Monthly Archives: February 2019

Dispelling Aluminum Fence and Gate Myths

There are a number of fencing materials available when searching for a fence for your backyard. There is also a lot of information available to consumers online, much of which is useful however, as with any information gained online you want to make sure it is not based on internet myths. You don’t want to make the wrong decision for your yard and landscape because you were swayed by information that is based on incorrect myths.

Common Myths About Aluminum Fencing

Myth: Aluminum Is Lightweight and Weak

Truth: Aluminum is as Strong as Wrought Iron and as Lightweight as Other Fencing Materials

A widely spread misconception about aluminum fencing is that it is weaker than other types of fencing, including steel and wrought iron. Consumers should not judge the strength of the fencing material based on the weight of the fence. This is an inaccurate representation. Aluminum is highly durable and also tends to be lighter in weight than wood, vinyl, and other fencing materials. The lightweight nature of aluminum is a bonus, not a negative.

Myth: Aluminum Fencing is Expensive

Truth: Aluminum Fencing is Affordable

Aluminum fencing is an affordable option. Often consumers only take into consideration the initial purchase of the fence panels however, it is important to consider the upkeep costs of fencing as well. The initial purchase of aluminum fence panels can be a little bit more expensive however there is absolutely no cost involved with maintenance unlike all other fence materials. Wood fence requires yearly staining which can add considerably to the cost of the fence.

Myth: Aluminum Needs to Be Replaced Sooner Than Other Types of Fence

Truth: Aluminum Fence Last for Decades

Aluminum fencing is in fact one of the longest lasting fence materials available on the market today. The powder coated finish on aluminum fence panels and gates is weather-resistant which ensures a long-lasting fence. Wooden fences tend to require more maintenance than aluminum and do not hold up well in harsh weather conditions.

Myth: Aluminum Fence Comes in Only Black and Is Plain

Truth: Aluminum Fencing Comes in a Variety of Colors and Ornamental Styles

There are a number of colors and decorative aluminum fence styles to choose from when working with a company like iFenceUSA. Consumers tend to picture basic, black aluminum fencing when considering options for their home however, this is far from where aluminum fence options end. There are a number of options that can be added to aluminum as well. It is in fact one of most customizable materials in fencing.

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/.

Choosing A Fence For Your Backyard Swimming Pool

Pool safety has become more of a hot topic in recent years. Children are naturally drawn to the water which can be a problem when unsupervised outdoors. On average over two hundred young children each year drown because of backyard swimming pool accidents. With the prevalence of swimming pools within the last ten to fifteen years an emphasis on regulating and implementing safety requirements is being seen across the United States. Pool safety regulations, including the installation of fencing, have saved a number of families from experience loss through accidental drowning.

There are three options pool owners have when it comes to installing permanent safety fence for swimming pools including: aluminum fence panels, vinyl, and wood. Below we will discuss the advantages and disadvantages of all three types of permanent swimming pool fencing.

Decorative Aluminum Fence Panels – BOCA Approved

The most popular material in permanent pool fencing is aluminum in part because it is durable, low maintenance, and aesthetically pleasing. Aluminum fence panels are coated with a powder coating which offers extreme durability, little to no maintenance, is environmentally friendly, and comes in a number of color and ornamental options that compliment all landscapes.

Wrought iron, although similar in look, is not used around swimming pools as it is more expensive and difficult to maintain, especially from rusting. Residential aluminum fence panels traditionally come in six-foot sections although can be customized into shorter or longer panels if needed. In order to be BOCA approved the aluminum fence that is installed around your swimming pool must be at least forty-eight inches in height, horizontal railings must be at least forty-five inches from the bottom rail to prevent climbing.

Decorative aluminum fencing is perfect for pool fencing when homeowners are looking for an option is pool safety fencing that is low maintenance. It is also a great option for those that wish to see within the pool area from outside of the pool. This works well for families with small children as a parent can visually see children playing outside of the pool in the backyard while supervising children in the pool. The most popular option is black aluminum fencing however is offered in 8 colors and a number of decorative styles to choose from.

Advantages of Aluminum Fencing Include:

Durability
Minimal Maintenance
Unobtrusive
Custom Heights and Widths
Multiple Colors, Styles, & Decorative Options
Open Pickets, Visible from Backyard, Outside of the Pool

Disadvantage of Aluminum Fence Include:

Open Pickets, Not Private

Vinyl

Vinyl is another option that can be used for pool safety fencing. There are two options including solid privacy fencing and picket fencing. Some vinyl panels include lattice or spindles at the top for a decorative accent.

Advantages of Vinyl Include:

Solid Vinyl Is Private
Solid and Picket Styles
Custom Heights

Disadvantages of Vinyl Include:

Only White
Not Mildew Resistance
Pickets and Rails are Bulky
Vinyl Sags Over Time

Wood

Wood is a popular option in fencing. Wood has been an available option in fencing for decades. Wood requires a great deal of maintenance when used as pool fencing. It is a low-cost material that is highly customizable that is a viable option as a permanent pool fence when homeowners are willing to do the work to maintain it.

Advantages of Wood Include:

Customizable in Size and Style
Inexpensive
Able to Be Painted/Stained in any Color

Disadvantages of Wood Include:

High Maintenance
Warps and Twists
Not Resistant to Mold or Mildew

The Installation of a Driveway Gate Creates an Impressive Entry

From walkways to driveways, a gate can transform the entire look of the landscape while adding a layer of security. Aluminum estate gates alter the aesthetics of your home. With curb appeal being an important factor in the way your home is viewed by outsiders, enhancements that not only add beauty but also security can make a big difference.

Driveway gates are commonly installed either to large columns on either side of the drive or to heavy duty aluminum posts that are purchased in conjunction with the gate. Driveway gates can be installed together or separate of perimeter fencing. The design is truly customizable to that of what each individual user desires. For some homeowners, their property is lined with wooded acreage that makes a fence unnecessary where as others have wide open yards that they are looking to completely secure. Before ordering it is important to have a general understanding of what you hope to accomplish with the installation of an estate driveway gate.

Small Estate Gates

Not all entry gates are grand in scale. An aluminum entry gate that compliments your home and space is what is most important. Some entryways are small in scale and a large driveway gate may be aesthetically overwhelming. Choose an entry gate that fits your space. The gate should first and foremost be realistic for your situation and needs.

There are a variety of options to choose from at iFenceUSA for even the smallest of driveways. Although for most smaller driveways a single gate is ideal, some homeowners desire the look and function of a double gate. It is important that once the gate is installed it is functional and that vehicles of all sizes can still access the home. Remember that large delivery trucks will still need to make their way up your drive on occasion. The goal is not to make your small driveway smaller with the installation of a gate but to enhance and secure the existing space.

Extra Wide Estate Gates

What happens when you have the opposite issue and your driveway is extra wide? Believe it or not iFenceUSA has an aluminum driveway gate that will fit any size or shape driveway or entrance that exists. Custom gates are our specialty and can come in any of the 18 styles we offer, with an arch, without an arch, with or without ornamental metal options, you name it and we can more often than not make it happen.

The most important factor when ordering a driveway gate, small or large, is to take proper measurements. There are a number of guides online at our website that will help you properly measure for the gate you desire. The first measurement that is needed is between the two stationary posts (or columns) that the new gate will be attached to. It is important not to include the measurement of the posts, only the space between the posts is needed.

The estate gate that you choose to install is totally dependent on the type of property you have, your exact need, and the image you hope to communicate. When it comes to designing a gate or fence for that matter, your options are endless with aluminum. The team at iFenceUSA can help you achieve a secure, eye-catching, operational aluminum entry gate for your driveway or walkway.