Sometimes new products take a while to make an impression on the purchasing public. Chain link fencing wasn’t one of those. It quickly became a favorite of pet owners to construction companies for multiple reasons.

• Quick and easy to produce
• Affordable
• Effective
• Has multiple applications
• Highly durable
• Resistant to corrosion
• Easy to install
• Could be produced with multiple sized diamonds
• Can be crafted in different thicknesses
• Easy to clean and repair
• Little maintenance needed

From Great Britain to the U.S.

Created by Charles Barnard in Great Britain in 1844, the inventor based his design on the day’s cloth weaving process. It produced fencing that contained a diamond pattern. It wasn’t until 1891 that the fencing made its way to the U.S. market.

Social Implications

While its creator didn’t realize it, Barnard was effectively creating a social shift. The powerful and wealthy utilized wrought iron fencing to protect their personal safety and properties. The introduction of chain link fence meant that the middle class could have fencing to protect themselves and their homes.

Home and Family

The fencing provides effective security for containing pets and children. It’s equally applicable for keeping human intruders and wildlife out of residential spaces. Available in multiple heights, it can be equipped with attachments at the top for an added level of security. It’s a physical barrier that also offers a psychological deterrent.

Commercial Uses

Chain link fence is the first choice of construction sites that need to protect tools and equipment, while preventing access from unauthorized personnel. The fencing is used to enclose manufacturing plants and similar infrastructure that’s at risk from terrorist attacks. Chain link is equally applicable for housing projects to prison fences.

Essential Infrastructure

For many years, chain link fences were part of city infrastructure across the nation. The fencing enclosed school yards, public parks, and is still used in sports fields.

Still Popular

Technological advances have resulted in many more fencing options. However, chain link fence still remains popular for many of the same reasons and applications that rocketed it to stardom in the fencing industry, even after more than 130 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

Choosing lumber for a home DIY project can be confusing. There are different grades, but wood that’s 2 inches or more in thickness is typically only graded for strength, indicated by #1, # 2 or #3. It tells the uninitiated purchaser nothing about its other qualities or defects.

Definition of a Defect

A defect can give a piece of lumber unique characteristics. In the lumber industry, a defect is something that will affect the integrity of anything constructed with it. Most defects are a result of the cutting, stacking or drying process and include:

• Splits
• Twists
• Cracks
• Bowing or curling
• Cupping
• Crooking
• Wane
• Shake
• Knots

The Department of Commerce and the American Lumber Standards Committee are responsible for setting grade standards for lumber.

Knots and Appearance

Lumber with a #1 designation is stronger because it has fewer knots and the knots are smaller. It’s also deemed more attractive by buyers.

Conversely, lumber with a #2 rating is seen as less attractive due to larger knots and a greater number of them. Lumber in this group is generally used for projects where the appearance isn’t a primary concern.

Grade #3 lumber is allowed a greater number of defects, as long as the defect doesn’t extend completely through the wood.

Prime Grade

This is created from some of the most attractive timber. It contains a minimal number of knots and has uniform color.

Select

The highest grade of timber available, it has the least amount of knotting and defects, while exhibiting the highest level of strength.

Construction and Stud Grade

This is used for light framing, with any knots tight, encased and sound. Stud grade lumber is appropriate for vertical members of a structure.

Standard Grade

Also used for light framing, the number of knots isn’t restricted.

Utility Grade

The lowest grade of lumber, there are few restrictions on the number of defects it may contain.

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

Every type of fencing has an average life span, at which time it will have to be torn down and replaced. Depending on the material, fences are estimated to last:

• Aluminum – 50 years
• Chain link – 15 years
• PVC – 30 years
• SimTek® – 25 years
• Vinyl – 20 years
• Wood – 15 years

It’s important to note that allowing climbing and vining plants to overrun the fence will lead to sagging. However, there are some measures that individuals can take to prolong the life of fencing materials of any type.

