Category Archives: How-To Guide

Aluminum Fencing: Doing It Your Self from Beginning to End

There are a number of home improvement projects that no one would recommend you take on from start to finish without hiring a professional however, installing an aluminum fence is!

Don’t let the size of the project and materials to turn you off.  I know many times homeowners are horrified at the thought of a “DIY” task.  Large projects like installing a fence around the perimeter of your yard or pool doesn’t sound simple no matter how you say it however, it is quite plausible when working with a wholesale aluminum fence supplier like, iFenceUSA.  One of the best features is doing a project like installing an aluminum fence is that you are in charge of directing the whole thing from ordering online all the way to latching the aluminum gate when installation is complete.

At iFenceUSA, planning for and ordering wholesale aluminum fence panels is fairly simple especially with the support of our customer service professionals.  Not only do we have software available that allows you to visually see the fence in place, we offer free samples of all the colors and grades of aluminum fencing offered.  Having everything right where you can see it, touch it, and manipulate it allows for a better experience.  You get a hands on experiencing without the bulk of moving large, aluminum fence panels with free samples and the ability to move it about with our unique fencing software.  The whole process of shopping online for aluminum fencing eliminates the back and forth that most often happens during most “DIY” home improvement projects.

Doing It Yourself from Planning, Ordering, Installation, and Upkeep

Anytime you can plan for and order the materials for a project from the comfort of your own home you are winning the home improvement game.  The iFenceUSA website offers a number of options to help make ordering your aluminum fence panels simpler.  From informational sections to vivid images and complete step-by-step installation instructions it is all at the tip of your fingers.  After reviewing the 18 different style of aluminum fence panels and available options, you will come to find that ordering your fence is perhaps the easiest of the “DIY” aspects.  At this point it is as easy as entering the measurements to make sure that the exact amount of aluminum panels and posts are ordered.  One thing that can’t be stressed enough is to check and re-check the measurements.  It is best to avoid surprises upon delivery if at all possible.

After the aluminum panels, posts, accessories, and options all delivered comes the real, nitty-gritty process of installation.  To prepare to install your fence it is crucial that you take time to read the instructions thoroughly.  This helps to prepare you as far as the tools you will need and the expectations overall.  There is a benefit to reviewing the diagrams and instruction manuals throughout the process to avoid complications.

Lastly is the upkeep of your newly installed aluminum fencing panels.  This is the easiest of all of the steps in the “DIY” aluminum fence project.  Not only is aluminum fencing durable, it is without a doubt the easiest fence material to maintain and keep looking as good as it did the day you installed it.  Twice a year it is important to give your fence a quick once over with a good wash and general maintenance as you see it is needed.  That’s it, that is all there is to your new aluminum fence.

iFenceUSA is an online distributor of wholesale aluminum fences and gates for residential, resort, commercial, and industrial installation.  As an industry leader in maintenance-free aluminum fencing products we have all your aluminum fence and gate needs covered.  More information can be found online at https://ifenceusa.com/.

 

Caring for Your Aluminum Fence

Unlike traditional wood gates and fences, aluminum fences and gate do not need regular maintenance.  However, to preserve the beauty and to ensure the prolonged existence of your aluminum fencing and aluminum gates, an annual schedule for maintenance should be planned.

Cleaning and Caring for Your Aluminum Fence

Spray your aluminum fencing regularly with water using your garden hose. This helps to eradicate fertilizer chemicals, dirt, and grass clippings thus, keeping it looking as good as new. In coastal areas, frequent spraying of your aluminum fence panels with water is advised to reduce the buildup of dirt and salt.

Light Cleaning

Rinse your aluminum fencing with water from top to bottom and then back up. This cleans the surface and prevents streaking as well as the gathering of dirty “run-down”. After rinsing, wipe the fence with a lint-free, soft cloth or better still, air dry.

