A Simple Guide to Buying Pool Fences

Many of us dream of having a home that has a pool in the backyard where kids can play and you can relax after a long day’s work. Unfortunately, pools in homes have become death traps. A lot can be done to minimize pool accidents and one of the most common steps is installation of a suitable fences.

You have a variety of options when it comes to pool fences. From the aluminum panels that are simple to install to the steel fences that are strong and can last a lifetime, there’s so much in store for you. But prior to choosing a pool fence, you have to consider a number of factors.

Glass pool fences

Glass is a common material used in fencing modern pools. The good thing with glass is that it allows you to supervise your kids or pets from afar. But cleaning clear glass can be a tedious affair and hence many home owners stay away glass from pool fences because of their maintenance demands.

Aluminum and steel fencing

Both aluminum and steel are common options used in fencing pools. The advantage of aluminum and steel is that they are both very durable materials that are appealing when used in the pool area. But you’ll need to dedicate some time to maintain your steel fence by sealing it properly so that it doesn’t rust.

Wood fencing

Using wood to fence your pool area can beautify your outdoor space. The only challenge with this material is that it can be hard to maintain. The fact that wooden fences are not transparent may also present a supervision challenge in homes that have kids.

How is pool fencing installed?

Installing a pool fence can be pretty simple depending on the material and type of pool fence you choose. It’s important to get the dimensions right so that you don’t go against the local codes. For instance, the gaps left at the bottom of the fence should not exceed a certain size. Do not attempt to make this type of installation a DIY project unless you have done it before. Make sure you understand the regulations that apply before you begin such a project.

How to maintain your pool fence

The maintenance demands will depend on the type of material that has been used to make the pool fence. Pool fences made using steel will require little maintenance but you have to take proper measures to prevent rust. Glass will need to be cleaned on a regular basis. Wood should never be used in pool fencing as it is prone to water damage that causes decay. 

How to keep the pool area safe

Safety should be your topmost concern when it comes to pool fencing. Pool gates can last more than 5 years if properly installed and well maintained. Avoid leaving items near the fence such as flower pots that can be used by children to climb into the pool area. Make sure no child goes to the pool area unsupervised.

Posted By: Georgia Fence Supply  http://georgiafencesupply.com

Types of Fencing and Its Uses

One of the most distinct features of a home is the fence that surrounds it. The uses of fencing, however, do not only offer privacy or prevent pets from running loose. Many different materials are available to match your unique preferences. This guide will help you determine which materials are best for fencing your yard based on your needs.

Chain Link

This metal material is among the most commonly used to keep pets and children safe within the perimeters of a residential yard. However, both residential and commercial locations use this material for security purposes. Chain link height can be as short as three feet to as tall as six feet. It also has a variety of gauges, and the lower the gauge, the stronger the material.

Typically, chain link is a silver color, with the galvanized zinc covering the metal. However, you can find it in a wide array of colors.

Vinyl

Vinyl fencing is made from PVC. This makes it tougher than other materials, resulting in a higher cost. It also means that it requires less maintenance than traditional materials. Vinyl is often decorative, used for white picket fences around front lawns, adding to the curb appeal. However, more consumers are buying these in larger panels for use for privacy and pool fences.

Wood

This material is used for both decorative and privacy purposes. In addition, if you have a ranch or a farm, then you may decide to use this option for animal containment. Conventionally, you will see pickets made out of either pine, redwood, cedar, or cypress. However, this material can vary depending on the area you live in.

Privacy planks are six to eight feet tall. Decorative options are usually three to four feet tall. Unlike privacy planks, which are all similar in style, decorative pickets can be arched, gothic, dog-eared, flat-topped, or scalloped. Rail versions consist of split rails that are round, board, or square, and they may have some form of mesh attached to them to keep smaller animals in or out.

Aluminum

Aluminum fences are usually used for ornamental or decorative purposes. However, they are durable and require little maintenance. These lightweight alternatives are used in place of wrought iron as they are easier to care for and install. While it might seem like aluminum would easily rust when exposed to the elements, the powder coating over the material keeps it from wearing out too soon. Larger pickets make them stronger, but they are rarely used for security purposes.

