Monthly Archives: August 2017

Ideal Pool Safety Found Using Aluminum Pool Fencing

Nothing compliments a backyard pool area quite like the pristine swimming pool and well-pruned landscape.  It is the focal point of the backyard and provides a view unlike any other.  Not only are pools a visual skeptical they are often a source of concern when it comes to safety.   A pool fence needs to be installed properly but a prerequisite that designers struggle with is making the fence attractive so that it provides safety and does not tarnish the landscape.

One of the things that consumers worry about is rust.  However, not all fences are equal when it comes to rust or decay.  Aluminum is one of the materials that fences can be made from without concern or worry about rust.  Aluminum fencing is coated with a powder coating that helps to prevent rust and provide a minimal maintenance fence.

Rust normally forms when water or moisture reacts with certain metals mostly steel and iron.  The reaction causes the metal to decay.  This type of rust can only be stopped by taking off the affected metal off.  This reaction is not caused from metal or moisture reacting with aluminum.

Aluminum fences are not made from iron or steel.  They do not decay in a similar fashion as iron and steel.  Aluminum is affected by moisture and water but it is not harmful like it is with iron and steel.  When water and moisture reacts with aluminum fencing it is called oxidation.  The oxidation of aluminum happens when a thin layer of covering forms on the area that is logged with water.  Ironically in aluminum this makes the affected metal stronger.

It also only affects the area where the moisture or water has settled.  The rest of the fence remains unaffected.  This ensures that the fence stays intact and does not spread which makes it a perfect choice for your swimming pool fencing.

Aluminum is a better material over others in functionality, elegance, and beauty that don’t need to be maintained continually.  Your aluminum fence comes with a powder coating that helps stop and prevent a special powder coating that helps protect unsightly rusting.  The special powder that is used to protect the aluminum even before the process of oxidation begins.  Aluminum fencing needs minimal care.

Selecting the right type of metal for your swimming pool is very important to consider the element of rust, maintenance levels and more. Safety is of paramount importance and comes first when it comes to metal pool fencing.

Typical Metal Swimming Pool Fences Regulations

  • The top of the fence should be 48 inches above the grade
  • The gap should be less than 4-inch
  • There should be no notches or indentations
  • Fences should not have anything that facilitates climbing

Aluminum metal pool fences are the perfect choice as it is immune to any ill effects and will not only add beauty to your swimming pool but ensure the safety of your family members with minimal effect on your pocket.

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

Choosing an Aluminum Fencing System for Your Pool

The fun and excitement that can attract people can always be found when the installation of an in-ground swimming pool.  With all of the fun and excitement that comes with playtime in the pool homeowners need to be cautious to avoid accidents around the water.  Backyard pools require a perimeter fence and locking gate to be installed.  Regardless of whether it is ground level or in ground an appropriate fence is a must to prevent the occurrence of unnecessary accidents.

There are number of different options to consider when it comes to pool fencing.  When choosing an aluminum pool fence and aluminum locking pool gate it is important that it fits your financial plan, the style, color, strength, and meets B.O.C.A. standards.

There are some distinct issues to consider when you are adding a fence to your pool.  To begin with homeowners need to check into local rules and regulations that are in place locally and with their H.O.A.’s. Fencing is best affixed to a hard surface to ensure that it is able to be maintained and is rigid for a solid length of time.  Fencing is not only able to help to maintain safety but also for cleanliness surrounding the pool area.

Aluminum fencing adds elegance and beauty to the environment surrounding the pool area.   Although there are a variety of fencing materials to choose from aluminum fencing has proved time and time again that it is the best option to use around the perimeter of a swimming pool.

One of the reasons for this is the fact that aluminum pool fencing is readily available and maintenance is easy.  Aluminum provides lasting rigidity and strength than other options in pool fencing.  It also adds beauty and style to the pool environment.  Aluminum pool fencing is also powder coated with chemicals that prevent rusting and damage due to moisture and environmental changes.

