In reality, either option can be a good choice for wood fencing. It’s primarily an aesthetic decision based on your personal preferences and how much time you want to invest. Painting or staining can extend the lifespan of your wood fencing and provide a level of protection against insects, rot and the weather.

Stain

However, there’s definitely some advantages to staining over painting. If you choose to stain, you won’t need to apply a coat of primer first. It can enhance the beauty, texture and natural grain of the wood. You also won’t have to be so concerned about leaving brush strokes or roller marks. The range of stain colors is exceptional and you’ll only need to apply one coat.

Stain won’t crack, peel or blister, but it does have some requirements for application. The outdoor temperature should be at least 50 degrees for best results and make sure it’s not going to rain for at least 2 days to give the stain ample time to soak into the wood. Just keep in mind that stain will fade over time and while it lasts longer than paint, it will need to be reapplied periodically.

Paint

One of the most attractive elements of pain is the wide range of colors from which to choose. It’s also available in multiple sheens – the reflective ability of the paint. When using latex paint on your fence, the good news is that it dries fairly quickly. It’s usually dry to the touch in an hour and fully dry in 4 to 8 hours, depending on the brand.

The downside of paint is that it’s more expensive and you’ll need to apply primer before you can actually start to paint, which requires more time. Getting the right coverage and uniform color without leaving brush or roller marks can require extra time and effort. It can also begin to crack and peel as it ages.

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.

Fencing beautifies and adds value to properties, but the myriad of choices can leave a homeowner’s head reeling. The good news is that there’s a single fencing choice for people in South Florida that combines beauty, durability and no maintenance requirements. That fencing is SimTek®.

Aesthetics

Ideal for any environment, the fencing is a wonder of modern technology. SimTek® is available in a myriad of styles, colors and textures. A unique manufacturing process creates fencing that emulates the appearance of real wood or stone.

Cost Effective

The fencing’s durability and longevity make it one of the most cost-effective purchases many people will ever make for their home. The fencing provides a variety of advantages all in a single fencing option.

Maintenance

SimTek® typically requires no maintenance to keep it looking like new. Deposits of calcium, moss and algae may stick to the surface of a SimTek® fence, but it’s easily removed with a pressure washer.

Graffiti resistant, SimTek® has been tested with multiple types of paint, all of which can be removed with a pressure washer. For the most resistant of paints, individuals can simply spray the graffiti with a little carburetor cleaner, leave for 2 minutes to allow the paint to soften, then power wash it off.

Heat and Wind

A SimTek® fence isn’t affected by water or salt spray, making it ideal for installation on coastal properties. It’s also an excellent sound barrier that blocks 98 percent of outside noise. Conversely, it impedes a majority of the sounds that could disturb neighbors.

The fencing provides superior performance in hot temperatures of up to 140 degrees. Treated with UV-12 inhibitors, it won’t fade or warp. It’s also able to withstand winds of 110 mph and gusts of up to 130 mph, making it particularly beneficial for hurricane-prone areas.

Impact Resistant

The fence is tough and won’t be significantly affected by impacts by objects such as golf balls, rocks and baseballs. Even repeated impacts by a weed eater won’t phase the fencing.

Insects and Soil

SimTek® fencing is unattractive to termites and other insect pests that damage materials. An added bonus is that the fencing isn’t impacted by acidic or alkaline soils that hasten the deterioration of many other fencing options.

A wooden fence can last for up to 20 years when taken care of properly and regular maintenance is performed. However, there will come a time when you may want to replace your fence to update its look or because its at the end of its lifespan. Professionals in the field recommend that you plan on replacing wood fencing every 10 years.

Even though wood is treated to mitigate many common problems, the material is also subject to a variety of detrimental factors in South Florida. They encompass flooding, salt water, chipping, cracking and splitting. Fencing can rot, sustain damage from mold, and a variety of insect pests. Over time it can begin to sag, become discolored, warp, and begin to splinter. The following are some things to consider when deciding to replace your wooden fence.

Easy Solutions

Wooden fencing can be painted and insects can be eradicated. Loose hardware can be tightened and missing hardware can be replaced. Small cracks and holes can be filled with putty or wood filler to prevent more serious damage.

Replacing fence posts will be more expensive and difficult since the old supports will have to be dug out of the soil and they’re typically encased in cement when the fence is installed. You can also replace missing rails or boards. The downside is that a new board or rail will look different than the rest of the fence unless its painted.

