Tag Archives: Automated Gates

Swimming pool safety fences will never replace diligent adult supervision. When kids are in or near the pool, they must always be under the careful watch of a responsible adult.

That said, pool barriers do add an extra layer of security. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), pool safety fences can help prevent most submersion deaths and injuries involving young children.

Because homeowners have many options for building pool barriers, it helps to understand the reasoning behind the most common regulations and design requirements.

Why Swimming Pool Fencing Is Necessary

If the CPSC says that kids require adult supervision around the pool, why is safety fencing necessary? Customers without children in the household often ask this question, wondering why they should invest in pool fencing.

The answer is that, without fencing in place, a neighborhood child could easily wander into the yard and fall into your pool. Or you may have friends or relatives with children visit. Securing the swimming area is the best way to keep them safe if they slip away from the adults.

The CPSC reports that nearly 300 U.S. children under the age of five drown every year in backyard pools. Another 4,100 suffer injuries serious enough to require emergency room treatment. Many of these children would have been safe from harm if pool safety fencing had been in place.

Regulations for Swimming Pool Safety Fences

Currently, no federal guidelines exist for pool safety fencing. However, most cities and counties have adopted local safety regulations, based upon recommendations from the CPSC and the National Drowning Prevention Alliance (NDPA).

Many municipalities require that fences be at least four feet tall, although five feet is often required or considered preferable. Spacing between pickets must generally be less than four inches, and the space between the bottom horizontal fencing rail and the ground must be less than two inches.

In addition, if the side of the home acts as a portion of the enclosure, the CPSC suggests installing alarms on all doors leading to the swimming area. Many cities also require that doors and fence gates have self-closing and self-latching devices or locks.

Options for Swimming Pool Safety Fences

When designing a pool enclosure, homeowners have several options. Security is the primary goal but that doesn’t require sacrificing design and style.

Wood fencing can blend into the natural surroundings and provide extra privacy for your swimming pool. Low-maintenance vinyl fencing offers the same level of privacy and a durable choice for use around water.

Homeowners can also secure their pools with ornamental iron enclosures or chain link fencing. But, since these materials can rust, we recommend placing the far enough away from the pool to avoid excess water exposure. Otherwise, your enclosure will require extra maintenance or more frequent repair.

Outback Fencing, serving homeowners throughout Idaho, Utah and Wyoming, can assist you in selecting the best fencing materials and designs to ensure both water safety and aesthetic style. Contact us today to learn more about your options for swimming pool safety fences.

A wood picket fence is a simple and affordable way to enhance your home’s curb appeal and add a charming focal point to your landscaping.

But, before installing any new fence, however, it’s important to do your homework. Otherwise, you may set yourself up for potentially costly problems. The residential fencing experts at Outback Fencing recommend following these three easy tips to ensure the easiest and most cost-effective outcome.

Check Property Lines Before Installing Your Wood Picket Fence

Many homeowners assume that their property lines extend out to the edge of the sidewalk or curb. But this may not be the case in some areas of Utah, Idaho and Wyoming.

When planning a new fence project, start by verifying every property line where you plan to place your fencing. Otherwise, you may interfere with a public right-of-way or common area.

Your property’s deed and survey should both contain a description of your lot’s boundary lines. You can use these measurements to determine the placement of your new wood picket fencing. If you aren’t able to find these documents, you can visit the local property assessor’s office to view your area’s real estate plat maps.

If you aren’t clear on where your boundaries lie, contact a professional to assist you. A licensed surveyor can visit your lot to measure and mark your legal property lines.

Check Local Rules for New Fence Installation

Depending on where you live, you may not be able to install the exact style of wood picket fencing you prefer. Many cities and townships have specific building codes in place. Height restrictions, locational requirements and picket spacing limits are a few of the local rules you may encounter when planning a new fence.

In addition, if you live in a planned urban development or newer suburban community, your homeowners’ association probably also has rules in place governing the installation of new fencing. You may be limited to certain materials or colors, for instance, and you may be required to position the posts and rails to face the inside of the property.