Thorough Cleaning

For more filthy parts of your fence, first rinse the surface of the aluminum fencing with clean water and then wash with a sponge and mild dish soap mixed with water. Make sure not to allow soap to collect on the surface and, rinse any “run-down” immediately. Once washing is done, rinse the whole section with water. Dish soap must not dry on the surface! Air dry or wipe with lint-free, soft cloth. Carry out these steps repeatedly to get rid of water soluble debris.

Make Use of Cleaning Products

Degreasers and cleaners can also help with stain removal especially for stubborn stains. Simple stains can be cleaned by applying a degreaser which must be rinsed after applying. For stubborn or hard water stains, cleaner such as CLS.  It can come in handy to remove stains. It should also be rinsed after use.

However, adequate care should be taken when making use cleaning products for your aluminum fence as some abrasive agents, household cleaners, steel wool or cleaners with solvents contain harsh chemicals which could cause discoloration and damage to your fence.

Maintaining Your Aluminum Fence
  • Adjust the aluminum fencing panels every spring. This is a normal maintenance activity that must be performed by the homeowner.
  • Always keep your aluminum gate secured to prevent it from swinging in the wind.
  • Make sure to tighten the screws on your aluminum posts and panels at least once a year.
  • Carry out frequent inspections to check for any loose aluminum fence post and once you find any, simply re-tamp & realign.
  • Avoid mounting or stacking any materials or objects beside your fence.
  • Make sure not to make use of weed trimmer at the bottom of the aluminum fence panel

iFenceUSA is an online distributor of wholesale aluminum fences and gates for residential, resort, commercial, and industrial installation.  As an industry leader in maintenance-free aluminum fencing products we have all your aluminum fence and gate needs covered.  More information can be found online at https://ifenceusa.com/.

How to Buy Aluminum Fencing | SmartTools by iFenceUSA

At iFence™, we’ll make it easy and fun to execute your fence strategy. Accept our invitation to ”pick our brains” by using the smartest consumer information tools in the business, SmartTools!™ Our goal is to provide you with detailed information for every process, but our level of direct involvement is dictated by you. We are happy to guide you along the way or we can step aside while you take the reins! Either way, our talented and helpful service team is available by phone or e-mail. We will answer your questions. We will review your plans to help ensure their accuracy. We will be there at every juncture. Let’s get started!™
Begin Here >>

The basics on how to successfully plan your project and determine the cost of materials.
iDesign™ Studio >>

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Style Gallery >>

A quick peek at every fence style we offer!
Pool Project Advice >>

Great ideas that are specific to pool fence projects.
Custom Fences >>

Cost effective solutions for non-conforming circumstances unique to your property.
Fences Without Limits >>

Every possible option or accessory categorized.
FAQ >>

Easy to read answers for the most often asked questions.
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Makes industry jargon understandable.
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A fun tutorial on how to shop for the best value.
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Glides you through an easy checklist on the way to your free quotation.
Ordering Info >>

The payment and production side of your order is explained.
Shipping Info >>

Shipping terms, rates, potential free freight, and what to expect when your fence order is delivered.
Installation Advice >>

Step-by-step information on how to properly install your fence.
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Get quick answers by e-mail!

Aluminum Fences | The iNTEGRITY Answers Department

The more familiar you become with aluminum fencing, the more you’ll realize it’s the most attractive, versatile and cost-effective fencing available. Here we present the most often asked questions about this amazing product. Informative and easy to understand, our Answers Department will make a believer out of you! For innovative and yet unanswered inquiries, don’t hesitate to contact us by phone, fax or email!

