Home and Construction Business Blog: Home Improvement Tips, Project Advice, & Local Construction Information

Owning a home is the American dream. Historically, homes were secured with wood fences around their property. Thanks to technology, there are more advanced options to choose from. Wood fences require maintenance, and chain link feces don’t offer the privacy you may be looking for. Which is why so many homeowners are choosing vinyl fencing. What is vinyl? Vinyl is made specifically for durability and longevity, from a premium quality polyvinyl chloride or PVC. The products at Fence Central are UV resistant, they won’t splinter, split, warp, or rot. They also have superior impact strength, need very little maintenance, and offer excellent security. Vinyl fencing is non-toxic. So, you won’t have to worry about any harmful chemicals, it is safe for children and pets.  If you ever decide to have it replaced, it is recyclable. Vinyl fences have become very popular in recent years, and for good reasons. In addition to being the favorite of community and homeowner's associations (HOAs), vinyl fences look clean and neat, they also come in a variety of colors and styles. If you're considering a vinyl fence for your home, you're in good company. Many residents throughout Florida find vinyl fences are a very wise investment. Though it may cost a little more than a wood fence, it is considered one of the most economical fences on the market. Since it needs almost no maintenance, can last for decades and still look great. Fence Central has installed thousands of fence in the past 10 years, throughout Polk County. Our pledge to our customers is to design and install a fence that exceeds all expectations. We use only the highest quality materials, highly trained installers, and guarantee a 100% satisfaction. At Fence Central, our vinyl fences are all made in the USA! You can feel proud of that investment in our country's economy and future. Fence Central vinyl fences are also backed by a lifetime manufacturer's warranty, so you can feel confident that you'll never have to replace your fence.

As you drive through your neighborhood, it’s easy to notice how many of your neighbors have vinyl fences on their property. They have become increasingly popular, over traditional options such as wrought iron and wood fencing. Here Is Why Vinyl Fences Have Become So Popular As vinyl ages, it shows little wear and tear The latest technology has made vinyl fencing the ability to look as good as new for decades. That means you don’t have to worry about rust, paint chipping, or fading. Your vinyl fence will keep its pristine condition, adding value to your home. Vinyl doesn’t need to be stained or sealing How will your fence impact the environment? Unfortunately, paints and stains give off VOCs, (volatile organic compounds) which can be toxic. Health effects can include, eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches, damage to the kidney, liver, and central nervous system. According the EPA, “Some organics can cause cancer in animals, some are suspected or known to cause cancer in humans.” Vinyl fencing does not need painting, sealing, or staining, so you won’t be exposing your family to these chemicals. You also don’t need to worry about any maintenance. Vinyl doesn’t easily break or crack Nobody wants to repair a fence, because vinyl is flexible it is less likely to break or crack. Which is important in Central Florida with our strong storms and hurricanes. So, if you’ve been thinking about having a fence installed on your property, vinyl is defiantly worth considering. At Fence Central we specialize in custom fence installation, exceptional service and craftsmanship. We use only the highest quality materials and professionally trained installers, we pledge to deliver a superior fence designed to meet your specific needs. The vinyl fences at Fence Central are U.V. protected and backed by a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty that covers cracking, peeling, and flaking. When you choose vinyl, you can feel confident that you will never have to replace your fence, they have been designed to last a lifetime. We stand behind this pledge with a one year, 100% craftsmanship guarantee; and our material partners also provide an extensive warranty on most products.

When it comes to fencing, vinyl is the hottest material on the market for both residential and commercial applications. And why not, it looks great, lasts for many decades, needs very little maintenance, and comes in a variety of colors and styles. What is vinyl? Vinyl is a form of plastic, a manufactured material. Waldo Semon, a scientist discovered vinyl in the 1920s. In the process of looking for a synthetic adhesive, he discovered PVC, during the process. Polyvinyl chloride is the base for today’s vinyl. This versatile material is used to manufacture a wide variety of items, buildings, window frames, tubing, raincoats, and of course fences. The basics of vinyl fencing Since the 1920s, manufactures have updated the process of making vinyl. They are now more durable and attractive. Since the popularity of this fencing material has become so widespread, the cost has come down significantly. Aesthetics of vinyl fencing When first established, vinyl fencing was meant to replicate the very popular wood fence. The styles include split-rail, picket, and privacy. They also come in a few different colors, white and tan, to enhance the environment. Vinyl fencing is safe for your family One of the reasons vinyl fences are so popular is because they are manufactured without harmful chemicals or toxins. Making them ideal for children and pets. Chemically treated fences often release toxins, especially when they bake in our heat. You also won't have to worry about splinters, screws, nails, or rusty metal pieces. If you are looking for a quality fence at a great price, contact Fence Central. Happy Thanksgiving Thanksgiving is a time of festive spirit, mouth watering meals and renewing ties with family and friends. It’s a great time to take a break from the hustle and bustle of life and reflect on what we’re thankful for. The family at Fence Central would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our friends and clients for their support!

