Frequently Asked Questions
1. General FAQ's
Should I put my new fence on the property line?
Yes, if both neighbors are paying for the fence together, then if agreed upon by both parties the fence line may be put on the property line. The exception here would be if you were paying for the fence by yourself, then we recommend installing the fence on your side of the property line.
How do I find my property line?
Most of the time your property line can be found by locating your survey markers. They are usually a piece of rebar put in when your house was built or your property is surveyed. Sometimes they get buried in the ground or even removed. If you cannot find them, a surveyor may have to be hired, or you can check with your builder and your neighbors to see if they know the location of the survey markers.
What is the distance around my property?
Footage Guide For Perimeter Fencing (Square Lots)
1/4 Acre ........... = 417 linear feet
1/2 Acre ........... = 590 linear feet
3/4 Acre ........... = 722 linear feet
1 Acre .............. = 834 linear feet
2 Acres ............ = 1,182 linear feet
3 Acres ............ = 1,446 linear feet
4 Acres ............ = 1,670 linear feet
5 Acres ............ = 1,867 linear feet
10 Acres........... = 2,640 linear feet
*These numbers are only for perfectly square properties. If your piece is rectangular or pie-shaped, it will lengthen your numbers.
Calculation Guide
1/4 mile = 1,320 feet
1/2 mile = 2,640 feet
1 mile = 5,280 feet
2. Vinyl Fence FAQ's
What is vinyl?
Crude Oil, Natural Gas and Salt are the raw materials used in the production of Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) Resin. SUV’s vinyl compound is formulated from premium grade raw materials, which include Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) Resin, UV inhibitors, impact modifiers, stabilizers and toners. Using only premium grade raw materials in conjunction with superior technical formulation capabilities produces a vinyl product that is far above the vinyl industry as a whole.
How is vinyl fence made?
Vinyl fence starts out as a PVC powder (Resin) that, when blended with all the required ingredients of our formulation is called compound. This compound then is fed into an extruder. With the proper amount of heat, pressure and mixing via screws in the extruder, the compound becomes malleable vinyl. This vinyl is then fed through a die in the shape of the finished profile. Using vacuum technology to keep the soft pliable vinyl in the proper shape, water is used to cool the vinyl into its final rigid state. An SUV Fence fabricator cuts the wide variety of profiles to the proper length for the design of fence required. The fabricator then routes holes into the rails, so that pickets can be inserted into them, then holes are routed into the posts so that the rails can be inserted into them.
How is an SUV vinyl fence put together?
Our posts are machine routed specifically for the size rails being used in each fence project. The pickets are then inserted into the rail grooves for a clean finished appearance. Our fences do not use any fasteners, rivets or screws.
Will a SUV fence mildew?
Mildew feeds off of organic materials. Vinyl (PVC) is non-organic and therefore does not support mildew. Mildew that grows on Vinyl is actual feeding off of the organic materials (dirt) that have become embedded in or stuck to the vinyl. SUV’s fence profiles have a high gloss and smooth, non-porous surface that makes it very difficult for organic materials to attach to, and therefore, for mildew to thrive on. This, combined with the use of non-chalking TiO2 helps to prevent most mildew growth. The surface of vinyl fence that contains chalking TiO2 deteriorates at a much more accelerated level compared to non-chalking TiO2 creating a rougher surface that dirt and therefore mildew can attach itself more easily to. Only under very consistently damp conditions will the possibility of mildew occur. If mildew does appear, a mild solution of bleach and water will easily remove it.
Does SUV’s Fence chalk?
SUV's use of durable grade non-chalking TiO2 in their vinyl (PVC) formulation ensures that there will be a very minimal chalking of our fence products. All vinyl fencing will chalk sooner or later, but with the superior protection capabilities of our TiO2 this will be kept to a bare minimum. Chalking is the deterioration of the vinyl surface thereby exposing the TiO2 particles to the surface. The white powder that you can wipe off from the surface of most vinyl fences is the TiO2 particles mixed with deteriorated vinyl (PVC). SUV's vinyl is formulated for exceptional beauty over a full lifetime.
Can I paint my vinyl fence?
