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So you've decided you want a fence. Great choice! A fence makes a house a home as well as providing many privacy and security benefits. You may be drawn by the low cost of a DIY fence from your local hardware store. It's true, these fences are likely a lower cost investment than a custom built wooden fence by a licensed contractor. Before you borrow your neighbor's truck and head to the hardware store, here are a few DIY difficulties to keep in mind. Permits. Depending on where and why you'd like to erect a fence, you may need a permit. Fence location, materials, height, and maintenance may be regulated by your HOA, city, and/or county.In addition to city and/or county permits, it's important to be careful where you dig to avoid potential injury and fines. Check with your local underground utilities department before digging so that you don't accidentally puncture any buried utility pipes. Topography. If your property has trees or large bushes, you'll need to plan around those obstacles. If there is a change in elevation on your property, it can be very tricky to move a fence up and down hill. Post stability. Fence Central wooden fence gate posts are secured 4 feet into the ground by 180 pounds of concrete. This insures that the fence doesn't move, even during the high winds and pelting rain of a hurricane. Quality. It's true that you get what you pay for. A hardware store fence will likely be made of lower-quality new pine boards and small nails that are prone to rusting.For more information about how a wooden fence from Fence Central is a worthwhile home investment, contact us. Our team is ready to help you anywhere in Central Florida.

Privacy can be as important for your yard as it is for your house. Making your yard more private expands your living space and makes your yard a true extension of your home.A fence is an excellent way to add privacy to your yard. The most traditional privacy fences are tall and wooden. Wooden privacy fences come in several different styles including stockade, board-on-board, and shadowbox. Wood can be stained or painted to coordinate with any style of home and adds a warm first impression.Similar to wooden fences, vinyl fences also add privacy. Vinyl privacy fences can come with a straight top or beautiful lattice work. Vinyl fences have the added benefit of requiring very little maintenance and are approved by many homeowners associations.There are ways to add privacy without a fence, too. Consider large, thick trees or bushes that will create a visible barrier between you and your neighbors. Consult with a local nursery to find the best foliage for your purpose and growing zone. Central Florida, for example, is in growing zone 9. In zone 9, you don't have to be as concerned with cold hardiness, but summer heat is a concern.If you don't like the idea of tall plants, consider large planters or vases that will create intimacy within your yard but may require less maintenance. Adding height with planters or vases has the added benefit of being able to change the plants out easily while maintaining your yard's privacy.Fence Central in Central Florida is your go-to place for a new backyard haven. Contact us for more information about privacy fence options.

If you've decided to stain your wooden fence, there are several factors to consider when choosing a stain. There are two main bases for stains, oil and water. One type of stain isn't inherently better than the other, it depends on the project and type of wood.There are several advantages for water-based stains: Dries quickly Richer color hue Non-flammable and no hazardous fumes Mildew and mold resistant On the other hand, oil-based stains are good if you want a deep stain. Advantages of oil-based stains include: Deeply penetrates wood More even finish Seals and protects wood from moisture and UV light Requires less long-term maintenance For fences that are going to be directly exposed to the elements, an oil-based stain provides the greatest protection against sunlight, wind, and rain. If your fence is made from wood that naturally repels rotting, such as cedar, you may consider a water-based stain.Fence Central wooden fences are custom-made from the highest-quality premium pressure-treated rails. Premium pressure treated wood lasts considerably longer than standard pressure treated wood and has fewer knots. For more information about our wooden fences, contact Fence Central. We serve most of Central Florida including Auburndale, Bartow, Clermont, Davenport, Haines City, Kissimmee, Lake Alfred, Lakeland, Lake Wales, Poinciana, Polk City, and Winter Haven.

