A wooden fence is an affordable option for many people, but the material also comes with a decision that you’ll need to make – whether to stain it or paint it. A wooden fence looks bright and new when it’s first installed, but weathering due to the elements will quickly turn the wood color into an unappealing gray. There’s no right or wrong choice between paint and stain. Ultimately, the decision of whether to paint or stain is one of personal choice and how much time, effort and money you want to devote to maintenance.

Paint

The look and grain of wood fencing isn’t appealing to everyone. With the high-quality wood paints now available, you can customize the color of your fence in any color of the rainbow – providing it doesn’t violate any local ordinances and your neighbors don’t object.

Paint sets on top of the wood’s surface and a primer will need to be applied prior to painting. Over time, paint will peel, crack and chip. It will last about 5 to 6 years before it must be repainted. Before you can repaint, you’ll need to scrape off the old paint and reapply primer.

Stain

Wood stain penetrates into the wood. It helps protect it, while enhancing the color of the raw wood grain. Be advised that wood stain is typically more expensive than paint.

While stain doesn’t crack, chip or peel, it does fade due to weathering. Stain will need to be reapplied approximately every 3 years. A pressure wash prior to re-staining is typically all that’s required. Be sure to let the fence thoroughly dry before applying the stain.

There’s a myriad of stain colors from which to choose. A plain pine fence can be stained to emulate the look of expensive wood species such as redwood, walnut and pecan. High-quality wood stains are also beneficial for making the wood less attractive to insects, while helping mitigate mold and rot. Stains are also friendly to people, pets and the environment.

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

The most important benefit of receiving an on-site estimate for a fencing project is that there are no surprises later on about any facet of the fence install. It’s a critical second step after you’ve selected the type of fencing you want.

Accuracy

During on on-site estimate, the fence installer will perform a complete walk-around the property and measure the area to be fenced. The installer will be able to ascertain exactly how much fencing will be required for the project.

Problem Areas

He or she will take note of any slopes, hills or other areas that may present special circumstances. That includes accessibility issues, safety hazards, and any existing damage to the area. The expert will also look for any outbuildings or plantings that might be disturbed during the installation process.

Local Laws

Professional fence installers are cognizant of the local ordinances for the areas they serve. They know the height limits that are allowed in front and back yards, along with any material restrictions that may exist in your municipality. The experts also know what permits are needed, can obtain them, and will include the cost in the fencing package.

Cost

If you want to have your installation placed on the fencing company’s list of projects, you could be in for a wait – depending on the company’s work load. Rush jobs and urgent projects can sometimes be accommodated, but the cost will be higher as crews will need to be pulled off other jobs. Any special requests you may have should be voiced during the on-site estimate, as it will affect the cost.

Time Estimate

The fencing estimator will also be able to provide a time table for installation and completion, based on the company’s current scheduling.

Written Estimate

The estimator will take all those factors into consideration when preparing an estimate for the final cost. He or she will also include the cost of the fencing materials for the type of fence you’ve chosen and provide you with a written estimate of the total cost and when work can begin. Never agree to a fencing package unless an on-site estimate has been conducted and you have a written estimate.

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

The first step in choosing the right fence for your home is determining what you want the fence
to accomplish. The top reasons for installing a fence are:
 Safety
 Security
 Privacy
 Establish a boundary
 Curb Appeal/Property Value
 Buffer Noise
Safety
Maintaining safety for children and pets is a priority for many people. You’ll want a fence that
children and pets can’t climb over or crawl under. You’ll also want a fence that will be high
enough to deter humans and wildlife from entering the space.
Security
Chain link and aluminum fencing are effective for security purposes. Chain link is less attractive
than other types, but can be affixed with a variety of features to prevent entry. Aluminum
fencing is highly attractive and resembles wrought iron. It’s very durable and can be designed
with spiked tops and similar features.
Privacy
For privacy, nothing beats a solid fence. The fencing can be installed vertically or horizontally.
Solid fencing doesn’t allow anyone to see in or out. Board-on-board installations are similar, but
do allow a small sliver of sight from just the right angle.
Boundaries
Fencing is an excellent way to mark a property line and set a boundary. Erecting a fence is also
effective for keeping pedestrians from cutting across lawns, along with keeping people and pets
away from dangerous slopes.
Curb Appeal
A fence for curb appeal should frame the property and home. It shows off the property to its
best advantage as viewed from the road.
Home Value
The right fence can significantly increase home value. A fence is especially valuable if the home
is going to be sold. It’s an investment that many buyers want and an already installed fence is a
substantial selling point.

