A multitude of fence design options are available and choosing just one can be difficult. The first step is deciding the purpose for which the fence is being erected. With the wide range of materials available, it’s possible to combine form and function into stunning fencing that serves it’s intended purpose and enhances property value.

Depending on the usage, individuals can fence all or a portion of their property. Homeowners can choose from wood, aluminum, chain link, PVC and SimTek® materials. Fencing is offered in multiple colors and varying heights to accommodate multiple requirements. Individuals can also select fencing that emulates the appearance of wood and stone.

Kids Safety

Children are naturally curious. A solid fence is an ideal way to keep them safely contained within a specific area and secure from prying eyes. Chain link is an effective barrier, but doesn’t provide a decorative element or prevent others from seeing in.

Noise Buffer

A solid fence is an effective noise barrier to reduce the sound of traffic and that of nearby neighbors. An added advantage is that it reduces the amount of sound emitted to neighbors and passersby. Some materials are more effective than others.

Pets

The most often used fencing for dog containment is chain link and it can be equipped with an underground cable for dogs that dig. Solid fencing is particularly beneficial for canines that are overly excited by outside stimuli. Chain link can be fitted with a special tarp to block the dog’s view, but lacks aesthetic value.

Privacy

A solid fence prevents others from seeing in and can be highly decorative. It’s equally effective for entire properties or just to enclose a family area.

Security

Chain link is great for security, but isn’t very decorative. Aluminum provides security and an aesthetically appealing appearance. Solid fencing materials can be an equally effective barrier and prevent intruders from finding handholds with which to climb over.

Wind Barrier

SimTek® is an excellent wind barrier that can withstand sustained hurricane force winds up to 110 mph. It’s durable, environmentally-friendly, isn’t damaged by salt water or UV rays, and is almost maintenance free.

It doesn’t matter whether you live in a city, near the ocean or in a pastoral environment, gaining even a modicum of privacy is getting more difficult to achieve every day. The solution is as simple as contacting a professional fence installation company. They can introduce you to options of which you may be unaware and help you select the fencing that best fits your needs and budgetary concerns.

Materials

You can choose from materials ranging from SimTek® and PVC to wood, chain link and aluminum. Modern manufacturing processes have created fencing materials that emulate the appearance of wood, stone and granite. There are materials that are almost maintenance-free, resistant to graffiti and impacts, and absorbs sound for quiet living. There are also fencing materials that can withstand hurricane-force winds, are eco-friendly, and are resistant to fading and damage from saltwater.

Style

Traditionalists can choose from vertical selections that include stockade, chain link with slats and screens, and PVC in a multitude of textures, colors and styles. One of the advantages of hiring a professional fence installer is that they can create any design you can envision.

You can choose from designs that combine wood and polished sheet metal, bamboo, alternating panels of wood and decorative PVC, and even fences of lattice panels. Wood and metal grid fences that employ glazed glass panels are popular for larger spaces. Horizontal fencing, along with those constructed from uneven boards, are two of the most popular trending styles.

Beauty and Functionality

Installing a patio or garden enables you to enjoy uninterrupted time with family and friends. A fence prevents nosy neighbors and passersby from seeing into your yard. Privacy fences are also handy for shielding youngsters from prying eyes and excitable puppies and dogs from outside influences. They’re decorative, beautify your outdoor spaces, and can even be utilized for vertical gardening.

Installing a fence around your home or business may seem like a productive way to spend the weekend, but it’s no walk in the park. There are multiple factors that will determine exactly how the fence will be erected, from the type of soil that’s in the yard to any sloping of the land – and then there are permits. It’s wise to engage a professional fencing company for a myriad of reasons.

The Right Fence

There are so many different types of fences and materials from which to choose, it’s easy to become overwhelmed. A professional fencing company will take the time to consult with potential customers and help them ascertain which fence is right for their particular needs, whether it’s safety, security, privacy or some other purpose.

Legal Issues

Every municipality has its own rules and regulations about the height and appearance of fencing. Those guidelines can be even more stringent for individuals that are part of a homeowner’s association. Failure to comply with prevailing standards can result in legal issues and orders to alter or remove the fence completely.

Permits are part of those rules and regulations. A professional fence installer will know the permits that need to be obtained before work can begin and be able to pull them quickly and efficiently. In many instances, professionals are also cognizant of the standards in the area where the fence will be erected.

