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

Privacy is a luxury that’s becoming increasingly difficult to attain. To obtain a modicum of
privacy at the sanctuary that they call home, people are choosing to install privacy fencing to
enjoy time with family and friends, away from the prying eyes of neighbors and passersby.
There are multiple types of privacy fencing materials that can be selected, along with an
extensive array of ways to customize them for decorative value. Individuals should be aware
that many locations have restrictions on the height and type of materials that are allowable.
Those factors should be explored before choosing a material.
Stockade
A stockade fence features pickets that are placed closely together to form a solid barrier. There
are multiple types of pressure treated woods from which to choose and it’s a cost-effective
solution. It does come with maintenance requirements. It will need to be treated with a
preservative, stain or paint to aid in preventing mold and rotting from water and humidity.
Vinyl/PVC
The fencing is available in multiple colors and can be customized in a variety of ways. It’s a long-
lasting material that requires minimal maintenance and can be kept clean with a hosing.
Vinyl/PVC is about 5 times stronger than wood, affordable, decorative, and has a high aesthetic
value. Many vinyl/PVC fences come with a lifetime warranty. It can be installed vertically or
horizontally, is offered in multiple textures, and is unaffected by water, insects or UV rays.
Composite
A fence of composite material offers natural colors and multiple surface finishes. Highly durable
and decorative, the fences are virtually maintenance free and resistant to rust and insect
predations. The material is a mix of wood and plastic for fencing that’s very strong and it’s eco-
friendly.
Stone, Brick, Concrete
The most expensive options for privacy fencing are stone, brick or concrete, but the materials
are decorative and highly customizable. The materials represent the epitome for privacy and
offer an enhanced level of safety for children and pets.

Pressure washing makes cleaning fences easy. It’s an excellent solution for removing surface dirt and grime, as long as the fence isn’t too dirty or in ill repair. Pressure washing a fence that needs repairs can create further damage.

Settings

When using a pressure washer, a low to medium spray in a fan pattern is best. It will help avoid any potential damage and it will also aid in preventing streaking. The machines can be used on modern materials, along with wood.

There’s no need to blast the fence with all the power available. A psi of 1500 to 2000 is a good setting for fence washing, along with a 25-degree spray tip. Spring and autumn are good times to wash a fence and ready it for the next season.

Safety First

One of the most important things to remember when washing a fence is to ensure there are no people, pets or plants on the opposite side that will be harmed. For safety’s sake, clear loose debris from the fence and work area. Be sure to close any doors or windows to the home. Covering lawn furniture and yard toys is also a good idea.

Washing the Fence

Most individuals simply turn on the pressure washer and begin spraying down their fence. While that can work if the dirt and grime are very light, manufacturers recommend applying a cleansing agent formulated specifically for the fence type.

Work in small sections at a time and work from the bottom up. Applying a detergent to the entire fence before rinsing isn’t a good idea. The soap will dry, harden, and removing it is much more difficult. Let detergent set for 5 to 10 minutes before rinsing it off.

For tough dirt and stains that aren’t easily removed, use a rotating scrub brush on the end of the pressure sprayer wand. Individuals can then clean as usual, washing in small sections and rinsing before moving to the next area.

Fences for privacy are outstripping those chosen for purely decorative purposes. In an age where street cameras are common and the potential for nosy neighbors never abates, privacy fencing is a popular way for individuals to gain some privacy and control in their own yards.

Stockade

Highly cost-effective, it can be painted or stained and completely blocks the view from others. It can be constructed of multiple types of wood and be installed vertically or horizontally. The fencing is offered in varying heights to accommodate multiple needs.

Board On Board

This is a style of fencing that utilizes alternating boards on the inside and outside of the fence framework. It’s sometimes referred to as offset or shadow box fencing. Each boar overlaps the next board in the design. The spacing of each board will determine if the fence completely blocks the view from outside or if individuals would have to be at just the right angle to glimpse the fenced-in area. It’s a popular option for HOAs, commercial properties and high-end neighborhoods.

Picket Fencing

This isn’t the low level, white picket fencing popularized in old films. Modern picket fencing for privacy is offered in heights up to 6 ft. and is solid with no gaps between boards. The style retains the traditional sharp and pointed caps on the pickets that have been used since the earliest times to deter trespassers. Individuals can also choose pointed caps in Gothic or French Gothic styles to personalize their fence.

