Dogs are important members of the family and individuals will want to take many of the same
precautions to protect their pets as they would children. Never leave a canine unattended,
even within their enclosure. The following are some tips to help keep pets safely within their
boundaries.
Know the Dog
A 4-ft. fence is adequate for a puppy, but individuals need to plan ahead for the dog’s mature
height. Some breed types have a proclivity toward certain behaviors. Highly intelligent canines
are well able to open locked gates from observing what their human companions do.
Jumping Over
Some dogs are jumpers. Keep doghouses and other items away from fences. Even smaller
canines can be tempted to jump if they can gain elevation.
Crawling Under
A dog may be a digger and if they dig next to the fence, they’ll take the opportunity to escape.
Even worse, they can get trapped underneath it. The simple installation of an underground
barrier can prevent a canine from crawling under the fence or getting stuck.
Climbing Over
Chain link fences are popular dog enclosures, but a determined canine can scale fences if they
can gain a toehold. Chain link fences can be equipped with coyote rollers or inward facing
attachments on top to prevent a dog from climbing up and over.
Squeezing Through
Pay attention to the spacing of fence posts and pickets. Any upright elements should be spaced
closely enough together that a dog can’t squeeze through or get stuck between them.
Blocking the View
Canines can get overly excited when they see people and pets on the outside of the enclosure.
A solid fence will block their view and keep them calmer.
Gates
Dogs can – and do – learn how to operate gate closures. A locking gate is the best precaution.
All closing and locking mechanisms should be located where it can’t be accessed by the dog.

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The State of Florida has no law that mandates homeowners erect a fence – unless they have a
swimming pool. However, under Homeland Security’s anti-terrorism laws, some types of
businesses are required to install perimeter fencing around their facilities ranging from
chemical plants to food processing sites.

Residential Fences
Homeowners are advised to speak with their neighbors before erecting a fence, as they may
have a financial stake in maintaining it.

Swimming Pools
Any outdoor pool is required to have a fence or barrier at least 4 ft. high around the perimeter
of the aquatic feature. It must be sufficiently far enough away from the pool edge to prevent a
child that breaches the fence from immediately falling into the pool.

There can be no gaps in the fencing. A self-closing and self-locking gate that opens outward
must be installed. The closing and locking mechanism must be high enough to be out of the
reach of children. The fencing must extend low enough to the ground to prevent a child from
climbing under it.

Exceptions
Indoor pools and those in screened in areas aren’t required to be fenced. However, doors and
window that provide access to the pool are required to have a wired safety alarm or a self-
closing and self-locking gate that’s at least 54 inches high.

The shallow pools known as kiddie pools don’t have to be fenced. Private pools at condos,
apartment complexes, and similar facilities, along with public pools, are exempt from the
fencing requirement. Public pools must be in compliance with the Virginia Graeme Baker
Federal Pool and Spa Safety Act (VGBA). The Act went into effect on Dec. 19, 2008 and sets
standards for drain covers to prevent entrapment.

Child Safety
The statutes governing pools were put in place to prevent child drowning. Swimming pools
were the leading cause of child deaths prior to the state’s laws being enacted.

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

Security

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

Privacy

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

 Aesthetics

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

Access Control

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

Fencing in commercial venues can take many forms, from temporary fencing on job projects to high-tech security around warehouses. There are multiple types of materials from which to choose that will accommodate very specific needs.

Hiding Unattractive Features

Dumpsters, generators and electrical boxes are just some of the items that can be found in and around home developments, warehouses, factories, stores, and restaurants. They’re unsightly and can attract unwelcome wildlife. One of the most popular options for camouflaging and containing those areas is wooden fencing. PVC and SimTek® are also excellent choices. The options come in a variety of styles, colors, textures and won’t attract insects.

High Security

Whether it’s a wild animal enclosure, food processing plant or correctional facility, high-security fencing is typically an incarnation chain link. It’s available in multiple-size weaves, can be erected in multiple heights, and spikes or razor wire can be affixed to the top. The fencing is equally applicable for facilities ranging from airports and shipyards to chemical plants.