Aluminum pool fence is so durable to the point that most manufacturers are willing to stand by their product by offering a lifetime guarantee against wear and tear. This guarantee is astounding for the average individual that is short on cash and does not have any desire to worry about when they will need to put more cash into their pool fence. It also enables you to make a single investment of money and nothing more.

There is one final stunning advantage to aluminum fencing when compared with other alternative. You can choose from basically any color under the sun. The powder coating can be put on in any color imaginable. This is incredible for the producer since they can offer additional products with no additional effort or cost to them. The producer does not need to stock numerous colors. The coating process is so quick and simple that it can be uniquely designed for each job. This is also great for the buyer since it enables you to purchase contemporary aluminum fencing product in any color to match every pool design.

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

Aluminum Driveway Gates | How to buy genuine iNTEGRITY

Ordering a Driveway Gate is fun and not difficult (especially when you activate our one-of-a-kind iDesign Gate Studio™). Nevertheless, you may have questions about terminology. Feel free to call us at anytime for quick answers. For the most commonly asked questions, look for “what’s this?” or “learn more!” and click for more info. Our FAQ and glossary can also be a big help. Enjoy!

1  Choose Your Style

All Integrity™ gates ordered correspond to the 18 styles of fencing we offer. Feel free to peruse our list of styles, but if you really want pick the exact gate you want, right down to the optional details – and actually see it – use our design studio and read below for more information! There is nothing like it anywhere!
2  Select Desired Configuration

Gates can be ordered in 4 different configurations. Horizon™ Straight (without an arch) or in the following arched designs: Regal Wave™, Stonecliff Sunrise™ or StoneCliff Sunset™. The depictions at left are only a representation – no matter what style of gate you select, it can be made in one of the 4 configurations shown at left. Note also that gates can be made single-leaf or double-leaf.
3  Select Desired Grade of Material

Gates can be ordered in any grade of material we sell. In general, the wider your gate, the heavier the recommended grade. Driveway Gates are most often ordered in the heaviest and strongest grade, the Ultimate™ grade.
4  Decide on Desired Functional Options

Driveway gates are most often ordered with additional options as part of the “package.” There are several options to choose from.
5  Consider Accent Options

Driveway gates are most often ordered with additional accent options as part of the “package.” There are several options to choose from
6  Specify Posts or No Posts

You may already have posts or perhaps a pillar structure to attach your gate to (this is referred to as a “direct mount”). Most of our customers, however, need to buy posts with their new gate.
7  Specify Gate Height

The height of a gate is always the height at the hinge point.
8  Specify Gate Width

The width of a gate is always the width of the opening, either between the posts you will buy or the distance between your existing posts or between pillar structures when you are direct-mounting.
9  Pick Your Color

There are 9 gorgeous color options and your choice will not impact the price of the gate.
10  How to get a Quote on your Driveway Gate

  • We have a very easy-to-follow gate quote form that takes about 3 minutes to complete. This form has built-in answers for the most commonly asked questions.
  • When you use our cool iDesign Studio™ you will be able to click “get quote” when you have your gate looking the way you want it. Then, the gate quote form will have all of your selections automatically designated. All there will be left to do is enter your desired size!
  • Call us directly at 800-762-8876 for helpful information and subsequent quote.

Original Source: http://ifenceusa.com/drivewaygates.php

Best Installation Practices for Aluminum Gates and Fences

Aluminum fencing offers a wide range of fencing styles and colors to meet your needs and specifications. However, before the process of aluminum fence and gate installation begins, there are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure a productive project.

Keep the Gate Posts in mind

Installation of aluminum fence gates are not like wood fences/gate installation. For this reason, it is important to start with the gate posts in mind as you cannot make alterations once the installation has kicked off.

Survey staking

Before you begin installation of an aluminum gate or fence, the area where the fence would be located should be staked properly. Once this is done, have markers in the front and back of your house, representing the corners of the plot. Using a long tape is ideal so you can measure and pull it between two of the markers. Once the line you have made is tight, move it on your apartment to approximately 2” to ensure proper installation.

