Category Archives: pool safety

Crucial Steps Involved In Aluminum Fence Installation

In our last installment on aluminum fencing we began to discuss crucial steps to take before plunging into the installation process. We previously discussed why it is important, even ordering a new fence, to find out regulations placed on fencing by your local government and HOA. This will prevent you from ordering a material, height or color fencing that doesn’t meet the regulations set forth. Verifying underground utilities and choosing the correct grade of fence for your installation are both other suggestions that were made to ensure success.

Here are a few more pieces of advice and tips to ensure success when installing aluminum fencing.

Map Out The Perimeter Of The Fence

Before you start digging any holes map out the perimeter of the fence. This will allow you a visual map of the perimeter of the fence. Take time to stake off where the holes for the fence posts need to be even better prepared come time for the actual installation. This process helps prevent odd fencing configurations. It allows you to account for the big tree or huge rock that is in the way of the fencing before you find yourself having to make last minute changes to account for them.

Mark Off Pole Locations

As previously mentioned, it can save a ton of time if you stake off the location of the fence posts prior to installing your aluminum fence. During this process, before digging any holes, you can measure the space between the poles a number of times to ensure accuracy. There isn’t room for error when measuring out the location of aluminum fencing posts simply because the posts come pre-punched and the fence panels come in specific, pre-assembled sizes.

Begin Installation With The Gate Posts

When installing an aluminum fence it is important to begin the installation with the gate posts. The gate posts are pre-drilled as are the fence posts and the rails are meant to fit sung. The margin for error in this process is small. It is crucial to measure and then re-measure to guarantee accuracy. Remember that the gate posts must also be dug further down into the ground then regular fence posts.

When installing an aluminum fence, patience is needed. Don’t try to cut corners or rush through the installation process. If you use concrete when setting the posts it is crucial that it has time to thoroughly dry. This will help prevent any give the fence may have as it settles. Too much give will impact the performance of the fence. The installation of your aluminum fence is sure to be successful if you follow the advice above.

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!

Enhancing Your Landscape With Aluminum Fencing

Homeowners are always looking for a way to improve their homes while adding value and security. Installing an attractive, durable aluminum fence is just one home improvement method in which both can be achieved. Without breaking the homeowner’s budget aluminum fencing can be installed to enhance the visual appeal of the landscape, increase safety and increase the market value of the home.

There are numerous aluminum fencing styles, colors and enhanced features to choose from. This allows homeowners the ability to find the perfect combination for their home and landscape. It is important to fully understand the scope of any home improvement project before you begin. In order to ensure your success when installing aluminum fencing it is crucial to consider the following tips.

Check Local Government and HOA Zoning Laws

The requirements for aluminum fence installation can vary a great deal from one local municipality to another. It is crucial that the requirements limiting your installation are accounted for before installation. From materials to boundary requirements understand the limitations you are up against even before placing an order for fencing. Check into requirements that your HOA has in place considering the material, height, color and boundary placement of aluminum fencing as well.

Verify Underground Utilities

This is an important step that many times is overlooked. It is crucial that you call “Miss Dig” before you start digging. The last thing that a homeowner needs is the hassle that comes along with breaking an underground utility. Most posts need to have at least one third of their height underground while gate posts should a minimum of thirty inches deep. With these depths you can see how it would be easy to nic a utility line. It is also important not to place the fence over a utility line in case underground repairs need to be made at a later date.

Choose An Appropriate Grade of Fencing

Many consumers are unaware that aluminum fencing comes in a variety of grades. The location and use of the fence will allow you to determine the grade of fencing you should choose. For instance, to enclose a backyard residential grade fencing is a reasonable choice. If you live in an area that incurs a lot of windy weather you may consider the next step up to commercial fencing. For heavy duty use there is an industrial grade option. For use around commercial and residential pools there is also a pool grade aluminum fencing that can be installed and meets the standards set forth by the B.O.C.A., Business Officials and Codes.

In our next blog post we will continue the discussion on aluminum fencing and mistakes to avoid in order guaranteeing success during the installation process.

Safety With Aluminum Pool Fencing

One thing that most pool owners can agree on when it comes to safety is that a fence needs to be installed that meets safety standards. Aluminum fencing is one of the easiest materials for the do it yourself homeowner to install without professional assistance. Compared to other types of pool fencing, aluminum has several advantages which are included below.

Variety of Styles and Colors

When it comes to fencing for pools no other material has the design and color choices that aluminum fencing does. Ornamental aluminum fencing is ideal to surround your pool and enhance your landscape. It offers safety while enhancing the aesthetics. Aluminum fencing offers several options including decorative scrolls and finial options. Also the wide range of colors to choose from allows homeowners to compliment any exterior.

