Q: What are the basic fence materials?
A: Basic fence materials for residential use include tubular iron in square or round shapes, steel wire with steel or wood frames, wood for panel and rail fences, aluminum fence available with wire mesh, panel or glass insert, and the new polyvinyl chloride (PVC) fences.
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Q: How many different styles of fence are there?
A: There are many different styles of fences, and they are called different names depending on the companies you talk to and the areas in which you live.
- Chain link fences can be vinyl coated or galvanized and could have plastic slats inserted for adding privacy.
- Wood fences come in a variety of styles, such as, stockade, wyngates, flat board, estate, paddock, picket and split rail.
- PVC fences are relatively new to the fence industry. PVC fences come in many of the same styles as wood fence. This product is very easy to maintain.
- Aluminum fences can look much like the old wrought iron fences (which are still available). Both aluminum and wrought iron fence are often ornamental by design.
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Q: What do I need to tell a contractor who is going to build a fence for me?
A: Once you have decided to install a fence, you should be prepared to discuss the following points with your fence professional:
- The purpose of the fence
- The exact location of the fence
- What type of design features you want (height, style, material)
- Approximate budget
- Desired completion date
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Q: What kind of fence will keep my dog confined but will not block my view?
A: A chain link fence with black or green vinyl fabric and a black frame is generally considered the best solution that will least obstruct your view.
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Q: I have an old rusted and flaking wrought iron fence around my house. How can I restore it?
A: The recommended procedure for restoring a wrought iron fence with this problem is to either sand blast or wire brush the fence to remove the rust. Once the rust is removed, you should apply a zinc-enriched primer, cover it with one or two coats of finish, preferably with a rust inhibitor. Just like your car, you can enhance the life span of an iron fence by simply cleaning and polishing the fence with a good automotive wax.
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Q: How long will my fence last?
A: There are many factors that affect the life of a fence, including local climate, soil conditions, and the materials used, to name a few. You can expect a properly installed fence will last a long time, as long as it is appropriately maintained. Your fence professional should be able to help you decide which type of fence serves your needs best.
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Q: Are there standards that pertain to fence materials and products?
A: Yes. The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) develops and publishes standards for thousands of products, including fences. A knowledgeable, well- trained fence contractor will be versed in ASTM standards for fence products and installation. All members of the American Fence Association are supplied with an updated ASTM Manual for Fence Products regularly.
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Q: Aren’t all chain-link fences the same?
A: No. Chain-link is a component fence system, consisting primarily of three basic elements: fabric, framework and fittings. The critical issue is how these components are combined. Chain-link is available in a wide range of weights (or gauges) and coatings. The most common coating is zinc (galvanized) but chain-link is also available in other coatings such as aluminum or vinyl and polyester color coatings that enhance landscaping, blending naturally with trees, shrubs, and bushes.
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Q: But don’t all chain-link fences stand up to residential wear-and-tear?
A: Not necessarily. A light system may bend easily due to even the most common household occurrences, such as a person climbing or sitting on it, a heavy wind blowing debris against it, or a dog jumping against it. Inferior coatings may allow the fence to rust prematurely.
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Q: Why would anyone sell such light fencing?
A: Manufacturers make products for a wide range of uses. People buy light fencing because of its lower price, or because they simply don’t understand that not all fencing is the same. Sometimes products intended for use as a light temporary fence end up being permanently installed around someone’s home.
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Q: Are there any quality tests?
A: Yes, the CLFMI recently tested the strength of light gauge fences and learned that a 75 pound dog and a 100 pound child could severely damage or even collapse the lightest- gauge fences. In fact, the CLFMI conducted a study of recent fence buyers to better understand their expectations of their chain-link fence. What they learned was that after they fully understood their options, 100% of these buyers would have selected a heavier fence!
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Q: Don’t local building codes ensure that I’ll get a good quality fence?
A: Building codes for chain-link fencing may not exist in your locale and many only address issues of location, height, or theoretical wind load requirements for strength. Few codes actually define the material requirements of the fence or factor in the many variables relating to fencing for your home.
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Q: How do I know what to ask for before I invest in a fence?
A: You’ve made a great start by reading this information. We recommend that you purchase chain-link fencing that at least meets the minimum standards for residential fencing established by the American Society for Testing and Materials. ASTM is a non- profit association that establishes standards for all kinds of materials including fencing. Some installations may require exceeding the ASTM minimum in areas of high winds, snow conditions or heavy use. Your best bet is to contact us and inform us of your needs.
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Q: Will a fence that meets ASTM minimum requirements cost more?
A: Yes. Good quality materials and workmanship always cost more than substandard products. A lower price may be attractive initially, but in a few years, major repairs or even total replacement make the better fence a less expensive option. Chain link fencing that meets ASTM minimum standards can be 55% stronger and cost only 10% more. Labor, concrete and building permits cost the same regardless of the quality of the chosen material.
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Q: Can I install this fence myself?
A: We can provide you with step-by-step installation booklets, or send an installation crew to your site. Please contact us for more information.
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Q: What are the advantages of chain-link?
A: There are numerous advantages to choosing a chain-link fence. Here are just a few examples:
- Protects and beautifies property
- Economical
- Long-lasting
- Maintenance-free
- Graffiti resistant
- Provides security without obstructing views
- Provides privacy
- Blends well with landscaping
- Pet control
- Recycled/recyclable
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