Aluminum

Fences of aluminum require little maintenance and look good for many years. They can benefit from:

• An inspection of screws and hardware once a year
• A yearly wash with warm water, soap, a sponge and rinse

Chain Link

An effective and affordable fencing option, it’s not one of the most attractive. Keep it in good condition and enhance appearance by:

• Not letting children and pets climb on it
• Consider adding vinyl slats
• Inspect regularly for damage and repair even small problems quickly

PVC

The material doesn’t need much maintenance. Keep it looking good with:

• Application of a vinyl sealer
• Hose it down regularly to keep it clean or use soap and water
• Check for holes and cracks from insects and weathering
• Keep plants trimmed back so they don’t touch the fence

SimTek®

A SimTek® fence comes standard with a lifetime warranty against defects. Highly durable, it can withstand hurricane winds. It only needs:

• A pressure washing to remove dirt and grime

Vinyl

A fence of vinyl is another option with few maintenance needs. To keep it looking good:

• Wash it regularly with mild soap and water to remove dirt, grime, mold and algae
• Make repairs or replace elements immediately if damaged

Wood

A wood fence requires the most maintenance of any material. Extend its life by:

• Inspecting the hardware regularly
• Checking the boards for any warping, cracking or splitting
• Repair cracks and holes immediately
• Replace damaged or rotted boards and pickets promptly
• Paint or stain the wood
• Remove mold and algae

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

Lights, motion sensors and security cameras are all security measures that you may have taken if you’re a business owner. However, a fence can be equally effective as those precautions and combined with existing security equipment as part of a multi-faceted security system. There are multiple fencing materials from which to choose that will secure your enterprise and be attractive.

Aluminum

The material has an elegant appearance and emulates the look of wrought iron. Highly durable, the fencing is extremely difficult to breach and can be equipped with points on the tops of pickets as an additional deterrent. Aluminum fencing is appropriate for a wide range of enterprises.

SimTek®

A SimTek® fence is aesthetically pleasing and a solution that’s durable. The technologically advanced manufacturing process enables the fencing to duplicate the appearance of natural wood or high-end stone in multiple textures, colors and styles. The surface doesn’t present a surface that’s easy to breach. It’s extremely low maintenance, impact resistant, and performs well in hurricanes. The fencing withstands consistent 110 mph winds and gusts up to 130 mph.

PVC

This is another material that provides many of the same properties as SimTek® fencing that include security and privacy. It works to block outside noise, while creating a pleasing appearance and remaining impact resistant. It’s also environmentally friendly.

Wood

While there are designs for wood fencing that can provide an additional level of security, they’re typically not the first choice for many business owners as the fencing requires more maintenance and won’t last as long as other materials, though wood is less expensive.

Informed Decisions

Before deciding on a specific fence, it’s best to consult with a fencing professional. They have extensive knowledge and will work with individuals to assess their specific needs and requirements. Fencing is an investment in the security of a business and should never be approached without all the facts. It will enable owners to make an informed decision about their best option.

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

When protecting a precious pet there’s no substitute for a fence installed by experienced experts. Zepco Fence has the distinction of designing and installing security fences for two big cat sanctuaries in Broward and Palm Beach counties. The company’s innovative design was adopted by the State of Florida Department of Wildlife Management.

While protecting your canine family member doesn’t require the same level of security, the company is well-known for its safe and effective pet fencing. Zepco Fence has solutions for dogs that jump, dig, climb and chew.

Methods of Escape

Dogs escape by 1 of 4 methods. They dig under a fence, jump over a fence, chew through a fence, and some talented dogs are able to climb the fence. It’s impossible to know when the dog is a puppy what their preferred method of escape will be so its best to cover all options.

Chewers and Diggers

To thwart chewers, a chain link fence works best. Diggers can be foiled by burying a portion of the fence underground. A border of concrete can also be poured around the fence perimeter to prevent digging.

Climbers and Jumpers

Fence enclosures can be equipped with an angled extension at the top facing inward for dogs that climb. A deterrent known as coyote rollers also aid in preventing escape through climbing. A solid fence is another option that doesn’t allow dogs to gain purchase with their feet and works equally well for blocking line of site for easily stimulated dogs. For jumpers, the solution is a fence high enough that they can’t jump over.

Why Dogs Seek Escape

The most common reasons canines seek an escape route is boredom and loneliness. They may also think they’re protecting their territory from a perceived threat. Canines left without shade, shelter, food or water may try to escape to a more hospitable location. Dogs that are spayed or neutered are less likely to rove the neighborhood seeking a mate.

The South Florida soil composition can create difficulties when installing a fence. Specific rules are in place to mitigate problems and ensure they’re anchored properly. The professionals are cognizant of all those specifications.