Take the time to identify your local rules and be sure to follow them. Otherwise you could encounter problems with the city or your homeowners’ association. In some cases, they can compel you to remove any fencing that does not comply with governing restrictions.

Obtain a Permit for Your Wood Picket Fence Installation

Depending on where you live, you may need a building permit to install your new wood picket fencing.

Permits may be required on the city or county level. And, in general, the more urban your location, the more likely it is that you will need a fence permit. The planned height and location of your picket fencing may also trigger the need for a permit.

Contact your local zoning office or building department to determine whether your fence installation will require a permit.

If the thought of dealing with all of this on your own seems daunting, consider using the services of a licensed professional fencing contractor. Outback Fencing is the go-to expert for fence installation in Idaho, Utah and Wyoming. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation and estimate for our new wood picket fence.

A wood security fence is an attractive and effective option for keeping Fido and Fluffy contained in your yard. It’s not as high-tech as some of the available alternatives but the advantages make it an ideal choice for many homeowners.

Perhaps you have considered going with an “invisible” or electric fence, either to save on costs or to preserve the open-wide views from your homesite. If so, consider some of the reasons why wood fencing may be a better choice.

A Wood Security Fence is Pet-Friendly

In case you aren’t familiar with the technology, let’s look at how an invisible fence works. A boundary wire is buried underground, which sends out a signal to a receiver on your pet’s collar. If Fido or Fluffy roams too close, they will hear a warning sound. If they keep going and cross the boundary line, they will be administered an electric shock.

Invisible fence manufacturers compare the shock to that we feel from static electricity. However, the shock must be severe enough to startle your pet and stop him from leaving the property. Settings can be adjusted but, to be an effective deterrent, the shock needs to be substantial. For many pets, learning to avoid it involves multiple encounters.

A wooden security fence provides an actual – and shock-free – barrier to keep Fido from leaving your yard. Consequently, it’s a much more humane option.

Determined Pets Can Escape from an Invisible Fence

With a professionally installed wooden security fence, you won’t have to worry about your beloved pet escaping. Not so with electric fencing.

An invisible fence doesn’t guarantee that your dog will stay in the yard. If Fido sees a squirrel or cat dart across the boundary line, he may try to follow – and if he’s determined enough, he’ll make it, despite the electric shock.

What he probably won’t do is endure the shock again to return home.

Once your pet crosses the boundary wire, he’ll effectively be locked out of the yard. With a clear head, free from the distraction of the chase, he’s not likely to voluntarily suffer another shock. He may end up running off instead, putting himself in danger of getting lost or hurt.

A Wood Security Fence Protects Your Pet from Other Animals

Invisible fencing is designed to keep your pets inside the yard, but it does nothing to keep other animals off your property. An aggressive stray dog or rabid wild animal could easily enter your yard and put your faithful companion in jeopardy.

Wood security fencing, on the other hand, truly protects your pet by keeping him contained inside and other animals on the outside.

Some pet owners have reported the development of negative behavioral patterns in their dogs and cats, in response to electronic fencing. Fido may forget where the boundary line is, or may not realize where, when or why he receives a shock. As a result, he may start exhibiting fearful or neurotic behaviors.

You won’t see that happen with a wood, vinyl or chainlink fence.

Would you like to learn out more about the safer, more humane ways of enclosing your property and protecting your pets? The professionals at Outback Fencing can explain your options and answer all your questions. Contact our West Jordan, Utah, office today to schedule a free consultation and estimate for vinyl or wood security fence.

Wood fences are available in a wide range of styles, designs and finishes. With so many different options, many homeowners find it difficult to choose.

Are you feeling overwhelmed with all of the wood fence design options?

Begin your quest for the ideal wood fencing with a look at three of the most popular types used by homeowners throughout Idaho, Utah and Wyoming. Is one of these styles the right choice for your home?

Picket Wood Fences

A picket fence is built with closely-spaced, vertical wooden boards, which are attached to horizontal rails at the top and bottom. The rails are held in place and supported by fence posts. This style of wood fencing is typically between 3 and 4 feet in height.

