Installing a fence doesn’t mean that people have to give up on greenery. There are a variety of plantings that complement fences. The most common reason people want plants next to their fence is to camouflage it, particularly if it’s chain link fencing.

However, individuals may also want to hide fencing that has become weather worn, if they don’t want to paint or stain it, or if they don’t want to replace it. There are numerous plants that enable people to hide their fence and enjoy a wealth of blossoms using the fencing as a support.

Vines

When it comes to fences, vines are the most often selected solution, especially those that twine rather than lean. Bleeding heart vine is a fast grower with white or red flowers but it’s not a rampant grower. The Queen’s Wreath Vine produces cascading purple flowers, blooms off and on all summer, but needs trimming to keep in contained. Pandora vine has pale pink flowers with a rose-colored center, light scent, and can be trained to form a small bush.

Bushes and Hedges

A unique choice near fences are cycads. They’ve been around since the time of the dinosaurs, come in a multitude of sizes, shapes and heights, along with a distinctive appearance. They’re highly valued for their attractiveness, rarity and add value to properties. These descendants of ancient species are sure to cause a sensation.

Hibiscus, which includes Rose of Sharon, loves the South Florida climate. They’re tolerant of heat, humidity, poor soil, air pollution and drought. Flower colors include red, blue, lavender, pink, white and bi-colors. They’re available in single and double flowering varieties.

Small Trees

People that prefer small trees to hide their fence can choose from Jelly King Crab that grows to 13 ft., redbud that grows to 10 ft., wintersweet that can grow up to 15 ft., and dwarf chestnut oaks that grow to a maximum of 20 ft. Many varieties produce blossoms in colors ranging from red and pink to yellow and white, and provide a source of food for birds, bees and butterflies.

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.

Florida is home to a great diversity of animals and it’s also legal to keep a variety of exotic animals, provided individuals obtain the proper class of permit that’s determined by the state. Owning an exotic animal comes with the responsibility to provide it with appropriate living conditions. To accomplish that, a fence is often required to ensure the safety of people and the animal.

Mental and Physical Benefits

Fenced enclosures provide a variety of mental and physical benefits for the animals. Trying to keep even smaller exotic pets cooped up in a home without enough room to exercise is bad for their mental and emotional health. Being able to move around through the use of a fenced-in area aids in preventing mental and emotional issues.

In the wild, much of the animals’ energy goes into hunting and surviving. When kept in a domestic environment, they have enough to eat and don’t have to hunt. That energy may often be channeled into undesirable mischief if they don’t get enough exercise. A fenced enclosure enables exotic pets to obtain the exercise they need to aid in warding off undesirable behaviors.

Type of Enclosure

The type of enclosure required for an exotic animal can vary widely depending on the animal. Shy animals and those that are easily upset may need a solid fence to prevent anxiety problems. Some exotics are climbers or fliers and any fencing option will need to include a mesh canopy over the top to keep them contained.

For those that dig and root in the soil, there are specialized fencing options with underground cables. Some exotic animals are excellent jumpers. Fencing is available in multiple heights that can be installed to discourage even the most accomplished jumpers.

Tiger Tested, Tiger Tough

Zepco Fence is a leader in exotic animal fencing. We can create and install any type of exotic animal fence to accommodate multiple needs and requirements. We’ve designed and installed security fences for two big cat sanctuaries and our unique design has been adopted by the State of Florida Department of Wildlife Management.

Erecting a fence on your property is more complicated than you may anticipate. There are legal regulations that must be adhered to and permits that will be required. However, the process of installing a fence all begins with knowing the exact location of your property lines.

Installing a fence without knowing where your property lines are can result in legal action by adjacent land owners. Without that knowledge, you can easily find yourself responsible for removing and relocating your freshly erected fence. It can also affect your ability to insure your home.

Check Your Deed

The deed to your property will have a legal description of your property and its boundaries. Older deeds may not include the information and will refer you to an older document. However, older documents may reference landmarks or other features that don’t exist any longer.

Plat Map

A plat map is a document that defines property lines and includes data about structures, elevations, and bodies of water. A plat map may be included as part of your deed and if not, you can view it at the city or county assessor’s office or online in some locales.

Perform a Survey

One of the easiest ways to determine exactly where your property lines are is to have a new survey performed. It’s a very precise measurement that identifies where all existing boundaries are located. The cost of a survey will vary among companies licensed to do the task.