Hurricanes are no joke. High winds, torrential rain, and flying debris can damage your home, vehicles, landscaping, and outdoor structures. As part of your hurricane season preparedness, it is important to make sure your fence is ready before a storm arrives. Proper hurricane preparedness for fences can help reduce the risk of damage and prevent loose fence materials from becoming dangerous debris during severe weather. A damaged fence can impact your property’s security, curb appeal, and overall safety after a hurricane. Before hurricane season begins, take time to inspect your fence and complete any needed repairs. Addressing small issues early can help prevent larger problems when strong winds and heavy rain move through Florida. more Inspect Your Fence Before Hurricane Season One of the most important steps in hurricane prep is carefully checking your entire fence for signs of weakness. Walk around your property and look for: Loose or damaged fence boards Weak or leaning fence posts Loose hardware, screws, or fasteners Damaged gates or hinges Loose lattice panels Areas where the fence may have shifted Wood fences are one of the most common fence types to experience storm damage because individual boards and sections can become weakened over time. Loose boards or panels can be pulled away by strong winds and potentially become flying debris. If your fence has lattice work, make sure those sections are secure as well. Loose lattice pieces can break away during storms and create additional risks for your property. Secure Your Fence Gates Before a Storm Fence gates require special attention during hurricane preparation. A gate that swings open during high winds can experience additional stress, leading to damage to the hinges, posts, or surrounding fence sections. Before a hurricane or tropical storm: Check that your gate closes securely Tighten loose hinges and hardware Repair damaged latches Consider securing the latch with a zip tie for additional stability during extreme weather Taking these simple steps can help prevent your gate from opening unexpectedly and becoming damaged during high winds. Remove Outdoor Items That Can Damage Your Fence Preparing your yard is another important part of hurricane season preparedness. Outdoor items can become dangerous projectiles during severe storms. Before a hurricane reaches your area, move items such as: Patio furniture Grills Lawn decorations Children’s toys Planters Yard equipment These items can be pushed into fences during strong winds, causing hurricane fence damage that may have been preventable. What Type of Fence Is Most Resistant to Hurricanes? No fence is completely hurricane-proof, but some fencing materials are designed to better withstand severe weather conditions. Generally, hurricane resistant fencing options include materials that offer strength, durability, and resistance to wind pressure. Vinyl fencing, aluminum fencing, and properly installed reinforced fencing systems may perform well during storms when compared with weaker or older fence structures. The installation method is also important. Strong posts, proper spacing, quality hardware, and secure foundations all play a role in how well a fence performs during extreme weather. The best fencing option for your property depends on factors such as your location, exposure to wind, local building requirements, and the type of protection you need. What Wind Speed Will Knock Down a Fence? There is no single wind speed that will knock down every fence. The condition, material, installation quality, age, and surrounding environment all affect how a fence responds to strong winds. A newer, properly installed fence may withstand stronger winds than an older fence with weakened posts or damaged boards. Areas with direct wind exposure may experience more severe hurricane fence damage than properties protected by landscaping or other structures. Regular inspections and maintenance before hurricane season can help identify weak areas before they become major problems. Will Homeowners Insurance Pay for Fence Damage After a Storm? Many homeowners insurance policies may provide coverage for fence damage caused by certain storms, including hurricanes, but coverage depends on the details of your policy, the cause of the damage, deductibles, and any exclusions. If your fence is damaged after a storm: Take photos of the damage Document what happened Avoid making major repairs before contacting your insurance company if possible Review your policy or speak with your insurance provider Keeping records can help you better understand your coverage and the next steps for repairs. Inspect Your Fence After a Hurricane Even if your fence appears to be standing after a storm, it is a good idea to inspect it carefully. Look for: Leaning sections Loose boards Damaged posts Broken gates Missing panels Areas where wind or debris caused impact damage Some storm damage may not be immediately visible but can weaken your fence over time. If your fence has been damaged by a hurricane or tropical storm, Fence Central can help evaluate the condition of your fence and discuss repair or replacement options. Prepare Your Fence Before the Next Storm Florida homeowners know that hurricane season requires preparation. Taking time for hurricane prep before severe weather arrives can help protect your property and reduce the risk of avoidable damage. From inspecting your current fence to choosing more durable hurricane resistant fencing, the right preparation can help your fence better handle Florida’s challenging weather conditions. Contact Fence Central today to learn more about fence installation, repair, and storm-ready fencing solutions for your Florida property.