1. Are Integrity™ aluminum fences safe for pool enclosures?
All fences in our Resort Collection™ are specifically designed to comply with the most widely accepted requirements for pool safety, known as the B.O.C.A. code. Fences in our other collections may not comply based on height and other factors. For more information, refer to our Pool Safety link or contact us directly. Local codes may vary, so you should confirm compliance with your local governing authorities even when selecting from our Resort Collection™ of pool safe fences. For other planning considerations, visit our Pool Project Advice link.
2. Will Integrity™ aluminum fences contain my dog?
Standard space between vertical pickets in our residential and pool grades is just under 4” so many small dogs can slip through. If your purpose is to create a barrier for small dogs, consider our Extreme™ vertical picket spacing, which offers any of our styles with a smaller gap between the vertical pickets. Also, you can order any style with ”puppy pickets”. Puppy pickets offer our ”Extreme™” spacing, but only on the lowest part of the fence. For larger or more aggressive dogs, you may want to consider upgrading to a commercial grade such as our Premier Collection™.
3. Is it difficult to install Integrity™ aluminum fencing?
Aluminum fencing is perhaps the most installer-friendly fencing available! Though durable, aluminum posts are not as large as say, 4×4 or even 5×5 monster posts often used for wood or vinyl fencing, so digging the holes is easier. The pre-assembled and gentle-on-the-back panels enable the project to move along efficiently. With only a short list of tools needed, you’ll be amazed at the pace of your work! Take a look at our Installation Advice link and see for yourself! Also remember that our installation consultants are always only a phone call away for all of our customers, even on weekends!
4. Do Integrity™ aluminum fence panels require assembly?
No. All Integrity™ fence panels come to you factory-assembled and ready to install! And, unlike many manufacturers, all finials and most other accessories come factory-installed as well! When you think Integrity™, you’re thinking (and installing!) right out of the box!
5. Can Integrity™ aluminum fences be installed on a hill or severe grade slope?
Yes, with some exceptions (which are noted in style specifications). Standard Integrity™ fence panels can ”rack” or adjust to conform to a grade slope, but there are limits, as noted in the specifications of each style. For moderate grade slopes, Xtra-Rack™ panels can be ordered. See style specifications for the limits of Xtra-Rack™ panels. For more severe grade slopes, we offer a Max-Rack™ feature on many styles, but we recommend you consult with one of our sales associates for the limits of our Max-Rack™ rackable panels.
6. Can Integrity™ aluminum fences be installed in a rounded or curved configuration?
Yes. As the fence panels are being installed they can be shifted directionally up to 30 degrees with ease. While the panels themselves are not rounded or bent, the cumulative effect of this slight adjustment at each post creates a rounded effect, giving your fence curve appeal! For tighter curves, order narrower panels or just cut standard panels in half and use additional line posts.
7. What about very sharp angles?
Sharp angles are not a problem when you purchase our smart adjustable mounting brackets. These brackets are available in each grade of Integrity™ fencing and are specifically designed to connect to the horizontal rail of the fence panel, making it possible to negotiate sharp angles more easily than by trying to force the horizontal rails into the punched holes of posts under such conditions. Adjustable mounting brackets can be attached to structures such as pillars, or simply attached to blank posts. In most cases, they can also be positioned to cover punched rail-receiving holes when attached to line, end, or corner posts.
8. How do I attach Integrity™ aluminum fences to structures such as pillars or buildings?
There are two ways to do this. The first is to attach the fence panel to an end post installed butted up to the structure itself. Often, when conditions do not allow below-surface installation of the post, it is secured to the structure while resting on the grade or buried slightly below grade. The alternate commonly used method is to forego the use of posts and attach the fence panel directly to the structure using rail mounting brackets. These brackets are sized to house the end of the horizontal rails of the fence panel and are available in three designs: Stationary for straight-on attachments, horizontally adjustable for attachments that enable a side-to-side swivel, and vertically adjustable for attachments that enable an up-and-down swivel.
9. Can Integrity™ aluminum fences be installed on a hard surface such as concrete?
Yes. There are two types of flange that are available for this purpose. The most durable post-to-surface attachment we offer is welded flanges for posts. Factory-welded, then powder coated, these welded flanges are ideal for mounting a post to hard surfaces such as concrete. They are sized appropriately for each type of post’s base and then welded to the base. For best results, use welded flanges when the surface grade is level or near-level. An alternative is our two-piece wedge flanges for posts. Though not as strong, they can be more versatile because they enable you to cut each post on location, which can be useful in keeping the top of the fence level when the grade below fluctuates. For a durable and versatile installation without the use of flanges at all, you may want to consider coring a hole into the concrete surface and installing your posts by re-cementing. Properly executed, this can be a very effective installation approach, but we strongly recommend you contract a professional concrete cutting company to do the coring.