Ease of Installation

As fencing goes, aluminum is the easiest of materials to install. For do it yourself homeowners who are looking to ensure they are meeting B.O.C.A. pool safety standards there is no simpler fencing material to install then aluminum. Aluminum fence panels are easier to install then most other materials in fencing.

Suitable for a Variety of Landscapes

Another reason that aluminum fencing is ideal to install around a pool is because of its ability to adjust to the landscape. Unlike other materials, aluminum fencing is rackable and compensates for slopes throughout the yard. When your pool is not on level landscape, homeowners will not have any problem with installation using aluminum fencing.

Simplicity in Maintenance

Maintenance couldn’t be simpler in fencing than it is with aluminum fencing. Aluminum does not rust, peel, rot, age or decay; it stays looking as new as the first day it was installed throughout its lifetime without any other maintenance then a yearly, gentle wash.

Overall Lifetime Cost

The lifetime cost of aluminum fencing is far less than many other options in fencing. Aluminum fencing panels cost a bit more initially but without the maintenance requirements of wood, vinyl or wrought iron. You will also save on installation costs. Aluminum fencing is simple enough to install for even the most novice weekend home improvement specialist. Other materials seen in fencing require professional fence installation to hold up.

Strength and Durability

Another major benefit of aluminum pool fencing is how strong and durable it is over other fencing materials. It can withstand weather and climates of all types. This allows aluminum fencing to last longer than any other pool fence type.

Tips To Help Make An Informed Decision When Purchasing Fencing

It is important to make informed decisions when purchasing a fence that meets your family’s needs as well as your lifestyle and landscape. As a homeowner there are numerous decisions that need to be made when choosing a fence for your home.

It is crucial to define the purpose the new fence is being installed to serve. Are you looking to contain a pet, to detour thieves or to simply add privacy? Look into the cost of maintenance and upkeep, HOA restrictions and difficulty of installation next. With the cost of a fence being between two thousand and eight thousand dollars on average you will want to be positive that you are going to be happy with your end decision.

Homeowners should choose a fence that is best for their landscape. There are a number of motivations for installing a fence including the most common: keeping children and pets contained, increased privacy, enclosing an in-ground pool and added visual appeal. The goal is to prioritize what you need out of a fence. This will narrow down different fencing materials that you can choose.

Next determine how much time and money you want to spend each year on maintaining your fence. A wooden style fence will require the most upkeep. Wood fences need to be stained or painted on a regular basis in order to keep the fence in good condition both in function and visual appeal. Aluminum fencing on the other hand requires very little additional maintenance to keep it looking as good as the day it was first installed.

Another huge consideration in fencing comes with the rules involving your home owners association. You may want a certain style fencing that just doesn’t fit within the regulations set in place by your HOA. For obvious reasons it would be silly to continue with the installation of a fencing material that is not allowed by the governing body of your neighborhood community. You will want to double check materials options and fencing heights that are allowed before placing an order for fencing.

The final factor in helping to determine what type of fencing material is best for your project is the installation factor. Are you planning on installing the fence on your own or hiring a contractor to install the fence. Aluminum fencing is one of the simplest materials for do it yourself homeowners to install with the best results. Most aluminum fence manufacturers have detailed, step by step directions to follow that allow homeowners to correctly install their fencing within a weekend. Just be sure as with all home improvement projects that you pull the proper permits with your local planning and zoning officials.

The Numerous Advantages Of Aluminum Fencing

Aluminum fencing can give homeowners the same look as wrought iron and steel at a fraction of the cost and less maintenance. If you want to keep your space from feeling enclosed while increasing the homes security installing an aluminum fence and gate is a perfect option. Here are a few tips for homeowners looking for an affordable, maintenance free, easy to install fence for the perimeter of their home or pool.

If you are looking for an ideal option to enclose your backyard to keep pets inside a safe barrier, look no further than aluminum fencing. With aluminum fencing you not only have choices about the decorative features that will make up your fence but also options within the fence itself. Puppy pickets for example are when smaller pickets are added in between the regular pickets to prevent smaller animals from fitting between or underneath the fence. The narrow design for the bottom half of the fence is perfect for keeping animals safe while keeping the traditional look of aluminum fencing at the top.

When choosing the pickets for your aluminum fencing there are two basic options that give you two very different looks to your fencing: covered and exposed. First, it is important to understand that the pickets are what create your metal fence. Exposed finials on fencing leave a sharp point sticking out of the top of your fence panel. Whereas covered finials have a straight horizontal bar covering them. Aluminum fence designs with pointed finials are a more dangerous option and may be good for homeowners looking to add a bit of security against intruders looking to enter the home by climbing the fence. Be extra careful if choosing an open finials design for your aluminum fence if small children or pets are apt to climb the fence. Opt for covered finials if you think that the open pickets will pose a hazard within your yard.