Vinyl fencing is a very popular option for homes, subdivisions and commercial applications, but there are a few misconceptions circulating. Which is stronger wood or vinyl? You don’t want a fence that will get damaged from the Central Florida elements, wind, humidity, and insects. You want a strong fence. Did you know vinyl is five times stronger than a wood fence. The advantage, vinyl is somewhat flexible. Which means, instead of breaking in a strong wind, vinyl can flex. They also don’t fade from the harsh rays from the sun and don’t attract insects. Is vinyl is recyclable? It is important to think about our environment when choosing a fencing material. So, it is good to know vinyl is 100% recyclable. This can happen in a couple of ways, the vinyl can be broken down and melted, to create another vinyl product. Or it can be brought down to its original chemical components, carbon and chlorine, which can be reused in a number of ways. How many volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are emitted with vinyl? The last thing you want is your family breathing in toxic fumes. “Breathing VOCs can irritate the eyes, nose and throat, can cause difficulty breathing and nausea, and can damage the central nervous system as well as other organs.  Some VOCs can cause cancer,” according to the American Lung Association. Typically it is the paints, stains, cleaning products, and pest control chemicals that release VOCs. Vinyl fences don’t need any of these and are naturally pest resistant. If they every need cleaning, it just takes a little soap and water. What about the budget, colors and designs? If you are looking for a fence that is easy on the wallet, PVC or vinyl is a great choice. They come in a wide variety of colors and styles to choose from, lattice accent, stake accent, ranch rail, and picket. Fence Central's vinyl fence are U.V. protected and backed by a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty that covers cracking, peeling, and flaking. They are also, manufactured right here in the U.S.A with the highest quality standards. Fence Central has installed hundreds of miles of fences throughout the Polk county. While it may seem easy, correctly installing a fence takes skill and experience. If you are thinking about the addition of a new fence on your property or updating an older on, Fence Central is happy to help you through the process to ensure you get a quality fence at the best price possible.

When shopping for a fence, unfamiliar terms can make matters difficult. To get the most bang for your buck, we’ve put together a guide to help fit everything together and ensure you get a quality fence. Posts The posts of a fence are the structural base. They are upright, thick, and support the rest of the fence. There are a variety of posts:Line posts: This is what most people think of when it comes to posts. They are regularly spaced out to support the rails or panels on each side.Corner posts: Secures two panels of fencing or rails at the corner, typically at a 90 degree angle.End posts: Marks the end of the fence, where it runs up against a building or gate.Gate post: Attaches to a gate with a latch or hinge.Terminal post: This can be at the corner or end, it is a load bearing post. Panels, Pickets, and Rails This is known as the main part of the fence, they create a wall, which provides privacy and security. Though they are similar, they each play a distinct role. Rails: These are the horizontal pieces that help hold the panels or pickets in place. Most vinyl fences have one rail at the bottom and the other on the top. Rail spacing it the distance between them. Pickets: These boards are vertical, forming the wall. They can be arranged in a variety of ways, spaced to allow for some visibly or tongue and groove (completely joined together) for maximum privacy. Panels: The positioning of the rails and pickets between the posts. For a strong, durable fence, you want to make sure they are well built. With pre-assembled fences, this part is often compromised. Posts Caps: Assembled on top of the fence post as a decorative accent. They come in a variety of colors and styles to compliment your home.

Fences are great, they add value, privacy, security, and create a backyard oasis, but they are also a big investment. You want a quality fence at an affordable price. The big question, is your contractor giving you a good deal. The Quote The quote should include the material costs, labor costs, permit and the cost to remove your old fence, if applicable.The majority of the cost should include the material. Typically, wood is a less expensive, depending on the type of wood. Vinyl may cost a bit more, but will last longer and have less maintenance. While it may seem more budget friendly to purchase inexpensive fence panels often found at big improvement stores, more often than not, to make them at this price corners are cut. Which means an inferior material, weak and overall substandard fence. In the end, it can end up costing you more because in a short time will need repairs Labor and other costs Labor for installing a fence also includes, wages for the installers, training, insurance, craftsmanship guarantee, and a warranty on the materials. This insures your fence will be built with the highest standards. Are you getting a good deal on your new fence? If you aren’t sure about something, ask questions. Here at Fence Central we are happy to break down all the cost and answer any question in detail. Do a little homework. Go online and check out the reviews, see how customers fee about the company and their experience. Also, check to see their rating on the Better Business Bureau, make sure it is an A+. More Affordable Than You Think Many people think a custom fence may be a little tight on the budget, but don't worry, it isn't. Here at Fence Central we offer financing with 0% interest! At Fence Central we stand behind our superior installation with a one year, 100% craftsmanship guarantee; and our material partners also provide an extensive warranty on most products.