Save Time and Money

Proper installation of fencing requires more than a shovel or a posthole digger. Equipment can be rented, but it can be extremely expensive and the average individual may not be able to operate it effectively. Professional installers have all the equipment needed and are experienced in its usage.

Value and Aesthetics

A properly installed fence increases property values, looks great, and increases curb appeal. The work will be completed quickly and to all specifications. Quality products are used and the installation is performed correctly the first time.

A fenced-in yard has aesthetic appeal and can provide an important safety enhancement. However, there are any number of reasons that you may want to install a fence or you may have multiple reasons. It’s essential that you know what purpose the fence will serve before contacting a professional. That knowledge will help you choose the type of fencing, the optimal materials for your specific needs, and get an idea of the cost.

Reason for the Fence

It doesn’t matter whether you’re living on a farm or in suburbia, before you can choose fencing that accommodates your requirements, you’ll need to know why you need or want the fence. Common reasons include establishing safe boundaries for children and pets or to deny access to stray animals and wildlife.

You may want a fence to create a more secure environment, for purely decorative purposes to enhance visual appeal, or establish boundaries with neighbors. Once you determine why you want or need a fence, you can move on to other considerations.

Cost

The cost of fencing varies widely depending on the area to be fenced and the materials chosen. You have multiple options encompassing chain link, wood, aluminum, PVC and SimTek®.

Maintenance Requirements

If you’re not fond of the thought of making regular fence inspections, arduous cleaning tasks, painting or other maintenance chores, there’s a fencing material for you. Conversely, if you have plenty of time and don’t mind spraying for insects, staining or waterproofing your fence, there are also options.

Climate Considerations

The climate in South Florida can be unkind to certain types of fencing materials due to varying weather and climate conditions. Fencing is available that won’t burn should a fire occur and is especially beneficial if you live in an area at risk for forest fires. You can choose eco-friendly fencing materials, those that won’t warp or deteriorate under the sun’s UV rays, and even materials that can withstand hurricane-force winds.

Be Neighborly

You’ll definitely want to talk with neighbors before erecting a fence. Depending on the prevailing rules and regulations, they may be responsible for a portion of the upkeep. You also don’t want to install a fence that intrudes on their pristine view.

A fence can be installed to meet an extensive number of needs, but the No. 1 reason is typically to obtain an enhanced level of privacy. There are numerous reasons why a fence for privacy makes sense and there are multiple materials from which to choose.

Homes are being built closer together, making it even more difficult to enjoy family activities away from prying eyes. Fencing also provides a safer haven for children to play without coming to the attention of the unscrupulous. Certain types of pets are at an elevated risk of being stolen. A privacy fence is also a good idea to keep valuable equipment and recreational aspects from sight.

How Much Privacy?

A major consideration before erecting a fence is how much privacy is desired. Individuals that want to be able to still see their surroundings on the other side of the fence can choose one with alternating panels. Those that want complete privacy to sunbathe or let children and pets roam the property safe from the eyes of others will want to install a solid fence.

Fence Height

The height of the barrier will depend on several criteria. There may be local ordinances that preclude placing a fence at the desired height. Those living in close proximity to other homes won’t have the same amount of privacy if the house next door is a two-story structure.

Conversely, a fence won’t stop people from cutting across the property, picking prize roses, or stray animals from coming on the property if the fence isn’t high enough. Individuals may also need to obtain the approval of neighbors that directly adjoin the property. Before installing a fence, it’s best to check local zoning and ordinances.

Maintenance

Some fences aren’t a “one-and-done” solution. They require regular inspection and maintenance if they’re to serve their purpose. Wood will need to be painted or stained to prevent weathering and the material is attractive to insects. There are newer fencing materials that can withstand hurricane-force winds and simply need to be rinsed down with a hose to keep their good looks while providing multiple privacy options.

Privacy and beauty aren’t mutually exclusive with the modern fencing options available. There are multiple materials and styles of fencing that are fully capable of meeting both requirements and each comes with its own range of additional benefits.

Chain Link

Chain link fencing is typically known for its security benefits, but it can also provide privacy and beauty when paired with climbing vines or shrubbery. There are also privacy slats designed specifically for chain link that effectively blocks the view from the outside of the fencing. The slats are available in an array of different colors to accommodate any property stylings. The slats are resistant to UV rays and adverse weather conditions for a colorful and tasteful privacy solution.