Budget is an important consideration for all home improvements and a fence is no different. A fence provides many short-term and long-term benefits. When considering your budget, of course the dollar amount you want to spend is of primary concern, but you may also consider the value of your investment and how much longevity the fence will give you.Big box home improvement stores will often offer pre-built wooden fences and the prices are likely to be low. There's a reason for that. Pre-built wooden fences are made from young pine, referred to as "rough-cut." Rough cut fences are more likely to rot and warp than fences made from more mature trees. Of course, lumber made from more mature trees has extra cost associated with it.To summarize, pre-built wooden fences are low-investment and low-longevity. In addition to warping and rotting of the wood itself, pre-built fences are usually held together with staples or small nails, which are vulnerable to rust and may even work themselves out of the wood over time. A wooden fence that is made from mature, pressure-treated wood and galvanized nails is a bigger upfront investment but will last much longer. The question to ask yourself is now long you plan on staying in the home and enjoying your fence. If it's more than a couple of years, a custom built wooden fence from Fence Central is a smarter investment than a pre-built wooden fence.Vinyl fences are also an excellent choice for the budget-conscious buyer. Vinyl fences from Fence Central come with a lifetime manufacturer's guarantee that protects against flaking, peeling, and cracking, so you know that your vinyl fence will remain just as beautiful as they day you purchased it and you won't ever have to replace it. Now that's budget friendly!If you live in or around Auburndale, Bartow, Clermont, Davenport, Kissimmee, Lake Alfred, Lakeland, Lake Wales, Poinciana, Polk City, or Winter Haven, contact Fence Central for more information. We'll work with you to stay within your budget and find a fence that you'll love for years to come.

A few weeks ago we detailed the types of wooden fences. It's really only fair that we do the same for vinyl. Vinyl fences are a solid choice for several reasons. They're accepted by many HOA committees, they require very little maintenance, and beautifully complement a variety of home styles. Privacy. As the name suggests, a vinyl privacy fence offers you seclusion from the area outside the fence. It effectively separates your piece of land from the ones next to you, providing a physical and visual blocker that keeps pets and kids in and others out. Privacy fences are ideal if you live close to your neighbors and want to extend the livable space of your home without having to worry about prying eyes. Lattice accent. A lattice accent can be added to any privacy fence to soften the appearance and add charm. Shadowbox. Also known as a semi-privacy fence, the shadowbox style provides total privacy from eyes that are looking directly at the fence from the outside at a 90 degree angle, but anyone looking from the side of the fence would be able to see a little of the enclosed yard. The shadowbox's overlaid style is visually charming and adds depth and visual interest to the yard. Vinyl shadowbox fences can be tall, similar to a privacy fence, or shorter, similar to a picket fence. Ranch rail. Vinyl ranch rail fences are often used for ranches, providing a low-maintenance option for penning in domesticated animals over large amounts of land. Ranch rail fences aren't just for farms and ranches, though. With a country-style house a vinyl ranch rail fence is a lovely accent piece. Ranch rail fences range from 3-5 feet tall and feature 2, 3, or 4 horizontal boards or 4 boards with the center 2 boards crossed, creating a cross buck style (pictured here). Picket. The stereotypical ideal home has a white picket fence out front, and it's really no surprise why. White vinyl picket fences add quaintness and charm to a home while providing an area for small children and pets to safely play. Vinyl picket fences come in a variety of styles including straight, domed, and scalloped (pictured here).   Another benefit of vinyl fences is that they can be mixed to suit your needs. In this picture, a privacy fence blocks the homeowner's view of the neighbor's yard while a short picket fence allows clear visual access to the lovely lake view at the back of the property.

