Category Archives: metal fences

Steps To Take When Installing Aluminum Fencing

There are many decisions to make when deciding on what type of fence you would like to install at your home. A fence’s main purpose is to add security but won’t cost a fortune for your improvement budget. One of those many choices is an aluminum fence which can offer many styles and colors that can fit your unique vision of a design. Once deciding on an aluminum fence, learn some pointers on the best tips to use in order to have a successful fencing install.

Talk To Local Zoning Officials

No matter where you are located, each area has its own type of fencing that is permitted. Make sure to check that you are in the boundaries for height restrictions and if there are any boundary regulations. Depending on the location, some locations require you to offset the fence post away from the property line by a certain distance but others can allow the post on the property line. If you are uncertain where your property line exists, you can have a survey done for you to help understand where the line exists. Also, another set of information to verify not only with local zoning is with your Homeowner’s Association (HOA). Some of them may have very strict regulations as to what type or color of fence is installed on your property.

Call Miss Dig For Underground Utilities

Before starting your project it is of high importance to always call “Miss Utility” before you begin digging. Many do- it-yourselfers do not remember to take this precaution and end up in trouble during the install. In many cases, one third of a fence height has to be dug underground. With an aluminum fence, gate posts should be at least 30 inches below ground. There are many hazards beneath the ground that you do not want to take the chance of hitting a pipe or wire. To save yourself from one large headache, please take the time to make one quick phone call that could save you a lot of stress in the long run.

Keep In Mind The Fence Rating

There are three types of ratings for aluminum fences that many are not aware of. It is important to decide between the strength of residential, commercial, or industrial. In special cases, there has even been ‘Heavy Industrial’ design created. If you would like to learn more about these three ratings you can view Alumni-Guard’s website, which provides great information about the Cads and Specs for each rating separately. The consumer must think hard about what the purpose of this fence will be used for, a residential fence for example may not be the best option if the fence will be heavily “used” by a person’s animals and kids.

Layout The Fence Perimeter

Before beginning to build the actual fence, make sure to lay out your plan for the fence physically on the ground so that you can see what the fence will look like when completed. We recommend using inexpensive string and use stakes for the corners to remember where you will have to dig holes at for posts of the fence. Many of people forget to do this step and will come across larger obstacles than they had imagined because someone forgot for example about a big rock or tree that is in the way of where fence wanted to be installed.

Mark Off Pole Locations

It is very important to designate a place for each of the fence posts. The simplest way of doing this would be to place a “X” using paint but be sure to measure your placement and spacing correctly. Many people make the mistake of just eye-balling pole locations and this error will cause further problems including further expenses and time when it’s time to actually install the fence. When using the paint mark, it will need to show the actual center of where the fence post will be so it is helpful to know the post measurements before placing the paint mark on ground. Being cautious to not mix and match the posts because Aluminum fence posts are pre-punched to be a certain type such as corner, in-line or end posts for the gate.

Start With The Gate

The first thing to do in the project is the gate posts. When building wood fences, you have the ability to make alterations during the installation but because when installing aluminum fences, the posts are pre-punched and the rails fit tightly together. By starting with the gate posts it will help eliminate problems with measuring or strange entry locations. Also when installing an aluminum fence the gate posts need to be dug deeper than a different type of fence post because the posts have quite a bit of weight attached to the post compared to other fences. If making the mistake of digging the hole for the post to shallow, the process and maintenance in years to come will have to be repeated frequently so it is best to do it right the first time and dig the hole appropriately in depth. A suggestion from aluminum fence specialist is to dig a depth of 30″ for gates over 96″. With smaller gates you may only have to dig a depth of 24″.

Concrete and Aluminum Fence

Aluminum fences can be mounted to concrete however; there are things to remember when working with concrete. First, your fence posts need to be anchored properly because normal wear and tear on daily basis could lead the fence to weaken and sag overtime. To install aluminum fence to a concrete surface the simplest way is to use a floor flange for each post. A person can bolt down into the concrete, add the post and then finish securing it. Secondly, keep in mind to allow the concrete to dry completely before ongoing your installation. It is key to be patient when installing an aluminum fence, rushing the process will only make things worse. It may take up to three days for the concrete to dry completely but that is much less time than it will take to redo sections of the fence or possibly even having to redo the whole thing!

If you follow these simple seven steps, your installation should hopefully go fairly smooth.

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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.

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.

Reasons To Install Aluminum Fencing

There are a number of reasons that homeowners choose to install a fence. The most common reasons being the safety aspect of fencing. Peace of mind is something that most of us can’t put a price tag on and that security is exactly what a fence provides homeowners. A fence not only keeps kids and pets contained within the landscape it also works to prevent outside people and critters from entering.