SUV's vinyl products are engineered to retain their beauty and good looks throughout their lifetime. The only reason to use paints on our vinyl products would be to change the color of the product. SUV’S Fence does not recommend painting vinyl (PVC). There are paints that are available to paint vinyl but painting or otherwise treating SUV's Vinyl products voids the lifetime warranty.
Will my vinyl fence turn yellow?
Vinyl (PVC) is formulated using a superior durable grade of non-chalking TiO2 that protects the vinyl (PVC) from the harmful effects of the sun's UV rays. As long as your fence is kept clean, with a periodic wash from a garden hose, it will not turn yellow.
What effects does my vinyl fence have on our environment?
Vinyl (PVC) products are safe and non-toxic. They will not breakdown and release harmful chemicals into the ground and do not require toxic chemicals (stains, waterproofing, paint, paint thinner) for regular upkeep like treated lumber can. No trees are used in the manufacturing of our vinyl fences. Because of the exceptional long life of SUV’s fence profiles, several times the amount of wood that is needed to manufacture the same fence in wood can be saved over the lifetime of the vinyl fence. If the vinyl ever needs to be taken down it can be recycled into other products, such as hoses and watering buckets.
Can a vinyl fence break?
Any fence will break when enough force is applied. However, SUV’s (PVC) profiles are formulated using only the highest quality impact modifiers in precisely engineered amounts to ensure the greatest impact resistance available. SUV’s (PVC) profiles are engineered to withstand higher impacts than the minimum required by ASTM.
Aren't all vinyl fences the same?
No. Vinyl fence system components are available in a wide range of sizes and thickness. To reduce costs, some manufacturers decrease their wall thickness, resulting in reduced strength and ultimately yielding inferior fence systems.
Are all product warranties the same?
No. A warranty is only as good as the company that stands behind it. The fence industry has seen products and/or companies enter the market, only to leave homeowners with a worthless piece of paper as a product warranty. SUV provides a double lifetime warrantyto its customers on all of its products.
What does the "Lifetime Warranty" mean?
If the vinyl fencing should ever discolor, peel, rot, pit, blister, warp, rust, flake, crack, corrode, or be damaged by insects, it would be replaced the free of charge.
How long has vinyl fencing been around?
Vinyl fence has been available since 1984 (over 22 years). It is the fastest growing product in the fencing industry with sustained annual growth at 30% plus.
How strong is vinyl fence?
It has five times the tensile strength of wood and four times the flexibility. It flexes under load making it strong enough to safely hold cattle and horses. SUV uses impact modifiers to make the fence strong and forgiving to horses and riders, as well as other farm animals.
How does vinyl fencing compare to wood?
It is stronger, lasts much longer, safer, looks better, and costs much less over time. It can cost the same as wood initially depending local wood prices, type of wood and style of fence, but over its life it is about one third of the cost.
Can I paint vinyl fencing?
Painting will void the manufacturer warranty. It doesn't adhere well to the surface, which is good in the case of graffiti, but bad if you like to paint things. The color of the vinyl goes all the way through so it can't be scratched or chipped off, which means it will never need to be painted.
3. Chain Link Fence FAQ's
What is Chain Link Fabric?
Fabric comes in a variety of gauges. Gauge is the diameter of the wire; the higher the gauge number, the smaller the wire diameter. Standard mill diameter tolerance is + or - .005". Common gauges and diameters are as follows:
6 gauge=.192"
9 gauge=.148"
11 gauge=.120"
11-1/2 gauge=.113"
12 gauge=.106"
12-1/2 gauge=.099”
Chain link fabric is available in heights of 36", 42", 48", 60", 72", 84", 96", 120", and 144". The fabric is formed by weaving a series of spirals together. How the top and bottom of fence is finished is referred to as the selvage. Fences less than 72" must knuckle both ends by industry standard (KK). Heights of 72" and higher, are generally twisted or barbed at one end and knuckled (BK) on the other. For high security enclosures, chain link can be obtained with both ends twisted or barbed (BB). Zinc coatings may also differ. There are two different processes for applying zinc to wire. Galvanized after weaving (G.A.W.) is a process in which wire rod is drawn to the finished gauge, then woven into chain link fabric. The fabric is then pulled through a pot of molten zinc. This process applies 1.2 ounces of zinc coating per square foot of fabric and conforms to ASTM standards. The other process for applying zinc coating to chain link is called galvanized before weaving (G.B.W.). In this process the wire rod is drawn to gauge, and the strand wire is then pulled through a pot of molten zinc. The wire is then woven into chain link fabric. Generally chain link fabric made using this process carries a zinc weight of .8 ounces per square foot or less. The distance between two parallel wires in the fabric is referred to as the mesh size. The most common mesh sizes are 2" or 2 ?", but smaller mesh of 3/8", 5/8", 1", 1 ?", 1 ?" and 1 ?" are available for projects that require a higher degree of security. Both the gauge of the wire and the weight of the zinc coating applied to the wire determine the quality of chain link fence fabric. The American Society for testing material has established standards for residential and commercial chain link fence fabric under designation A 392-96.