Choosing the right fence for your home can make all the difference. Whether you are looking for privacy, keeping the kids safe or your four legged friends happy, you want a fence to fit your specific needs, looks amazing, and is budget friendly. Things to Consider When looking for the best fencing option for your property, there are a few things you should consider. Height If you have a dog, especially a large dog, you may want to consider a 6 foot high fence. You can be sure they won’t jump over or fit through. Privacy Does your pet need privacy or do you want them to see what’s going on outside the fence? If you don’t want them to bark at everything they see, a vinyl privacy fence may be the best option. Security You would be surprised how many dogs can climb. If this is something you worry about, you may want to stay away from aluminum, chain link, and split rail. If you have a dog that likes to dig, then you may need to add wire or stones underneath the fence while it’s being installed. This can keep your mischievous friend form escaping and save you a lot of headaches later. Barking Barking can become a real problem and irritate the neighbors. We all know how territorial dogs can be, barking and growling if someone comes close to your home. A vinyl fence can block all those sights, and sounds your dog sees outside the fence, that encourage Fido to bark. Dog runs f you don't want to enclose your entire yard with a fence or want a double fence barrier, you may also consider a dog run. A dog run is a long, narrow enclosed space that is fenced off in your yard. A dog run can be a good option for a pet that is especially difficult to contain or spends a lot of time outside. A sturdy roof can protect your dog from the elements while providing a safe space to exercise and be outdoors. We love our pets, but unfortunately each year road related injuries claim the lives of around 1.2 million dogs in the United States. A properly secured fence can go a long way in keeping the family pet safe. Not only keeping our cherished member of the family safe from going onto the road, but also from other animals and people coming into the yard.

Vinyl fencing was invented in the mid 20th century, and was very popular in the 1980’s. New technology has made them stronger and more durable. They now come with longer life expectancy and warranties. They also reduce our carbon footprint because they can be totally recycled. Vinyl fences are perfect for those who want a beautiful fence with little to no maintenance. Flexibility and strength of vinyl fencing Did you know, vinyl is nearly five times stronger than wood? It is also more durable, compared to other materials. They hold up in our torrential downpours and high winds we have here in Central Florida. Not only that, they don’t deteriorate in our humidity or sun like wood fences. You won’t have to worry about insect infestation or animals, like dogs or horses, won’t chew or break threw them. Maintenance of vinyl fencing Unlike other fencing materials, vinyl requires very little maintenance. Maybe just a little washing down with soap and water. This won’t fade or change the color of the fence. There is no need to prime or paint a vinyl fence. There is no danger of rusting or rotting. Non-toxic vinyl fencing Vinyl fencing is not treated with hazardous or harmful chemicals, they are non-toxic. Economics of a vinyl fence Vinyl fencing is less expensive than their aluminum or wood counterparts. This means you won’t have to worry about if it is safe your children or pets. Vinyl comes in many styles and designs to match your home or business. Whether you want it to blend in or make a statement, it is an excellent choice. Vinyl fences come in a variety of styles and colors to compliment your home or business. At Fence Central, we are proud to offer vinyl fences that come with a manufacturer's lifetime warranty that protects against chipping, cracking, and flaking. Our fences are all made in the U.S.A. with high-quality materials, so you can be confident that your vinyl fence will look amazing for years to come. Contact Fence Central for more information

Working with Homeowners’ Associations (HOA) isn’t always easy. Though they are usually beneficial to the residents, they tend to be large organizations that know precisely what they want and it’s often difficult to convince them otherwise. HOA and Residential Fencing Don’t Assume Just because a neighbor up the street has a great looking vinyl fence, doesn’t mean you should run out and get the same kind. While they may be under the same regulations, it doesn't mean you should have the same one installed at your home. When it comes to your HOA, don’t assume. That neighbor may be paying costly fines for violating HOA regulations. Get Approval Before you purchase or install a fence, make sure it is approved by the HOA. Though it may take a couple of weeks, this step is definitely worth the wait. Nobody wants delays or costly fines. Know Your Regulations It is beneficial to understand your HOA’s regulations for any home project. When it comes to fencing, is a good idea to do your research and look at your options. Most HOAs prefer uniform fences for all homes so that the neighborhood looks cohesive. At Fence Central, our most popular fence amongst people who have HOAs to consider is by far a white vinyl fence. In addition to being HOA favorites, vinyl fences are a good choice because of their longevity and low maintenance. Fence Central vinyl fences are covered by a manufacturer's lifetime warranty and protected against U.V. damage. If you decide to invest in a vinyl fence, you can be sure you'll never have to replace it. Fencing plays a big part in your home’s curb appeal and security. If you aren’t certain about your HOA regulations, contact Fence Central. We can help guide you through your HOA’s requirements and ensure your fence looks great!