PVC/Vinyl

Available in a myriad of colors, styles, and textures, it’s sturdy and durable. The fencing has a wide variety of customization options, requires little or no maintenance, and it’s resistant to weather, UV rays, and hurricane condition winds. With over 30 decorative options from which to choose, it’s a stylish way to obtain much needed privacy and doesn’t splinter, rot, chip or peel.

SimTek®

One of the most aesthetically pleasing options, SimTek® is also an eco-friendly material that provides the realistic look, texture, and appearance of wood, stone or granite. It provides the beauty that individuals want and creates a solid wall of privacy that’s also maintenance free. SimTek® is a highly effective barrier for muffling sounds and has a superior wind rating. It’s engineered to withstand wind gusts of up to 115 mph.

Wood

A wood fence is no longer the plain stockade type fence of the past. Today’s wood fences feature a wide variety of decorative touches encompassing lattice work, panels accentuated with a wrought iron style metal, and custom designs. Multiple types of wood are available from which to choose, ranging from cypress and redwood to cedar and even bamboo.

Fences are wonderful constructions that provide privacy, security, buffer outside noises, and beautify properties. They can look great for many years, but they’re also prone to some common problems of which people may not be aware until they occur. The following are the top 5 most common fence problems individuals may experience.

Sagging and Leaning

Many fencing materials are susceptible to sagging and leaning, particularly if it was a DIY installation. Fences that are erected in locations subject to high winds are at an increased risk of problems. Poor drainage and other soil conditions can rot and weaken fence posts, making them unable to support the weight of the fence.

Mold and Mildew

Both situations result in unsightly stains that ruin the appearance. Depending upon the material used, it can eventually lead to the degradation of the posts and fence.

Insects

There are multiple types of insect pests that will attack wood fencing. Their boring and breeding habits leave the wood vulnerable to the elements and rot. When they tire of the fence, they may move on to houses and outbuildings.

Boards, Pickets and Panels

Wind, insects, falling limbs, and failing hardware are all problems that can result in the loss of fence boards, pickets and panels.

Property Lines, Laws and Neighbors

Those three ingredients can cause more problems with fencing than all the others combined. It’s essential that individuals know exactly where their property lines are before any fence installation can commence. There are numerous rules, regulations and laws that will apply to fences ranging from heights, materials and styles depending where an individual is located. Permits will need to be obtained prior to installation.

It’s always a good idea to let neighbors know a fence will be going up. They may have a laundry list of concerns, complaints and objections since they may be responsible for a portion of its upkeep.

Hire a Professional

The top 5 problems with fencing are all reason to hire a professional fence installer. They can’t prevent disputes with neighbors, but they can help with selecting the best fencing for the client’s needs, will be cognizant of local fence regulations, and can obtain needed permits. A fencing expert can even assist individuals in determining where their property line lies and is experienced in installations in all types of soils.

One of the most common reasons for erecting a fence is to provide a greater sense of privacy and individuals have a wealth of options from which to choose. Fencing provides an immediate barrier to prying eyes.

Fences for privacy are available in multiple materials that include wood, aluminum, PVC, and SimTek®. There’s a fencing solution to accommodate multiple requirements. The fencing options available today provide exceptional durability and require little maintenance. Some fencing materials can even withstand hurricane-force winds, an important consideration in Florida.

Aluminum

The metal is strong, durable, and can be fashioned into any shape or style desired. It’s available in multiple colors and finishes to complement any landscape or environment.

PVC

The fencing is offered in a myriad of styles and colors. Built with a concern for the environment, it’s unaffected by weather or UV rays, and available in multiple heights. It can be erected in solid panels and can withstand most severe winds without damage.

SimTek®

Durability and style are the benchmarks of SimTek® fencing. It successfully emulates the appearance of wood and stone, while providing a low maintenance privacy barrier. It’s impact-resistant and offered in a wide variety of colors, styles and textures.

Wood

Individuals have dozens of choices for their wood fencing ranging from pine to cedar. The most common type of wood fencing for privacy is the stockade fence. Each panel fits tightly against the next for a solid barrier. Offset fencing is another style, also known as shadow box fencing, created by alternating boards. It can only be seen through if someone is looking at a certain angle.

Ask the Professionals

It’s best to consult with a fencing professional first. He/she will be knowledgeable about any rules or regulations governing fencing and will be able to obtain the needed permits. A professional will be able to assist with choosing the type of fencing that best fits the needs and budget of the individual.