Stakes and Markers

When a survey of your property was made, the survey company will have left a wooden stake or metal marker to mark the boundaries. If that marker is still available, you can tell where your property lines lie. The markers may be flush with the ground or sticking up several inches above the ground.

Size really does matter – especially when it comes to the gate on a fence. Most people assume that a gate should simply be as large as the driveway, but there are a myriad of other factors to consider. It may seem like a simple decision, but it’s not. A professional fencing company can help with determining the appropriate size.

The primary problem with gates is that many individuals think a smaller gate provides better privacy or security, only to discover that they can barely get their car through the entryway. That doesn’t even count large mowers, boats, campers, and other types of recreational vehicles.

Common gate sizes range from 10 to 16 feet and custom sizes are available. Ordinarily, a gate should be a few inches wider than the driveway. However, that will need to be altered if a homeowner has a very small driveway or owns a large pickup truck, one with dual wheels, or a wide variety of large equipment, trailers, or RVs.

Smaller gates will cost less and be less expensive to maintain. Single and double gates are available, but a double gate will require additional room to swing open to its widest point.  Gates should always swing inward toward the property rather than outward toward traffic and sidewalks. Sliding gates are also an option and are particularly effective for those with commercial properties or large vehicles.

Even if homeowners don’t currently own an RV, boat or other vehicle, it’s a future consideration for which they should plan. As families change over the years, so do the vehicles they purchase and the recreational options they may choose.

Something else for homeowners to consider is any restrictions on height, width or style. Homeowners associations often enact restrictions. Communities may have their own guidelines. That’s why it’s a good idea to hire a professional fencing company rather than attempting a DIY project. The company will be cognizant of local regulations, be able to obtain all the required permits, and help clients select the right size gate for their fencing needs.

From scam artists and porch pirates to intruders, people are giving more thought to installing security measures for their homes. Some individuals choose to install selected methods, while others opt to have a full security system installed with all the bells and whistles. Individuals can also choose to transform their abode into a smart home that can be programmed, controlled from smartphones, and include a video feed.

Alarms

An alarm can and should be installed on all doors and windows. Homeowners can choose from wired systems that are integrated into a home’s electrical system, wireless systems that utilize radio frequencies, and unmonitored types that will emit audible/visual signals and are dependent upon reliable cellular reception.

Cameras

Many individuals choose to install cameras and that includes doorbell cameras. They’re an excellent deterrent and can even provide a means to prosecuting offenders. Cameras can be installed as part of an overall security system or independent models can be selected that constantly records.

Fencing

Attractive and effective fencing is available that will make intruders think twice before trying to enter a property. Fencing can encompass a wide variety of options, materials, and heights that combine beauty with functionality, though the most widely utilized is chain link.

Lights

Illuminating a property is a definite deterrent to would-be burglars that like to work in the dark. Homeowners can choose to light specific areas of their property with illumination that automatically turns on when a specific level of darkness is achieved. Motion sensor lighting is also effective and turn on anytime movement is detected.

Locks

There are a great many types of locks that can be installed on homes for elevated security. Deadbolts are effective, but individuals need to ensure that their door frames and hinges are strong. The most popular locks are electronic that requires a code to activate.

Safe Room

A safe room provides people with a secure place to shelter should an intruder enter the home. Depending upon the circumstances, it can also provide a safe place to ride out a tornado or avoid the air-borne debris of a hurricane if people aren’t able to evacuate.

A homeowner’s association (HOA) can be a blessing or a distinct disadvantage, depending upon what it is that an individual wants to do with their property. For those that desire uniformity, an HOA provides very specific rules about every aspect of the home and surrounding environment. For individuals that want a little more leeway in what’s in their yard, fencing panels are the ideal solution for concealing things of which an HOA may not approve.

There are many things that an HOA can’t tell residents they can’t have, but depending upon the HOA agreement, individuals may be required to have them out of sight. Features considered an eyesore by an HOA can be camouflaged with fencing panels – just make sure they meet the rules set forth by the HOA in terms of height, material, and color. Don’t erect fence panels without the pre-approval of the HOA. Panels are effective for concealing:

• Air Conditioning Units
• Certain Plants
• Clothesline
• Electrical Boxes
• Electric Car Charging Stations
• Generators
• Lawn Furniture
• Outbuildings
• Satellite Dishes
• Solar Panels
• Toys
• Trash Bins

Out of Sight, Out of Mind

There are many things that an HOA doesn’t want to see and may view as a detraction to the overall plan of the community, even if those items are allowed or essential to the operation of homes – such as electrical boxes. There are dozens of fencing options that can assist individuals to camouflage things that an HOA wants to keep out of sight.