Make sure of the Aluminum Gate/Fence Rating

Most people are unaware there aluminum gates usually have three ratings – residential or commercial. Picking the appropriate rating will ensure you use a gate that properly covers your needs. If you do not know about aluminum gate ratings, you could seek for professional advice.

Patience is key especially with Concrete

It is not wrong to anchor your aluminum gate on concrete, so long as the anchoring of the fence posts is done properly. If this is not done, you may experience wear and tear and eventual sagging of the gate. You could instead use a floor flange for each fence post – bolt it down into the concrete before inserting the posts. Patience is required for this process as the concrete has to dry completely before any more installation processes are continued. The waiting process may take as long as three days, but it will be worth it eventually.

Aluminum fence and gate installation is a project worth the effort. While care should be taken during installation, it is important to have your local zoning laws at the back of your mind. This will help you install fencing and gates that meet local requirements.

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

 

The iNTEGRITY Integrated SmartRail System

Integrity’s™ unique SmartRail™ System, the envy of the industry, delivers unrivaled strength, beauty and versatility. Greater strength is achieved by combining multiple structural rib supports with up to 20% more aluminum. The rib supports also help eliminate fence rattle by keeping pickets securely in place. Rail sagging is virtually eliminated because interior ribs are not compromised by the top wall picket punch. So SmartRail™ can be punched for maximum panel rackabilty, making fence installation possible even on very steep grades! Factory-notched at each end, SmartRail™ glides into a punched post at just the right distance each time, stopping in position for quick and easy fastening. With all of this attention to structural integrity, you might expect that aesthetics were thrown to the wind. Think again! SmartRail’s™ enhanced exterior detail, with its beautiful curves in all the right places, is stunningly attractive! An engineering feat, the incredibly versatile SmartRail™ System also converts into a concealed fastener system and is the structural genius of our Encore!™ Hand Railing product line!

SmartRail™

Integrity™ fences are constructed using one of three sizes (grades) of horizontal rail using the below listed configurations. This ”smart” railing is available for purchase independent of panels in one foot length increments ranging from 1′ to 8′ in the following ways:

  • blank (unpunched)
  • punched for standard picket spacing
  • punched for Extreme™ picket spacing
  • punched Xtra-Rack™ for moderate grade slope
  • punched Max-Rack™ for severe grade slope

Each of the above options is available in all grades with the size of the rail, the size of the punch, and the spacing between punches determined by the chosen grade. SmartRail™ can also be purchased for any Concealed Fastener System (CFS) such as Don Phillips™ fence panels or Encore!™ hand railing. Additionally, SmartRail™ is available in any of our standard colors and comes with rail ends factory-notched unless otherwise indicated. Note: When ordered punched Extreme™, SmartRail™ can be punched Xtra-Rack™ but not MaxRack™.

SuperRail™ Concealed Fastener System (CFS)

All Integrity Aluminum Products™ fences use stainless steel fasteners to secure the vertical pickets to the horizontal rails on one side of the fence panel. Powder coated to match the fence, this system is the surest way to secure pickets and minimize fence “rattle.” Now, we offer the option to conceal these fasteners and make your fence even more durable! The unique SuperRail™ system doubles the horizontal rails, hiding the fasteners while adding incredible strength. It also closes off the bottom of the horizontal rails, making the panels virtually insect-free! Choose any style in any collection (Resort, Classic, Premier, and Ultimate) and convert it into The SuperRail™ Concealed Fastener System (CFS). CFS panels come factory-assembled. This optional feature cannot be added to previously built panels.

