Fence Outlet Offers Homeowners Fence-Buying Checklist

ORLANDO, Fla. - Dec. 22, 2014 - PRLog -- ORLANDO, Fla. (Dec. 15, 2014) – There are many reasons to install a fence ranging from backyard safety to preventing intruders to increasing curb appeal. With hundreds of different fence styles and products to choose from, selecting the right fence requires research and consideration of factors including budget, purpose and goals.

When looking to buy and install a fence, Rajul Patel, president and founder of Fence Outlet (http://www.fenceoutletonline.com/suppliesinstallation/pc/home.asp), Central Florida’s fencing experts, suggests referring to the following check list:

1.    Follow the Rules – Fences are subject to local zoning codes, which dictate the maximum height allowed, how far they must be from property lines, and whether they’re even permitted in front yards. Also, if you’re in a neighborhood association, a historic district, or a fairly new development, you may face further limitations on fence style, height, and location. The professionals at Fence Outlet can determine any zoning issues and obtain a permit, if needed.

2.    Be a Good Neighbor – If possible, check with any neighbors whose property are adjacent to your new fence to give them a chance to prepare for the change.  Also, ask your neighbors to confirm your understanding of where the property lines are.

3.    Consider Your Goals – The purpose of your fence will help narrow your choices. There are four basic types of fences to choose from:

Privacy fence: If the goal is to block sight lines, you need solid fencing, which generally means it’ll have tightly spaced vertical boards, pickets, or framed panels to prevent you from seeing out and others from seeing in. Privacy fences should be at least 6 feet tall.

Security fence: To keep people out, you’ll want a fence that is six feet tall or higher to hinder anyone from simply hopping over it. Pickets or other spiky tops also help deter intruders.

Decorative fence: If the goal is to enhance curb appeal or establish property lines, the fence doesn’t need to be nearly as large or obtrusive. You can choose one that’s just two to four feet high, and with spaced pickets, latticework, or a variety of ornamental options that don’t block the view, but enhance it.

Safety fence: To create a dog run, enclose a pool area, or deter wildlife from entering your property, without blocking the view, the most durable and affordable option is a wire fence, such as chain link.

4.    Pick your material (http://www.fenceoutletonline.com/suppliesinstallation/pc/...)– Once you’ve determined the goal of your fence, then you will need to choose the material it’s made from; this will determine its price, the maintenance it needs, and its warranty.

Wood: By far the most common fence material, wood provides a traditional look at a moderate price. Depending on the wood you choose, Fence Outlet recommends treating it with a stain or wood preservative to protect it from insects, rot, and ultraviolet light.

Vinyl and composite: These faux-wood fences are made from either solid vinyl or a mix of wood fibers and plastic resins. In either case, the material is formed into rails, pickets, and other fence parts that get assembled piece-by-piece. Vinyl looks exactly like the real thing, so if you want a wood fence, this is a way to get it without all of the maintenance.

Iron and aluminum: The classic wrought-iron fence can be anything from an ornate decorative property-line marker to a tall, spiky enclosure that provides high security. These fences aren’t actually wrought iron; they’re made from welded tubes of steel or aluminum. A good metal fence will need virtually no routine upkeep, just an occasional touchup.

Chain link and wire: The most economical of fences, chain link also has the advantage of almost disappearing into the scenery, especially if it has a black or green plastic coating on the mesh.

In conclusion, Fence Outlet’s showrooms in Orlando, Oviedo and Tampa offer all of these products, plus arbors and gate openers. Many customers also turn to Fence Outlet for professional, timely and quality fence installation. (http://www.fenceoutletonline.com/suppliesinstallation/pc/...) “Our team will help you measure your project and assist with ordering all the materials on-line,” said Patel. “Then, you can turn the entire professional installation over to Fence Outlet for a complete turnkey project.”