Category Archives: metal fences

Home Improvements That Increase A Homes Market Value

Owning a home is a dream that many people have. It is believed that real estate is one of the greatest investments that can be added to a well rounded portfolio. One issue that plagues homeowners is how to invest money into their house to ensure that the expense of the renovation is recouped in an increase to the homes market value.

It is almost impossible to get a return of investment of one hundred percent on home renovations no matter if the budget is two thousand dollars or twenty thousand dollars. It is however a good idea to invest in renovations that are proven to increase the value of the property. Building equity into a home is a smart way to invest money. Smart investments done around the home can pay homeowners back.

Home improvements that improve the energy efficiency of your home are smart choices as they save you money straight away with a decrease in monthly expenses. They are also smart choices for resale value in that most homeowners are looking for these upgrades when seeking a home to purchase. Buyers will pay more for “green” renovations.

Some of the best energy efficient improvements that can be made are upgrades in windows, doors and appliances. By replacing older, worn out windows that leak saves homeowners on average four to five hundred dollars a year with decreased utility payments. New, properly sealed windows help to keep the temperature in place. The same is true of installing a steel entry door. Both replacements can return close to ninety six percent of their initial cost in resale value while saving on monthly utility expenses. Energy star appliance upgrades also offer a great return on investment and can often offer some serious savings in the form of tax credits.

Exterior home improvements also serve as great projects for homeowners looking to maximize their return of investment while increasing the enjoyment that they get out of their home. Replacing a garage door, for instance, can cost upwards of fifteen hundred dollars. This home improvement is on average known to bring in an eighty five percent return on investment with an increase in the homes market value.

New siding and updated shutters can give a home a fresh, modern look that makes a home pop. Many homeowners comment that new siding; a fresh, updated color can make a home that they have lived in for years feel brand new. The ROI on an improvement such as this can be upwards of eighty percent.

As a homeowner, if you are seeking something a bit more classic out of exterior remodeling install aluminum fencing. Not only does aluminum fencing increase the aesthetics of the landscape it adds to the homes security. Over other types of landscape improvements, aluminum fencing is preferred because it is easy to maintain and its presence within the yard is surprisingly powerful to the overall look of the home. When installed within a well kept landscape, aluminum fencing can alter the entire look of the home’s exterior and increase the market value of your home.

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 fromwww.iFenceUSA.com!

The Best and Worst Investments For Your Money

When it comes to home improvement projects homeowners are always looking for ways to improve their own quality life while increases the market value of their homes. Not all renovations are created equal when it comes to their return on investment. Although a sunroom might bring you enjoyment buyers may look at it as a waste of space that could have been better utilized as an additional bedroom.

Renovations with a Solid Return on Investment

When it comes to recouping your money on renovation projects nothing has a better return than entry way improvements. A new front door, especially one made of steel can add more money to the equity of your home then what it actually costs. Steel doors are three times more affordable then fiberglass and are just as attractive and energy efficient.

A new front entry door, along with an updated rug, fresh seating and colorful flower pots can really increase the exterior appeal of your home. As for the interior, add a fresh coat of paint and some careful organization to hide the hideous amount of shoes and coats that usually clutter the space. Updates to the entry of your home are a solid renovation that can turn a profit for homeowners.

Curb appeal sells homes. Exterior renovations add top dollar to the market value of your home. Aluminum fencing and vinyl siding are two exterior upgrades that have a high return on investment. Both work to add to the curb appeal of your home. Aluminum fencing can be purchased in a variety of styles and colors to enhance your home’s exterior. Adding aluminum fencing to a landscape that is well kept shows buyers that homeowners care for their home. This alone adds to a home’s market value. A home that is maintained appeals to buyers and makes a home easier to sell.

Renovations with a Weak Return on Investment

Certain home improvements are costly and bring in a small ROI thus should be avoided unless it will supersize the enjoyment that the home brings to homeowners. If working out of your home is a convenience for you a home office may be a renovation that is considered. Don’t expect the space to increase the value of your home nearly as much as it cost you. This however, might not deter you from the renovation but it is something to consider when determining the budget for the project.

