A well-maintained, professionally installed fence can add up to 10 percent more value to your
home. If you’re selling your home, there are variables over which you have no control. The new
buyer may want a fence, but not the style or material that you installed. Much depends on if
the fence is decorative in nature or designed for functionality.

Visual Appeal
Real estate agents call it curb appeal, as a fence can enhance the aesthetics of a dwelling when
potential buyers view a property from the street. Aluminum fencing that emulates wrought iron
is considered by many to be the most attractive. Vinyl fencing and SimTek® are equally sought
for their high-quality appearance, safety, security, and ease of care and maintenance.

Security
If break-ins or crime are a concern, aluminum fencing provides value, beauty and peace of
mind. The fencing can be equipped with additional security measures if desired. It’s available in
multiple styles, colors and has a luxury look that enhances the appearance of any property. For
families with small children or pets, the ability to keep human and animal intruders out makes
this an invaluable asset.

Privacy
Finding a bit of privacy in today’s hectic world can be difficult. Solid SimTek® or vinyl fencing
provides an oasis of privacy in the midst of any neighborhood, keeping activities and valuable
equipment or recreational vehicles are hidden from prying eyes. The materials are an effective
barrier against intrusions by people and wildlife.

Both materials help buffer street noise and require minimal maintenance. The materials are
strong, durable, and impact resistant. SimTek® and vinyl are available in finishes that emulate
the appearance of natural stone or wood.

SimTek® fencing can withstand 110 mph winds and gusts up to 130 mph. It’s manufactured
with recycled and recyclable plastic. Vinyl can also be recycled.

Personal Preference
A fence can add up to 10 percent in home value, whether owners are keeping or selling their
property. The style of fencing can aid in advancing a sale, depending on the buyer’s needs,
preferences and priorities.

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.

Fencing satisfies the need for beautification, security, safety, and privacy. Once individuals have decided what type of fence they want, it’s time to select a fencing company. There are 5 essential questions anyone should ask before signing a contract.

A competent fence installer will be cognizant of the necessary permits required and be able to obtain them for the project. No matter where the fence will be installed on the property, utility companies will have to be notified and the contractor should handle that. It will keep workers safe and prevent them from inadvertently disrupting electric, gas, phone, or internet service.

Licensing

The fencing company should be licensed within Florida. It demonstrates that it’s passed the requirements to operate within the state. There are a number of unscrupulous individuals that claim to be fence installers, but have neither the expertise, experience or equipment to do so.

Insurance

This is also a critical question. Any contractor that performs work on the property should be fully insured in the event that there’s an injury, damage to property, or poor workmanship. If the company isn’t insured, clients would have to initiate litigation and if a worker is injured on the job, they could be liable for medical bills if the company doesn’t carry Workers Compensation.

Years in Business

Longevity of the business is a good indicator that the company is known for good work, along with the experience and staffing to install the fence quickly, efficiently and professionally.

Project Time

Individuals will want to determine when the company can begin the project, hours of the day when they’ll be working, and when it will be completed. The project will need to be scheduled, especially if the installer is very busy.

Warranty

A warranty against the material and workmanship protects clients in case anything goes wrong and ensures the contractor has to make repairs. The warranty should extend for at least 12 months.

Fencing can be constructed board by board or with pre-made panels. Installing fencing panels reduces the time and work required to complete the task and provides individuals with an aesthetically pleasing fence.

Pre-made fence panels are easily obtained at big box stores, but a better option is to purchase them from a fencing company or lumber company. Some sawmills will also fabricate pre-made panels to an individual’s specifications. It’s a good option for those that want to customize their fence or incorporate some ornamentation.

Even though there are a limited range of variations in appearance in panels, even pre-made panels can add value and appeal to a home. It’s vastly easier to erect a fence with panels than individual boards. Panels are available in multiple heights and individuals can select from multiple types of wood species, though most are manufactured of pine or red cedar.

With pre-manufactured panels, individuals can get straight to the business of preparing the ground and digging the holes for the supports. Individuals won’t need many tools, either. Depending on the area to be fenced, the average person can complete the installation in a weekend or over the course of several weekends.

Disadvantages

For individuals that take a DIY approach, pre-made panels won’t allow for much in the way of a custom look or fit. It there are variations in the landscape such as dips or hills, panels don’t allow for customization to ensure that each panel is the same height.

When purchasing from big box stores, the panels are often joined using staples rather than nails. Those assembled with staples are weaker and more likely to develop problems.

Pre-made fencing panels can be heavy and unwieldy. Installing them can be difficult, particularly if an individual is attempting to perform the task alone. Plan on having at least one other person to help.

It doesn’t matter whether a fence is being installed for privacy, safety, child or pet containment, or aesthetic reasons, it’s essential that the installation be performed by an experienced company that’s fully licensed, bonded and insured. Locating that company can be difficult and the following are some tips for finding an experienced fencing company.

