Tag Archives: aluminum pool fencing

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

Choosing Between Chain Link and Aluminum Fencing

There are many options in fencing. Two of the most popular options homeowners choose between are aluminum fencing and chain link fencing. Let’s face the facts here though; one option is clearly more aesthetic then the other. Chain link fencing is clearly not the more attractive of the two options although it is the most cost effective however both options are practically maintenance free. Between the two there are a few other differences between chain link fencing and aluminum fencing to consider.

One consideration between the two, chain link and aluminum fencing, is the value that they bring to the property. Any type of fencing is an investment in your home. Choosing a style of fencing that best meets your needs along with the style of your home can work to increase the value of your home and therefore offer an increase in equity upon the sale of the home. This is something homeowners must consider when choosing between fencing materials.

Chain link fencing offers the most cost effective solution for the short term but offers a low aesthetic appeal. While aluminum fencing is attractive and offers a high visual appeal but tends to be a bit more costly then chain link. In the long term chain link fencing may end up costing homeowners more with the low visual appeal, maintenance and ability to rust. All of which can end up lowering your overall property value. Also, many homeowner associations and neighborhoods have restrictions against chain link fences. Aluminum on the other hand offers numerous decorative styles and colors to choose from. It is also incredibly sturdy and resistant to changes in climate. Aluminum fencing is an investment in your home that is meant for long haul.

One more reason aluminum fencing outweighs chain link for the best option in fencing is the limitless options in ornamental design and color. There are also a lot of extra options to help homeowners customize aluminum fences where as chain link options are limited. If you are looking for an option in fencing that stands out, aluminum is where it is at. Choose from decorative finials, ornamental scrolls, or add accessorial caps to nearly all aluminum fences none of which is available in chain link fencing.

Fence maintenance is another consideration when considering between aluminum fencing and chain link. Chain link can and will rust over time unless it is coated in a vinyl protective coat. Aluminum fencing on the other hand is basically virtually maintenance free and durable. It comes with a powder-coated finish that makes the fence panels do not require repainting or extra protection against changing climates.

Learn more about aluminum fencing online from numerous online wholesalers of aluminum fencing panels.

Establishing Property Lines With Aluminum Fencing

When it comes to your property it is important to establish well defined boundaries between your home and those of your neighbors. One way to do this is with the installation of an aluminum fence. The fence acts as a natural extension of your home and offers you the added benefits of privacy and security while increasing the aesthetics of the property.

One of the easiest materials in fencing to install is aluminum. If you are a homeowner who is interested in do it yourself projects then look into wholesale aluminum fencing options online. Aluminum is not only easy to install, it also offers sleek clean lines, multiples styles and colors to choose from, is extremely low maintenance and offers several options above and beyond other fencing materials. In order to install any type of fencing to your landscape there are some clear tips that homeowners should follow in order to simplify the process.

It is important to establish your property line before placing an order for aluminum fencing. This may seem like common sense but the property line is not something to guess about. Many disputes between neighbors have begun because of estimated property lines. It will cost you more to rip out a fence that is placed on your neighbor’s property then to hire a professional land surveyor in the first place. Know exactly where your property lines are before getting started.

Before starting the actual installation process talk with your neighbors. It is important to be sure they understand that a fence is being erected and that they are on board with the project. Some neighbors agree to share the expense of the fencing that is mutual. This may be the case in your situation. If you want to keep peace with your neighbors it is always a good idea to have a quick conversation about updates and upgrades that are being done especially when they could be affected by the noise and commotion.

Another common mistake is forgetting to call the utility companies to mark off underground utilities. Homeowners will want to be sure that they are digging around all lines and pipes that are underground. Avoid doing so and hitting a line could cause a myriad of avoidable issues from ensuing.

Take a walk around the fence line prior to installation and remove any and all obstacles that stand in the way of an easy fence installation. Account for large slopes in the property as well. Take the time to stake out the area. Place wooden stakes in the ground and run line between them to double and triple check that all obstacles are removed from the line in which the fence is to be installed and that the slopes in the landscape has been thoroughly accounted for.

When it comes to actually installing your fence start by placing the posts first as this will allow you to visualize the fence set up and ensure that the number of fence panels that have been ordered are correct. One way to ensure accuracy is to run a string between the posts as they are placed and measuring and measuring again as you continue to install posts.

Aluminum fencing is honestly the easiest of all fencing materials to install. Once the posts are dug and put into place the aluminum fence panels are set to slide right into place without hassle. If you have any issues during the installation process take a step back to call and speak with your online wholesale aluminum fence representative. They will be able to help guide you through the process and help you troubleshoot issues as they arise.