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.

Individuals have multiple fencing materials from which to choose and it will be difficult to make a decision. While most people opt for newer materials, there are times when tried and tested aluminum fencing may be the best option for your yard. Aluminum has a variety of benefits that tend to get overlooked.

Affordable

The cost of aluminum fencing makes it a very affordable option and provides an excellent return on investment since it has a significant lifespan. A properly installed aluminum fence can last for up to 50 years.

Appearance

Aluminum is available in multiple colors, styles and can be customized in a variety of ways. It can even be painted, but the most popular color choice is black due to its clean lines and elegant look. The material can be fashioned to look like high-end wrought iron.

Durability

Aluminum fencing is highly durable since it doesn’t oxidize and rust like iron. Aluminum doesn’t warp, crack, chip, flake or rot. The material is extremely unappealing to insects.

Maintenance

Minimal maintenance is a feature of aluminum fencing. A scrub down with soapy water and a brush, combined with a rinse with the garden hose, is all that’s needed to keep aluminum fencing looking like new.

Security and Safety

If you have children or pets, aluminum fencing is an excellent solution for keeping them safe and within the boundary of the yard. Panels can be added for an extra layer of protection for very small children and diminutive pets. The fencing keeps stray animals and wildlife from entering and is a strong deterrent to would-be human intruders. It’s easy to install multiple types of security gates to aluminum fencing.

Value and Insurance

Aluminum fencing adds value to properties and it can help you save in other ways. Many insurance companies offer discounts or better rates on policies for properties protected by fencing.

Versatility

The fencing can be utilized in a variety of ways and enables you to see beyond the yard’s confines if you desire. Bushes and shrubbery can be planted to block the view if you prefer. The fencing also has benefits if you like to garden. You can plant flowers against the fence and let them drape artfully against the barrier or let vines twine among the rails.

Installing a fence at your new home isn’t rude and it doesn’t mean you’re antisocial. It does give you a sense of safety and security, especially if you have children, pets, or elders living in the home. A fence is effective for preventing access to the property by unwanted people and animals.

It typically takes four months for people to feel comfortable in a new house and begin to consider it home. Part of the reason for that is unfamiliarity with the neighborhood and those living around you. It’s important that you take steps to make the inside environment as welcoming as possible with familiar belongings before taking on the task of erecting a fence.

Safety

Your home is the place where you can relax and feel safe in your environment. Fencing provides safety for children and allows them to play without worrying about them wandering into the street, onto unsafe terrain, or the yards of other people. The same is true for protecting the family dog.

Security

A fence can provide peace of mind knowing loved ones, pets and valuable possessions are protected by a barrier to entry. It’s also an important security measure if you’re a senior. The elderly are often the target of scams and break-ins, even in the quietest of communities.

Gardening Options

There are many ways to garden, from raised beds to vertical options. Fencing can provide the backdrop and support to indulge an interest in vertical growing of fruits and vegetables to flowering vines.

Protection Against the Elements

Florida lies in the path of any number of tropical storms and hurricanes each year. There are fencing materials available that are highly attractive, require almost no maintenance, and can withstand hurricane-force winds. They’re able to provide a disruption in winds that can cause property damage. Fencing materials that resist heat and are non-combustible are also available to protect your new home.

A fence can be installed to meet an extensive number of needs, but the No. 1 reason is typically to obtain an enhanced level of privacy. There are numerous reasons why a fence for privacy makes sense and there are multiple materials from which to choose.

Homes are being built closer together, making it even more difficult to enjoy family activities away from prying eyes. Fencing also provides a safer haven for children to play without coming to the attention of the unscrupulous. Certain types of pets are at an elevated risk of being stolen. A privacy fence is also a good idea to keep valuable equipment and recreational aspects from sight.

How Much Privacy?

A major consideration before erecting a fence is how much privacy is desired. Individuals that want to be able to still see their surroundings on the other side of the fence can choose one with alternating panels. Those that want complete privacy to sunbathe or let children and pets roam the property safe from the eyes of others will want to install a solid fence.

Fence Height

The height of the barrier will depend on several criteria. There may be local ordinances that preclude placing a fence at the desired height. Those living in close proximity to other homes won’t have the same amount of privacy if the house next door is a two-story structure.

Conversely, a fence won’t stop people from cutting across the property, picking prize roses, or stray animals from coming on the property if the fence isn’t high enough. Individuals may also need to obtain the approval of neighbors that directly adjoin the property. Before installing a fence, it’s best to check local zoning and ordinances.