The same can be said for garage additions, backup generators and sunrooms. If the renovation is going to be something of value for you as a homeowner then it may be something to consider but don’t look to increase the value of your home with these.

If you are a homeowner looking to only invest a little bit of money into home renovations but wish to greatly increase the value of your home the best place to start is with the exterior of your home. The updates to curb appeal will truly enhance the value of your home. On average exterior renovations recoup nearly one hundred and twenty five percent of the projects overall cost.

Increasing Your Homes Value

One common goal between all homeowners is to increase their homes value. The majority of home renovations are intended to increase the enjoyment homeowners receive out of their home. With any luck these same improvements will add equity to the home as well. Quality is the key to home improvements. From aluminum fencing to hardwood flooring, upgrades that are done using top quality materials and installed by skilled professionals will bring an increase in value to your home.

How can you increase your home’s value without breaking the bank?

Exterior Enhancements

The exterior of your home can be enhanced in a number of ways. Some outdoor features increase the enjoyment of the space for homeowners more than others. Consider increasing the aesthetics of landscape while adding privacy with the installation ofaluminum fencing. Other exterior renovations to consider are updates to siding, new doors for the garage and front door, and landscaping. Exterior enhancements return up to seventy five percent of the overall initial investment. Homeowners will enjoy improvements to their homes curb appeal while being rewarded with a substantial return on investment.

Fabulous Flooring

At some point homeowners will contemplate replacement flooring. Whether replacing dingy carpet or worn out vinyl homeowners should carefully consider replacement options that work to accentuate the home. Hardwood flooring is not the only choice when looking to increase the home’s value. Quality carpet, ceramic tiling and engineered flooring are all affordable flooring options that improve the homes aesthetic value while increasing the value of the home. Flooring professionals point out that a thousand dollar flooring investment is likely to add upwards of two thousand dollars back into the homes equity.

Beautiful Bathrooms

Homeowners know that updated kitchens and bathrooms work in their advantage when selling their homes. What most don’t consider is that these room renovations don’t need to be extreme. Small upgrades in a bathroom space can really transform the space. To inexpensively update your homes bathroom consider sweat equity. Fresh caulk, clean grout, bleach white sinks, toilets and tubs, updated fixtures, and hardware can turn an ordinary bathroom into a space that has a huge impact.

Reduce Rubbish

The number one way to increase the value of your home is to reduce clutter. The best part about this improvement to the home is that it doesn’t cost the homeowners anything but time. When a home is free of clutter it not only looks bigger it also appears cleaner. The perception of outsiders is that the home is taken care of and that maintenance around the home has been performed. This may not be the reality but it certainly is the perception that others get when coming into a space that is free of clutter. Even if homeowners are not looking to sell their homes anytime soon there is something to be said for a space that is tidy to call their own.

No matter how you choose to improve your home, whether it is aluminum fencing or updated bathroom fixtures, make sure that the updates will increase the enjoyment you get out of the space.

Considerations In Pool Fencing

In our last installment on pool fencing we talked about a few considerations homeowners had when it comes to safety pool fencing. One of the main points of interest in our last article was the popularity of using aluminum in pool fencing. Aluminum is popular for many reasons such as its durability, strength and ease of maintenance. Another point was if a permanent fence was needed or if a removable fencing would be a better option. In most situations a permanent fence was a better choice to keep children and pets safe whereas a removable fence was better when the space around the pool was limited.

In this installment we will discuss more considerations in pool fencing such as the cost, design, fence color and installation.

1) How much are you looking to spend on pool fencing?

Cost is a factor in all home improvement projects including exterior renovations such as installing a pool and fencing. The budget of the swimming pool should include the cost of the fencing materials and installation. The cost of the fence is factored by the material chosen, the height and total footage needed for the perimeter of the pool space. Homeowners will also need to factor in the number of gates desired, the cost of each gate as well as the locking system that is desired. Higher quality doesn’t always mean more expensive. Look online for wholesale aluminum fencing dealers for the best quality fencing at the most reasonable expense.