Research

Anyone looking for a fencing professional will need to perform their due diligence. Some red flags to look for include a company that’s recently changed its name and a poor rating with the Better Business Bureau. Make sure that the company has a physical business address.

Recommendations

Ask family, friends and co-workers that have had a fence installed about the company that did the work. Find out if they were happy with the results. Many companies will place a sign on the fence indicating the name of the business that performed the installation. Alternately, individuals may also consider asking the property owner of a recently erected fence about the company and their experience with the installer.

Quotes

Get quotes from at least three fencing companies. The quotes should include the cost, an itemized list of what the company will do, a timeline for completion, the size of the crew required, and when the work will begin.

Services

A professional fencing company will be aware of the ordinances and regulations governing the installation of a fence. Many locales have specific rules regarding the type, color, materials and height of fences. The company will also be able to pull the necessary permits and contact underground utility lines. Each fencing job is different and the company should send a representative to walk the property to be fenced so an accurate estimate can be provided.

Contracts and Warranties

Don’t engage a fencing company without a contract. It should spell out in detail the scope of the project and the terms of payment. Some companies require a down payment or offers payment plans, while others may require half down and the remainder upon completion. Make sure the company provides a warranty on its work, materials, and how disputes are addressed.

A backyard makeover can give people more space to relax, room for entertaining, or new features to enjoy. No matter what the desired makeover, it begins with a plan. The best option for the project’s ultimate planning and execution is to consult with a professional landscaper.

The other alternative is a software program that enables individuals to choose different features around the specified space to see how they’ll look. Start with a dream landscape and work to narrow down the available choices. Keep the following in mind when planning a backyard makeover.

Budget

Even a small makeover can be expensive and will depend on multiple factors. It’s important for individuals to decide how much they’re willing to invest in the makeover. Always expect the cost to be more than anticipated as the price of materials can fluctuate widely over time.

Purpose

The first step is to ascertain what’s to be accomplished with the makeover. Some want to create a cozy retreat, a place for entertaining, or a kid-friendly environment. Unless individuals are handy or enjoy puttering around the garden, choose low-maintenance options.

Likes and Dislikes

It can be helpful to walk around the area to be rejuvenated. Take stock of what’s liked and disliked, as well as those things that might be salvaged and incorporated into the new design. That may include removing trees, bushes and existing flower beds.

For those that live in locations rich in wildlife, it may be prudent to keep out deer and other unwanted animals with a fence. Individuals may have their heart set on specific plantings, but let reality be a guide. All plants simply don’t grow well in some areas and may need more time and care to survive than individuals have.

Materials

There are dozens of materials with which to create the makeover, from concrete and pavers to synthetic materials. The makeover can include ponds, fountains and waterfalls. Outdoor furnishings will need to be waterproof and depending on the size of the area, will need to be versatile and serve multiple purposes to avoid overcrowding.

Rules

Every neighborhood and community are governed by specific rules as to what’s allowable, what’s not, and will require specific permits for the work. That’s where the services of a professional are beyond compare. They’ll know the prevailing rules and be able to pull the necessary permits.

A sagging gate is almost inevitable at some point, simply due to its construction and the way it attaches to a fence. Even a gate that’s been installed by highly skilled professionals can sag over time. Gates are square or rectangular in shape, a framework that’s essentially unstable when fastened to a fence. They’re attached by one side and the weight of the gate makes it droopy and saggy.

A brace run diagonally from one side of the gate to the other is the easiest way to prevent it from sagging. It helps balance the tension on the gate. Other forces also come into play when a gate sags. The mere opening and closing of the barrier accelerates the process over time by loosening hardware that attaches it to the fence.

Excess Weight

A gate presents an almost irresistible temptation to children. Riding the gate while it travels back and forth is a fun game, but it places excess weight on the gate, along with the wear and tear of it opening and closing. That’s just one of the reasons why the gate lock should be placed in a position where children can’t reach it.

Another factor in gate sagging is the size of the post to which it’s attached. The post has to correlate to the size and weight of the fence. A post that’s too small allows the gate to sag because there’s too much weight for the post to adequately hold. A gate post must also be set sufficiently deep to support it and the weight of the gate.

Hindges

The choice of hinges on the gate will also determine the potential for sagging. Just as the gate post is crucial, so are the hinges and screws that are used. The entire weight of the gate rests upon and pivots on the hinge. The hinge must be able to hold the gate, its weight, and withstand multiple openings and closings. Screws must be sunk deep enough in the metal or wood to hold without pulling out of the barrier is to withstand the wear and tear of time.

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

Affordable

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

Appearance

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

Durability

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

Maintenance

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

Security and Safety

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

Value and Insurance

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

Versatility

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