10. Should I install my Integrity™ fence directly onto the concrete around my pool?
In our opinion, no. While we do appreciate the desire to put an end to grass-trimming around the base of a fence, we recommend accomplishing this goal through alternate means, such as landscaping rocks or wood chips. Integrity™ aluminum fences can be installed ”hugging” the concrete, with the posts butted up against the concrete, for a clean, attractive look. Using flanges or coring the concrete is certainly possible, but this type of installation too close to the concrete’s edge can be potentially damaging to the strength of the concrete, causing unsightly cracking. While installing further away from the concrete’s edge may prevent this type of damage, consider that you are then eating into your usable space while still paying for the unusable space! In our view, mounting to a concrete surface should only be done only when there is no other option. Take our recommendation and save yourself the unnecessary expense. For other planning considerations, visit our Pool Project Advice link.
11. Can Integrity™ aluminum fences be ”stepped” to negotiate a grade slope?
Yes. The best way to ”step” (rather than ”rack”) fencing on a grade slope is to use blank posts and rail mounting brackets. With this method, the panels on each side of the post can be staggered or ”stepped”, meaning they are attached at different points on the post causing one panel to be positioned lower than the other. Unlike rackable panels which cause the fence to follow the grade slope, ”stepping” without the use of retaining walls creates triangular gaps between the grade and the bottom of the fence next to the posts because the fence panels remain level and deviate from, rather than follow, the grade slope. These gaps are merely an aesthetic consideration unless a swimming pool is being enclosed, in which case the gaps of the stepping method are not likely to comply with pool safety codes because of the possibility that a small child could slip under the fence.
12. Are Integrity™ gates welded?
Yes. All Integrity™ aluminum gates are welded for maximum durability. After being welded, they are then powder coated. Don’t ever settle for gates that are spot welded and painted over. Sadly, this unbecoming and inferior method is used by some manufacturers.
13. How do Integrity™ fence panels attach to posts?
Integrity™ fence panels are designed with horizontal rails that slide into holes that are punched into the posts. These holes are a specific size and shape that accept the insertion of the horizontal rail of a particular grade of fence panel. This fence panel is then affixed with a screw fastener to the post. All posts that have these holes are called punched posts. There are several types of punched posts available, each with a specific use. Line posts are used to attach two panels to one post on opposite sides of the post. Corner posts are used to attach two panels to one post on adjacent sides of the post, and end posts are used to attach one panel to one post on one side of the post. Three-way posts are used occasionally to attach three panels to one post on three sides of the post. Four-way posts are rarely used but are available as a custom order post.
14. What is a blank post?
A blank post is simply a post that has no holes punched into it to receive the horizontal rail of a fence panel. When panels need to be attached to blank posts, this is accomplished using rail mounting brackets. Blank posts are often used as a gate post when a gate is installed butted up to a structure. In this case, since the gate post next to the structure will not have a fence panel attached to it, it is better to use a blank post rather than a punched post. Any size post in any wall thickness we sell can be ordered as a blank post.
15. How do gate posts differ from other types of posts?
There are typically two types of posts used to install gates, punched end posts, or blank posts. Either type can be used as a latch post or a hinge post. What determines which type is used is whether or not a fence panel will be attached to the post adjacent to the gate. Since these posts can be used in situations not involving a gate, they are technically not gate-specific. When one refers to a gate post, it is still necessary to indicate which type of post is needed. With Integrity Aluminum Products™, a gate post, regardless of its type, always comes standard with the maximum wall thickness of .125” for all 2” or 3” square posts. Don’t ever settle for less!
16. Can Integrity™ aluminum fences be used as railing or be installed on decks?
We do not sell or recommend aluminum fences for this type of application. Integrity Aluminum™ fences are not strength tested for safe use as railing when your application requires railing by code. For this use, we carry hand railing. However, aluminum fencing is often used when railing is not a code requirement, such as when a porch or deck is only inches off grade. Check with your local governing authority before using aluminum fencing on a raised deck or patio as Integrity Aluminum Products does not assume liability for improper, unintended, or illegal use of its products.
17. Can Integrity™ aluminum fences be customized?
Yes. Non-conforming conditions are common to fencing, so we offer real solutions, rather than panels and gates in the usual pre-determined heights and widths. Wider or narrower panels and gates, longer posts, special welding, altered rail positions, and much more is possible and cost effective. Whatever your requirements may be, let our skilled professionals determine feasibility and prepare a special quote for you! For more information, visit our Custom Fences link.