2) What design are you looking for with the addition of fencing to your pools landscape?

This is one consideration that homeowners should not take lightly when choosing a fence. The aesthetics of the pool area are important. The design of the fence will be what you look at for years to come. Aluminum fencing comes in a variety of styles, designs and features. It is one of the most customizable fencing materials that can be used around the perimeter of your fence.

3) Are you looking for colored fencing?

Aluminum fencing comes in a variety of colors; black being the most common color installed around pool areas. If you are looking to add some color and a bit of pizazz to the pool look into the optional colors that can be found with aluminum fence. It is amazing how adding a bit of color to the landscape can completely change the look and feel of the pool area.

4) Would you be installing the fence on your own or having a professional out to install it?

Aluminum fencing can easily be installed by homeowners looking for a simple do it yourself project. After having the pool installed by professionals some homeowners want to do something themselves where as others want to leave it to the professionals. If you are doing it yourself, rest assured that aluminum fencing comes with detailed instructions. Many online aluminum fence manufacturers will also offer online or telephone support throughout the entire process starting with the design ending with installation.

iFenceUSA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, rust free aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Pool contractor’s, building contractor’s, architect’s, & installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home/business anywhere in America from http://www.iFenceUSA.com!

Factors When Purchasing Pool Safety Fencing

Summer is upon us and with that comes the season many children and parents alike wait all winter for, swimming pool season! The time when the sun is shining, kids are outside away from technology and all out relaxation occurs. With all the benefits pool ownership brings it is easy to forget about the dangers that come along with owning a pool. It is crucial that homeowners take time to address safety concerns while the pool is being installed and keep up on maintain the safety of the pool and its surroundings throughout the season.

One important safety feature that is a must during the installation of your new pool is a perimeter fence. Fencing is a feature that protects both homeowners and pool users. Having a barrier between the pool and the rest of the backyard allows children and pets to freely use the space without being in danger of accessing the pool when not under direct adult supervision. Selecting the ideal fencing for a backyard pool is a decision that should not be taken lightly. Below are factors to consider when looking into fencing for your pool’s perimeter.

Considerations to Make When Purchasing Pool Fencing

1) What material will you choose for your pool fence?

The fencing that you choose for the perimeter of your pool should be strong, durable and easy to maintain. One of the most popular materials to use when it comes to pool fencing is aluminum. Aluminum pool fencing is aesthetically pleasing while being durable, easy to maintain and a great protector against inquisitive kids and pets looking to gain access to the pool water.

Whatever material homeowners choose for their pool fencing the most important thing is that they don’t settle or compromise quality over cost or any other variable. Quality fencing is of most importance to ensure the safety of children and pets.

2) Should you choose fencing that is removable or one that is permanent?

For most homeowners this is an easy to answer question; the pool is permanent so the fencing should be permanent as well. This is however not always the case. Some in-ground pools are built in a small space. If this is the case it may be that the fencing need to be removable to allow for more space around the area of the pool. For most homeowners with pools a permanent aluminum pool fence is ideal.

Our next installment on pool fencing considerations we will look into the cost, design, color and installation.

Select Aluminum Fencing For Your Project

Choosing the perfect material for the fencing is important. The fence material is important since it determines the sturdiness of the fence, the amount of maintenance that will be required, how long the fence will last and how it will withstand the climate in which it is installed. Whether it is for the backyard, perimeter of a pool, boundary for farm animals, commercial or industrial use, aluminum fencing ought to be your leading pick.

There are many benefits in choosing aluminum fencing for installation in any residential, pool, commercial or industrial setting. Wholesale aluminum fencing can be purchased conveniently online, easily installed by even the most novice do it yourselfer, can withstand a myriad of elements and maintains its beauty without a great deal of maintenance.