Chain link fences don't often get a lot of love. It's true, they don't have the visual charm of a wood, vinyl, or aluminum fence, but they're functional, affordable, and can blend into the right environment, providing security without a lot of visual bulk.Chain link fences are often used to enclose public spaces, such as sports fields. They're also a popular choice for backyards, a way to create a safe environment for pets and children. If you're looking to enclose a large backyard, a chain link is a good choice because it's durable, inexpensive, and requires very little maintenance.Fence Central chain link fences are galvanized after the metal is weaved together. Galvanization deters rust and improves the longevity of the fence. On top of the galvanization, chain link fences can be coated in vinyl. The vinyl coating comes in several colors including black, green, brown, tan, and white. Vinyl coating softens the appearance of the fence and can visually complement the color of your home.Are you considering a chain link fence? Contact Fence Central in Central Florida to learn more about how quick and easy it can be to secure your home or grounds with a sturdy, durable, cost-effective fence.

Humans and dogs both benefit from being outside, playing in a yard. A fence will help to keep Fido safe, but is it better to go with an electric dog fence or a traditional wood, vinyl, aluminum, or chain link fence? Here are pros and cons to both: Electric dog fence An electric dog fence (also known as an invisible fence) is a device that is buried around the perimeter of your yard. Your pet then wears a special collar that delivers a small shock when he reaches the barrier. With time, the dog learns where she can go and when she must stop or risk being shocked. Pros Nothing to block your view Won't disturb your neighbors Will probably be ok with your HOA (but check to be sure) May be less expensive than a traditional fence Cons Relies on punishment (physical shock to the neck) to teach your pet where she can and can't go Doesn't protect kids from running outside of the yard Doesn't stop other animals or people from coming inside the yard Requires a power source Some dogs manage to still get loose by enduring the shock or slipping out of the collar Traditional fence Traditional fences come in a variety of materials, as mentioned before, as well as sizes and styles. The height and type of fence you choose can have a bearing on how easily your pet can escape, especially if he's small or a good jumper. Pros Increased property value Keeps kids in as well as pets Keeps other animals and people out No potential physical or emotional damage to your pet No pet training required Cons Neighborhood or HOA requirements may restrict your fence options May be more expensive than an electric fence At Fence Central, we believe a traditional fence is the way to go for your Florida pets. Traditional fences are beautiful, secure, and humane. And, when it's installed by the experts at Fence Central, your traditional fence will have a long lifespan that you can enjoy for many years to come.

It's halfway through May already! And we're well into spring cleaning, preparing for barbecue and outdoor gathering season. At Fence Central in Central Florida, we encourage people to include their fence in a spring cleaning routine by taking a close look at the fence to see what, if any, maintenance or cleaning needs to be done for the year.If you determine that your vinyl fence could use some spot cleaning, a garden hose and soft bristled brush may be all you need to get rid of a few grass stains or scuff marks. For a more thorough cleaning, consider using a pressure washer.How do you know if a vinyl fence needs pressure washing? Vinyl is a nonporous material, so discoloration on the fence won't be permanent, like it could be with a porous material like wood. If there's a lot of stuck-on debris, dead leaves, and/or algae, though, it could be troublesome to remove by hand. Pressure or power washing can help with that.You may be thinking, I thought pressure washing and power washing are the same thing! And, you're correct in that most people use them interchangeably.  There is a small difference, however. Pressure washing uses pressure + cool water, power washing is pressure + hot water. For most vinyl fence cleaning needs, a pressure washer will be sufficient.Set your pressure washer to 500-800 PSI to start with, gradually increasing pressure if needed to get the fence clean. Use a cleaning solution of 1 gallon water + 1 quart bleach + 1/3 cup powered laundry detergent + 2/3 cup powdered household cleaner.Stand 3-4 feet away from the fence, start at the bottom of the fence and work your way up. If the residue isn't budging, slowly walk closer to the fence to add pressure before adjusting the pressure settings on the machine. Clean for 15 minutes, then rinse off the fence with a garden hose to remove the remains of the cleaning solution.