Stationary Rail Mounting Brackets

This is what you need when a fence panel is being attached directly to a structure such as a pillar or building without the use of a punched post. When necessary, though, they can also be attached to posts. These brackets are available in sizes to fit the horizontal SmartRail™ of any Integrity™ fence grade. Stationary rail mounting brackets are used for ”straight-on” attachments. Angled attachments require adjustable rail mounting brackets (see below). Rail mounting brackets are sold separately in any of our standard Integrity™ colors. Please specify color, type and grade when ordering.

Vertically Adjustable Rail Mounting Brackets

For significant (up-and-down) slopes, these vertically adjustable brackets make it easy to mount Integrity™ Xtra-Rack™ or Max-Rack™ fence panels to blank (not pre-punched) fence posts or structures such as pillars or buildings. These brackets are available to fit the railing of any Integrity™ fence grade and sold separately in any of our standard Integrity™ colors. Please specify color and grade when ordering.

Horizontally Adjustable Rail Mounting Brackets

For sharp (left-to-right) 45 degree angled turns, these horizontally adjustable brackets make it easy to mount standard fence panels to Integrity™ fence posts or structures such as pillars or buildings. These brackets are available to fit the railing of any Integrity™ fence grade and sold separately in any of our standard Integrity™ colors. Please specify color and grade when ordering.

Rail Clipper

Also called a ”rail end notcher”, this tool is used to “notch” the ends of the horizontal SmartRail™ of an Integrity™ fence, allowing it to slide into the narrower punched holes of a post. Since horizontal rails come factory-notched, this tool has limited use for do-it-yourself installation and is most often used by high volume contractors who cut and ”re-notch” horizontal railing on-the-job. Comes standard for residential grade notching, commercial grade conversion kits are sold separately.

Encore!™ Top Rail

Any of the four Encore!™ hand railing top rail design profiles can be purchased separately by-the-foot in one-foot increments up to 10′ long. This top rail is designed as a concealed fastener system (CFS), with the outer profile snapped together with an inverted Premier™ grade horizontal SmartRail™. Sold together as a unit here, either component can be quoted separately upon request. Available in any of our standard colors. Visit our Encore!™ link for more information.

Encore!™ Lower Rail

The lower rail of any Integrity Encore!™ hand railing panel is actually Premier™ grade SuperRail™ Concealed Fastener System (CFS) and can be ordered separately by-the-foot.

Encore!™ Rail Mounting Brackets

Integrity Encore!™ hand railing panels are installed by being attached to blank posts using mounting brackets. These rail mounting brackets are unique and not interchangeable with our fence rail mounting brackets. Based on your requirements, order any of the following types in any of our standard Integrity™ colors:

Encore!™ Top Rail Brackets with or without Tabs*

  • stationary top rail mounting bracket
  • horizontally adjustable top rail mounting bracket
  • vertically adjustable top rail mounting bracket

Encore!™ Lower Rail Brackets with or without Tabs*

  • stationary lower rail mounting bracket
  • horizontally adjustable lower rail mounting bracket
  • vertically adjustable lower rail mounting bracket

*When ordering mounting brackets for the top rail, you must indicate the top rail design profile. Also, when ordering any Encore!™ rail mounting bracket, you must specify ”with tabs” or ”without tabs”. Visit our Encore!™ link for more information.

Original Source: http://ifenceusa.com/smartrail.php

 

Aluminum Driveway Gates and Fencing Increase Home Safety

Aluminum is a lightweight and versatile metal that has been incorporated for security purposes in many residential and commercial properties. From pool barricades to aluminum driveway gates and fencing increase home safety with quality and professional design solutions. Understanding the features offered with such creations will encourage a flexible, functional and appealing construction that lasts.

Aluminum is a popular choice of material in the production of fences and secure barriers because of its exceptional properties. For homes looking to improve its safety and security, the installation of a durable yet simple to maintain fence can provide lasting value.

Whether an aluminum fence is used to secure a pool, as a driveway gate or a security fence for a perimeter, it provides a neat and aesthetic appeal. While it does not offer a great deal of privacy, these constructions can transform the appearance of any house from outdated and unkept to modern and well organized.