Reasonably Priced

To begin with aluminum fencing is more expensive then wood, vinyl or a number of other popular fence materials. In the end however, homeowners will save with fewer repairs, lower maintenance and cheaper replacements. In metal fencing it is the most ample, reasonably priced metal in fencing. The purchase and installation of a fence doesn’t have to cost a lot; with aluminum fencing you get character and quality well within your budget.

Delivers an Up-To-Date Look

Wholesale aluminum fencing comes in a variety of styles with an abundance of options to select from. No matter the exterior there is a stylish choice in aluminum. There is no need for your fence to be a neighborhood eyesore especially in residential applications. Ugly fences make neighbors angry; unkempt fences make nice neighborhoods look like trash. The same is also true of commercial and industrial applications. Aluminum offers contemporary, colonial, victorian, rustic and so many more options that compliment any exterior.

Resilient and Sturdy

Powder coating finishes off aluminum fence to give it a resilient, sturdy finish. The coat protects the metal from corrosion and aids in the maintenance free nature of aluminum fencing panels. The aluminum metal material lasts much longer than many others without the expensive and redundant upkeep of other materials such as wood, vinyl or chain link.

Endless Possibilities

With aluminum fencing there are plenty of options to consider from choosing a color all the way down to the style of fence bottom. These options are simply not available in other fencing materials. With aluminum fencing you get a chance to express the homes exterior uniqueness.

Aluminum fencing is both utilitarian and alluring. Be it to keep pets and children in the yard or out of the pool in residential use, sectioning off a section of sidewalk for commercial use or to keep trespassers out in industrial spaces, aluminum is the best option for fencing.

Cost Factors In Aluminum Fencing

Aluminum fencing is a delightful addition to a large majority of residential homes and commercial locations. Fencing made from aluminum provides security, is relatively maintenance free and can be designed to correspond with any exterior. The cost of aluminum fencing can fluctuate a great deal depending on a number of factors.

On average the material cost for an aluminum fence of mid-grade quality is around thirty six hundred dollars. Using lower grade aluminum, can save you about nine hundred dollars where as a higher grade aluminum can cost an extra four hundred.

The price of the aluminum fence will increase depending on the amount of fencing that is being installed. When you increase the overall square footage of the fence the materials needed also change increasing the cost. If the fence is being installed in a non-standard shape the cost of the fence will jump. Non-standard shapes also increase any changes in the slope of the landscape. Fencing that is stacked or racked will cost more than a fence that is installed on a flat piece of land. Another factor that can change the cost of the aluminum fence materials is the time of year homeowners chose to have the fence installed.

Aluminum Fence Square Footage

For a homeowner to determine the square footage of the aluminum fence that is needed the landscape will need to be measured. Determine the length and width of the space that will be fenced in. If the landscape is in the shape of a rectangle or square you can multiply the length and width to determine the total square footage needed.

Larger landscapes increase the amount of materials needed. The number of posts, decorative options and more will all add to the overall cost of the fence. A twelve hundred square foot fence may only need nine posts and nine decorative post caps but a twenty four hundred square foot fence needs double the posts therefore increasing the overall expense of the fence. More materials, more expense. The price per square foot may stay the same but the amount needed increases costs.

Shape of the Aluminum Fence

Bends in the fence shape and changes in the slope also increase the cost as they change the fence line therefore increasing the number of corner posts required. The posts and decorative options are all more expensive than the actual fence itself. Remember that the fence does not always have to follow the property line. If the property line is abnormal it is still acceptable to install the fence in a square or rectangular pattern. Just ensure the square fence is installed within the property line.

The shape of the fence can also impact the overall price because with each bend or turn in the fence line, it will be necessary to plant a corner post. Aluminum corner posts tend to be more expensive than the actual fencing itself, so the more jagged the lines, the more corner posts must be used. This results in a higher price. Homeowners who want to save money but have abnormally shaped property lines may want to consider having a basic square or rectangular fence installed, rather than having the fence follows the property line carefully.

Durability

Aluminum fencing is extremely durable no matter what grade is chosen however the strength and overall durability can change. Aluminum varies in thickness, durability and weight. Essentially aluminum fence comes in four standard grades: residential, pool safe, commercial and industrial.