Picket fences have been a favorite among homeowners since Colonial times. This style of fencing has long been seen as a symbol of success and accomplishment. In fact, the classic American dream of success has long been symbolized by having a family and owning a home with a white picket fence.

These days, picket fences needn’t always be painted white.

The wood can be painted, stained or treated in a variety of ways, to complement your home and property. Homeowners can also choose from several different picket fencing styles, including designs with flat, tapered or rounded tops.

Stockade Wood Fences

Would you prefer more privacy and security from your wood fencing? If so, you may like the stockade fence design.

Like picket fences, stockade wood fences feature vertical boards that are placed very close together, attached to rails that are supported by posts. But, whereas picket fences are short and low, stockade fences are typically built about 6 to 8 feet in height.

For this reason, stockade fencing offers a greater sense of privacy and protection.

Stockade fencing can also be customized to provide a unique look. For example, the fence can be designed with a convex or concave rounded top line. A decorative lattice topper can be installed to provide light and view.

And, of course, many different types of wood stain and decorative finishes are available.

Board-On-Board Wood Fences

If you want a privacy fence, but you would prefer for your fencing to look the same from both sides, consider a board-on-board design.

A board-on-board fence is constructed with an overlapping pattern of vertical boards attached to both sides of the rails. Once installed, the direct sightline through the fencing is effectively blocked.

Because of their attractive, architectural style, board-on-board wood fences are popular in many upscale neighborhoods and communities. Homeowners can choose the timeless beauty of a natural wood finish or opt for a paint or stain treatment to boost the visual appeal of their property.

Are you “on the fence” about the best type of fencing to suit your home? With 20 years of experience installing wood fences throughout Utah, Wyoming and Idaho, the Outback Fencing team has the knowledge and expertise to help you achieve your goals. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary site visit and estimate for your metal, vinyl, or wood fence.

Are you planning to install a new fence at your home or business?

If so, you’re probably prepared to pay for the materials, including the panels, gates and posts. Of course, by performing the labor yourself, you plan to save money, as compared to using a professional fencing installation contractor.

But have you considered the other potential costs of taking a DIY approach to your new fence? The process may involve some costs that you haven’t anticipated. Understanding the potential for additional expenses can help you budget for a new fence that meets your needs, but doesn’t break the bank.

Here are just a few of the factors that can affect the price of your do-it-yourself fence.

Soil Conditions and New Fence Installations

Fences appear to sit above the ground, but the underground portion of the posts is actually responsible for holding the structure in place. Installing these posts properly is critical, but it’s far from standard. Your soil conditions will determine whether the process is straightforward or more complex.

Soft soil will require you to dig deeper post holes and pour more concrete for stability. With hard soil or clay, digging holes in the ground may be difficult and time-consuming. In fact, in many cases, it requires renting special equipment. And, if you have any large, buried rocks along the fence line, you must either dig them up or configure the fence to avoid them.

When your soil conditions cause longer labor times or require additional concrete or other materials, you can expect your out-of-pocket costs to increase. These factors can also delay the installation and require extra time and effort for the DIYer.

New Fence Installations May Be Affected by Yard Slope

All yards slope to some extent. But, if you’d like to install new fencing on a hillside property, you may need to revisit your budget.

Why are fences on hills more expensive? Digging holes for the underground posts may not be much different than on flatter land, but preparing the panels and boards to fit along the slope is more complicated.

Logistically, this can also present a problem, as working on a slope can be dangerous. Plan to spend more time to properly measure and cut the materials, and be sure to take any appropriate measures to ensure your safety and that of any people or property that may be below you.

Expected Maintenance for Your New Fence

Would you invest in a brand new car and never check the oil or perform other basic maintenance?

Of course not. Maintenance is necessary to keep a vehicle functioning properly and looking its best, and the same is true for a new fence.