Fencing doesn’t need to encompass an entire property to be effective. Individual panels can be strategically placed to conceal virtually any type of undesirable feature. Modern fencing materials can emulate the look of high-end stone, granite, and wood to provide an elegant appearance that blends tastefully with local surroundings.

Individuals can select from aluminum, PVC, wood, chain link, and SimTek® fencing materials. There are dozens of options for screens to hide unsightly items within a yard. They can also offer a handy foundation for trailing or climbing plants for those that enjoy gardening.

PVC fencing has become a popular option for residential environments where sturdiness and beauty are equally important. An increasing number of businesses are using PVC fencing due to its carefree nature and durability. In many areas, home and business owners are choosing it over chain link or wood to accommodate a variety of needs ranging from privacy to security.

Pros

• PVC fencing is very low maintenance. It doesn’t have to be stained or painted and can be kept looking new with a simple rinse with a garden hose.
• The fencing remains unaffected by weather and won’t fade from UV rays.
• It won’t peel, chip, rot or splinter.
• The fencing won’t stain or become discolored even when it’s exposed to salt water.
• PVC fencing is unattractive to insects and is resistant to unsightly fungus.
• There are over 30 different unique and decorative styles from which to choose, it’s available in a myriad of colors, and there are numerous options for customization.
• PVC fencing is nearly five times stronger than the average wood fence.
• The material is recyclable and environmentally friendly.
• It won’t burn in the event of a fire.
• PVC fencing is non-toxic.
• Best of all, PVC fencing is a more cost effective alternative than concrete, brick or stone.

Despite all of its advantages, no fencing material is perfect. PVC fencing does have some disadvantages.

Cons

PVC is more expensive than wood.

Despite the many textures and styles available that give the appearance of stone or brick, when viewed up close, people can still determine that it’s a synthetic material.

PVC does expand and contract with fluctuations in temperatures, which means it can begin to become brittle toward the end of its 20-30 year lifespan.

Multiple Options

Individuals considering a fence should speak with a fencing professional. The options available will surprise most people. The experts can provide individuals with information on all the different materials, the advantages and disadvantages of each, and help clients choose the right fencing for their needs and budget.

A fence can function in a variety of capacities, from minimizing street noise to containing children and pets. It’s important to ensure the chosen fencing contractor is qualified, cognizant of local fence rules and ordinances, and that individuals have some idea of what type of fence they want.

It’s never a good idea for a fence to become a DIY project. It can conceivably require the better part of the summer to complete, while a qualified fencing company can perform the required work in a day or so, depending upon the area to be fenced. There are a myriad of steps individuals can take to facilitate the process.

1. Reason for Fencing

Clients should know why they want a fence. It could be for privacy, security, beautification, to minimize road noise, establish boundaries, or safety. Those factors will impact the type of fencing and materials selected.

2. Type of Fencing

Individuals have a wide range of fencing options and innovative materials from which to choose. Some are better for specific uses, while others are multi-functional. The fencing should blend with existing architecture, features, and aesthetic concerns.

3. Multiple Estimates

Don’t agree to the first estimate received. Optimally, individuals should obtain three estimates. It will allow clients to select the combination of pricing, quality, materials, and installation that best fits their individual needs.

4. Estimators

Even with an online estimate, at some point an estimator will make an on-site visit to view the area to be fenced. Make the estimator aware of any slopes, obstructions, adjoining fences, and access to the work site that could affect cost and installation time.

5. Pertinent Questions

It’s essential that clients ask if the company will obtain needed permits, knows local zoning regulations, and any setback requirements. The company should also be responsible for contacting utility companies to identify underground lines.

If the area has a slope, clients need to know if the fencing will be uniformly the same height or if it will vary according to the slope. Make sure any hardware is included in the price, the installation timeline, and the fine details of warranties and guarantees.

6. Red Flags

Once individuals have performed their research and narrowed their contractor choices to three, there are some red flags of which individuals should be aware. Pass on a contractor that:

• Refuses to provide a written estimate
• Utilizes pressure tactics for clients to make an immediate decision
• Requires cash payments only