18. Can I order an Integrity™ aluminum gate in a custom width?
Yes. Any custom width between the minimum and maximum sizes available is possible. Prices are calculated in per-foot increments. For instance, a gate ordered wider than a standard size increment will be rounded up in price to the next size increment. The width of a gate is always defined as the width of the opening for the gate, not the actual size of the frame of the gate. Our gates are constructed with the necessary space reductions to accommodate included hinge and latch hardware. Width of opening and any modifications to included hardware must be declared at time of a gate order. Incidentally, custom gate heights are also possible. Custom heights are most often ordered when gates are purchased independent of fencing.
19. Do Integrity™ aluminum fences require maintenance?
No. Integrity™ Aluminum powder coated fences do not require maintenance. They will stay beautiful for years.
20. Can electronic gate operators be used with Integrity™ gates?
Yes, but this applies only to Ultimate™ commercial grade gates, which includes all Integrity™ Driveway Gates. Please designate that you will be installing electronic gate operators when you order a gate.
21. What is powder coating?
Powder coating is a completely dry finishing process that produces a high quality, long lasting finish twice the thickness and hardness of typical acrylic or baked enamel finishes. It is far more durable, fade resistant and scratch resistant than other coatings. For more interesting information, please visit our Powder Coating link.
22. What colors are available?
Standard Integrity™ Aluminum colors are black, bronze, white, green, sandstone and beige. Most colors are available in gloss or matte finish. There is no upcharge for any of the standard colors. Custom colors are possible with certain limitations and are subject to an upcharge. Contact us for a free quote on any custom color.
23. What is the difference between “flush bottom” and “classic bottom”?
These terms refer to the position of the bottom horizontal rail of a fence panel. The vertical pickets of fence panels with a ”flush bottom” do not protrude below the bottom horizontal rail. The vertical pickets of fence panels with a ”classic bottom” protrude below the bottom horizontal rail by approximately 4” (or more, depending on the style or grade). All Integrity™ Aluminum fences are constructed with classic bottoms except for Resort Collection™ pool fences, which are all flush bottom. All fence styles are constructed as indicated in their particular specifications. Any changes are considered to be custom and must be declared at the time of order. Please keep in mind Resort Collection™ pool fences are designed to meet the widely recognized B.O.C.A. pool safety code, so modifying the bottom rail position these styles is not recommended.
24. Can I order Integrity™ fence products à la carte?
Yes. Fence panels can be ordered without gates and vice versa. Posts or post caps can be ordered independently, etc. etc. Visit our link for a complete list of our Options & Accessories. The only recommended exceptions to à la carte ordering are factory installed accessories (such as circles). In theory, all of the parts of a fence could be ordered à la carte for later assembly, but this would not be the most cost-effective way to order! Keep in mind that some features cannot be added to previously assembled panels.
25. How long does it take to get my Integrity™ fence?
Most of our products generally ship approximately two to three weeks after purchase is made and payment has been received. However, some orders can take a little longer. This may be because of the size of the order or other factors including but not limited to peak season demand, holidays, special crating, or less often painted colors. Rest assured that we make every effort to expedite all orders. Often, it is possible to expedite small supplemental (add-on) orders such as an extra post, so long as they can be shipped Fedex or USPS ground rather than by common carrier freight. For emergency situations talk to an iFence™ sales associate directly for additional priority possibilities. Our Shipping Terms link offers more information.
26. Should I obtain a property survey?
Obtaining a recent survey of your property lines is a good idea if you are following your perimeter with a fence. However, if a survey is not within your budget, city records of your property or the papers that accompany your mortgage loan may contain your plat map. Keep in mind that there are disclaimers on most plat maps that the measurements referenced may be ”approximate”.
27. Can Integrity™ fence panels be cut into a narrower width?
Yes. The horizontal SmartRail™ of a fence panel can be cut at any point to create a narrower-width panel. This is a good thing, because a fence line does not usually measure to the exact inch the total linear feet of panel material on hand. Typically, a panel needs to be cut or trimmed on site. Often, such trimming is planned ahead. For instance, a piece of a trimmed panel can be used as a filler when a gate is going to be installed inches away from the wall of a house, requiring a narrow piece of panel to fill the gap. When cutting fence panels, the horizontal SmartRail™ needs to be re-notched to fit into the punched holes of a post. A power hacksaw can make this easy! With product versatility like this, ”scrap” material is minimized. Better yet, unforeseen layout changes are usually manageable without putting the installation project on hold.
28. Can Integrity™ gates be cut to be narrower or shorter?
No. Gates are welded together, then powder coated, so they cannot be cut after they are made.
29. Do Integrity™ fence panels and/or gates include posts?
No. Panels, gates and posts are sold separately.