What is Frame Work?
Frame work is the tubular steel frame that chain link fabric is attached to. The frame work is comprised of three components; top rail, line posts, and terminal posts. Terminal posts are set in concrete and are end, corner, and gate posts. Line posts are smaller in diameter than terminal posts and are the intermediate posts between terminal posts. These should also be set in concrete. The top rail is attached to the terminal posts and passes through fittings, which are attached to line posts. This provides a horizontal frame that supports that fabric. The chain link fence frame work is also zinc coated to provide protection against corrosion. There are two methods of coating tubular products. In the first method, coils of steel are slit to the proper width, then formed into pipe and the seam is welded. After the pipe is formed, the pipe is then taken to a pot of molten zinc and submersed. Both the interior and exterior of the pipe are zinc coated. This method is referred to as the hot dip process. In the second method, the slit to width coil of steel is formed into pipe and then seam welded. The pipe then passes through an in line vat of molten zinc, which coats the exterior with zinc. A clear organic coating is applied over the zinc, providing additional protection from corrosion. The interior of the tubing is coated with a zinc rich paint. This method is referred to as in line, flow coat galvanizing. Both methods of manufacturing conform to ASTM F669-92. The quality of tubular products is relative to the thickness of steel, as well as the zinc coating.
What are fittings and how are they used?
To assemble a chain link fence system several types of fittings are required. Fittings can be classified into three types; those used in the line of fence, those used on terminal posts, and those used in conjunction with gates. All residential fittings are made from a die cast aluminum or steel that has been galvanized. Industrial and commercial fittings are made from galvanized steel, cast iron, or malleable steel. Fittings are an integral part of the fence, as they secure the components of the fence system. Gate fittings are especially important. The gate is the only part of the fence that moves and that people come into contact with on a regular basis. It is very important that they fit and do not move on the gate post once installed. This will keep the gate from sagging. For security, barbed wire can be added to all types of commercial projects. Fittings should conform to ASTM F 626-96.
What types of residential gates are available?
For residential applications two types of gates are commonly used; single walk and double drive. Single walk gates are generally used for people to pass through, although they can be made up to 12' wide and are the same height as the fence. It is a single panel that is hinged from one terminal post and latched to another. Double drive gates consist of two panels that latch in the middle of the opening. Both single walk and double drive gates for residential enclosures are made from 1 3/8" diameter tubing. Bent frames with rounded corners, aluminum ell corners, and square welded corners are also available. The quality of the chain link and frame work used should match the rest of the fence. Automatic closing mechanisms are available to shut and latch the single walk gate after passage.
Are there different types of gates for commercial projects?
In addition to single walk and double drive gates, several types of sliding gates are available for commercial and high security applications. Sliding gates are used where there is no room to swing the panel of a single or double gate. In areas where snow and ice are not a problem rolling gates are not recommended. Rolling gates roll on a pipe track that is attached by track brackets to the gate post and line posts and is on a ground carrier that is attached to the front of the gate. Sliding gates are made from 1 5/8" or 1 7/8" diameter frame work. For security, barbed wire or barbed tape can be added to all types of gates. Commercial single and double drive gates are usually welded, but can also be made with gate ells. In area where snow and ice are a problem cantilever gates a generally used. A cantilever gate is 1.5 times the length of the gate opening and is suspended by four malleable or nylon rollers, which are attached to two posts. Rollers are attached to the gate and first line post, one at the top and one at the bottom of each post; this allows the gate frame to slide between the rollers. Cantilever gates are very heavy and are usually installed on 4 or 6 inch diameter posts and constructed from a 2-3/8" diameter top and bottom rail. We also handle a complete line of residential and commercial gate operators that can be used with any of the gates mentioned, available through ornamental gate.