Maintenance

Some fences aren’t a “one-and-done” solution. They require regular inspection and maintenance if they’re to serve their purpose. Wood will need to be painted or stained to prevent weathering and the material is attractive to insects. There are newer fencing materials that can withstand hurricane-force winds and simply need to be rinsed down with a hose to keep their good looks while providing multiple privacy options.

Fences are multi-faceted constructs that provide safety, security, are capable of dampening road noise, and can camouflaging a variety of eyesores within the landscape. The type of fencing selected will depend on the property owner’s primary concerns, needs and requirements. The following are eight things to consider when choosing a fence.

Children

Every parent knows how curious children are and how they can stray into danger unknowingly. A fence is an excellent way to ensure they don’t wander out of the yard or near dangerous areas. It shouldn’t have any protrusions that they can use to climb or spaces underneath they can crawl under.

Pets

Animal companions are family members, too. They’re just as curious as children and can be tempted to leave their yard to explore. Fences should be erected with the size of the animal in mind and its characteristics. Some dogs are jumpers and acrobats, well able to clear a fence of 10 ft. and use any protrusions in the fence to gain a toe-hold. Others are more likely to burrow underneath and fencing will need to provide adequate preventative measures installed. 

Pools

Anyone that has a swimming pool is required to install safety fencing to prevent unauthorized access by children that meets specific guidelines. It must have no protrusions that children can use to climb over it and be close enough to the ground to prevent crawling under it. The fence will also need an automatically locking gate. Those precautions will also save pets from entering and drowning.

Property Lines

Sometimes it’s necessary to establish boundaries between neighbors or even prevent passersby from coming on the property. A fence is beneficial for minimizing disagreements with neighbors and knowing where to place outbuildings, install a pool, or locate play equipment.

Privacy

Finding privacy is getting more difficult every day. More homes are being squeezed into smaller properties and foot traffic on sidewalks is increasing. Fencing can ensure the ability to sunbathe or use a pool in peace and away from nosy neighbors.

Enhance Landscaping

A fence enhances landscaping, adds curb appeal to any property, and increases resale value. A property with a fence is more private and safer than an open yard.

Safety

The installation of a fence for safety and security has quickly become two of the top reasons for erecting a barrier around properties. It keeps people, pets and possessions safe from those that would mean harm.

Concealment

There are multiple items that are essentials for everyday life, but aren’t that pretty to view. Fencing is also an attractive way to hide and camouflage unsightly items in the landscape such as trash receptacles, utility boxes, air conditioning units, and TV or Internet dishes, along with hoses and PVC pipes.

Florida is home to a great diversity of animals and it’s also legal to keep a variety of exotic animals, provided individuals obtain the proper class of permit that’s determined by the state. Owning an exotic animal comes with the responsibility to provide it with appropriate living conditions. To accomplish that, a fence is often required to ensure the safety of people and the animal.

Mental and Physical Benefits

Fenced enclosures provide a variety of mental and physical benefits for the animals. Trying to keep even smaller exotic pets cooped up in a home without enough room to exercise is bad for their mental and emotional health. Being able to move around through the use of a fenced-in area aids in preventing mental and emotional issues.

In the wild, much of the animals’ energy goes into hunting and surviving. When kept in a domestic environment, they have enough to eat and don’t have to hunt. That energy may often be channeled into undesirable mischief if they don’t get enough exercise. A fenced enclosure enables exotic pets to obtain the exercise they need to aid in warding off undesirable behaviors.

Type of Enclosure

The type of enclosure required for an exotic animal can vary widely depending on the animal. Shy animals and those that are easily upset may need a solid fence to prevent anxiety problems. Some exotics are climbers or fliers and any fencing option will need to include a mesh canopy over the top to keep them contained.

For those that dig and root in the soil, there are specialized fencing options with underground cables. Some exotic animals are excellent jumpers. Fencing is available in multiple heights that can be installed to discourage even the most accomplished jumpers.

Tiger Tested, Tiger Tough

Zepco Fence is a leader in exotic animal fencing. We can create and install any type of exotic animal fence to accommodate multiple needs and requirements. We’ve designed and installed security fences for two big cat sanctuaries and our unique design has been adopted by the State of Florida Department of Wildlife Management.

There are many reasons why you might want to erect a fence on your property and the reason you want a fence will have a significant impact on the type of fencing that’s selected. It’s a good idea to consult with a fencing professional before making any decisions.

There’s an array of new fencing options of which you may not be aware that are beautiful and effective alternatives to traditional materials. What you want to accomplish with the fence will also be important. The following are the top five reasons that you may want to consider adding a fence to your landscape.

Boundaries

Fencing is an excellent way to establish boundaries and prevent trespassing. Accidental trespassing is quite common. Fences are also effective in deterring incursions by neighbors that don’t respect property lines.