Guide to Installing Aluminum Fencing

An aluminum residential fence is a galvanized fence system with a hard wearing powder coat finish. An aluminum residential fence is designed to add value to residential homes. A selection of styles and colors are available to complement any home and landscape environment. Aluminum fence is engineered for residential, commercial, and industrial purposes.  Quality aluminum fences provide the level of quality and resilience consumers expect out.

Several companies offer aluminum residential fencing online.   One of the benefits that is received from choosing aluminum is that the panels have a powder coat finish that has been specially formulated for durability, with ultra-violet inhibitors to endure the elements. This installment will serve as an installation guide.

Check Neighborhood Rules and Regulations

It’s better to check neighborhood rules and local regulations before ordering and installing your new aluminum fence.  It is crucial that you make sure if you are allowed to install the type of fencing you are looking at otherwise you will be throwing money away. If you build one without considering the rules it is likely you will be required to dismantle it. If in any case you are told that you do need a permit to install a fence ignore that advice!  It’s better to get one before starting any construction process to avoid hiccups down the road.

Decide the Location

When you have checked the rules and regulations and obtained the necessary permits the preparation for the installation of the fence can begin. You have to ascertain your corner and end stakes locations first since they make the foundation of the entire layout and have to be predetermined. Mark out the fence with wooden stakes and run a string along them to mark the line of the fence.   You can then show the end post positions and “on center” corner. Then pinpoint your intermediate postings.

Dig Holes

The holes for the fence posts should be dug to 24 inches by 18 inches round holes. Gate posts must be set in larger and deeper footings because they are subjected to great force on a regular basis.

Place Your Posts

Place your posts into their holes, one after the other. Then place an aluminum fence panel on the ground between every two posts as you move along,.  This will help you to make sure that the posts are set at the proper interval.  If your panels are not available yet find a piece of wood that is the same size as they will be and use that as a guide to help in visualizing the correct fit.