Time of Year

The material cost of aluminum fencing is generally the same no matter what time of year you are having the fence installed. The installation costs are what can change depending on the time of year the fence is being put in. It is usually less expensive to have fence installers put aluminum fencing in during the spring, summer and autumn. This is especially true when installing fencing in areas of regional climate changes

Saving Money

Shopping for aluminum fencing online offers individuals the chance to get quotes from several companies. Shop around for a company to purchase fencing from. Customer service is often worth more than saving a few dollars on shipping. Online fencing companies that offer service from start to finish are popular to buyers.

At iFenceUSA we help both residential and commercial clients successfully plan for their fencing projects. We offer clients online tools like the iDesign Studio and Style Gallery to help choose a style of fencing that works with the exterior of the home or business. Our fencing specialists offer advice on a variety of aspects from custom solutions to non-conforming property to the installation. Our specialists are there for you even after the fence is installed. If extra materials, installation advice or anything is ever needed you can rely on iFenceUSA, we are just a phone call away.

Aluminum Safety Fencing Is A Must When Installing A Swimming Pool

Is this the year that installing a swimming pool has become a reality? Congrats, you have become one of the eight million pool owners. Having a swimming pool is beneficial for so many reasons: it is a great source for daily exercise, entertainment, and the additional value to the property. When considering the installation of a commercial or residential in-ground pool the most important thing to take into account is the safety of the pool. Owning a pool is an enormous responsibility for a homeowner. It is crucial that children and pets are protected. It is essential that entering the pool unattended is not possible. Unwanted guests must also be prohibited from taking a dip when you aren’t home.

With aluminum fencing and self locking latching gates your mind can be put at ease. When a solid aluminum fence and gate are needed to secure the in-ground pool addition it is crucial to do research on your pool fence. In order to make an informed purchasing decision it is important to consider the following advice.

Pool Safety Fencing Is A Must

No matter where you live whether it is a neighborhood or in tim-buck-to a safety fence enclosing the perimeter of the pool is mandatory. In order for a pool to be installed it must meet a number of local, state and federal requirements. Not to mention that most neighborhoods and H.O.A.’s have their own set of rules to follow. Insurance companies are also vital in considering your fencing needs. Insurance companies will not insure homeowners without a fence and self closing/latching gate in place enclosing the pool area.

The Pool Fence Must Meet Specific Requirements

Check with local, state and federal requirements when it comes to installing a fence around your homes swimming pool. The B.O.C.A. has specific requirements as well. Homeowners are not absolved from the law for failing to follow the legislation that is required of pool owners. It is essential that homeowners looking to install a pool understand the requirements of safety fencing.

Fencing Must Be Installed Only On Property You Own

Never forget where the property lines are. Have your property professionally surveyed and staked. This will ensure that the property in which the pool and aluminum fence is installed is yours. When installing a fence on a neighbor’s property, or a pool for that matter, you will incur all of the expenses involved in removing and reinstalling thealuminum pool safety fencing.

Pool Fencing Must Meet Certain Requirements

It is not okay to install an aluminum fence that meets the height requirements but fails to reach code set forth for the bottom of the fencing. When planning for, ordering and installing an aluminum pool fence speak with professionals that understand the intricacies of pool fencing installation.

It is imperative that pool owners are informed before making an aluminum pool fencepurchase. Working with experts throughout the pool fence planning process makes sure that all of the requirements of pool safety fencing are met.

iFenceUSA offers a 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 value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying aluminum fences shipped factory-direct from http://www.iFenceUSA.com!

Tips On The Installation Of A New Aluminum Fence

Installing a new fence is not difficult to do. There are however a few things homeowners must keep in mind prior to ordering and installing their aluminum fencing. Spring is here and the warmer weather and budding trees inspires many do it yourselfers to get started on those projects they have been putting off. When installing a new fence or replacing an old one review the list of common mistakes that have been made before you and how you can avoid making the same ones.