We've been on a wooden fence roll lately, discussing different types of wooden fences and why Fence Central wooden fences are sturdier and longer-lasting than prebuilt fences you'll find at your local hardware store. If you're still reading, perhaps you've settled on the style of fence you want and are ready to prime and paint. Priming and painting your wooden fence can help to protect it against the elements and prolong its life. Priming seals the wood and will make painting easier.For most types of wood, including pine, an acrylic or latex primer will work well. If you have a red wood fence such as cedar or Douglas fir, you'll need an oil or alkyd-based primer. Without an oil or alkyd-based primer, red particles from the wood may bleed up through the primer and into the paint, muddying the final color of your paint.For any primer, check that it contains zinc oxide and mildewcide. Mildewcide will eradicate any mildew spores that are present in the wood and zinc oxide helps stop new mildew from taking hold. This is especially important in Florida as the warm, moist climate helps mildew flourish.Primer has other features that you may want to pay attention to, depending on your individual concerns and budget restrictions. Some primer have low or no volatile organic compounds (VOC), such as benzene and formaldehyde. Also, if you've already purchased your paint pay attention to which type of paint it is and match your primer to it. Some primers don't work well with high gloss paints, for example.

If you've settled on a warm, welcoming wooden fence to augment your home, you have just one more decision to make. There are several types of wooden fences to choose from. Here, we'll delve into each, describing the style, uses, and benefits of each type of wooden fence. Stockade. A stockade fence is made up of tall side-by-side pickets of wood. As the name implies, the fence's main purpose is to separate out one part of land from another, making this style ideally suited to people who want privacy. Board-on-board. Another style of privacy fence is called board-on-board or board-to-board. This type of fence features tall, overlapping vertical pickets. The overlapping pickets help to ensure that even if the boards shrink with age and dry weather, people on the other side of the fence will never be able to see through the cracks. Shadowbox. A shadowbox fence is very similar to a board-on board fence. So similar, in face, that some people think they're the same thing. Both types of fences feature staggered pickets. With a board-on-board fence, someone on the outside of the fence would be unable to see inside the fence, no matter what angle she's looking from. With a shadowbox fence, however, someone looking at an angle from the outside would be able to see a little on the inside of the fence. Faced directly, a shadowbox fence is private like a board-on-board. Faced from an angle, a shadowbox is semi-private.  Ranch rail. Ranch rail fences are shorter and feature spaced horizontal or X'ed rails. These fences can come with 2, 3, or 4 horizontal rails, making them ideal for decoration around a more rustic or country-themed home or an actual ranch with livestock. Picket. Finally, the beloved picket fence. Picket fences are typically shorter and are primarily for decorative purposes and to contain an area for small children or pets. A picket fence on the right home can add a lot of charm and visual allure (not to mention resale value). Fence Central offers to styles of wooden picket fence, French gothic picket (shown to the left) and dog ear spaced picket.

A wooden fence provides a traditional, natural enhancement to any property. Fences made from wood feel homey, warm, and welcoming, while providing extra privacy and security for your property. At Fence Central in Central Florida, all of our wood fences are custom built onsite, ensuring that only the finest materials go into your fence. Pre-built wooden panels from your local hardware store may make for a convenient and cheap fence, but are they really the best? We think not. Custom-built wooden fences are far sturdier, more beautiful, and longer lasting than the rough-cut pine and small, rust-prone nails of hardware store fences.In addition to high-quality premium pressure-treated 2x4s, a wooden fence from Fence Central is stabilized with gate posts set in 180 pounds of concrete. That means that come hurricane season, you don't have to worry about your fence becoming debris. We provide a one year workmanship warranty on every fence we install.Of all of the fence types available, fences made from wood are some of the most versatile in terms of style. Next week, we'll delve into different types of wood fences. If you don't see the type of wooden fence that your heart is set on, just let us know. Fence Central can also custom build any type of fence you have in mind. Go ahead, request a quote!