Disadvantages of Wood

The disadvantage of stockade fencing is that the “pretty” side will need to face outward. Stockade fencing can block air flow, isn’t conducive to yard ventilation, and can cause heating of the yard. Board on board fencing is an alternative that allows for more air flow. Wood in general has a shorter lifespan compared to other materials. It will require regular maintenance to prevent mold, rotting, and depredations by insects.

Privacy is valued today more than ever and adding a privacy fence to your property also increases the value of your home. A fence is equally valuable if you’re keeping your home or if you plan to put it on the market and a privacy fence provides multiple benefits.

Privacy

Privacy fences are available in an array of materials and designs that prevent people from seeing into your yard. You can even have a fence installed that’s manufactured of modern materials, but mimics the look and texture of real wood or stone. Depending on the material and personal preferences, fencing can be installed vertically or horizontally. Fences also help reduce noise pollution.

Security

In today’s world, security is as desirable as privacy. Fencing for privacy also provides a barrier against unwanted intrusions by people, dangerous domestic animals, and wildlife. It’s an effective way to protect children and pets from harm whether you fence the entire yard or just a specified area.

Homes with fences are more attractive to people with children or pets than non-fenced properties. A fence is a deterrent to people that would enter the property for criminal purposes and privacy fencing can be designed with other preventative measures.

Boundaries

Privacy fencing is an excellent way to mark where your property boundaries begin and end. This is especially important if you happen to have less than cordial neighbors.

Aesthetics

A fence provides curb appeal and aesthetic value when the right fence is matched with the home. Not every fence is appropriate for every type of property. That’s when the services of a professional fencing company are invaluable. They can help you decide what type of fence will complement your home before any work begins.

Windbreak & Shade

Privacy fencing has the added advantage or providing a windbreak. Strong winds can easily blow about lawn furnishings and children’s play equipment. A fence may even provide some shade for play areas, depending on the height.

The ultimate privacy fence is in the eye of the beholder. There are several factors to consider when erecting a privacy fence. It must be high enough so people can’t see over, easy to maintain, and attractive to the eye. It should also be available in multiple styles. Today’s individuals have a myriad of options from which to choose.

SimTek®

SimTek® fencing is highly durable, is an excellent sound barrier and is able to withstand hurricane force winds up to 110 mph and gusts of 130 mph. It’s resistant to graffiti and fading, and has a 25-year warranty. The solid fences are eco-friendly, available in multiple heights, and emulates the look of real wood or stone.

PVC

PVC fencing is a green option that’s able to withstand 100 mph winds and is offered in an array of styles, colors and textures. It’s low maintenance, unaffected by weather, and won’t peel, chip or rot. It also has the Dade County Product Approval Certification and a lifetime warranty.

Wood

When it comes to wood, the most common option is stockade style fencing with solid panels placed side-by-side. An offset pattern is also available. It will typically need to be painted or stained and comes in 6 or 8 ft. panels. Wood fencing can be installed vertically or horizontally.

Aluminum

An aluminum fence can imitate high-end wrought iron. It’s not solid fencing, but can be combined with frosted aluminum panels for privacy. Aluminum requires little maintenance. Many individuals install an aluminum fence and plant hedge bushes on the inside, while others plant vines and let them to twine for a living fence.

Chain Link

Chain link is see-through, but colored panels can be affixed to the fencing so no one can see through it. Offered in multiple heights, hedges and vines are often planted on the inside to create a living barrier to complement the fencing. Primarily used for safety and security, chain link is fairly inexpensive compared to other types of fencing and requires little maintenance.

An increasing number of people are installing privacy fencing and the rationale for doing so has changed significantly from previous years. Individuals still want privacy from prying eyes, but they’re are now installing privacy fences as a means of having more control over their environment. The movement has been attributed to modern devices that track and surveil their every move.

While a phone can still be tracked in the backyard, a privacy fence provides individuals with a greater sense of control, security, and freedom from surveillance. People are associating fencing with values and rights that include freedom of speech, independence, a lack of pressure to perform, and a non-judgmental environment.

Appearance

The top choice for privacy fencing is now SimTek®. One of the most popular features is that the fencing emulates the appearance and texture of real stone or wood. It’s available in multiple colors, enabling individuals to match their fencing to their home’s exterior.

Durability

Living in South Florida means being subjected to conditions encompassing harsh sun rays, saltwater, plentiful rain and humidity, and hurricane force winds. SimTek® fencing is able to withstand sustained winds up to 110 mph and gusts up to 130 mph.