Searching for the perfect fence for your HOA or property? It isn’t always easy. If you want a fence that looks great, but not break the budget. The easiest way to do that is to cut out the middleman, the big box store. Since they have a limited amount of space in their store, the styles of fencing they have in stock is limited. For an affordable vinyl fence, choose Fence Central. We purchase our fencing materials by the truckload, no middle man, and pass the savings to our customers. Quick installation, lower price, and all of our fences are made exclusively in the USA. So what does made in the USA matter when you're considering what type of vinyl fence to buy? Buying something that's made it the USA means that the product adheres to strict standards put in place by the Federal Trade Commission. Unfortunately, many fences in today’s market are manufactured overseas. Many of which are void of proper properties which protect the fence from the sun’s harmful UV rays. This can damage the fence, creating an outer layer of chalkiness. The other issue is the quality and thicknesses of the post slats and rails. Those made overseas are typically not as thick as those made in America. Which is why they are cheaper. The bracket system also tends to be weaker, leading to the fence failing. By choosing products that are made in the USA, consumers help to support small business, the U.S. economy and job market. Jobs that are created from U.S. manufacturing are held to humanitarian standards that help to provide a safe and reasonable work environment. USA-made goods also must adhere to certain environmental guidelines laid out by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. At Fence Central, our vinyl fences are all made in the USA! You can feel proud of that investment in our country's economy and future. Fence Central vinyl fences are also backed by a lifetime manufacturer's warranty, so you can feel confident that you'll never have to replace your fence.

Most homeowners would rather do just about anything else than maintaining their fence. Depending on your choice of fence, you may be signing up for unwanted chores. But of course a low to no maintenance may be a better option. Vinyl, wood, and aluminum fences are very popular in Polk county, though some of them require a little more effort to keep them looking their best. Vinyl fencing is very low maintenance Vinyl fences offer beauty and privacy, surprisingly, they need very little maintenance. In fact, they qualify as a “no maintenance fencing” material. That doesn’t mean it won’t need the occasion spraying down with a hose, but you won’t spend hours in the hot sun painting, staining, or pressure treating the fence. The best part, you also won’t need to replace your vinyl fence, they can practically last a lifetime. Just make sure they are U.V. protected and backed by a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty that covers cracking, peeling, and flaking. They also come in a variety of styles including privacy, semi-privacy, lattice accent, stake accent, ranch rail, and picket. If you're considering a vinyl fence for your home, you're in good company. Many residents find a vinyl fence a very wise investment that brings them pleasure for many years to come. Wood fences are very popular There is no doubt wood fences are popular, they are an affordable way to provide privacy for your family and keep pets safely in the backyard. Wood fences are beautiful, but they do require some maintenance, such as cleaning and staining. Aluminum fencing is another great option Aluminum fencing has become a very popular option because they are maintenance free. Never need to be cleaned, stained, or painted. Perfect for enclosing a pool area and defining boundaries, without obstructing the view. With over 10 years of experience in Polk county, Fence Central we will help you choose the best fence for your needs. We are proud to have the best fencing materials and professional installation at an affordable price!

When having a fence installed in Polk county, what is the best to work with a Home Owners' Association (HOA)?Vinyl fencing is the most popular among HOAs for the beautiful cohesive look. In addition to being HOA favorites, vinyl fences are a good choice because of their longevity and low maintenance. Fence Central vinyl fences are covered by a manufacturer's lifetime warranty and protected against U.V. damage. If you decide to invest in a vinyl fence, you can be sure you'll never have to replace it. Along with that, HOAs have certain rules that residents must adhere to. Those rules are often called covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs). Understanding the basics: Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&R) These are a set of rules outlined by the HOA you have to follow. They are designed to maintain the value and attractiveness of the property. CC&R can cover everything from what color you can paint the exterior of your home, type of window treatment allowed, to security lights and type of fence allowed. When a homeowner moves in they are asked to sign a legally binding contract stating they will follow these rules. Failing to comply with these rules can result in fines. If these fines aren’t paid, it can result in a lien or even foreclosure on your home. Fence Central can help you to navigate the waters of HOA if you want to put in a new fence. We've helped many clients get through the HOA approval process by providing fence descriptions, site-plan drawings, specifications, and pictures to aid your communications with them. In our experiences, the more information you can provide to the HOA board about your plans for the fence, the better the likelihood that they will approve it. At Fence Central, our vinyl fences are all made in the USA! You can feel proud of investing in our country's economy and future. Fence Central vinyl fences are also backed by a lifetime manufacturer's warranty, so you can feel confident that you'll never have to replace your fence.