Time to Replace

If you need to replace more than 20 percent of the fencing, it’s time to replace the entire structure. Another good reason to replace your fence is if it no longer meets your needs. You may desire more privacy or security than the existing fence provides. It may not be sufficient to keep children and pets contained or unwanted wildlife out.

You may simply want to update the look of your fence or transition to another material or style. No matter what your motivation happens to be, a careful examination of your wood fence is essential before you make a decision.

There are a number of benefits to aluminum fencing and it’s no wonder that it’s a preferred fencing material in South Florida. Fencing must be durable enough to withstand the ravages of hurricanes that produce high winds and flooding involving saltwater. Aluminum is appropriate for small properties, estates, and commercial endeavors.

Aesthetic Value

Aluminum if available in multiple styles, colors and lends itself to a variety of customization options. It provides an elegant look to any property. It can be fashioned to emulate high-end wrought iron and highly stylized gate options.

Affordability

The material is affordable and provides good value for the money since it can last for up to 50 years when properly installed. Aluminum is less expensive than other materials.

Durability

Aluminum doesn’t succumb to rot, rust and predations by insect pests. It doesn’t oxidize, corrode, and is able to withstand saltwater without damage. An added advantage is that aluminum fences are designed with space between the pickets, allowing wind to blow through it. That enables the fence to withstand high winds and it’s stronger than vinyl or wood.

Versatile

The fencing is appropriate for keeping children and pets safely contained, while keeping wildlife, stray animals, and human intruders out. Aluminum fencing can be equipped with panels at ground level for an extra level of security for small children and pint-sized pets. It’s also effective as a security measure. For those that like to garden, shrubbery or bushes can be planted against the fence, vines can create a living wall, or the fence can be installed so home owners can see through it.

Low Maintenance

Aluminum requires only minimal maintenance, typically in the form of spraying it down with the garden hose to keep it looking new. Neither will it require yearly refinishing or painting.

It doesn’t matter whether a fence is being installed for privacy, safety, child or pet containment, or aesthetic reasons, it’s essential that the installation be performed by an experienced company that’s fully licensed, bonded and insured. Locating that company can be difficult and the following are some tips for finding an experienced fencing company.

Research

Anyone looking for a fencing professional will need to perform their due diligence. Some red flags to look for include a company that’s recently changed its name and a poor rating with the Better Business Bureau. Make sure that the company has a physical business address.

Recommendations

Ask family, friends and co-workers that have had a fence installed about the company that did the work. Find out if they were happy with the results. Many companies will place a sign on the fence indicating the name of the business that performed the installation. Alternately, individuals may also consider asking the property owner of a recently erected fence about the company and their experience with the installer.

Quotes

Get quotes from at least three fencing companies. The quotes should include the cost, an itemized list of what the company will do, a timeline for completion, the size of the crew required, and when the work will begin.

Services

A professional fencing company will be aware of the ordinances and regulations governing the installation of a fence. Many locales have specific rules regarding the type, color, materials and height of fences. The company will also be able to pull the necessary permits and contact underground utility lines. Each fencing job is different and the company should send a representative to walk the property to be fenced so an accurate estimate can be provided.

Contracts and Warranties

Don’t engage a fencing company without a contract. It should spell out in detail the scope of the project and the terms of payment. Some companies require a down payment or offers payment plans, while others may require half down and the remainder upon completion. Make sure the company provides a warranty on its work, materials, and how disputes are addressed.

Fences are practical barriers that will enhance your property value and provide you and your property with security and protection.  If your business is not properly protected by a quality fence, then you, your business, and your employees are vulnerable.  Here are a few reasons why you may want to add a fence to your commercial property.

Security

Security is usually the first reason that people install a fence around their business as it will enhance protection against intruders, thieves, vandals, and other dangers that your business could possibly face. A fence around a commercial property will prevent the business owner and the employees from being interrupted at work by any random passersby, solicitors, trespassers, thieves, and unwanted guests thus enhancing the productivity of the company.

Privacy

There are many positives that exist for the addition of a privacy fence to your commercial property.  Business property can benefit from having a fence erected around it by keeping inquisitive people and curious eyes at bay,  particularly if your business is located in a residential area. By the same token, if the business is located in an area that is not considered safe, installing a fence around it is usually a good idea.