SimTek® fencing is resistant to fading, warping and shrinking. It doesn’t attract insect pests and it’s resistant to mild impacts. Individuals don’t have to worry about their fence being the target of a street artist or vandals with spray paint. The material is resistant to graffiti from commercial spray paint.

Low-Maintenance

No one wants to spend their time checking fences for chips, cracks, loose fittings, mold or mildew. Neither do they want the yearly maintenance of priming, painting or staining. SimTek® eliminates those tasks and it only needs an occasional wash down.

Sound Dampening

Those living in noisy neighborhoods will appreciate the sound dampening properties of SimTek®. While it won’t completely eliminate sounds, it will significantly reduce the amount and level of noise with which people are bombarded.

In a busy world where privacy is at a premium, many people are choosing to install fencing to obtain a bit of privacy from neighbors and the outside world. It’s important to understand that there are a variety of materials that can be utilized to create a privacy fence.

In many instances, the term “privacy fence” simply refers to the ability to see through the fence or over it. Privacy fencing typically has solid panels or boards that are placed close enough together that people can’t see between them. Panels or board aren’t limited to vertical installation. They can be erected in stylish, decorative, horizontal designs.

Most people immediately envision an imposing iron or aluminum fence when they think about their privacy needs. There are multiple decorative fencing materials that can be utilized to create an oasis of privacy, safe away from prying eyes to enjoy time with family and friends.

Wood

Stockade fencing consists of boards that can be placed so closely together that no one can see in. Boards can also be placed in an off-set, alternating pattern that blocks straight-on views. Some wood fencing can be customized in various ways. The disadvantage is that the “pretty” side of the fencing will be facing outward and the view from inside isn’t as appealing.

It’s efficient, but will require a considerable amount of maintenance as wood attracts insects and absorbs water, increasing the risk for rot, mold, mildew, and splitting. Painting or staining is required to keep it looking good and not weathered. Even pressure treated lumber will eventually experience problems.

PVC/Vinyl

The solid panels require little in the way of maintenance other than an occasional pressure wash. It’s available in a wide range of colors, basic PVC styles, and numerous customization options are available for a personal touch. It won’t need staining, painting, and the solid panels last for many years.

SimTek®

The modern material can be crafted to emulate the look of stone or wood and it’s almost maintenance free. The solid panels only require a rinse with a hose or a power washer. SimTek® can be customized in a variety of ways and it’s as appealing on the inside as the exterior.

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.

Privacy is the No. 1 reason why most individuals install a fence and one of the most popular material choices is PVC. Before erecting a privacy fence, it’s important to understand exactly what it does. The short answer is that it conceals property and activities from neighbors and passersby.

A privacy fence enables families and friends to enjoy time together without interruption. It’s also an effective method for concealing vehicles, equipment and other valuable assets from public view. PVC fencing acts as a sound buffer against outdoor noises that disrupts tranquility. The higher the fence, the more sound disruption it provides and PVC fencing is available in a variety of heights.

Privacy fences have many other benefits of which individuals may not be aware. The fencing is an effective and decorative way to keep children and pets contained in their own yard. Conversely, the fencing aids in keeping stray animals, wildlife and trespassers off the property. The fencing can be utilized for vertical gardening for prized specimens or to create a relaxing botanical getaway.

PVC privacy fencing is available in over 30 decorative styles that complement homes and properties. There’s an extensive range of colors from which to choose and it can be obtained in styles that emulate the appearance of real wood or stone. Multiple customization options are available for horizontally or vertical installation.

Durability is a benchmark of PVC. It’s five times stronger than wood and is manufactured with UV inhibitors to prevent fading, yellowing and brittleness. The material is able to withstand severe winds and saltwater, and has the Dade County Product Approval Certification. PVC won’t crack, peel, split, splinter, rot or warp and it’s unappealing to insects.

Warm, humid conditions can lead to algae, mold and mildew growth. PVC is resistant to all of those problems and the material requires a minimum of maintenance. When PVC eventually comes to the end of its considerable lifespan, the eco-friendly material is recyclable and minimal energy and resources are used in its production.

Non-toxic to children and pets, PVC also makes an excellent wind break that enables individuals to enjoy their outdoor spaces even when its breezy. PVC has emerged as one of the market’s most valuable materials for privacy fencing in a wide variety of environments.