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.

There are multiple reasons that you might decide to install a fence and you’ll have a myriad of styles, colors and materials from which to choose. The first step before contacting a fencing specialist is to identify why you want a fence.

Safety and Security

A fence provides safety for children and pets, protecting them from incursions by human trespassers and a wide variety of unwanted wildlife. Fencing is effective for concealing valuables encompassing lawn care equipment, ATVs, PWCs and motorcycles from burglars.

Privacy

Homes are being constructed even closer together than in the past, inhibiting the ability to enjoy time with family and friends. A fence provides a private space for you to enjoy good times away from the prying eyes of neighbors and passersby.

Set Boundaries

Fencing is a great way to establish property boundaries, but it’s always best to consult with your neighbor first. Depending on local laws, they may be responsible for part of the upkeep costs – an expense for which they might object.

Ornamentation and Curb Appeal

If you’re planning on selling your home, a fence can add significant curb appeal and ornamentation all in a single package. Fences are an attractive attribute for buyers and viewed as a money-saving bonus.

Hiding Eyesores

Everyone partakes of modern conveniences, but those services often come with equipment that’s unappealing to the eye. A fence can hide or camouflage eyesores that include satellite dishes, HVAC units, emergency generators, and electrical boxes. They’re also effective for concealing electrical vehicle charging stations and trash bins.

Complying with HOAs

HOAs can dictate many things and a common rule is keeping “clutter” such as children’s toys and outdoor furniture out of sight. A fence alleviates that concern, but always consult with the HOA to ensure the fence you want conforms to the organization’s guidelines.

Swimming Pools

Pools and spas must be surrounded with an appropriate fence and gate to prevent access by children. Before installing a pool or spa, consult with a fencing specialist to determine what meets safety standards and your aesthetic preferences.

The good news for owners of steel or wrought iron fencing that’s become rusty and unsightly is that the fence can be restored. It will require preparation, primer and elbow grease – or an electric tool to make the job easier and faster. Never attempt to simply paint over a metal fence. The results will look terrible and the paint will flake.

Metal fencing is typically treated with a specialized coating to prevent rusting, but even the best professionally-installed fence has a finite lifespan. If you have an aluminum fence, you won’t see it rust, but it will corrode over time. Metal fencing in South Florida is required to withstand stresses that other locations don’t, primary of which is salt from ocean spray and being drenched in ocean water during hurricanes.

Fence Restoration

Restoring your fence if it’s showing signs of rust will aid in prolonging its longevity and maintaining it’s beauty and effectiveness. You can prep the fence and do the work yourself, but it can be a time-consuming task, depending on the method you choose. The alternative is to hire a company that has the tools, technology and experience to do the work.

Before undertaking the project yourself, perform an inspection of the fence to determine the extent of the damage. The fence may simply be showing surface rust and can be restored. If the rust is extensive and has penetrated the surface, it may be a better idea to replace rather than restore.

If you’re performing the work yourself, it’s essential that you remove as much rust as possible. You can remove it manually using a sandblaster, grinder or a liquid rust remover. All the methods are effective, it just depends on how much time you want to invest.

When the fence is free of rust, all that’s left to do is apply a coat of primer and a new coat of anti-rust paint in the color of your choice. You can use a roller paintbrush to apply the primer and paint.

No one wants to spend time and effort maintaining their fencing after it’s installed. With the materials and new manufacturing methods available today, anyone can have a low-maintenance fence installed that will offer long-lasting service, meet a wide range of aesthetic preferences, and require a minimum amount of maintenance.

SimTek®

SimTek® fencing has become the leader in Florida for a wide variety of reasons. Its UV inhibitors mean it won’t fade due to the sun’s harsh rays. The fencing is resistant to saltwater, organic processes, and insects. Graffiti is easily removed with the use of a power washer. SimTek® never needs to be painted or stained and it won’t warp or crack. It’s become the leader in Florida fencing due to its ability to withstand hurricane-force winds of up to 110 mph and gusts of up to 130 mph.

PVC/Vinyl

PVC fencing is a type of vinyl that stands up to harsh weather conditions without rotting, chipping, splintering or peeling. It’s manufactured with UV inhibitors to prevent it from becoming brittle or yellowing from UV rays. The material also withstands high winds, doesn’t need painting or staining, and is unappealing to insects. This type of vinyl fencing has earned the Dade County Product Approval Certification. Vinyl is five times stronger than wood and it’s recyclable.

Aluminum

Today’s aluminum typically has a powder coating applied that will aid in maintaining its finish for years. Aluminum doesn’t rust, rot, or fall prey to insects. The material doesn’t need staining or painting.

Consult a Professional

It’s always best to consult with fencing professionals before deciding on a particular material. Pricing can vary widely and individuals will want to comparison shop. Some fencing types offer more variety in terms of color, styles and customization options. It’s also important for individuals to know why they want a fence, which will affect the choice of material.