Noise
Traffic, sirens, barking dogs and neighbors can make it difficult to relax, watch TV or enjoy time
in your yard. A solid fence is an effective noise barrier and can be especially beneficial for those
that work at night and sleep during the day.

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

Fences in South Florida take a lot of abuse. Heat, humidity, insects, and even salt spray can be
detrimental to the structures. However, the real test of a fence’s sturdiness and longevity
comes with the arrival of a hurricane. There are some measures that anyone can take to help
hurricane proof their fence and give it a better chance of surviving a hurricane’s fury.
Hardware
Fencing is typically connected with nails, screws or nuts and bolts. Galvanized hardware is
resistant to rust and corrosion, but not impervious. Inspect fences regularly and have any
fasteners or joiners replaced that are loose, missing, or corroded.
Pickets and Posts
Fence posts are typically fixed in concrete for stability. Make sure any installer sets fence
uprights in concrete. Promptly replace any pickets that become damaged or loose. Another
thing to look for are any posts or pickets that may have become rotted, chipped, cracked,
warped, or the victim of insect predation.
Materials
Some types of materials are more resistant to damage than others. Materials such as vinyl are
more resistant to rain, wind and UV rays than wood, for instance. Wood fences can be blown
over in high winds.
Steel Frame
One of the best ways to hurricane proof any fence is by installing it with a framework of metal
posts. Metal is more resistant to the high winds that accompany a hurricane.
Spacing
Any fence with spaces between the pickets is going to be more resistant to the winds generated
by a hurricane. Those spaces allow wind to flow through, rather than forming a solid barrier to
be battered by wind.
Gates
An open, flopping gate can be twisted and detached from its anchor and has the potential to
damage the fence. Gates should be closed and locked when a hurricane is in the forecast.

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

Children are naturally curious about the world around them – and that includes what’s on the other side
of your fence. Simply installing a fence isn’t enough to protect your children. There are additional
elements that must be considered.
Height
Installing a sufficiently high fence may not seem like a problem for those with small children. However,
youngsters have no qualms about climbing a fence. Anticipate their height and reach as they mature.
Don’t leave swings and other toys near a fence that a child can use to get closer to the fence top.
Ground Clearance
Make sure the fence reaches all the way to the ground. A gap between the bottom of the fence and the
ground level is nothing short of an invitation for a child to crawl under it. An added danger is that they
can become stuck.
Outcroppings
Any fence should be free of handholds or outcroppings that a child can use to scale a fence. It will also
prevent them from losing their grasp, falling, and potentially sustaining an injury.
Spacing
The spacing of the posts and pickets is an equally important consideration. There should be no spaces
between posts and pickets that a child can squeeze through or get stuck between.
Damaged Elements
Inspect fences regularly and repair or replace any damaged piece or fastener used to connect it.
Damaged boards, panels or hardware provide an escape route and the potential for injury from broken
boards or metal.
Gates
Fence gates pose a definite risk when trying to keep children contained. Gates should be self-closing and
self-locking. Locking mechanisms should never be within the reach of children.
Never Leave Them Alone
It only takes a moment for children to discover a weakness in a fence. Never leave children unattended,
even in a backyard enclosure. Stray dogs, dangerous wildlife, and enterprising trespassers always remain
a potential danger, even with a 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

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.

Fencing serves a variety of purposes for businesses. They provide security, control access, and can be used to direct foot traffic. Depending on the choice of fence, the structure can provide visual appeal and enhance the perception of the business.

Aluminum

Stately, elegant and durable, aluminum fencing rivals the appearance of high-end wrought iron and can be customized in multiple ways. Aluminum is a sustainable metal that’s highly decorative and can be equipped with spear pickets for enhanced safety and security. The material isn’t susceptible to corrosion, is available in multiple colors, and is low maintenance.

SimTek®

One of the benefits of SimTek® fencing for commercial endeavors is that its able to withstand hurricane force winds of up to 110 mph and gusts up to 130 mph. When it’s not standing against hurricane winds, it’s a highly decorative and recyclable fencing option. The fencing is able to emulate the realistic appearance of deep-grained wood or high-end granite, its impact resistant, and can be customized in a wide variety of ways.