When placing your posts, use fast-setting concrete to fill up the hole to about 4″ below the edge. This will provide adequate space to spread dirt on the concrete and cover it up later. Use a magnetic spirit level to measure and level all the posts.

Check The Installed Posts

Go back to your previously installed posts to check that they are plumb and level.  Straighten them if necessary before the concrete is completely set. Repeat this all the time so that the concrete does not set with posts that are neither plumb nor level.

Install Aluminum Fence Panels

When the concrete is set and dry, put the aluminum panels one after the other. This process is quick because installation only requires the nuts, screws, and bolts that fencing company provides. At this stage, you will be able to see the form and shape of your aluminum fence.  When all parts of the aluminum fence are installed, install the aluminum fence gates to completely surround your home; after which you can invite your friends over to admire your new aluminum fence!

Learn more about iFenceUSA and their vast line of custom aluminum fencing options with various grades of aluminum fence to choose from including: Commercial Grade Aluminum Fencing, Residential Grade Aluminum Fencing, Pool Grade Aluminum Fencing, and Industrial Aluminum Fencing at www.ifenceusa.com.  To contact one of our aluminum fence experts call toll free 800.762.2907 or via email at info@ifenceusa.com.

 

Pros for aluminum fencing

When it comes to fences around the house, people are more often accustomed to the wooden fence panels. It is not surprising because wooden panels have been used for years and are kind of the tradition, especially with the white picket fence fantasy.

However, the construction industry has progressed over the years. Nowadays, there are better and more innovative alternatives to wood. For example, people are now turning to using aluminum fence panels.

Why Use Aluminum Fence Panels

The aluminum fence panels are recommended for various reasons. We have outlined a list of the benefits of aluminum fencing below:

Cost Effectiveness

Aluminum fence panels are as great as iron ones. However, you can get them at a much better price as well. Therefore, you get great value for an affordable price.

No Rusty Situations

Wood can often become worn due to weather and iron can become prone to rust. In comparison, aluminum is highly resistant to weather conditions. Therefore, it can maintain its quality and good condition for a long time.

Great Aesthetic

Just like iron and wood, you can find pleasing styles in Aluminum fence panels as well. They look quite good when installed properly. You can enjoy some great aesthetic and not block your view beyond the fence panels at the same time.

Low Maintenance

As mentioned earlier, aluminum fence panels are not prone to rust. On the other hand, they don’t need extensive or frequent maintenance either. They can go without a repaint job for a few years.

Durable

Aluminum fence panels can resist against extreme weather conditions and general wear and tear caused by the environment. Therefore, they can stand in place without compromised quality and condition for a long a time.

 

Easy Installation

They can also be installed fairly with ease. Instead of requiring any special tools or training, aluminum fence panels can be fixed into place with a little handyman experience. However, if you are quite unsure, you may want to hire a professional so you don’t have to spend extra later on.

Highly Convenient for Security

As compared to wooden fences or chain link fences that can be easily broken or cut through, aluminum fence panels offer better security. Moreover, their durability keeps each panel intact so there are no weak links in the entire fencing for anyone to make their way through.

Aluminum fence panels will turn out to be a great choice for your house boundary. You can install them both at the front and around your back yard. Since they don’t cost so much, you can replace your existing fencing with these panels as well. Most of the aluminum fence panels are available readily painted. Therefore, you can save the additional costs and focus just on erecting them. They are very light in weight as compared to wood and iron. This makes their handling and maintenance in the long run fairly easy.

You should consider aluminum fence panels for improving the security and aesthetic of your house boundary.

iFenceUSA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from www.iFenceUSA.com!

 

 

Winter Planning For Your Aluminum Fence Project

Winter is the perfect time to plan for your aluminum fencing project. Winter preparations ensure that your aluminum fence panels, posts and hardware are available to be shipped when you are ready for installation in the Spring.