Iron

Iron in the form of wrought iron is a traditional form of fencing. In the past, these pieces were made entirely out of iron. However, today there is steel and other substances mixed in, which helps keep the cost down while providing the same durability. Common uses for this type are decorative with ornamental features on the tops of pickets. However, because of its heavy weight, you might find that it works well for security purposes.

Choosing the right material will help your home be the one of your dreams.

Posted By: Georgia Fence Supply  http://georgiafencesupply.com

Why Not Use Chain Link Fencing?

Chain link fencing is a common material whose value is often underestimated, except by those who have actually used it. Chain link fencing has quite a variety of uses both industrially and residentially.

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Contains your pets: If you are wondering how to keep your pets enclosed without, shutting them out of nature then chain link fencing is exactly what you are looking for. You can use the chain link fence to separate play areas for the larger pets and small pets.

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Security: Chain link fences are a great security barrier. You can make the fence height as high as you need it and have the added option of securing it further using electricity. The visual access also makes it easy to identify and stop intruders.

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Safety: Chain link fences give you full visuals of whatever is happening on the other side of the fence. You can watch the kids playing without having to be inside the play area.

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Both temporary and permanent use: You can use chain link fences for temporary enclosures and permanently without affecting much of the natural environment. The design of the chain link fence gives it this unique quality that almost no other fencing material can match.

Durable

Chain link fences are made of galvanized steel with is very sturdy. The design of the chain link also makes it easy for this fence to withstand forceful winds and hurricanes. The steel posts are also stable because they are cemented into the ground.  Once you coat the galvanized steel, it can with stand years of service without failure.

Easy repair and maintenance

In case a part of your chain link fence is damaged from wear and tear or vandalism, you can simply cut it out and replace it with a new strip of fencing. The new steel blends in well with the old fence so you do not need to take down the entire fence. You barely need to do any upkeep on the fence. If you want colors, all you have to do is paint it and repaint it in case the paint starts to chip or fall off with time.

Design

Chain link fencing does not have to be that image of plain and gray steel fences that you often see in construction sites. Today, chain link faces come in a variety of colors and styles. The wire also comes in a variety of thicknesses to give a more unique look. You can also use vegetation such as vines to enhance the appearance of the chain link fence around your home.

Affordable and easy to install

Chain link fences are the most affordable fencing material available in the market today. The chain link fence is very easy to install and you can even turn it into a DIY project. It takes a professional just a matter of minutes or hours to install the fence. The low cost of installation makes it much cheaper than other fencing materials such as wood. Steel is also recyclable making it affordable.

Posted By: Georgia Fence Supply http://georgiafencesupply.com

Electronic Driveway Gates Make Your Entrance Unique

Your home should be as unique as you are.  One way that this can be accomplished is by installing an electronic driveway gate.  Not only do driveway gates offer an unbeatable first impression they offer security, privacy and convenience to homeowners.  Whether you choose an aluminum, wrought iron or wooden entry gate it is an ideal way to finish off your driveway.  You can really give your home the wow factor with the installation of an entry gate.

Using a driveway gate along with a perimeter fence enhances the landscape, promotes security and offers privacy that nothing else can.  Installing flowers and trees enhance the landscape but don't promote security or privacy.  A home alarm or video system promotes security but does nothing to enhance the landscape.  Shrubs and bushes can offer some privacy but do very little for security.  Only perimeter fencing and driveway gates offer your home the luxury of all three.

Perimeter fencing is also beneficial in keeping children and pets within a safe boundary.  This is especially important when you live in a neighborhood or on a busy street with lots of traffic.  The fence is a great barrier marking property boundaries while working to improve the aesthetics of your home.

When you choose a driveway gate for your home you can be confident that the gate you choose is known for its strength and endurance.  This is especially true when you choose aluminum and wrought iron driveway gates.  With the power coating that is applied to both wrought iron and aluminum the gates remain beautiful without much maintenance at all.  They are designed to withstand a variety of climates and can be paired with gate operators intended to do the same.  They also offer a variety of designs, styles and colors to match or compliment fencing and your home's exterior.  

Consider if a swing or slide gate is best for your driveway location.    A swing gate is the most visually appealing.  It however requires a large opening radius depending on the length of the gate.  A sliding gate eliminates that issue and eliminates that issue if space is limited.  The gate opener you choose is dependent upon nothing other than personal preference.  