Security has become a major concern for many homeowners. With intruders constantly looking for ways to gain ease of access, improving safety with durable fencing can help protect you and your loved ones. Grade aluminum fences are the best options to secure your property.

Aluminum driveway gates are constructed to last and include automated function owing to the lighter weight of this metal compared to steel and wrought iron. Not only is electronic operation easy and efficient, but safer. Rather than get out of your car late at night to unlock your gate, automated features help you open the fence without having to climb out of your vehicle. It provides greater control for the home including access control for improved safety measure. Incorporating these types of electronic solutions can assist in delivering an exceptional and reliable result against would be intruders.

Automated fences can swing open provided there are no obstructions or slide along a track. Manually operated driveway gates are slid open and closed. The flexibility of this material makes it easy to operate on a lock and slide mechanism, but automated functionality is best for higher levels of security. To enhance the safety of your home, connect a sensor to the entry gate. It will prevent breaking of locks to gain entrance and makes it easier to manage accessibility.

The aluminum fence is a highly durable construction. Adding sturdy fencing as a perimeter around the front of your house can deter would be criminals. The exceptional strength of this metal combined with spikes and decorative spokes on the top line can help prevent intruders from making their way onto your property.

While aluminum fencing costs more than regular wood, it will not tarnish and does not require maintenance. Security fences are designed with an above average height or the addition of spokes and pickets. These features aim to safeguard your home and provide residential owners with peace of mind that they have made the right security investment decision. The wide range of designs, colors and construction to select, makes such enhancements an invaluable choice for any property.

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

Aluminum Fences | DIY Project Tips for Success from iFence

On this page, we offer a brief overview of challenges that may need to be addressed before embarking on a DIY fencing project. Some helpful tips are also presented to spark your creativity, but we don’t go into the fine details and planning of your overall landscaping. That we leave to you and the professionals who may share with us the privilege of serving you.

Unobstructed View

The best attribute of Integrity™ aluminum fences is that your view is not obstructed by the fence. This means you can easily keep an eye on the pool area. Beyond your yard there may be a beautiful lake, a wooded area, or just wild flowers. Integrity™ aluminum fences let you continue to enjoy your surroundings with minimal obstruction, especially when ordered in bronze or black. When privacy is important, we recommend landscaping with natural foliage as a barrier on either side of your Integrity™ fence. Most local codes do not permit privacy fences taller than 6′, which means you’ll be boxed in while others from a distance may still be able to look in. Take a look at our extensive photo gallery and then ask yourself, ”How could a big tall plastic wall be this attractive?”

Keep Fence Clear of Objects or Grade Inclines

Always remember that when a pool is involved, fences are subject to more restrictions for the safety of children. Please take the time to review our pool safety link. Integrity Aluminum Products™ places a high priority on safety and we want you to be aware of potential hazards for children. For instance, keeping fences a safe distance away from objects outside the pool area such as air conditioner units is addressed by the BOCA pool safety code and is almost universally enforced by inspectors. This is a good idea for the protection of children. When retaining walls are involved and it is not possible to maintain adequate clearance from the incline, consider installing your fence on the high ground! All of our Resort Collection™ pool fences comply with the rigid safety standards of BOCA!*

How Wide Should A Walkway Be?

When planning your walkway, keep in mind that the gate needs to be wide enough so that you are able to install the gate posts on each side of the concrete, therefore, we recommend leaving yourself a little extra space. For instance, if you are going to have a 48′ wide gate, an ideal limit for the width of your walkway is 45”. Pavers can be more forgiving, but it’s still better to plan ahead, as shown. Usually, the fence is ordered in advance of the installation of the concrete, so you’ll want to go over this point with the concrete installers. Don’t assume anything! Talking about these details with your concrete professional will ensure the success of your project! One last thing, when hugging the concrete with your fence, there is a key point to remember. Often, when the concrete is angled and not square with the gate, the gate itself needs to be made wider to span the distance! This issue is resolved in one of three ways, by narrowing the walkway, by widening the gate, or installing the gate square with the concrete and then angling the adjacent fencing. Advise your contractor of your decision! Of course, at times mounting posts directly onto concrete will be necessary. Our FAQ link addresses these circumstances and the best way to plan for success!

