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Pool Safety Fences – Why They’re a Must Have

A fence around the pool isn’t just a must-have precaution against drowning incidents – it’s
required by Florida law. It was enacted in 2009 to reduce the number of children of all ages lost
to accidental drowning. Before the law was passed, drowning was the No. 1 cause of death in
children. The law requires swimming pool owners to install a barrier around their pool that
conform to strict specifications.
Outdoor Pools
The entire pool must be contained within a fence or similar barrier. The fence is required to be
at least 4 feet high and low enough to the ground to prevent children from gaining access by
crawling under it. Fences can’t have any outcroppings that a child can use as hand or footholds
to climb over it.
Fences must be set back a specific distance away from the pool edge. If by some chance a child
dies manage to breach the barrier, they won’t immediately fall into the swimming pool. There
are also regulations regarding gates. A pool is required to have a gates that opens outward, be
self-closing, and equipped with a self-locking device that can’t be reached by small children.
Indoor Pools
The law addresses indoor pools in a slightly different manner and has some exceptions. A fence
isn’t required for an indoor pool – provided doors and windows where a child could gain access
are equipped with a wired safety alarm. A self-closing gate and self-latching lock must be
installed a minimum of 54 inches above the ground.
Exemptions
A fence isn’t required for the small, round, shallow pools, commonly known as kiddie pools,
that are used at homes. Private community pools and those utilized in condos and apartment
complexes are exempt from the fencing law. However, those types of pools have even more
stringent laws to which they must comply for child safety.
Public pools are exempt from the fencing law, but owners must comply with the Virginia
Graeme Baker Federal Pool and Spa Safety Act. The Act went into effect on Dec.19, 2008 and
sets standards for drain covers and configurations, along with anti-entrapment systems.

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.

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Best Fence for Florida’s Extreme Weather

The Sunshine State is known for its warm weather – along with the extreme weather
conditions. Hurricanes are just one of the high-risk weather conditions with which Florida
residents must contend. One of the primary concerns for residents that want to install a fence
is which material will best survive the onslaught of high winds, storm surge and flooding,
torrential rain, and flying debris.
Chain Link/Wire Mesh
The holes in chain link and mesh fencing allows wind to pass through them instead of beating
against them. The metal is a great choice for withstanding a storm, but not necessarily the most
aesthetically pleasing. Chain link and wire mesh are quick and easy to install, while providing a
budget-friendly option.
Aluminum Fencing
It’s stylish and can emulate wrought iron. The spacing of the pickets allow wind and smaller
debris to pass through. It won’t rust or corrode when exposed to rain or salt water and rivals
steel for strength. Posts are typically set in concrete, which provides additional strength and
rigidity. Aluminum fencing is the most expensive option.
Vinyl (PVC)
A vinyl/PVC fence can withstand winds of up to 130 mph. The material doesn’t rot when
exposed to rain or salty ocean water. It offers a high level of durability and doesn’t rust or warp.
Vinyl/PVC contains UV inhibitors to prevent degradation, color fading and discoloration.
Vinyl/PVC fencing is more expensive than chain/mesh and less expensive than aluminum.
SimTek®
It’s the only fencing that has a Miami-Dade wind rating that will withstand 110 mph winds and
gusts up to 130 mph. It also withstands temperatures of up to 140° F. It’s highly attractive, can
be customized, and imitates the look of real wood or stone. Powerful UV inhibitors keep the
fencing from fading, The material doesn’t warp, is easily cleaned with soap and water, and
offered in multiple colors. It's on a par with aluminum fencing in terms of cost.

 

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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Zepco Fence Company Coral Springs Florida

Choosing a Fence

Choosing a fence is a distinctly personal choice. Individuals have very different needs when they decide to have a fence installed, along with materials from which to select. There are a variety of factors to be fully considered. Individuals should place serious thought into why they want or need a fence before erecting one.

Needs

The most common reason for installing a fence is to protect children and pets. The right fence contains youngsters and pets from getting into traffic. It provides safety and security against people entering the yard, along with predations from dangerous domesticated animals and wildlife.

A fence is an effective boundary marker for neighbors, passers-by and would-be intruders, while providing an increased level of privacy. Individuals may want additional curb appeal, to hide unattractive elements in the yard, or conceal valuable property. For those living near waterways or dangerous slopes, bluffs or cliffs, fencing aids in preventing accidents, injuries and even the potential of a fatality.,

Pricing

It’s essential that individuals know what their budget is for fencing. The cost of a fence will vary considerably, depending on the area being fenced, the gate design, labor costs, and the type of material chosen. Individuals will also need to weigh the cost against practicality and functionality.

Materials

Chain link is the cheapest and easiest to install. Wood is the next least expensive option, with pine being the cheapest. Exotic woods such as teak and redwood are available at premium costs. They’re followed by vinyl/PVC fencing, composite fencing, aluminum, brick and stone, and wrought iron.