The Lack of Proper Planning: When it comes to home improvements the one mistake that homeowners frequently make revolves around the lack of planning. Before ordering your new aluminum fence online take the time to make a plan of action. Any project that is to be done around the home, especially with aluminum fencinginstallation, needs to have a project plan, material list and detailed installation timeline. Proper planning allows for a smooth project that stays on task from start to finish.
The Lack of Proper Property Markers: This is perhaps one of the most costly mistakes to make when installing a new aluminum fence. Have the property surveyed by a licensed surveyor prior to ordering aluminum fencing. Even though the surveyor will use stakes to mark the property take pictures and video for future reference. If the stakes inadvertently get removed there will be visual data to support the boundary lines that are in place. Installing the fence on property that is not yours can add exorbitant costs to your project.
The Lack of Properly Examining Local Zoning Laws: Not all areas allow fences to be installed. Check with local ordinances, H.O.A.’s and such to be sure of all the requirements that must be met. Also look into materials that are off limits, along with colors and styles that might not meet the requirements set forth. Installing a fence that doesn’t meet the guidelines is costly. The rules will not change just because the fence is installed so be prepared to uninstall that new fence if it doesn’t follow the guidelines in your area.
The Lack of Properly Checking for Underground Utilities: Make the proper phone call before you start digging. Miss Dig will come out to the property for free and mark all of the underground utilities in the area. Proper planning will allow you to place the fence in areas that avoid these areas. Aluminum posts need to be dug into the ground with at least one third of the fence posts height being in the ground. Aluminum gate posts need to be installed at a minimum of thirty inches deep. This call is an important one. Don’t forget to make it.

In our next installment we will cover more mistakes to avoid when installing or replacing fencing. Small avoidable mistakes can add extra stress to a large project such as installing an aluminum fence. Articles like this are provided to help homeowners from making the mistakes that those before them have.

Aluminum Fencing Adds Property Value

One of the best purchases a home owner can make to add to the aesthetics and value of their property is the installation of a fence. Fences are installed for any number of reasons. Pet containment, pool safety and landscape detailing are three of the most popular reasons that homeowners give when looking to add a fence to their homes. Installing your own fence can be as easy as 1-2-3 if you take into consideration the tips listed within this article.

When installing a fence it is important to follow your H.O.A, local, state and federal regulations. For homeowners within a subdivision most H.O.A.’s require unity throughout the neighborhood. Before you order fencing online check into all of the regulations that are guiding your purchase. For homeowners looking to their swimming pool it is crucial that the fence that is installed meets B.O.C.A. regulations. The codes will dictate the height, picket widths, gate style and more that can be used. It is crucial to follow the rules and regulations in place to ensure that your pool area is safe and that your fencing will pass inspection.
Another important feature to take note of when installing a fence is the landscapes elevation. With many fencing materials changes in the slope of the yard are difficult to navigate. This is not the case with aluminum fencing. If the perimeter of the yard or pool area has multiple areas of elevation change, aluminum fencing is the best option for you. Aluminum fences offer two options for transitioning aluminum fence panels: stepping and racking. Stepping involves attaching the fence panels to different height posts. The fence remains level. In racking the fence is designed to follow the slope of the yard. Transitional height fence panels are ordered to create a fence that does not gap at the bottom and that naturally follows the land.
Spacing is crucial to maintaining the integrity of the fence. Aluminum fence panels come in a variety of heights and widths. However, the standard width recommended in maintaining the strength of the fence is six feet wide. Any longer than this and the fence supports are more susceptible to weather related issues.
When setting fence posts many homeowners use the method in which dry cement is poured into a hole and water from the garden hose is added. This method is the easiest way but not the recommended way to increase the longevity of your fence. Take the time to mix the concrete before adding it in around the fence post. This allows it to dry and become one unit which adds to the stability of the fence posts.

Installing an aluminum fence does not take a professional. Any do it yourself homeowner with the ability to read and follow directions that has a free weekend can handle the job.