Some fences don’t require much maintenance. Vinyl fences, for example, can last for decades with very little care, other than occasional cleaning. Wood fencing, however, can warp, split or rot away over time. To prevent this, it’s a good idea to apply a wood preservative or stain to seal your fence every two or three years. This acts much like wax does to protect your car from the elements. Decorative iron fencing can rust, so if you choose this material, you’ll need to periodically sand and reapply primer and paint to the rusted areas.

Any anticipated maintenance requires an investment in your time and materials, and should be considered as part of your cost calculations.

Before you make the final decision to take the DIY approach for your new fence, why not consult with a professional fence installation contractor? Outback Fencing is the locally owned and operated expert in fencing installation, repair and maintenance. Serving both residential and commercial fencing customers in Utah, Idaho and Wyoming, we can provide a detailed and reliable estimate that considers these often-overlooked expenses. You might be surprised to learn how affordable a professional installation can be for your new fence.

Vinyl fence is not only beautiful and durable, but it can also protect your property and keep your family and pets safe. Many styles can also provide you with privacy.

But wood fencing offers the same benefits, and wood can be cheaper. So why should you consider vinyl? Vinyl fencing is a great long-term investment, for many reasons. Let’s take a look at some of the most important factors that make vinyl the fencing material of choice for many homeowners.

A Vinyl Fence Will Last Forever

Well, maybe vinyl fencing won’t endure until the actual end of time, but, it can withstand the elements and remain strong and sturdy for decades.

Wood fences can rot, warp and splinter over time, and bugs and other critters can eat their way through wood. But not so with vinyl fencing. This material is made using a synthetic plastic resin called polyvinyl chloride, better known as PVC. PVC is highly resistant to weather and impact damage, and it doesn’t deteriorate like wood. Plus, a fence made of PVC will never become infested with termites or other insects.

Because PVC is so incredibly durable, vinyl fencing won’t appear to age either. In fact, it will look as good as new for a very long time. Choose vinyl, and you won’t ever have to worry about replacing your fence.

Vinyl Fence Requires Virtually No Maintenance

Install a wood fence, and you’re looking at adding a bit to your “Honey Do” list.

Every two or three years, you’ll need to add another coat of paint, stain or wood preservative. You must also inspect wood panels regularly for signs of rot damage or degradation. And, of course, the aged or damaged wood panels and posts must be promptly repaired or replaced, to preserve the integrity of the fencing.

Vinyl fencing, on the other hand, is virtually maintenance-free.

You may need to hose it down occasionally to rinse off dirt and grime, but no other work will be necessary. As it won’t rot or attract termites, repairs are only needed if something external (falling tree, runaway tractor) damages a panel or post.

And, since the color finish is integral to the vinyl material, you’ll never need to repaint or stain.

Vinyl Fence Customization Options

Many different types of wood can be used for fencing, including cedar and redwood. You can also select from a range of post and panel styles, as well as different wood stains and finishes, to create a uniquely beautiful look.

But vinyl is every bit as versatile as wood, offering a seemingly endless variety of design options for fencing.

You can choose from several fade-resistant colors and patterns, and an array of attractive fence styles. You can also add interesting details, like decorative picket and lattice toppers or transition panels that step the fence from one height to another.

The possibilities are endless. Your vinyl fence can be customized to match your home’s architectural design, to showcase your style and to boost the curb appeal of your home.

Outback Fencing offers free estimates to homeowners and business owners throughout Idaho, Utah and Wyoming. Contact us to schedule your consultation today, and let us tell you more about the advantages of vinyl fence.

How much will it cost to install a privacy fence at your home? For most homeowners, pricing is one of the most important factors when considering a home improvement project.

The easiest way to determine how much to budget is to contact a professional fence company, like Outback Fencing, for a free estimate. But, to give you a rough idea of what your costs may be, we have put together this handy guide.

Step 1: Determine How Much Privacy Fence You Need

How much land do you plan to enclose? The larger the property area, the more your fence will cost, as more fence panels and posts will be necessary to enclose the area.