Beauty vs Practical

Everyone wants a beautiful fence that will enhance property value. However, the most attractive fencing may not be the most practical for the property owner’s needs. There may also be restrictions on the type, height or material that can be used, depending on where the property owner lives.

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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pvc fencing

5 Reasons to Consider a PVC Fence

There are many reasons to choose a PVC fence. The choice will depend on what an individual wants from their fence.

Low Maintenance

Property owners won’t be spending their time painting, staining or applying preservatives to a PVC fence. It’s unattractive to termites and boring insects, so individuals won’t have to worry about chemical applications. The material won’t rot or rust and it’s also easy to clean with soap and water. PVC fences that are washed every 6 to 12 months tend to last an average of 5 to 7 years longer than if it’s not cleaned.

Durability

Manufactured with 10 percent titanium oxide coating, it’s an effective UV inhibitor that protects against fading from the sun’s rays. PVC has a tensile strength of 5 times that of wood. With a solid foundation, PVC fencing can withstand winds of 110 mph and gusts of up to 130 mph before sustaining damage. It typically comes with a long warranty and can provide an average of 20 to 30 years of service before it ever needs to be replaced. PVC fencing is fire resistant. The material doesn’t ignite easily and tends to self-extinguish. PVC is temperature tolerant and well able to withstand the hot South Florida sun without cracking.

Attractive

The fencing is visually appealing with great aesthetic value in any location. It has multiple colors, styles, textures and can be customized in various ways. It’s offered in styles that emulate the look of real wood and stone.

Recyclable

One of the many benefits of PVC fencing is that it’s  now chemically recyclable thanks to a breakthrough process innovated at the University of Michigan. The fencing doesn’t need to be treated with preservatives or insect repellants.

Cost Effective

While property owners will have a greater initial outlay for PVC fencing, it pays for itself over the long-term, making it a cost effective solution.

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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Can Sprinklers Ruin My Fence?

Water is one of the most damaging elements any fence will face, particularly wooden fences. While a sprinkler system won’t affect other fencing materials as radically, water will still result in damage that requires repairs and extra maintenance.

It’s just one of the reasons that irrigation systems should always be installed by a professional and never near fencing. They have the knowledge needed to adjust irrigation heads so water isn’t deposited on fences and other undesirable areas. Even if the heads in your irrigation are adjusted correctly, you may not be as fortunate if the system is your neighbor’s.

Rotting

Wood is a porous material that allows water to penetrate the surface. Even with stain, paint ot wood protectants, any tiny untreated spot will allow moisture to enter. That moisture will cause the wood to rot – at an accelerated rate than normal. It shortens the lifespan of the fence and disrupts its functionality.

Shifting

The amount of water applied through sprinkles doesn’t seem like much, but over time it can cause shifting of fence poles and the surrounding soil. This is especially true if it rains soon after the lawn has been watered.

Discoloration

Even fencing constructed from the most modern materials can experience discoloration from sprinklers. Minerals in water supplies, such as iron or calcium, can build up with repeated drenching from sprinklers.

Biologics

Algae, mold and mildew are all biological agents that can affect a fence. They flourish in South Florida’s subtropical environment. Watering a fence simply adds additional moisture that biologics need to grow and multiply.

Maintenance and Money

The rotting, shifting, discoloration, and growth of biologics all combine, resulting in additional time and money in maintenance costs for property owners. It’s a situation that also disrupts the overall form, functionality and appearance of the fencing. It’s not just the fence that will require extra maintenance. Nearby flower beds can sustain damage from water runoff of the 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

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wood fence installer Coral Springs

Top Signs of Fence Damage

There are many early signs that a fence is being damaged, but they’re often overlooked by property owners since it happens slowly over time. It’s a good idea to inspect fences regularly for multiple types of damage. If left unaddressed, it can result in a significant amount of money to repair and sections of the fence may need to be replaced.

Mold, Mildew, Algae

All of those substances are biologics that easily begin to grow on fencing in the warm and humid South Florida climate. Vinyl fencing can also provide a surface upon which mold and algae can grow.

Rot

This is a particular problem with wooden fences. It’s not always visible as actively wet wood. It often presents as gray or white spores. Another sign of rot is a board that gives when pressed upon.

Leaning and Bending

Fence posts that are leaning or bending sideways from an upright position is a sign of a problem. Wooden fence posts may be rotting under the surface or the soil may have shifted around wood or metal posts. Posts are set and sealed in concrete, but moisture can seep into the smallest of cracks in the concrete.

Cracks

Cracks can occur in the bottom of posts, especially in fencing constructed of wood. Even when wood is treated with chemicals to mitigate the problem, wood dries out and puts pressure on the fibers that can result in cracking.

Insects

Termites are the bane of wooden fences. Property owners can detect an infestation by visible termite mazes, bloated wood or a bad odor. Boring insects of all types will leave telltale holes in the wood. Composite materials are unattractive to insects – unless the fencing material develops a crack or damage where the insects can enter. They won’t destroy modern materials, but they will make a fence a base of operations.

Rust and Corrosion

The two problems primarily affect wrought iron. However, rust and corrosion can impact the hardware used to join fencing materials of all types.