 Aesthetics

Since image for a business is everything, an aesthetically pleasing fence installed around a commercial property will help conceal sights such as warehouses and working areas that may be considered eyesores.  A fence will also enhance the appearance of the business giving it an overall attractive appearance.  With the variety of materials available to choose from, you will surely find a style to suit your business.

Access Control

A fence can prevent safety hazards by identifying dangerous areas and by keeping people away from such regions.  A fence would be a great tool to avoid accidents, complaints and possible lawsuits that may result from a person wandering into dangerous areas of the establishment.

The presence of a fence provides ultimate privacy for your home and garden. It gives you complete peace of mind and protection for your family, property and possessions. A fence offers aesthetic looks to the exterior of your house, garden or business. With a fence, you can ensure your privacy by preventing prying eyes and unwanted visitors from wandering near your home.  Residential fences come in different materials such as wood, iron, plastic and aluminum.

Aluminum Fencing

Aluminum fencing is one of the most popular and versatile form of fencing available in the market today. This type of fence is light in weight, durable and can be installed anywhere. You can use this type of metal fencing for both exterior and interior decoration, gardens, parks, driveways, fences, hedges and for private and commercial properties. It provides low maintenance, high strength and durability and is available in different sizes and shapes.

Security

For security purposes, an aluminum fence is an ideal choice. It can provide you with a number of advantages. If you want to erect aluminum security fencing for your home or office complex, it is important to hire professional services from a company that has years of experience in providing security solutions. A company that is experienced and has proper knowledge about the installation of temporary fencing will be able to install the system efficiently and smoothly without facing any sort of problems.

An aluminum fence is quite light in weight, and can easily be installed without facing any kind of difficulties or complications. It is corrosion-resistant, it can withstand various weather conditions and pests. Also, it is highly durable and strong and you can rest assured that it can last for a long period of time.

Residential metal security fencing comes in attractive designs and color combinations. They are manufactured using high-quality raw materials so you do not have to worry about their durability or maintenance.  In addition to all of this, the most important benefit that you can get from installing a fence is that you can improve the look of your property and give a good look to your neighborhood by giving a beautiful touch to the surrounding areas.

Pets are wholesome creatures in this world, as many consider them to have a significant role in one’s life. Pets such as dogs, cats or birds, etc. require their zone too where they can move freely apart from having their time with the owner.

For dogs, there is dog-proof fencing which gives access to them where they get a certain zone and they are not able to escape. As such creatures are free and they love to run whenever they get an opportunity to do it, dog-proof fencing fills the void gap of allowing the owner to be at peace rather than worrying about its dog pet.

Dos and Don’ts of Dog-proof fencing

There are certain aspects when it comes to selecting a fence. The following blog includes the dos and don’ts when choosing a dog-proof fence.

Fence’s material

The quality material of the fence matters a lot as it is the main lead when it comes to strength.

Don’ts: Choosing a low-quality material fence such as plastic which can be destroyed easily by the pet.

Dos: Choosing high-quality aluminum fences which can resist animals invading it or barreling into them.

As such creatures are full of energy and they are ready to run anywhere whenever they get the opportunity to leap, they never leave a chance to avail themselves of it.

Height of the fence 

The height of a fence provides the maximum or minimum probability of crossing over it if one wants to cross the fence through illegal means.

Don’ts: Choosing a short heightened fence that can be crossed over by the pet easily.

Dos: Choosing such a fence following the pet’s height but taller than the pet.

Huskies can easily leap over a 4-foot-high fence. In such a case, at least 5 feet high fence is preferable.

Distinguishing the Boundary lines 

Boundary lines are essential when it comes to installing fences and boundaries offer a great deal of representing fences whenever some matter occurs.

Don’ts: Installing the fence in a very compressed area where the dog is not being able to move.

Dos: Installing the fence following the property’s limit where the pet gets a wide range of areas where it can play with itself.

By doing such a thing, the dog can run as much as it wants and have its area at least where it can play.

Maintenance 

It is a fact that everything you claim needs maintenance. Without maintenance, the quality of certain objects fades away.

Don’ts: Keeping the fence dirty and never analyzing or short-checking the fence once a month.

Dos: Keeping an eye on the fence once a week by observing its shortcomings or lacking and fulfilling the lacking’s gap.

Maintenance of fences can offer a great deal of more secureness and safety, especially for the pet living inside the fence. Not just to the settlement of the pet but also when it is playing inside the fence or if it tries to go out of the 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.