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

Everyone immediately envisions chain link fencing in connection with securing property. Commercial fencing is no longer limited to chain link A wide array of material options are available that provide security, privacy and protection. The fencing is highly durable, can be used in many locations and for businesses in a wealth of industries.

Intrusion Control

The primary purpose of commercial fencing is to prevent unauthorized entry by humans. It also has the benefit of being effective for keeping out wildlife and protecting the vehicles of employees. Commercial fencing allows you to control and monitor access to the property.

Perimeter Protection

Fencing for commercial endeavors keeps intruders beyond a specific point from your business. It’s especially important for companies that handle sensitive information or perform research. Fencing protects your assets and your investment.

Aesthetically Pleasing Options

Commercial fencing doesn’t have to look unappealing, whether you’re securing a job site, warehouse or housing complex. The aesthetics are an important aspect. The fencing tells your clientele that you care about safety and works to boost your reputation. Even if you opt for traditional chain link fencing, there are ways in which it can be made to be more visually appealing.

Visibility or Privacy

You may be strictly interested in security, but you may also desire privacy from your fencing. The two elements can be easily combined to provide both.

It Can be Customized

It’s important that security fencing accommodate your specific needs and requirements. Security fencing can be customized in multiple ways depending on the type of business, the property contours, and to comply with any local rules and ordinances. Fencing can also be adapted when necessary to accommodate regulations governing essential resources such as electrical installations and food processing plants.

No Reason to Hesitate

If you’ve been thinking of installing security fencing, there’s no time like the present. It’s essential that you work with a fencing professional. They have extensive knowledge and can help you choose the best option for your needs. They’re cognizant of local regulations, will obtain all pertinent permits, and perform an on-site inspection of the premises before providing a quote.

The South Florida soil composition can create difficulties when installing a fence. Specific rules are in place to mitigate problems and ensure they’re anchored properly. The professionals are cognizant of all those specifications.

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

There are multiple reasons why people decide to install privacy fencing and a gate is integral to any installation. The gates aid in keeping debris out and are aesthetically pleasing, while providing an effective way to control privacy concerns.

Elevated Safety Level

Increased safety is the No. 1 benefit of a gated privacy fence. It’s an effective barrier that keeps unannounced arrivals on the outside until the property owner ascertains their identity and reason for being there. The owner has complete control over who enters. It protects children and pets from a wide variety of potential dangers and provides homeowners with the privacy they crave.

Protects Personal Property

People typically don’t consider the number of items they have that are targeted by the unscrupulous. A gated privacy fence keeps items out of view and protects assets ranging from lawn equipment to recreational vehicles. It also prevents entry into a residence where thieves could gain access to expensive jewelry, collections or artwork.

Deters People and Wildlife

A gated privacy fence is an effective barrier and deterrent against would-be intruders, whether they’re human or wildlife. The fences also provide protection against incursions by domestic animals that may get loose and present a danger.

Types of Entry Methods

Individuals can choose from gates for their privacy fencing that allows entry in multiple ways. Homeowners can select systems that employ an intercom system, a keycard, or traditional key and padlock, along with a combination lock.

Choose a Gate

Individuals can select from different styles of security gates for their privacy fencing. The 2 most common are inward swinging gates or those that slide to the side when there’s not enough room for a swing gate. Vertical gates swing upward and are used in situations where insufficient space is available for a swing or slide gate. It’s important to know that vertical gates have height limits on the vehicles that can enter.

The South Florida soil composition can create difficulties when installing a fence. Specific rules are in place to mitigate problems and ensure they’re anchored properly. The professionals are cognizant of all those specifications.

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

Erecting a fence isn’t as simple as choosing the material and having a company install it. Due to complex, sometimes complicated, and varying ordinances among municipalities, neither should you consider turning it into a DIY project. Doing so could result in your local governing body ordering you to take it down for failing to get a permit or going through the proper approval process.

Building Permits and Fees

The Sunshine State requires homeowners to apply for a fence permit, receive approval, meet with a licensed fence installer, and pay a fee before work can commence. You may need a building permit to repair or replace an existing fence, or prove it wouldn’t be a hazard if flooding occurs. A permit is required if any trees must be removed to make way for the fence.