Are products warranted?
Our galvanized systems are guaranteed by a 5-years manufacturer warranty.
4. Gate Opener FAQ’s
What is the difference between a slide gate opener and a swing gate opener?
Slide operators are used when there is limited space behind a secured facility, so the gate must run parallel to a fence or wall. Swing operators are used when a gate (or two gates) open inward or outward away from a wall.
5. Aluminum Fence FAQ’s
What are the advantages of an Aluminum Fence?
Aluminum fencing is known for being more maintenance free than other types of fences. An aluminum fence never needs to be painted because you can choose the color of your fence from day one. Another advantage is the myriad styles that you can select that will help in matching the theme of your home. Also, you have a choice in the quality of the aluminum. You can choose from more affordable residential quality up to the more expensive but endurable industrial grade.
6. Wrought Iron Fence FAQ’s
What are the advantages of a Wrought Iron Fence?
If you anticipate heavy usage and lots of wear and tear, then a wrought iron fence might be your best option. A wrought iron fence is known for taking on much more heavy usage and can last for many more years than traditional fencing. Another advantage of a wrought iron fence is that it has much more personality and style than other fences. These fences are often seen in historic districts.
7. Wood Fence FAQ’s
What kind of care and maintenance will my wood fence require?
We recommend applying paint or stain every two years or as needed.
Should I paint or stain my fence?
We recommend applying a protective finish to the fence once it is installed. This helps to minimize the effects of weathering and to maximize the lifespan of your fence. Be sure sprinklers are not constantly spraying your fence. This will cause uneven discoloration.
What about nails?
A galvanized or aluminized nail that is counter sunk to avoid popping-out is your best bet.
Are treated materials safe for my family and pets?
Only use industrial approved ACQ treated posts. Stay clear of using CCA (Cooper Chromate Arsenic) materials.
What's the difference between nominal and actual thickness?
Nominal is a size designation most lumber uses for convenience. In lumber, the nominal size is usually greater than the actual size.
Should I put my new fence on the property line?
Yes, if both neighbors are paying for the fence together, then if agreed upon by both parties the fence line may be put on the property line. The exception here would be if you were paying for the fence by yourself, then we recommend installing the fence on your side of the property line.
How do I find my property line?
Most of the time your property line can be found by locating your survey markers. They are usually a piece of rebar put in when your house was built or your property is surveyed. Sometimes they get buried in the ground or even removed. If you cannot find them, a surveyor may have to be hired, or you can check with your builder and your neighbors to see if they know the location of the survey markers.
What is the distance around my property?
Footage Guide For Perimeter Fencing (Square Lots)
1/4 Acre ........... = 417 linear feet
1/2 Acre ........... = 590 linear feet
3/4 Acre ........... = 722 linear feet
1 Acre .............. = 834 linear feet
2 Acres ............ = 1,182 linear feet
3 Acres ............ = 1,446 linear feet
4 Acres ............ = 1,670 linear feet
5 Acres ............ = 1,867 linear feet
10 Acres........... = 2,640 linear feet
*These numbers are only for perfectly square properties. If your piece is rectangular or pie-shaped, it will lengthen your numbers.
Calculation Guide
1/4 mile = 1,320 feet
1/2 mile = 2,640 feet
1 mile = 5,280 feet
2. Vinyl Fence FAQ's
What is vinyl?
Crude Oil, Natural Gas and Salt are the raw materials used in the production of Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) Resin. SUV’s vinyl compound is formulated from premium grade raw materials, which include Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) Resin, UV inhibitors, impact modifiers, stabilizers and toners. Using only premium grade raw materials in conjunction with superior technical formulation capabilities produces a vinyl product that is far above the vinyl industry as a whole.
How is vinyl fence made?
Vinyl fence starts out as a PVC powder (Resin) that, when blended with all the required ingredients of our formulation is called compound. This compound then is fed into an extruder. With the proper amount of heat, pressure and mixing via screws in the extruder, the compound becomes malleable vinyl. This vinyl is then fed through a die in the shape of the finished profile. Using vacuum technology to keep the soft pliable vinyl in the proper shape, water is used to cool the vinyl into its final rigid state. An SUV Fence fabricator cuts the wide variety of profiles to the proper length for the design of fence required. The fabricator then routes holes into the rails, so that pickets can be inserted into them, then holes are routed into the posts so that the rails can be inserted into them.
