virtually maintenance free.

Wire Mesh

Aluminum upright supports can be combined with tightly woven wire mesh to create a fence that’s stylish and offers no purchase for intruders to climb over. An additional feature is that it can be extended all the way to the ground level to prevent people from crawling under it and it’s effective for containing children and pets. The mesh provides many of the same attributes of chain link, but is far more aesthetically pleasing than chain link, and comes in multiple colors. Maintenance is minimal.

Vinyl

A vinyl fence can be customized in multiple ways and it’s offered in a variety of different colors and textures. Also known as PVC fencing, there are more than 30 different decorative and unique styles. It forms a solid barrier that prevents would be intruders from seeing in. It’s effective for keeping children and pets inside the yard and requires little to no maintenance.

SimTek®

Another type of fencing that provides a solid barrier is SimTek® You can customize it in a variety of ways and in multiple colors. It’s eco-friendly, resistant to graffiti, can withstand 110 mph hurricane winds. and gusts up to 130 mph. It’s also maintenance free and is effective for keeping children and pets safe from prying eyes.

Most homeowners know the value of including a gate in their fence installation, but many people overlook the benefits of a lock. They assume that the mere presence of a gate will deter untoward actions. Whether you choose a manually operated or convenient electronic option, every fence gate should have a lock.

1. Safety

Your fence gate provides completion of a solid enclosure where children and pets can play in safety. Without a lock, anyone can enter the property at will by simply pushing open the gate. Children can do the same. Be sure to install locks above the reach of children and pets. Canines have been known to learn how to operate manual locks.

2. Theft Protection

You may have expensive vehicles, outdoor furnishings, lawn equipment and other assets that you’ve worked hard to acquire. Without a gate lock, anyone from your neighbor to a thief can come in and make off with your valuables.

3. Liability

If you’ve never discovered that someone has entered your property to enjoy the amenities, consider yourself lucky. There are an increasing number of people that pay no attention to boundaries. They think nothing of slipping onto your property to use your pool, spa, hot tub, or trampoline. In the course of their marauding, they can injure themselves on toys or tools left in the yard. Depending upon the exact circumstances, your homeowner’s insurance may not cover the costs of any damage or injuries an intruder sustains. You could be liable for the expenses.

4. Insurance Requirements

You probably have items in your yard with the potential to cause an injury or that would be expensive to replace. Good examples are pools and spas and the chemicals to maintain them, treehouses, ziplines, swing sets, trampolines and even ordinary outdoor grills. Installing a strong gate lock can be a requirement of your homeowner’s policy.

5. Deterrent

A fence will discourage most people from unauthorized entry, but others will assume you’re hiding something valuable. A securely locked fence gate is a powerful deterrent to would-be intruders. Few individuals will want to take the time to scale your fence if they can’t gain entry through the gate.

Barbed wire is a powerful deterrent to would be intruders in any environment. The drawback is that while it may be legal, police warn against barbed wire and similar methods in certain circumstances as the owner could be held legally responsible for any injuries that an intruder sustains. Even posting appropriate warning signage may not be enough to absolve businesses from responsibility and the potential for litigation.

Barbed wire, like razor wire, is prohibited when adjacent to public right-of-ways in a wide variety of commercially zoned districts. Florida has very stringent laws governing the use of barbed wire in any capacity since it can be so dangerous. In non-residential areas, barbed wired can be used for security purposes on top of walls, fences and gates, but must be installed a minimum of six feet off the ground.

Due to its dangerous nature, barbed wire fencing is typically prohibited for use in a number of business environments. It’s usually found atop chain link fencing in industrial and construction settings to aid in the protection of equipment, tools, materials, and to protect against injuries by the general public that may intrude into areas that could prove dangerous. It may also be found to protect utility installations.

No business owner should attempt to hang barbed wire unless they’re fully cognizant of the rules for their specific industry and within their location. Barbed wire is typically the least preferable solution in a variety of situations due to the business owner’s potential liability for injuries should someone attempt to intrude on the property.

There’s a wealth of other options available and the ultimate choice will depend upon the business, usage, and location. The best solution is to consult with a fencing professional who will be knowledgeable of the regulations governing the use of barbed wire in multiple settings.

From scam artists and porch pirates to intruders, people are giving more thought to installing security measures for their homes. Some individuals choose to install selected methods, while others opt to have a full security system installed with all the bells and whistles. Individuals can also choose to transform their abode into a smart home that can be programmed, controlled from smartphones, and include a video feed.

Alarms

An alarm can and should be installed on all doors and windows. Homeowners can choose from wired systems that are integrated into a home’s electrical system, wireless systems that utilize radio frequencies, and unmonitored types that will emit audible/visual signals and are dependent upon reliable cellular reception.

Cameras

Many individuals choose to install cameras and that includes doorbell cameras. They’re an excellent deterrent and can even provide a means to prosecuting offenders. Cameras can be installed as part of an overall security system or independent models can be selected that constantly records.