Maybe these aren’t your concerns at all. It could be that you aren’t worried about who is accessing your backyard at all. It’s possible you don’t have kids or pets to worry about keeping in the yard. However, there are many other reasons that a fence may be just what your landscape needs.

Sometimes homeowners don’t need a fence to enclose their backyards at all. It is possible that a decorative aluminum fence is a perfect addition to hide an ugly eyesore within your yard. Sometimes it could be an unsightly propane tank or air conditioning unit that is ruining the aesthetics of your landscape. No matter what you want to conceal an ornamental aluminum fence will help improve the overall look of the area by camouflaging the eyesore.

Another reason homeowner’s install fencing is to help decrease the amount of wind that an area receives. When installers understand the purpose the fence is being installed is to block the wind they will mount it in a tactical manner that directs the wind in a different direction. This allows the space to be enjoyed on even the windiest of days. Install a fence to block the wind out when looking to enjoy your hot tub or fire pit year round.

Aluminum fencing is an ideal choice for partitioning large yards into smaller sections. This unconventional concept can allow your yard to take on a whole new concept. This allows your yard to have several purposes and new functions. When you are partitioning a large yard it is important to meet with a professional fence installer. They will recommend the best way in which to stabilize the aluminum fence panels to ensure their longevity.

No matter what reason you have for installing a fence it is important that you purchase quality fencing from a reputable company that backs their product. There are many online aluminum fence wholesalers to choose from when looking into ordering your new fence. Be sure to order your fencing from a company that offers not only a quality product but also excellent customer service.

Pros and Cons of Different Fencing Materials

There are a variety of materials available when choosing a fence. Each type of fence comes with its own set of pros and cons associated with it. In this article we will look at a few of the most popular options in residential fencing, aluminum and wood, along with the benefits and drawbacks each offers to homeowners.

Aluminum Fencing

Aluminum fencing is one of the most reasonably priced, adaptable and long lasting materials available. It offers all of these benefits while being one of the most easily maintained materials available in fencing. This material is also easy to install on your own but can also affordably be installed by a team of professional fence installers. Aluminum is a highly adaptable material in which the panels are easily designed for a variety of landscapes including ones with a high degree of sloping. Aluminum fencing comes in a variety of ornamental styles and numerous colors to choose from. The options in aluminum fencing consist of a variety of additions such as scrolls, butterflies, decorative finials and puppy pickets.

The only real downfall of aluminum fencing is that it costs more upfront than most other materials do. In the long run however it will end up costing homeowners less because aluminum fencing does not require near the amount of maintenance as seen in other fencing materials. Aluminum is highly durable and has been compared to steel fencing for many years. It will not work as privacy fencing so if this is your goal another material is going to be better for you.

Wood Fencing

Wooden fence has been a popular choice amongst homeowners for many years. Not only is it an attractive option in fencing it is also fairly inexpensive and versatile. There are many options in designs and style choices. Wood fences are a great option for homeowners looking for privacy and can be painted and stained to compliment any home’s exterior.

The major drawback to wood fencing comes with the degree of maintenance it takes to keep it looking new. Not only is it labor intensive it is expensive as well. Harsh weather changes have a way of wearing wooden fencing away. Harsh climates give way for rot and warping. Extra moisture in the wood can lead to a high degree of damage. Another disadvantage of wood fencing is how much it is enjoyed by small pests such as ants and termites. One infestation can lead to mass amounts of destruction for your homes wooden fence.

Preventing Damage To Aluminum Fencing

I always get asked what special precautions should be taken to ensure that aluminum fencing withstands high winds and heavy storms. Although there is no guarantee that your aluminum fence will make it through a hurricane, tornado or other natural disasters there are several steps that can be taken to prevent inclement weather from destroying your aluminum fence. Let’s face the facts; the only thing holding your fence upright is the pressure of the posts against the soil.

One way to help prevent major damage to aluminum fencing even in the midst of the most horrific of storms is to look at the natural elements within the yard surrounding the fence. Trim trees and dead branches to keep them from being blown off during strong winds or heavy rain. Limbs should be trimmed twice a year, at the beginning of summer and the end of fall to help prevent them from falling onto the fencing. Have all the trees in your yard that are dead or dying removed from the space. Many times dead trees will completely uproot in the midst of severe weather. A falling tree or several heavy branches can cause a lot of damage to your fencing panels.