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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Aluminum Fences are Virtually Maintenance Free

Aluminum fencing can be expensive, but makes up for the investment with a number of attributes that can’t be found in other materials. One of the primary benefits is that its an almost maintenance free solution that’s stylish and highly durable.

Aluminum is a preferred fencing material in South Florida. It has the durability to withstand the ravages of hurricane winds due to the spaces between the pickets. It’s equally appropriate for residential locations, commercial enterprises and even small properties where elegance and aesthetic value is important.

Corrosion

One of the problems that impacts fencing in South Florida is corrosion due to the high humidity levels, frequent rain, and salt water. That’s not a problem with aluminum fencing. It doesn’t rust, rot or corrode. Aluminum doesn’t require painting, staining, or other types of treatments. The ability to withstand water and humidity means stains and dust can be removed by washing it down with warm water and any type of gentle dish washing soap.

Insects

Insects, especially termites, can cause considerable damage to wood fences and other types of insects can take up residence in other materials if there’s even the least bit of a crack where they can enter. Aluminum fencing doesn’t attract insects. There’s no need to worry about insects invading the fencing or adjacent homes and outbuildings.

Environmentally Friendly

The metal is 100 percent recyclable and one of the easiest of all metals to recycle. In addition, the carbon footprint to manufacture aluminum has been significantly reduced over the past 30 years.

Other Attributes

Aluminum fences have other benefits. The material can be fashioned into shapes that rival the finest wrought iron, but at much less cost. It’s available in multiple colors. It can be adapted to complement prevailing styles in a neighborhood and customized into virtually any desired decorative design.

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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restore fence

The Benefits of an Automatic Gate Opener

Few people consider a gate opener when installing their fence, but it’s convenient and practical. An automatic gate opener is equally applicable for those in the country and city dwellers.

Enhanced Security & Safety

The property owner is in control of who enters, providing an elevated level of safety. It’s an effective way to reduce theft, vandalism and shrinkage for business owners and an alarm system can be combined with the gate opener for home or business safety. An automatic opener can be especially beneficial for homes with children and pets, or that raise prize livestock.

Perimeter Control

This is especially important for those that have large yards or tracts of land, along with businesses that handle sensitive documents or certain types of products. Owners know exactly who is on the premises at all times and the gate openers can be combined with card readers, pass codes or biometric readers.

More Privacy

Since fences are typically set back from structures, an automatic gate opener gives homes and businesses an added level of privacy. It prevents anyone from getting too close to the home or business before owners know who is approaching. The distance involved from the gate to the home or business is also beneficial for preventing the prying eyes of neighbors or would be intruders.

Value and Curb Appeal

There’s something intrinsically appealing about a fence with an automatic gate opener and that works to the owner’s benefit if they’re selling the property. Potential buyers see a valuable feature that they don’t have to install themselves. The openers can be combined with any type of security or decorative privacy fencing for added curb appeal.

Convenience

Nothing can compare with the convenience of an automatic gate opener. It means people don’t have to leave their vehicle during inclement weather to lock and unlock a gate. It also means parents don’t have to leave their children in a running vehicle while they unlock the premises. Gates can be equipped with opener models that contain sensors and will close automatically after a vehicle has passed through.

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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Fences Can Provide Stylish Security to Your Home

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.

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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Why Vinyl is a Popular Choice for Fencing

There was a time when people only had a choice between wood or wrought iron for their fencing needs. Times have changed and vinyl, also known as PVC, has become one of the most highly sought fencing materials for multiple reasons.

Appearance

Vinyl fencing is available in multiple styles, colors, heights, and with multiple customization options to reflect an individual’s personal style. It can be manufactured to imitate the look of stone or wood, allowing individuals to enjoy the benefits of vinyl and the appearance of high-end materials.

Longevity & Durability

Vinyl fencing is manufactured from high-quality synthetic materials or recycled plastics. A vinyl fence can last from 20 to 30 years and provides a great return on investment. The surface is resistant to scratching, insect predations, fungi, and dry rot. Vinyl maintains its structural integrity even in Florida’s subtropical climate and isn’t susceptible to cracking, warping or fading from UV rays. It’s 5 times stronger than wood and has the ability to flex slightly, making it resistant to wind damage.

Little Maintenance

No one wants to spend copious amounts of their leisure time caring for a fence. That makes vinyl doubly popular as it requires little to no maintenance. It doesn’t require painting, staining or other treatments. Vinyl is a non-porous material and doesn’t absorb moisture from rain or humidity. That attribute makes it easy to clean – just spray it down with a hose to keep it looking good.

Safety

One of the unique attributes of vinyl is that it doesn’t burn easily. Firepits can malfunction and fires from BBQs can occur. Vinyl tends to self-extinguish making it one of the safest options available.

Recyclable

More attention is being paid to recyclable options. For those seeking an eco-friendly fencing solution, look no further than vinyl. Most vinyl fencing is 100 percent recyclable and the material emits few VOCs.

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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