Fencing

Attractive and effective fencing is available that will make intruders think twice before trying to enter a property. Fencing can encompass a wide variety of options, materials, and heights that combine beauty with functionality, though the most widely utilized is chain link.

Lights

Illuminating a property is a definite deterrent to would-be burglars that like to work in the dark. Homeowners can choose to light specific areas of their property with illumination that automatically turns on when a specific level of darkness is achieved. Motion sensor lighting is also effective and turn on anytime movement is detected.

Locks

There are a great many types of locks that can be installed on homes for elevated security. Deadbolts are effective, but individuals need to ensure that their door frames and hinges are strong. The most popular locks are electronic that requires a code to activate.

Safe Room

A safe room provides people with a secure place to shelter should an intruder enter the home. Depending upon the circumstances, it can also provide a safe place to ride out a tornado or avoid the air-borne debris of a hurricane if people aren’t able to evacuate.

Commercial fencing is an ideal way to protect businesses and their assets. Depending on the environment, a fence controls the flow of people and/or vehicles and provides a protective barrier. Fencing can take many forms and is equally applicable for businesses that include stores and housing complexes to production facilities, warehouses, and construction sites.

Aluminum

This fencing is offered in multiple styles, colors, is highly durable, and low-maintenance. Aluminum resists corrosion and damage by the elements. It’s lightweight yet strong and can be a more cost effective solution than steel, wrought iron and similar materials. Aluminum fencing offers a myriad of opportunities for customization to accommodate specific needs. It’s also a decorative option that blends seamlessly with security systems and requirements.

Iron and Steel

Metal commercial fencing encompasses a wide variety of styles and designs, blending those attributes with timeless elegance, strength and durability. Commercial metal fencing of iron and steel can be combined with an extensive range of gates and other security measures. Business owners can choose from chain link styles, along with those that emulate wrought iron.

PVC Vinyl

It’s a highly popular option and is being used in multiple venues encompassing hospitals and restaurants to community centers and swimming pools. One of the reasons for its rise in popularity is its low-maintenance qualities, combined with decorative options.

It can be manufactured from synthetic materials or recycled plastics and is able to withstand Florida’s changing weather without cracking, chipping or peeling. PVC vinyl fencing can be installed in multiple heights and offers a security solution that’s available in multiple colors and styles.

SimTek®

One of the newest materials on the market is SimTek® and it’s quickly becoming a primary choice for businesses due to its unique capabilities. It can withstand hurricane force winds of 110 mph and gusts up to 130 mph, making it particularly applicable in Florida. Through a specialty molding process, it can be created to emulate stone and wood grain finishes.

It also provides superior sound absorption abilities, is very low-maintenance, and it’s impact resistant. SimTek® is a stylish solution that provides safety, security and beauty in a wide range of business environments.

Zoos, wildlife sanctuaries and rescue organizations that are responsible for wild, endangered or dangerous animals know the importance of specialized fencing and must adhere to very specific containment specifications. They must keep animals safely contained, provide safety for handlers, and protect the public from potential injury.

Zepco Fence is a leader in the fencing industry and has specialized experience in chain link style wildlife fencing. They designed and installed security fencing for two big cat sanctuaries in Palm Beach and Broward counties in Florida. The innovative designs were so effective that they were adopted by the State of Florida Department of Wildlife Management.

Containing different types of animals requires specialized solutions for each. Depending upon the species, they may dig, climb or jump and those behaviors must be taken into consideration when creating a fencing system. Some big cats, for example, can jump a distance of up to 20 feet from a standing start, leap 15 feet up a tree, climb over a 12 foot fence, and take 40 foot bounds when running.

The primary object of animal fencing is to keep the animals in and it’s increasingly critical for their own protection. There have been instances of high profile break-ins at zoos around the world by poachers. At a Paris zoo, poachers killed a white rhino and stole his horn to sell on the black market.

Fencing is a necessity in many locations through Florida to aid in keeping alligators and other wildlife out of residential yards and swimming pools. Chain link is the most commonly used fencing for protecting children and pets from incursions by a variety of wildlife species. It’s durable, strong, cost effective, and can be installed quickly.

Zepco Fence chain link fence installations come with bottom cable to prevent pets from digging out and wildlife from burrowing in. Gates are installed with childproof locks and self-closing gates for an extra measure of safety.

Florida is home to a wide variety of unwelcome and dangerous wildlife and one of the best ways to provide children and pets with protection is with a chain-link fence or alternately, an iron or PVC fence. It keeps youngsters and pets from venturing too close to a situation that has the potential to be dangerous and the ability to keep wildlife predators off the lawn.

A chain-link fence is strong, durable, and cost-effective. As an added benefit, Zepco Fence installs all of its gates with self-closing springs and childproof locks, along with a bottom cable to keep unwanted wildlife from digging under the enclosure while keeping children and pets inside.