Another way to keep your fence from getting damaged during a storm is to make sure the fence posts are secure. Take a few minutes and walk around the aluminum fence posts. Check for loose or unstable fence posts as they have the potential to lift up out of the ground during a relentless storm.

When you know a storm is coming you can prepare your fence by closing and locking the aluminum gate. If an aluminum gate is left unlocked during severe weather it runs the risk of being ripped off or slamming into the rest of the fence. Leaving the fence unlatched during inclement weather also could lead the gate to damage the integrity of the fence itself. The swift pull and push of wind on an aluminum gate will have it going in a million and a half directions.

Another solid piece of advice to keep your aluminum fence and gate from being damaged in a storm is to eliminate all the backyard objects that are free flying. Take all chairs, tables, sports equipment and such into a secure garage or shed area. That way if the wind picks up objects won’t randomly be flying through the air causing damage to the fence or home.

If by chance you do experience storm damage to your aluminum fencing don’t fret. Check out your local online aluminum fence wholesaler who can help find you the correct aluminum fencing replacement parts to fix your homes fence.

There Is No Better Option Than Aluminum Fencing

Aluminum fencing is by far the best type of fencing that your money can buy. This is especially true for the DIY homeowner looking to install their fencing. Whether you are looking to enclose a pool, backyard or looking into perimeter fencing for a business there isn’t a better option than aluminum. Not only does it serve a purpose, it does so while looking classic and adding value to your home. Aluminum fencing not only increase the homes aesthetics but also its value overall.

There are quite a few misconceptions that surround the purchase and installation ofaluminum fencing. In the following installment we will dispel the top myths surrounding aluminum.

The first misconception that many perpetuate about aluminum fencing is that it is not as strong as steel. This is absolutely false. Yes, aluminum fencing is lighter in weight than wrought iron but in no way should you take that to mean that it is any less durable. When it comes right down to it the weight ratio of aluminum fencing panels is equivalent to the density found in steel. It is true that steel is stiffer and heavier than aluminum but both materials are equally durable and strong.

Many people believe that aluminum fencing will eventually rust. This is however untrue as well. The aluminum may oxidize over time but will never rust. The aluminum is coated with a powder coating that prevents rusting and helps to diminish oxidization.

Homeowners with an even landscape often think that aluminum fencing will not properly rack. This however is completely untrue; in face aluminum fencing is easily racked and works well on even the steepest of landscapes. This is especially true now with the changes that have recently taken place in aluminum fence manufacturing. New technology in aluminum fencing allows the railing to follow along the ground while keeping the pickets vertical.

Some people believe that aluminum fencing doesn’t hold up over time. This is completely untrue. In fact many homeowners that have purchased an aluminum fence will purchase it again if they move to a new home. It is a popular option because the powder coated surface allows the fence to maintain the classic look and appeal from the first day it is installed for the entire time it is in use. Maintenance is low and the wear and tear over time on aluminum fencing is minimal. It truly holds up without nearly the maintenance seen in with other fencing materials.

You might think that with all of the benefits listed above that aluminum fence is expensive to purchase and install but that is untrue as well. Aluminum fencing does cost more than wood or chain link but when you consider the cost savings in installation and maintenance you will see the bargain that aluminum actually is.

Aluminum is a truly classic material that when used in fencing is strong, durable, maintainable and easy to install. It is available in a number of colors and styles to choose from and can be purchased from the comfort of your own home through online aluminum fence wholesalers.

Invest In The Best

When it comes to buying aluminum fencing it is essential that you carefully research all of the available options. Purchasing aluminum fencing is quite an investment, one that is intended to be a permanent presence for decades to come. In order to assist you in your quest to find the perfect addition in aluminum fencing to your landscape we have created this detailed guide on what to look for.

Affordable Pricing

Aluminum fencing doesn’t have to be extravagantly expensive in order to be a solid investment. The cost of the fence isn’t everything but it is important to note that not all quotes are created equally. Sometimes manufacturers quote out the lowest grade fencing available to win a bid only to later mention that the fence that was quoted was of a lower quality than expected. When comparing fence quotes from various manufactures it is important to take into consideration the quality of the fence being quoted along with all the extras. A price that seems too good to be true probably is.

Customer Service

While you are exploring online aluminum wholesalers take into account the customer service you receive. Not only should you be working with customer representatives that are kind and courteous but they should also be experts in all aspects of fencing. You need a representative that can take you from measuring the yard through to the installation process. If you need help or questions should arise at anytime throughout the process you will want to know that they are there to assist you.