How is an SUV vinyl fence put together?
Our posts are machine routed specifically for the size rails being used in each fence project. The pickets are then inserted into the rail grooves for a clean finished appearance. Our fences do not use any fasteners, rivets or screws.
Will a SUV fence mildew?
Mildew feeds off of organic materials. Vinyl (PVC) is non-organic and therefore does not support mildew. Mildew that grows on Vinyl is actual feeding off of the organic materials (dirt) that have become embedded in or stuck to the vinyl. SUV’s fence profiles have a high gloss and smooth, non-porous surface that makes it very difficult for organic materials to attach to, and therefore, for mildew to thrive on. This, combined with the use of non-chalking TiO2 helps to prevent most mildew growth. The surface of vinyl fence that contains chalking TiO2 deteriorates at a much more accelerated level compared to non-chalking TiO2 creating a rougher surface that dirt and therefore mildew can attach itself more easily to. Only under very consistently damp conditions will the possibility of mildew occur. If mildew does appear, a mild solution of bleach and water will easily remove it.
Does SUV’s Fence chalk?
SUV's use of durable grade non-chalking TiO2 in their vinyl (PVC) formulation ensures that there will be a very minimal chalking of our fence products. All vinyl fencing will chalk sooner or later, but with the superior protection capabilities of our TiO2 this will be kept to a bare minimum. Chalking is the deterioration of the vinyl surface thereby exposing the TiO2 particles to the surface. The white powder that you can wipe off from the surface of most vinyl fences is the TiO2 particles mixed with deteriorated vinyl (PVC). SUV's vinyl is formulated for exceptional beauty over a full lifetime.
Can I paint my vinyl fence?
SUV's vinyl products are engineered to retain their beauty and good looks throughout their lifetime. The only reason to use paints on our vinyl products would be to change the color of the product. SUV’S Fence does not recommend painting vinyl (PVC). There are paints that are available to paint vinyl but painting or otherwise treating SUV's Vinyl products voids the lifetime warranty.
Will my vinyl fence turn yellow?
Vinyl (PVC) is formulated using a superior durable grade of non-chalking TiO2 that protects the vinyl (PVC) from the harmful effects of the sun's UV rays. As long as your fence is kept clean, with a periodic wash from a garden hose, it will not turn yellow.
What effects does my vinyl fence have on our environment?
Vinyl (PVC) products are safe and non-toxic. They will not breakdown and release harmful chemicals into the ground and do not require toxic chemicals (stains, waterproofing, paint, paint thinner) for regular upkeep like treated lumber can. No trees are used in the manufacturing of our vinyl fences. Because of the exceptional long life of SUV’s fence profiles, several times the amount of wood that is needed to manufacture the same fence in wood can be saved over the lifetime of the vinyl fence. If the vinyl ever needs to be taken down it can be recycled into other products, such as hoses and watering buckets.
Can a vinyl fence break?
Any fence will break when enough force is applied. However, SUV’s (PVC) profiles are formulated using only the highest quality impact modifiers in precisely engineered amounts to ensure the greatest impact resistance available. SUV’s (PVC) profiles are engineered to withstand higher impacts than the minimum required by ASTM.
Aren't all vinyl fences the same?
No. Vinyl fence system components are available in a wide range of sizes and thickness. To reduce costs, some manufacturers decrease their wall thickness, resulting in reduced strength and ultimately yielding inferior fence systems.
Are all product warranties the same?
No. A warranty is only as good as the company that stands behind it. The fence industry has seen products and/or companies enter the market, only to leave homeowners with a worthless piece of paper as a product warranty. SUV provides a double lifetime warrantyto its customers on all of its products.
What does the "Lifetime Warranty" mean?
If the vinyl fencing should ever discolor, peel, rot, pit, blister, warp, rust, flake, crack, corrode, or be damaged by insects, it would be replaced the free of charge.
How long has vinyl fencing been around?