Consider adding accessories to your aluminum fence to increase the aesthetic value it offers to your landscape. Some homeowners choose more ornamental fencing such as designs that include butterfly or circular scrolls to enhance the appeal of their fence while others choose to add a gate or decorative arched entryway. Aluminum gates come in numerous styles to match or compliment any style of aluminum fencing that homeowners choose. Even the smallest of details can transform the aluminum fence that you choose. With aluminum fencing not only are you getting the most attractive option in fencing you are choosing a fence with minimal maintenance requirements that is durable and built to withstand a variety of climate conditions.

Making An Educated Buying Decision In Fencing

It is important when choosing aluminum fencing that you make and educated decision that is right fence for your home and landscape. With the number of options included in aluminum fencing from styles, colors and alternatives in picket spacing and such it can get a bit overwhelming to determine exactly what you should order. In this installment we will discuss, in depth, how homeowners can make sure they are choosing the right aluminum fencing for their home and landscape.

As a homeowner it is important that you establish exactly what you are aiming to accomplish with the installation of an aluminum fence. What are you looking to keep in verse out of the yard? Picket width and spacing are important elements especially when the fence is being installed to keep pets or children within the boundaries of your yard.

There are pros and cons of all fencing materials. Aluminum fencing has several advantages over competitive fencing materials. For one aluminum fencing requires very little time and money to be spent on maintenance and upkeep. Aluminum fencing maintains its color and aesthetic value without any added paint, staining, yearly cleaning etc… On top of the low maintenance required of aluminum fencing it is affordable, easy to install and available in a number of combinations that allow it to be custom designed for your landscape.

Consider the style of your home when choosing an ornamental aluminum fence style that works best for your home and landscape. Do you prefer something modern, contemporary or classic? What is the style of your home and what elements do you wish to highlight? Choose decorative aluminum fencing that will complete and compliment the overall look that you are going for to enhance the appearance of your home and landscape.

When you are installing aluminum fencing you are doing so for a general purpose. Most often the purpose that homeowners give is that they are looking to establish the boundaries between their property and the neighbors. It is important to be considerate to your neighbors when placing an aluminum fence. Establish the property line using an agreed upon property surveyor and stack out the proposed layout of your fence. Speak with your neighbor to address any causes of concern prior to ordering your fence. If there is a dispute it is better settle prior to beginning the installation process.

As materials in fencing come, aluminum fencing is one of the simplest for installation and most appealing aesthetically. Contact an online aluminum fence wholesaler today to get started on your aluminum fencing project.

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.

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!

Enhance Your Pools Safety With Aluminum Fencing

In ground backyard pools are an ideal choice for families. A well kept pool enhances the landscape of any home. It offers the luxury of staying cool on hot summer days without the hassles involved in backing up and heading for the sandy beach for the day. Pools create a vacation spot within your own backyard while providing access to the amenities of home. It is a location that everyone in the family can make use of and creates a space to bond as a family unit.

It is well known that pools offer a family a number of benefits to families all while posing a huge safety risk if not properly secured. The rules and regulations facing backyard pool owners are tightening up with the recent increase in accidentally drowning. The last thing any homeowner wishes is an accident that results in the loss of life on their property. Pool owners are regulated by local, state and federal laws detailing guidelines that must be followed to protect against accidental access to a pool area. In a desire to protect their family and friends pool owners are investing in perimeter fencing and secure, locking gates.

A pool fence is in no way meant to be the only safety feature for your pool area. It does however add a layer of protection for children and pets when a lapse in adult supervision occurs. It provides those few extra minutes that could mean the difference between life and death for a young child or pet. Pool fencing is regulated and must meet the standards set forth by the B.O.C.A. Perimeter pool fencing must not have foot holds or hand holds that children can use to help them lift over the fence. It should also stand taller than four feet, with five feet being preferable. The pool fence should also have a self latching, self locking gate mechanism.

There are a wide variety of materials in which pool fences are available. Aluminum fencingis the most widely chosen fencing material as it is affordable, easy to maintain and install, is hassle free to order and retains its million dollar look for years without breaking the budget. The dangers that an aluminum pool fence are safeguarding your family against are worth any amount of money. The average cost of aluminum pool fencing is around twenty seven hundred dollars.

There is a lot that can be said for the convenience and peace of mind that aluminum pool fencing offers homeowners. Access to adults is simple with a self latching, self locking gate mechanism while also offering the peace of mind that comes with knowing children are secured away from the water. Children are quick and like to explore on their own. It is important to know that in these crucial seconds a head may turn its undivided attention away that children and pets are safe and kept far away from the dangers of unsupervised pool usage.

Backyard pools are meant to be a safe haven for relaxing, having fun and enjoying one another’s company. In order to keep it that way for years to come the addition of an aluminum pool safety fence is a priority.

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.