Remember the Landing!

If there are steps leading up to your gate, there should (and often must) be an adequate landing otherwise it becomes awkward to open the gate. A person must have plenty of room to maneuver when opening the gate. This issue, if not addressed early enough, may result in a costly reworking of landscaping, including retaining walls. Or, as pictured here, a reluctant angling inward with some concrete coring in order to create a landing space. Though not as initially conceived, the homeowner was able to avoid serious aesthetic compromise.

Consider a Rounded Configuration

Curved fencing layouts can be gorgeous! And Integrity™ aluminum fences will flow with these curves quite well! You do not have to lock yourself into a rectangular pattern. As Integrity™ fence panels are being installed, they can be shifted directionally. While the panels themselves are not rounded or bent, the cumulative effect of this slight adjustment at each post creates a rounded effect. The curve appeal shown here is very effective, don’t you think?

When Attaching to Pillars

Pillars are a lovely way to achieve a stately look, and they work well with Integrity™ aluminum fences. There are two ways to terminate a fence run up against a pillar. First, an end post can be installed butted up to the pillar, as shown. If this is the look that you’re seeking, be sure the foundation of the pillar does not protrude beyond the outer plane of the pillar. Otherwise, you will not be able to install the post close enough to the pillar. You may have to cut the post to just below grade, and then attach it directly to the pillar. Or, if you prefer, you can eliminate the post altogether and use rail mounting brackets, as shown. Regardless of your chosen method, we recommend that the height of the pillar always be approximately 6 inches higher than your fence, not including the capstone. Why? Integrity™ cuts no corners. All fence panels are actually the height we say they are, not an approximate!

How Tall Should A Pillar Be?

What should be your pillar height for a 54” fence, as an example? First, your fence will likely be installed two inches off grade. We just inched up to 56” (from grade to the top of the fence panel). But we’re not done with the math yet! The top of the post is always one inch higher than the top of the panel, and the standard post cap adds another 3/4”. Now, we are at nearly 58” off grade. In this scenario we recommend a 60” to 62” pillar height not including the capstone, taller still if you intend to use ball caps! Of course, if you are using rail mounting brackets and a post is not being butted up to the pillar, you may have some wiggle room. But remember, if your pillar is too short (as shown), aesthetics have been compromised in two ways. First, a pillar shorter than the fence has the look and feel of a mistake. Second, the fence cannot be butted up to the pillar without making unsightly cuts into the capstone which is generally extended beyond the planes of the pillar!

What About Sudden Changes in Grade?

Retaining walls are often necessary due to unavoidable sudden changes in grade. When planned correctly, these conditions will add to the landscape’s beauty. Where the Integrity™ fence will be installed is where we can offer advice. First, when possible, try to install the fence on the high ground. Occasionally, it is necessary to ”hop over” a retaining wall, as shown. In this case, you’ll end up using Max-Rack™ panels and possibly custom protruding pickets, as shown. If the retaining wall is more of a wall, as in suddenly stepping the grade up, this usually requires stepping the fence, also as shown. Either way, we will advise a cost-effective custom solution.

When Pavers Are Involved

When fencing is installed through an area to be paved, as shown, pavers are much more forgiving than concrete. In other words, even after they have been installed, a few can be extracted so that a fence post can be installed. Afterwards, with a little cutting, they can be reinserted. As always, plan ahead so that the fence is installed before the pavers go in. One last note, if the walkway is to be a paver walkway, remember to account for the paver edging when determining the size of your gate opening. You will want to install your gate without disturbing the edging structure or you will end up with shifting pavers down the road!

Original Source: http://ifenceusa.com/diyproject.php