If you live in a planned development or subdivision, determining the amount of fencing you need is simple. When you bought your home, you likely received a plat (survey map) drawn to scale, that shows the property divisions. If you can’t find yours, contact your realtor or the title company for another copy. Or you can check to see if your County tax records provide online access to your property’s plat map.

If you don’t have access to your home’s plat, you can rent or buy a measuring wheel and walk the distance of your planned fence installation to figure out how much fencing will be needed. As an alternative, you may be able to download a smartphone app that can assist you in measuring the perimeter as well.

Step 2: Choose a Material for Your Privacy Fence

Most privacy fences range between 4 and 6 feet in height, and the height you choose will help determine the cost. Your pricing will also vary depending upon the material you choose.

Metal or chain link fencing is typically the most affordable option, but that won’t give you any privacy. Wood is likely the most economical fencing material. However, keep in mind that certain types of wood, like redwood, cedar and cypress, are more expensive than others, such as pine or spruce.

Your other material choice for privacy fencing is vinyl. Vinyl fencing usually costs more; however, it is highly durable and requires less maintenance over time than wood fencing. Even though you pay more for vinyl fencing upfront, that investment will likely make sense in the long run.

Step 3: Consider Other Privacy Fence Cost Factors

Many homeowners forget about pricing out the fence posts, which can be the most expensive part of a fence.

Depending on your lot and the type of material you select, you’ll need a post every 6 to 8 feet. Gates will also increase the cost of privacy fence installation.

Do you want to customize the look of your fencing? Adding a decorative latticework top or applying a stain can give you a beautifully unique look, but you will pay a bit more for extras like those.

When you are ready to determine exactly how much it will cost to fence your property, give us a call. Outback Fencing offers free privacy fence estimates to homeowners in northern Utah, Idaho and Wyoming. Contact our West Jordan office to schedule an appointment today for a cost breakdown and more information about adding a privacy fence.

Any one of the most popular wood fence choices, including Douglas fir, southern yellow pine, spruce, cypress and redwood, can be used to create an attractive border for your property. However, for many homeowners and fencing contractors alike, cedar is the preferred choice.

Why is cedar so popular? Is it the right building material for your fence?

Cedar Makes for a Highly Durable Wood Fence

You want your fence to have a long lifespan, right? Cedar is a strong and durable wood – so your fencing will stay in place, sturdy and straight, for many years into the future.

Cedar fencing lasts for such a long time due to the wood’s natural oils. These oils help make it resistant to rot, decay and the effects of weather. And, because of the oils, this wood is also naturally less vulnerable to insect infestations than many other types of wood used in fencing.

Cedar is a Beautiful, Yet Versatile Wood Fence Material

The natural oils found in this species of wood offer more than protection from the elements; they also help preserve its appearance. Cedar fences age nicely, keeping a beautiful look year after year without the need for much maintenance.

The texture and grain of cedar is gorgeous on its own. But, as this wood is free of pitch and resins, it can accept a wide range of finishes. A light-colored bleach could give an aged patina look to your wood fence. Or, you could consider a traditional solid color or an elegant dark stain.

Cedar is ideal for holding finishes and stains, and many different treatments are available that can embellish or enhance the wood to provide a unique look. And, some many types of treatment offer further protection, prolonging the life of your fence.

Cedar Makes Your Wood Fence Eco-Friendly

Are you environmentally conscious? If so, this may be the material for you.

Cedar has a low carbon footprint, as it is a sustainable resource. It is sourced from responsibly managed and certified forests located in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington and British Columbia. These forests are replanted immediately after the lumber is harvested. According to the Western Red Cedar Lumber Association, about 8 million cedar seedlings are planted every year.

In addition, for Idaho, Utah and Wyoming fence projects, this wood can be less costly to transport than some other fencing products, as the source of the material is close by, geographically. Cedar is also relatively light weight, meaning fewer fossil fuels are used in delivering and handling the fencing.

Is cedar the right choice for you? Contact the experienced professionals at Outback Fencing today to learn more. We serve both commercial and residential customers throughout Idaho, Utah and Wyoming. Contact us today to schedule a consultation to discuss our plans for a new wood fence.