Set Backs and Property Lines

In some areas, you can erect a fence directly on your property line, but you may need to have the property surveyed prior to installation. Alternately, some locales require the fence to be a specific distance from the property line to accommodate any potential repairs.

Restrictions

Height is a major concern for virtually every municipality. The maximum height is usually 6 ft., but in some localities its 8 ft., and height may vary on different areas of the property. Extensions and supplemental items aren’t typically allowed

There may also be restrictions on the type of materials used. Certain types of fences may require the installation company to provide sketches of how the finished project will appear. If a stockade-type fence is erected, the “smooth” side must face outward.

No Spite Fences Allowed

Florida fencing law prohibits the erection of a fence simply to annoy, harass, or interfere with a neighbor. A fence is considered a nuisance if the construction was motivated by malice.

The South Florida soil composition can create difficulties when installing a fence. Specific rules are in place to mitigate problems and ensure they’re anchored properly. The professionals are cognizant of all those specifications.

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

People that decide to install a fence typically don’t think about the gate assembly until the installer brings it to their attention. Automatic gates are one of the most popular choices available. An automatic gate means no one has to leave their vehicle during inclement weather, one of the most often cited advantages.

Automatic gates are equally beneficial for homes and businesses. No matter where they’re installed, automatic gates provide a higher level of security that enables individuals to control the flow of traffic and people that have access to the premises.

Swing

As the name indicates, the gates typically swing inward, but can also be designed to swing outward, when individuals enter or exit. They’re the style most often installed for residential applications. The ground must be level for the gates to work efficiently, but homeowners prefer them due to their ease of installation, affordability, and simple mechanical design. They utilize an underground or pillar-style mount.

Slide

Sliding gates are a favorite at a variety of business locations. However, they can also be installed in residential neighborhoods where there isn’t enough available space for a swinging gate. They’re sometimes referred to as rolling gates or V-track gates as tracks and/or rollers will need to be installed on the ground to facility functionality. They’re able to work on slopes and can even be installed on an angle to accommodate land features or create a unique look.

Vertical Lift

These aren’t the most attractive appearing gates, but they do have multiple applications. They’re an alternative to other automatic gates in residential areas where homeowners don’t have enough room for a swing or slide gate to be installed. Vertical lift gates require a tower to be installed on either side of the entrance to facilitate movement. The height of the vehicles that will enter is a serious consideration, as the vehicle must be able to fit underneath it to pass through.

The South Florida soil composition can create difficulties when installing a fence. Specific rules are in place to mitigate problems and ensure they’re anchored properly. The professionals are cognizant of all those specifications.

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

Vandalism, theft and traffic control are just some of the reasons that businesses need to secure their properties with fencing. Business owners may also be considered one of the strategic resources, such as food processing plants, that the federal government required to be fenced following the attack on Sept. 11, 2001.

Multiple Options

Most people envision chain link fencing when they think about security. Fencing for safety and security doesn’t have to be plain or unattractive. Commercial fence installers can help clients choose fencing that’s attractive and meets any governmental requirements.

Trespasser Deterrent and Traffic Control

Fencing provides a physical barrier that makes entry by unauthorized individuals much more difficult and acts as an effective deterrent. Gateways provide a way in which to monitor traffic in and out of any location. Fencing is equally important for facilities that are closed, unoccupied or undergoing renovations or refits.

Facility and Employee Safety

Trespassers can damage property, but they also pose a threat to employees and a risk to their vehicles. Especially at risk are those who work during nighttime hours.

Benefits Multiple Businesses

It’s not just manufacturing facilities that can be safer and more secure with a fence. The barriers are equally beneficial for enterprises such as restaurants that offer outdoor dining and apartment complexes. The fencing provides safety, secures the premises, and offers a level of privacy.

Smooth Operations

It’s imperative for facilities that deal with sensitive information, conduct research, or manufacture medications to be protected. Fencing can provide separation between departments and facilities on the same property for greater security, without sacrificing aesthetics.

Saves Money

Theft, vandalism and graffiti costs individual business owners thousands each year. Fencing mitigates the potential for all of those situations for savings. Business owners don’t have to pay for the removal of graffiti, repair damaged structures, or replace stolen tools, equipment or machinery.

The South Florida soil composition can create difficulties when installing a fence. Specific rules are in place to mitigate problems and ensure they’re anchored properly. The professionals are cognizant of all those specifications.

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