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.

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.

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.

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.

Individuals have so many options to think about and consider when they decide to install a fence – and soil type typically isn’t one of them. The truth is that the type of soil will have a definite impact on the installation process of any fence. It’s just one of the many reasons that professional fence installers typically like to perform an on-site examination of the area to be fenced.

Florida has many different types of soil and they can vary significantly over relatively small areas. Professional fencers typically set fence posts in concrete, but it’s important for individuals to understand the soils involved and how it will impact the cost and time it will take to erect the fence.

Clay

Soil comprised of clay is often likened to concrete when its dry. Clay soils are dense, difficult to work with, but tend to hold fence posts solidly in place. It may need to be moistened to make it malleable to digging. The problem with clay is that it tends to shrink when it dries out and that can affect the appearance of the fence.

Sand

A soil with a high concentration of sand is far from ideal for installing a fence. The only real solution for erecting a fence in sandy soil is to embed fence posts in concrete.

Rock and Gravel

A certain amount of rocks and gravel in the soil can aid in providing stability to a fence. However, it’s a soil type that adds an extra level of difficulty when digging fence post holes, even for powered post hole diggers.

Silt

This soil type is very easy to work with for installation. However, it can cause substantial problems when it becomes saturated after heavy rains. Silt can take on a more fluid consistency that doesn’t bode well for fence stability.

Peat

Individuals that have peaty soil or reside near areas that tend to be wet or damp may experience a lot of difficulty when installing a fence. The soil provides little support and even concrete footings for fence posts may not be sufficient.

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.

There are many reasons why you might want to erect a fence on your property and the reason you want a fence will have a significant impact on the type of fencing that’s selected. It’s a good idea to consult with a fencing professional before making any decisions.

There’s an array of new fencing options of which you may not be aware that are beautiful and effective alternatives to traditional materials. What you want to accomplish with the fence will also be important. The following are the top five reasons that you may want to consider adding a fence to your landscape.

Boundaries

Fencing is an excellent way to establish boundaries and prevent trespassing. Accidental trespassing is quite common. Fences are also effective in deterring incursions by neighbors that don’t respect property lines.

Curb Appeal

Whether you’re planning on selling your home or living in it for many years, you may want to erect a fence for the beautification factor. In those instances, the aesthetics of the materials and design are of paramount importance to frame the property and display it to its best advantage. Fences are also great for concealing unattractive elements on the property ranging from generators and air conditioning units to trash cans and utility boxes.

Safety

A fence is an excellent safety measure if you have children or pets, providing them with a safe space to play. It keeps them from accidentally wandering into outdoor dangers such as pools, ponds, cliffs, and dangerous embankments.

Security

Whether it’s teens using your yard as a shortcut or an individual intent on burglary or other mayhem, a fence provides a security barrier. Fences also keep dangerous wildlife or domestic animals from wandering into the yard.

Privacy

The distance between homes is decreasing and privacy is at a premium. A fence prevents neighbors and passersby from peering into your yard or eavesdropping on conversations. Fencing frees families and enables them to be themselves while outdoors.