Chain Link

A chain link fence is an ideal solution for production plants and similar installations that are at risk and vulnerable as determined by the Dept. of Defense. The fencing is relatively inexpensive and can be affixed with tarping known as privacy screening or wind screening to block operations from prying eyes. Chain link can be equipped with an underground cable to prevent wildlife from burrowing under it and overhangs at the top to prevent wildlife from climbing over. The fencing is highly durable and available in multiple colors and heights.

Wood

Businesses that desire wood fencing can choose from three styles – shadowbox, board-on-board or stockade. The fencing can be customized in multiple ways for added decorative value and assembled with hurricane proof nails. Wood fencing can also be painted or stained if desired.

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.

There really isn’t a one size fits all solution for fencing based solely on the type of business that’s being operated. The type of fence that’s chosen will also depend on its intended purpose. It may be erected for privacy, security, or safety. You may need a fence to prevent unauthorized people from entering or prevent access to potentially dangerous areas.

Aluminum

Those that choose aluminum fencing have a variety of colors, styles, and designs from which to select. The fencing resists weathering and features low maintenance requirements. It’s often used for housing developments, gated communities, and areas where lightweight yet durable protection is needed. It’s also effective at fending off incursions by wildlife.

Chain Link

A chain-link fence is an economical option that can be installed fairly quickly and is good for large scale projects such as construction sites and warehouse facilities. It’s available in multiple heights, can be equipped with barbed wire or razor wire on top, and it’s see-through so individuals can be seen if they gain access. The downside is that would-be intruders can also see what’s inside. Another area where chain-link fences shine is at animal shelters and for wild animal enclosures.

SimTek®

SimTek® is an undisputed leader for fencing that’s durable and almost completely maintenance-free. It’s offered in multiple styles, colors, and textures. It’s high-impact resistant and very effective at absorbing sound. SimTek® is often used in and near restaurants and bars for privacy, along with housing complexes.

Metal

The choice of metal fencing is typically more expensive than other types but can be customized in multiple ways, whether it’s iron or steel. It’s advantageous around pools, any type of business, and is equally appropriate for parks and schools.

Vinyl

If you’re seeking privacy, a vinyl fence may be the best option. Vinyl fencing can be especially beneficial for blocking off outdoor areas for dining and drinking. It’s equally advantageous for hiding items from view such as AC units and trash bins. The fencing is available in multiple heights, colors, designs, and it’s very low maintenance.

A homeowner’s association (HOA) can be a blessing or a distinct disadvantage, depending upon what it is that an individual wants to do with their property. For those that desire uniformity, an HOA provides very specific rules about every aspect of the home and surrounding environment. For individuals that want a little more leeway in what’s in their yard, fencing panels are the ideal solution for concealing things of which an HOA may not approve.

There are many things that an HOA can’t tell residents they can’t have, but depending upon the HOA agreement, individuals may be required to have them out of sight. Features considered an eyesore by an HOA can be camouflaged with fencing panels – just make sure they meet the rules set forth by the HOA in terms of height, material, and color. Don’t erect fence panels without the pre-approval of the HOA. Panels are effective for concealing:

• Air Conditioning Units
• Certain Plants
• Clothesline
• Electrical Boxes
• Electric Car Charging Stations
• Generators
• Lawn Furniture
• Outbuildings
• Satellite Dishes
• Solar Panels
• Toys
• Trash Bins

Out of Sight, Out of Mind

There are many things that an HOA doesn’t want to see and may view as a detraction to the overall plan of the community, even if those items are allowed or essential to the operation of homes – such as electrical boxes. There are dozens of fencing options that can assist individuals to camouflage things that an HOA wants to keep out of sight.

Fencing doesn’t need to encompass an entire property to be effective. Individual panels can be strategically placed to conceal virtually any type of undesirable feature. Modern fencing materials can emulate the look of high-end stone, granite, and wood to provide an elegant appearance that blends tastefully with local surroundings.

Individuals can select from aluminum, PVC, wood, chain link, and SimTek® fencing materials. There are dozens of options for screens to hide unsightly items within a yard. They can also offer a handy foundation for trailing or climbing plants for those that enjoy gardening.