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Landscape Perimeters: Fencing, Walls, & Gates08-26-03 | 16
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Fencing is an attractive, versatile element that sets off property in any landscape design. From the charm of wood, to "invisible" PVC-covered chain link, to stately ornamental and long-lasting PVC, fences provide safety, privacy, distinction, and architectural interest to landscapes.

When incorporating a fence into a landscape design, Landscape Architects should include the fence in their plans from the very beginning. "Calling a fence contractor before they start will save the Landscape Architects a lot of grief, and property owners a lot of money," explains American Fence Association (AFA) President Bill Renner of Rudl Fencing and Decking. "An AFA contractor knows what fencing materials and styles are available and can help Landscape Architects choose the right fence for the environment." Renner continues, "Also, planning the fence early in the process prevents more costly installations. For instance, it is more expensive to construct an ornamental metal fence on an existing stone patio or masonry wall. If the fence plan is incorporated with the patio or wall, the installation goes more smoothly and cost efficiently." Fence contractors help Landscape Architects save money by providing accurate specifications. Proper specifications prevent future damage, determine which materials are suitable, and extend the lifetime of the fence. Innovations in the fence industry allow AFA contractors to offer more material and style choices to Landscape Architects than ever before. Many of today's fence styles are maintenance free and some are warrantied up to 40 years.

Wood is the traditional favorite for decorative fencing and is commonly used in many different applications. Wooden privacy fences often enclose property within high density living areas like many new subdivisions and condominium complexes. Natural wooden split rail is seen delineating property lines and park grounds-- it blends in nicely with rustic, wooded surroundings. The ever popular picket fence adds charm to any property, while also serving to contain pets or children. Wood fences can be custom built with decorative tops, such as lattice, rail tops, balls or finials.

Several varieties of wood make good fencing material, including Western Red Cedar, Eastern White Cedar, and pressure treated Southern Yellow Pine, according to Carol Ann Berry of FLW Wood Products. "Cedar is popular because it is naturally resistant to rot without being treated, and it is attractive. Pressure treated Southern Yellow Pine and some Red Pine are also popular and are warranted against rotting and decay," she explains. Other fencing woods include Spruce, Hemlock, Locust, Cypress, Poplar, Oak and Redwood. No matter what type of wood is used, wood fences have always been a favorite with clients for their versatility and attractiveness.

However, with diverse material choices and varying grades, chain link fencing provides an effective safety barrier for homeowners at low cost. Whether your client wants to fence in a swimming area or to provide an "invisible" barrier, chain link provides a long-lasting fence. Today's chain link fences are available coated in colored PVC and are more resistant to rust, as well as being made of different materials, such as galvanized steel, aluminum coated steel, and aluminum. "Colored PVC-coated chain link is aesthetically pleasing and blends with surroundings," maintains Aldo Sibeni, President of Boundary Fence & Railing Systems, Inc. Chain link allows the outside world a glimpse of the property's landscape. "It provides security, and yet you can see through it, allowing you to monitor the activity of your children or pets. Plus, if you plant vines and bushes around it, the fence will disappear while still giving your client security," comments Senior Project Manager Rick Hamilton of American Fence Company.

Likewise, ornamental steel and aluminum picket fencing offer the aesthetic security of wrought iron but are longer lasting and less expensive. Applications for ornamental steel picket abound, according to Jim Scheide of Security Fence Manufacturing and Supply Co., Inc. "Ornamental steel fence has primarily commercial applications-- including universities, stadiums, HUD projects, apartments, condominiums, fire stations, police stations, jails and schools," he explains.
Mostly specified for security and aesthetic qualities, ornamental steel picket fences require little upkeep, in addition to being strong and pleasing to the eye. "It's non-climbable, and people can't pull the pickets apart. It represents attractive security," comments Scheide. Ornamental steel and aluminum fences come in a wide variety of styles and can be customized with rings, ball tops, finials and scrolls for added beauty. Ballcaps provide elegance to the post, while finials decorate picket tops and scrolls and rings add flair between pickets. "You never have to paint it, it comes with a lifetime guarantee, it's easy to install, and there are several color variety options," remarks Scott Goodman, Director of Marketing at Specrail.

On the other hand, strong, maintenance-free PVC fencing is available in many of the same styles as wood and ornamental picket, including privacy (board fence), split rail and picket. Although the initial cost of PVC fencing is more than wood, PVC fencing upkeep costs are minimal, consisting mainly of occasional pressure washing. Ralph Palmieri of Bufftech explains, "We offer PVC in lieu of ornamental steel picket because it is durable." Besides its strength, PVC has another advantage-- it never has to be repainted. "It is virtually maintenance free," maintains Palmieri. PVC is often a good choice for subdivision, condominium and apartment developers who want to provide a fence to enclose the community, but who do not want the upkeep costs. Picket, privacy, semi-privacy, post-rail, and ornamental styles are available, and accessories such as balls and finials are also available to personalize the fence.

Whether your client wants to enclose a swimming area, provide architectural interest, create privacy, or delineate property lines in your landscape design, today's fence choices are virtually limitless. For a reputable fence contractor in your area, call 800-822-4342. lasn
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