Curb Appeal

Whether you’re planning on selling your home or living in it for many years, you may want to erect a fence for the beautification factor. In those instances, the aesthetics of the materials and design are of paramount importance to frame the property and display it to its best advantage. Fences are also great for concealing unattractive elements on the property ranging from generators and air conditioning units to trash cans and utility boxes.

Safety

A fence is an excellent safety measure if you have children or pets, providing them with a safe space to play. It keeps them from accidentally wandering into outdoor dangers such as pools, ponds, cliffs, and dangerous embankments.

Security

Whether it’s teens using your yard as a shortcut or an individual intent on burglary or other mayhem, a fence provides a security barrier. Fences also keep dangerous wildlife or domestic animals from wandering into the yard.

Privacy

The distance between homes is decreasing and privacy is at a premium. A fence prevents neighbors and passersby from peering into your yard or eavesdropping on conversations. Fencing frees families and enables them to be themselves while outdoors.

Decorating for the holidays is a great American pastime and holiday displays are becoming more elaborate every year. As much fun as it is celebrating the season, holiday decorating also accounts for numerous injuries and fires each year. Rule #1 of holiday decorating is to always have a fire extinguisher handy. The following tips are essential for safe decorating.

Candles

Always keep candles on a sturdy base that can’t be easily tipped over and never place them anywhere near flammable objects. Candles should always be monitored and never left burning if there’s no one in the room or at home. A good alternative are electric candles that aren’t reliant upon an open flame.

Cords

Using extension cords can increase the risk of fires. A home’s wiring can quickly become overwhelmed with the extra drain on the system. If breakers or fuses begin to trip it’s a good indication that electrical circuits are being overloaded.

Fake Food

A variety of plastic food and candy items are used for decorations during the holidays. Some are even enticingly scented. The fake food can be confusing to children and pets, so eliminate them entirely or place them where they’re not accessible to kids and pets.

Lights

Examine any lighted decorations for exposed wires, burned out or missing bulbs, loose connections, or damaged sockets. Throw away any lights that have damaged or frayed wiring. Individual bulbs can be replaced if desired – otherwise, throw them away. Always turn off or cut power to lighted decorations before going to bed or leaving the house.

Ornaments

To prevent injuries, choose unbreakable ornaments. Eliminate ornaments that use ribbons and similar items that children and pets can ingest.

Plants

Many of the traditional holiday plants used for decoration are poisonous to people and pets. Be sure to display them out of reach of young children and pets.

Teamwork

Stringing lights, erecting lawn decorations, and creating rooftop displays should always be done with another person. Don’t work alone. If an accident does occur, the other person can render aid or call 911.

Trees

Keep cut trees well-hydrated. They dry out quickly and can quickly catch fire. They should be kept away from heaters and fireplaces. If placed near furnace ductworks, they can dry out quicker and require more water. If an artificial tree is chosen, make sure it’s fire resistant.

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.

If you like trees and want to add them to your landscape, there are numerous things to consider before actually planting if the tree will be located near a fence. It doesn’t matter whether the fence is yours or your neighbors – the same considerations will apply.

Space

The space you need for planting will definitely be a factor. For younger trees, you’ll need enough room to dig a hole that’s at least twice the size of the root ball. The hole will also need to be deep enough so the tree’s root system will fit entirely within it. If it’s an older tree, to adhere to those conditions you may have to plant it several feet away from the fence.

Mature Attributes

You’ll definitely have to consider the attributes of the tree when it’s mature. Those include height, the width of the crown, and if it has a drooping or weeping growth habit. There may come a time when it interferes with overhead utilities if it has a significant height or damage it might cause to the fence if it doesn’t withstand storms or high winds easily.

Trees that produce blossoms in the spring, fruit in the summer, or drops its leaves in the autumn can result in some very messy, expensive, and time-consuming cleanup. Heavy or sticky fruits can cause injuries and damage homes, fences, and vehicles. Another consideration is the sturdiness of branches. Some trees are more prone to limb breakage than others and can easily destroy a fence.

Roots

Some trees never expose their roots, while others may have shallower roots that grow partly above the surface. It can make mowing difficult and dangerous. Those same roots can destroy foundations, driveways, sidewalks, and brickwork. Roots also have the potential for disrupting underground utilities.

Right of Way

No tree should interfere with the right of way to access a property. If an easement of the property is involved, you may or may not be legally allowed to plant within certain areas.

Function

What you want to accomplish with the tree is important. You may want shade, privacy, or beautification. It’s best to consult with a landscape professional who can guide you on the types of trees available that will serve your needs and won’t be detrimental to any surrounding features.