Warranty

Two things are really important when it comes to the warranty on your aluminum fencing. Not only is it important that the fence manufacturer offer a warranty it is equally important that they honor it. Find out what the warranty covers. If the fence breaks under normal use will they replace it? How about if the powder coating on the fence starts to chip or peel? Even worse what does the warranty cover if the fence is damaged during a weather related incident? A fantastic warranty will save you a lot of heartache if something ends up happening to damage your aluminum fence.

The Basics

Aluminum fencing comes in several different grades that will vary the weight of the fence. It is important that you purchase the fence grade that goes along with the desired application. Most manufacturers offer residential, pool grade, commercial and industrial fencing. Aluminum fencing is known for its ease of installation. Aluminum fence manufacturers can help customers with installation by providing detailed step by step instructions to follow. Also, take into consideration the different charges for extras and enhancements to the aesthetics of the already beautiful fence such as puppy pickets, finials and such that enhance visual appeal.

Aluminum Fencing Is A Solid Return On Investment For Homeowners

There are a ton of options for homeowners to choose from when looking into purchasing a fence for their home and landscape. The one material that stands out from the rest is aluminum. Aluminum fencing is a popular choice amongst homeowners when installing a fence as it offers numerous benefits over other materials in fencing.

Aluminum fencing requires less cleaning and maintenance then most other types of fencing. This is a major advantage of installing aluminum fences in your home or business. The last thing busy home and business owners need is another thing to clean or maintain making aluminum fencing a top choice.

Unlike other metal fencing, aluminum is resistant to corrosion. Aluminum retains its finish for quite some time and does not easily corrode. Once an aluminum fence is installed the finish retains it shine for a substantial period of time. To ensure that the surface of aluminum fencing is protected it is finished with a powder coat that improves the surface of the fence making it smooth.

Another reason that aluminum is a popular choice is that it is available in a number of styles and designs to choose from. There are also a number of colors available for homeowners to choose from to compliment the exterior of the home. Aluminum offers a great deal of flexibility when it comes to choosing a fence.

Aluminum fencing is simple to install and is a popular choice for DIY homeowners. Taking away the cost of installation keeps aluminum an affordable option for all budgets. Compare the cost of materials and installation of wood fencing, wrought iron andaluminum fencing and you will see just how reasonable it is to purchase and install wholesale aluminum fencing.

A number of materials in fencing are durable and built to withstand the climate changes of homes in the north but only aluminum comes with a lifetime warranty direct from the manufacturer. In case of an accident or minor damage to the fence it is important to note that aluminum is easy to repair. If the damage is minor all homeowners need to do is to remove the affected part and replace it or have it repaired. In cases of more severe damage the part of the fence that is damaged can be removed and replaced without affecting any other parts of the fence.

The above benefits make aluminum fencing a popular option. It doesn’t hurt that aluminum is said to offer solid return on investment as well.

Aluminum Fencing For Pet Containment

There are numerous options to consider when searching out fencing that is marketed for pet containment. The main considerations when choosing pet fencing is to assure the safety and protection of your pet. Consider the following to ensure the fencing you choose will maximize your pet’s wellbeing.

It is important to consider the type of dog that the fence is going to contain. Different breeds require different needs out of a fence. Does your dog require a great deal of space to run around in? Do you have a breed that needs to be worked and will need a large fenced in space pull sleds or gather herds of animals? Are you trying to keep an ultra intelligent variety of dog that will need to a fence that resembles a prison yard? The type of breed normally can help pet owners establish temperament ahead of time. If the space within your yard is incompatible with the breed of dog you choose then it isn’t going to be fair to either you or the dog.

Another aspect to consider when choosing a fence g for pet containment is the size of dog. Different size dogs have different requirement. Smaller dogs will most likely need a style fencing that offers puppy pickets. With aluminum fencing, puppy pickets are in additional pickets in the lower railings of fence that are put into place to keep smaller dogs from squeezing through the small picket opening of the fence. No matter the size if you have a dog that likes to dig you will want to consider the additional option of protruding pickets that fill the gap between the ground and the fence. Dogs that are taller generally require taller fencing or fencing without horizontal beam above the base of the fence. This beam allows dogs the additional bit of height required to push them over the top.

Is your fence going to be in place to contain both your pet and children? If this is the case many homeowners choose two different aluminum fencing options that complement one another to create a realistic space for both. With this option in place your pet is free to roam about without worry of escape when children accidentally leave the fence gate open while also containing their output.

Not only is the fencing itself important but also the type of gate you choose. For most homeowners looking to contain a pet it is crucial to have a gate that is self latching that closes automatically. This is extremely helpful when your hands are full or your pup is a little Houdini.