Start Planning With A Simple Sketch Today!

Drawing

Online tools available from iFenceUSA today at http://www.ifenceusa.com/smarttools.php

Installing an aluminum fence post onto a concrete surface

There are two types of flanges that can be used for this application. The most durable post-to-surface mounting attachment we offer is welded flanges for posts. Factory-welded, then powder coated, these durable, welded base flanges are ideal for mounting a post to hard surfaces such as concrete. They are sized appropriately for each type of post’s base and then welded to the base. For best results, use welded flanges when the surface grade is level or near-level. Shimming can sometimes work if the surface near level. Attractive skirt covers are available to conceal the weld as well as the bolts and shims used to secure the post to the surface. An alternative is our two-piece wedge flanges for posts. Though not as strong, they can be more versatile because they enable you to cut each post on location, which can be useful in keeping the top of the fence level when the grade below fluctuates. For a durable and versatile installation without the use of flanges at all, you may want to consider coring a hole into the concrete surface and installing your posts by re-cementing. Properly executed, this can be a very effective installation approach, but we strongly recommend you contract a professional concrete cutting company to do the coring.

Aluminum fence installation tips

Question from a recent aluminum fence shopper planning for his project:

We are installing a gate at the sidewalk next to our house. The sidewalk itself has a slight grade incline up from the gate. How do we deal with this issue when installing an aluminum gate?

Our answer:

Here are the potential solutions:

1. Have the gate open out and away from the incline in the opposite direction.  (Gates are universal and can swing in either direction unless prohibited by code, which may be the case if this is a pool project.)

2. Set the gate and the fence higher off grade – just enough to not scrape.

3. Narrow the width of the gate so that it’s reach into the grade incline is minimized.

4. Order a gate slightly shorter than the adjacent fence. The top will then correspond to the adjacent fencing, but the bottom will not. (This will be more obvious with a flush bottom fence.)

5. Go with a classic bottom fence, then shorten gate at bottom on site as needed. At least the bottom rail will still correspond to adjacent fencing. (Note: “Classic bottom” means the vertical pickets protrude down below the lowest horizontal rail.)

This is an example of our customer service. The above answer was taken directly from one of our email correspondences. Welcome to iFenceUSA.com!

How to buy a metal gate in the right size

When planning to install a metal (or any) gate over a concrete walkway, keep in mind that the gate needs to be wide enough so that you are able to install the gate posts on each side of the concrete, therefore, we recommend leaving yourself a little extra space. For instance, if you are going to want a 48-inch wide gate, an ideal limit for the width of your walkway is 45 inches. Pavers can be more forgiving, but it’s still better to plan for success .

With pools, the fence is often ordered in advance of the installation of the concrete, so you’ll want to go over this point with the concrete installers. Don’t assume anything! Talking about these details with your concrete professional will ensure the success of your project!

If the concrete has already been poured and the walkway is wider than the the gates typically available from metal fence suppliers, relax! A metal gate can be very cost effectively welded in the specific size you need!

One more thing, when hugging the concrete with your pool fence, there is a key point to remember. Where the walkway meets the pool deck it is common for the concrete’s corner transition to curve rather than abruptly turn 90 degrees. This means that your 45-inch wide walkway is going to flare out just where you intend to put your gate posts and your gate is rendered too narrow.  This type of mistake will probably delay the completion of the installation and likely cost you more money! Don’t let this happen to you!  This issue is resolved in one of two ways: by narrowing the walkway or, by buying a wider gate. Advise your contractor of your decision! Of course, at times, attaching posts to concrete by use of welded flanges is another possibility but this, too, needs to be planned out.

Our FAQ link addresses these circumstances and the best way to plan for success! If you have unanswered questions, SmartTools™ are excellent and easy-to-understand resources. Or, you may prefer to call us and ask us directly. We welcome that approach and are here to serve you!