Large Gates

A fence isn’t complete without a gate and there are several types that can be paired with commercial fencing that open vertically or horizontally. Commercial endeavors can select from sliding and bi-folding styles, vertical lift or pivot gates, and those that require a keycard or keypad to gain entry.

Temporary

Chain link fencing is the undisputed king for creating temporary barriers and barricades. The material is cost-effective and installs quickly to secure expensive tools and vehicles on construction sites and protect companies from liability. 

The fences are also effective in areas where commercial remodeling or landscaping is being performed. The fencing can be used on uneven terrain that could be dangerous to people. Two added benefits with temporary chain link fencing are that a tarp or other material can be easily affixed to the fencing to prevent prying eyes from seeing inside and the fence covering aids in keeping down dust.

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.

Chain link fences are a staple as a security option, but they may not fit the aesthetic of a neighborhood or the prevailing architectural style. However, there are ways to dress up a chain-link fence to make it more appealing and enhance privacy. The methods are more affordable than installing a new fence, but they’re not nearly as pretty and don’t afford the same level of privacy.

Slats

One of the easiest solutions is the installation of slats – sometimes called tube slats – specifically designed for chain link fences. They’re offered in a rainbow of colors and a couple of different styles. The slats improve privacy by about 75 percent, but don’t create a solid barrier. Small spaces between the slats will remain.

Plants

Individuals can plant vines and allow them to twine among the spaces in the fence. Flowering vines add beauty, but it will take time for the plants to accomplish their goal. Vines won’t eliminate small areas where people could peer in. The same problem exists when installing bushes and shrubs. The plantings will require time to mature, but they offer better coverage for privacy than vines.

Rolled Bamboo

Rolls of bamboo fencing/screens can be purchased and wired directly to the fence. It’s not particularly pretty, but it will elevate the level of privacy by approximately 85 percent.

Mesh Screen

These have the advantage of being wind and water permeable. They’re not necessarily the most attractive option, but privacy can be improved by 80-96 percent, depending on the density of the mesh. It’s available in different colors.

Wood Panels

There are wood panels that can be attached directly to chain link that will create a beautiful facade and provide privacy. However, permits may be required as it may be classified as an entirely new fence installation by local municipalities.

Canvas Fabric

The least aesthetically pleasing option, some individuals simply wire canvas fabric to their chain link fence. It’s available in multiple colors and will solve the problem of privacy, but it’s far from a pretty solution.

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.

The most common reasons for installing commercial fencing is security, protection of assets, to prevent liability issues, and to comply with anti-terrorism standards set forth by the Department of Homeland Security. Fencing is a highly effective means of deterring would-be intruders, but in some instances additional measures are required to discourage those that would climb the barrier.

It’s important to remember that the taller the fence is the more difficult it will be to breach. A fence of seven ft. or more in height is typically recommended by security experts and a solid barrier that prevents people from seeing inside also increases security. Not every additional climb-proof method can necessarily be employed on every type of fence.

Anti-Climb Paint – Also known as non-dry paint, it never completely dries, will leave a mark on anyone that touches it, and is very slippery. The disadvantage of anti-climb paint is that stray pollen and other particles will adhere to it.

Broken Glass – This is an option that’s implanted in mortar and installed atop of certain types of fencing. It’s a definite deterrent, but commercial property owners may not want to use it as it can be unattractive, requires warning signage, and should only be installed on fences of seven ft. or more in height.

Electrified Wire – A strand or two of electrified wire can be installed on top of a fence as an effective deterrent. Before implementing the measure, owners of commercial properties should check all relevant regulations to ensure the installation meets safety requirements to prevent children, pets, or a random pedestrian from accidentally touching the fence and incurring an injury. Appropriate warning signage will also need to be installed.

Fence Top Rollers – Also known as fence top spinners, they’re essentially vertical or horizontal tubes that rotate to make gaining purchase on a wall extremely difficult and unstable. Some are also available with spikes.

Razor Tape and Barbed Wire – While both items may bring to mind a prison, they’re effective but shouldn’t be used in areas where workers or pedestrians normally have access. Both options may require special permission to install, along with appropriate signage.

Spikes – Fence spikes are the most popular option since they can be added at any time, are fairly affordable, and easy to install. They’re durable and difficult to remove.