Both gate options can be paired with several openers.  You can choose from wired or wireless options.  You can choose a battery operated opener, one run on solar power only or on powered by a combination of batteries and solar power.  There are keypad operators with intercoms and keypads, keycard options, remote controls or even using the telephone.  Each option has features that work better for your lifestyle.  

Choosing an electronic entry gate to finish your driveway is a no brainer.  The only real decisions you need to make is what material you will use, what operator you desire and which entry control system will be the most convenient for your needs.
Author: Leeanne Kunnert

Posted by Georgia Fence Supply http://georgiafencesupply.com/

Four Tips To Consider When Choosing A Fence For Your Home

Define the purpose for the fence: Why are you looking into fencing in the first place?  Are you
looking to add privacy, visual appeal, perimeter fencing to keep young children and pets in or to
provide a barrier from your pool.  

Fencing comes in a variety of materials: wood, aluminum, wrought iron, chain link, vinyl and many
more.  Given the right material and correct installation a fence can be a key piece of landscaping
that increases your homes property value.  Let the answer to the question above be the guide to
the material you choose.  Prioritize your needs for a fence over your wants.  

Aluminum fencing tends to work well for a variety of situations and is incredibly pleasing to the
eye.  The decorative touches, such as finials and butterfly scrolls, in aluminum fence offer an
elegance not found in other types of fencing.  It is often the required choice by homeowners
associations.  

Consider the maintenance required to maintain the fence: Ask yourself how much time and money you
are willing to spend to maintain your fence.  

Wooden fences require regular maintenance.  Fencing needs to be power washed every couple of
years and either painted or stained.  Aluminum and vinyl require very little maintenance which
tends to be an appealing option to many homeowners.  To clean vinyl or aluminum fencing all that
is required is a gentle water rinse, wiping down any areas that are stained or covered in algae.  


Research local city and neighborhood fencing regulations: What rules are in place?  Does your
homeowners association require a certain height or type of material with the installation of a
fence?  What are the local city ordinances; this is especially important when it comes to fencing
around your swimming pool. 

If there are rules in place that specify the use of a certain material in your fencing you don't
have much choice.  Many HOA's require aluminum fencing as it is elegant and withstands a variety
of severe weather conditions.  HOA's stipulate specific rules for homeowners in certain
neighborhoods to maintain the subdivisions visual appeal. 

Hire a professional fence contractor to install your fence: Research professional fencing
contractors that install fences in your area.  

Many fences can be installed by do it yourself homeowners however if often shows in the end
product.  A contractor that specializes in the installation of fencing is your best bet for a
quality end result.  It is too expensive to buy materials for your new fence only to ruin the
aesthetics of it with poor installation.


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Posted By: Georgia Fence Supply http://georgiafencesupply.com

How to Choose a Reputable Fence Installer

Information and questions to help you in your selection:

1) Does the contractor maintain a commercial place of business?
Seek a fence installer with experience and references. Be aware that many contractors pose as professionals, yet they work out of their homes or garages. This type of contractor may not be available to service your product once it is installed. Research your installer as closely as you research the product that is to be installed. Feel free to contact your local area Better Business Bureau to obtain a report on the potential fence installer, fence contractor or business.

2) Does the fence contractor install and service his fencing using his employees or does he subcontract out to others?
Choosing a fence contractor who utilizes his own employees is important because an employee is governed by the company who employees him. This type of working relationship is more beneficial due to the fact that most reputable fence companies will train all employees "in house" and have total control over all shipping dates, materials used and days and times in which jobs are scheduled. There is better communication in selecting a fence company that installs its own jobs. The fence installer you select should be able to give you a complete time table for your job. Fence contractors who "sub" out their work do not always have good control over the sub as the subcontractor schedules his own work at his convenience. Many times a sub will perform several jobs at one time. Depending on how they rank your job will depend on where you fall amongst their work schedule.

3) Does the contractor back up his work by a written guarantee?
It is the norm of the fence industry to provide a residential customer with a written one year labor warranty.

4) How long has the installer / company been in operation?
Find out if the installer has the experience needed in your specific product and make sure they specialize in fence installation. Be advised that a "jack of all trades" may not possess the proper knowledge needed to tackle the installation of certain types of fencing.