Vinyl fence has been available since 1984 (over 22 years). It is the fastest growing product in the fencing industry with sustained annual growth at 30% plus.
How strong is vinyl fence?
It has five times the tensile strength of wood and four times the flexibility. It flexes under load making it strong enough to safely hold cattle and horses. SUV uses impact modifiers to make the fence strong and forgiving to horses and riders, as well as other farm animals.
How does vinyl fencing compare to wood?
It is stronger, lasts much longer, safer, looks better, and costs much less over time. It can cost the same as wood initially depending local wood prices, type of wood and style of fence, but over its life it is about one third of the cost.
Can I paint vinyl fencing?
Painting will void the manufacturer warranty. It doesn't adhere well to the surface, which is good in the case of graffiti, but bad if you like to paint things. The color of the vinyl goes all the way through so it can't be scratched or chipped off, which means it will never need to be painted.
3. Chain Link Fence FAQ's
What is Chain Link Fabric?
Fabric comes in a variety of gauges. Gauge is the diameter of the wire; the higher the gauge number, the smaller the wire diameter. Standard mill diameter tolerance is + or - .005". Common gauges and diameters are as follows:
6 gauge=.192"
9 gauge=.148"
11 gauge=.120"
11-1/2 gauge=.113"
12 gauge=.106"
12-1/2 gauge=.099”
Chain link fabric is available in heights of 36", 42", 48", 60", 72", 84", 96", 120", and 144". The fabric is formed by weaving a series of spirals together. How the top and bottom of fence is finished is referred to as the selvage. Fences less than 72" must knuckle both ends by industry standard (KK). Heights of 72" and higher, are generally twisted or barbed at one end and knuckled (BK) on the other. For high security enclosures, chain link can be obtained with both ends twisted or barbed (BB). Zinc coatings may also differ. There are two different processes for applying zinc to wire. Galvanized after weaving (G.A.W.) is a process in which wire rod is drawn to the finished gauge, then woven into chain link fabric. The fabric is then pulled through a pot of molten zinc. This process applies 1.2 ounces of zinc coating per square foot of fabric and conforms to ASTM standards. The other process for applying zinc coating to chain link is called galvanized before weaving (G.B.W.). In this process the wire rod is drawn to gauge, and the strand wire is then pulled through a pot of molten zinc. The wire is then woven into chain link fabric. Generally chain link fabric made using this process carries a zinc weight of .8 ounces per square foot or less. The distance between two parallel wires in the fabric is referred to as the mesh size. The most common mesh sizes are 2" or 2 ?", but smaller mesh of 3/8", 5/8", 1", 1 ?", 1 ?" and 1 ?" are available for projects that require a higher degree of security. Both the gauge of the wire and the weight of the zinc coating applied to the wire determine the quality of chain link fence fabric. The American Society for testing material has established standards for residential and commercial chain link fence fabric under designation A 392-96.
What is Frame Work?
Frame work is the tubular steel frame that chain link fabric is attached to. The frame work is comprised of three components; top rail, line posts, and terminal posts. Terminal posts are set in concrete and are end, corner, and gate posts. Line posts are smaller in diameter than terminal posts and are the intermediate posts between terminal posts. These should also be set in concrete. The top rail is attached to the terminal posts and passes through fittings, which are attached to line posts. This provides a horizontal frame that supports that fabric. The chain link fence frame work is also zinc coated to provide protection against corrosion. There are two methods of coating tubular products. In the first method, coils of steel are slit to the proper width, then formed into pipe and the seam is welded. After the pipe is formed, the pipe is then taken to a pot of molten zinc and submersed. Both the interior and exterior of the pipe are zinc coated. This method is referred to as the hot dip process. In the second method, the slit to width coil of steel is formed into pipe and then seam welded. The pipe then passes through an in line vat of molten zinc, which coats the exterior with zinc. A clear organic coating is applied over the zinc, providing additional protection from corrosion. The interior of the tubing is coated with a zinc rich paint. This method is referred to as in line, flow coat galvanizing. Both methods of manufacturing conform to ASTM F669-92. The quality of tubular products is relative to the thickness of steel, as well as the zinc coating.
What are fittings and how are they used?