5) Is the potential fence installer licensed, bonded, and insured?
a. What is a license and why is it important that your installer possess one? A reputable installer, company, or contractor should always be licensed in the cities that he works in. A license acts as work permit. It means that he has filled out the proper paperwork and paid the cities fees in order to legally work in your city. It is just another step in dealing with a reputable person. The city screens its candidates and makes sure that they do not have previous violations.

b. What does it mean to be bonded and insured and why is this important to me? It is important to seek a professional that has the proper coverage and that has taken the time to be accredited in your city. Choosing a contractor who is licensed in your city means that they do not have any outstanding violations.

c. Does the individual you are considering possess knowledge of the fence regulations and codes which are in place within your city or township. All fence regulations must be followed in order to avoid potential hazards.

6) Are references available upon request?
For your own protection take the time to speak to existing customers and also take the time to view the potential contractors' work.

7) What type of work ethic does this installer possess?
Can you get a specific time frame as to delivery of materials, days and times of installation, length of time for installation? Some fence systems may be installed the same day whereas other fence systems take two separate days for installation. Make sure you get a thorough explanation as to the time frame expected to install your particular type of fencing. For your own protection make sure you get all the details.

8) Be leery of an installer who is asking for all the money up front.
Most reputable installers will seek half down and the balance upon satisfactory completion of his work. Other individuals will seek thirty percent, upon post setting, with the balance becoming due upon satisfactory completion of his work. Work out the terms of payment or payment schedule prior to commencement of work on your project!

9) Does this fence installer use concrete to set the fence posts?
If yes, how long does he allow the concrete to "set" prior to returning to finish the job? It is standard practice in the fence industry to set all chain link posts, ornamental aluminum, steel, iron, wood fence systems, and vinyl in concrete footers. The exception to the rule is if these fence systems are to be utilized in situations where the fencing will be mounted between pillars. Many split rail fence systems are tamped in dirt footers but even in this setting the gate posts are generally concreted. Assess your situation carefully and select the method which best accommodates your setting. It is obvious that a fence system installed in concrete footers will hold up longer than one that is not.

Posted By: Georgia Fence Supply http://georgiafencesupply.com

What’s the Right Fence for you?

Not everyone dreams of a white picket fence. Some people have dreams of sturdy steel fences towering over their yards. If you are in the search for a fence that suits your home, there are several things that you need to consider when making your choice.

Utility

You need to ask yourself what you need from your fence before you can make the choice to buy one. Some people install fences merely for ornamental purposes, while others are looking to secure their property and mark their boundaries. Granted, most if not all fences can serve these purposes. However, you need to be really clear on what you require because some fences will serve one of these purposes better than the others. A sturdy aluminum fence for instance will not only mark your boundaries (as would a wooden fence), but also keep intruders away and secure your property even when you are not at home.

Neighborhood

For purposes of remaining in tandem with the rest of your neighbors, you must consider what the popular fence in the neighborhood is. Deviating from this could hurt your investment and the value of your home. Of course, you should not choose something just because your neighbors are choosing it. However, in many instances, circumstances will demand that you choose a style that agrees with the overall style of the neighborhood.

Maintenance needs

Do you want a fence that will require regular maintenance or one which will be good to go for several years without you ever needing to pay it attention? If you choose the latter, you will be wise to stay away from wooden fences. There are particular fences that require constant painting and polishing, while other fences do not require much care.

Budget

Of course, when choosing a fence, you have to consider what your options are as far as your budget allows. Some fences are more expensive than others. Fortunately, there are cheaper alternatives of fences that are available, which mimic the materials that you may have initially had in mind.

Style

Your own style matters when choosing a fence. A fence should complement your home, besides being functional. If you own a home that is akin to a majestic castle, there are some fences that will just not work for this type of home. There is also the option of having your fence custom made just for you, so your can incorporate your own personal touch. You can even choose to get a live fence, if you prefer such fences that make use of shrubbery and trees.

A fence, when selected carefully, will add character to a home, secure your property, mark your boundaries, discourage trespassers and even stop your pets from straying. There are many different types of fences available to choose from, and different manufacturers and suppliers making these available at your convenience.

Before getting a fence installed, take time to decide what you really want and need. Once you have the fence up, it will be difficult and costly to bring it down and replace it with something else, so be careful when making that decision.

Posted By: Mark Hitchcock  http://georgiafencesupply.com/