To assemble a chain link fence system several types of fittings are required. Fittings can be classified into three types; those used in the line of fence, those used on terminal posts, and those used in conjunction with gates. All residential fittings are made from a die cast aluminum or steel that has been galvanized. Industrial and commercial fittings are made from galvanized steel, cast iron, or malleable steel. Fittings are an integral part of the fence, as they secure the components of the fence system. Gate fittings are especially important. The gate is the only part of the fence that moves and that people come into contact with on a regular basis. It is very important that they fit and do not move on the gate post once installed. This will keep the gate from sagging. For security, barbed wire can be added to all types of commercial projects. Fittings should conform to ASTM F 626-96.
What types of residential gates are available?
For residential applications two types of gates are commonly used; single walk and double drive. Single walk gates are generally used for people to pass through, although they can be made up to 12' wide and are the same height as the fence. It is a single panel that is hinged from one terminal post and latched to another. Double drive gates consist of two panels that latch in the middle of the opening. Both single walk and double drive gates for residential enclosures are made from 1 3/8" diameter tubing. Bent frames with rounded corners, aluminum ell corners, and square welded corners are also available. The quality of the chain link and frame work used should match the rest of the fence. Automatic closing mechanisms are available to shut and latch the single walk gate after passage.
Are there different types of gates for commercial projects?
In addition to single walk and double drive gates, several types of sliding gates are available for commercial and high security applications. Sliding gates are used where there is no room to swing the panel of a single or double gate. In areas where snow and ice are not a problem rolling gates are not recommended. Rolling gates roll on a pipe track that is attached by track brackets to the gate post and line posts and is on a ground carrier that is attached to the front of the gate. Sliding gates are made from 1 5/8" or 1 7/8" diameter frame work. For security, barbed wire or barbed tape can be added to all types of gates. Commercial single and double drive gates are usually welded, but can also be made with gate ells. In area where snow and ice are a problem cantilever gates a generally used. A cantilever gate is 1.5 times the length of the gate opening and is suspended by four malleable or nylon rollers, which are attached to two posts. Rollers are attached to the gate and first line post, one at the top and one at the bottom of each post; this allows the gate frame to slide between the rollers. Cantilever gates are very heavy and are usually installed on 4 or 6 inch diameter posts and constructed from a 2-3/8" diameter top and bottom rail. We also handle a complete line of residential and commercial gate operators that can be used with any of the gates mentioned, available through ornamental gate.
Are products warranted?
Our galvanized systems are guaranteed by a 5-years manufacturer warranty.
4. Gate Opener FAQ’s
What is the difference between a slide gate opener and a swing gate opener?
Slide operators are used when there is limited space behind a secured facility, so the gate must run parallel to a fence or wall. Swing operators are used when a gate (or two gates) open inward or outward away from a wall.
5. Aluminum Fence FAQ’s
What are the advantages of an Aluminum Fence?
Aluminum fencing is known for being more maintenance free than other types of fences. An aluminum fence never needs to be painted because you can choose the color of your fence from day one. Another advantage is the myriad styles that you can select that will help in matching the theme of your home. Also, you have a choice in the quality of the aluminum. You can choose from more affordable residential quality up to the more expensive but endurable industrial grade.
6. Wrought Iron Fence FAQ’s
What are the advantages of a Wrought Iron Fence?
If you anticipate heavy usage and lots of wear and tear, then a wrought iron fence might be your best option. A wrought iron fence is known for taking on much more heavy usage and can last for many more years than traditional fencing. Another advantage of a wrought iron fence is that it has much more personality and style than other fences. These fences are often seen in historic districts.
7. Wood Fence FAQ’s
What kind of care and maintenance will my wood fence require?
We recommend applying paint or stain every two years or as needed.
Should I paint or stain my fence?
We recommend applying a protective finish to the fence once it is installed. This helps to minimize the effects of weathering and to maximize the lifespan of your fence. Be sure sprinklers are not constantly spraying your fence. This will cause uneven discoloration.
What about nails?
A galvanized or aluminized nail that is counter sunk to avoid popping-out is your best bet.
Are treated materials safe for my family and pets?
Only use industrial approved ACQ treated posts. Stay clear of using CCA (Cooper Chromate Arsenic) materials.
What's the difference between nominal and actual thickness?
Nominal is a size designation most lumber uses for convenience. In lumber, the nominal size is usually greater than the actual size.