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A Guide to Swimming Pool Safety Fences

Posted on March 10, 2017 by rusty

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.

Replace or Repair Broken Fencing? Which Is Right for You?

Posted on February 17, 2017 by rusty

If you have broken fencing that has seen better days, repair may be an option. In some cases, however, a new fence may be a wiser investment.

Damaged or broken fencing is an eyesore and it doesn’t provide you with the security and privacy you need. Many times, repairs will work to provide you with a few more years of functionality. In other cases, however, paying to repair your broken fencing can be a waste of your hard-earned money.

When Should Wood Fencing Be Replaced?

Has your wood fence started to splinter, warp or rot? If so, how extensive is the damage?

If you have only a few damaged areas, repair is likely a valid option. Damaged slats, pickets and posts can be replaced with new components that match the existing wood. It’s important to realize, however that the color may not be an exact match, particularly if the original wood fencing panels have weathered over time.

Replacement wood fence may be necessary if a large portion of the fencing deteriorated. When you weigh the long-term costs and benefits of a new fence against a large-scale repair job, replacement often makes better financial sense.

When to Replace Chain Link and Wrought Iron Fencing

Rust is the primary concern for chain link and wrought iron fencing. These materials are generally strong and durable but they are vulnerable to corrosion. To determine whether repair or replacement is preferable, you must determine how pervasive the rust damage is.

If you catch rust early, fence repair is a simple job. With a little elbow grease and a coat of oil-based, rust-resistant primer, your wrought iron or chain link fence can look as good as new and last for many more years.

The problem is that rust and corrosion spread aggressively. If a rust problem goes undetected or unrepaired until it has compromised the integrity of your fencing, you will likely need to replace the fence.

Repair and Replacement of Vinyl Fencing

Vinyl fences are especially difficult to damage. This fencing material is sturdy enough to withstand the elements for decades, and it doesn’t age or fade.

That said, vinyl fencing can develop problems if you don’t keep an eye on it. Fence post caps and gates can become loose over time. Frost heave in the soil can cause push the posts up and out of the ground. Fortunately, most of these problems can be repaired.

However, if part of your vinyl fencing has been cracked by a falling branch or stray baseball, you may need to replace the damaged or broken fencing section. A small crack might be repairable but a badly cracked vinyl fence panel should be replaced to protect its structural integrity.

Outback Fencing offers free estimates to homeowners and businesses throughout Utah, Idaho and Wyoming. To find out whether your broken fencing can be repaired or if you should consider a new fence, contact us to schedule a consultation today.

Plan Your Wood Picket Fence with These Pro Tips

Posted on February 3, 2017 by rusty

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.

Property Fencing Keeps Deer Out of Your Garden

Posted on January 25, 2017 by rusty

Perimeter property fencing is the ultimate solution for keeping deer (and other potentially destructive wildlife) out of your garden.

Deer are beautiful, graceful creatures. But, they can also be an incredible nuisance, trampling your landscape and treating your garden like a salad bar. You could try homespun remedies like using scent deterrents or landscaping with deer-resistant plants.

However, the only reliable way to keep deer out of your garden is by installing a property fence around the perimeter of your lot.

Choosing Deer-Repellant Property Fencing

A wire or polypropylene mesh fence is often touted as a simple and inexpensive solution to deter deer. Mesh fencing is inexpensive and easy to install, but it isn’t a very effective repellant. Determined deer can find ways to break right through.

An electric fence may work to keep the deer out of your garden. But, any children or pets who come into contact with electric fencing will also receive a shock.

Wood fencing is an effective barrier but, for many property owners, vinyl is the preferred choice. Unlike wood, vinyl fence requires very little maintenance. Plus, even the most determined deer can’t munch their way through vinyl fencing.

The Height of Property Fencing Matters

Fencing material isn’t the only consideration for keeping deer out of your yard and garden. The height of your property fence is just as important.

Deer won’t normally attempt to jump a six-foot fence. But, if they are being chased, feel threatened or if food is scarce, they can sometimes leap up to eight feet from flat ground. If the ground is sloped, they may be able to clear a fence that is even taller.

Once trapped in your yard, however, the deer don’t always have the motivation to go out the way they came in. This can lead to significant damage. But, unless you really want to install a perimeter fence in excess of eight feet high, what are your options?

Consider Double Property Fencing

Deer can jump very high, particularly when they are motivated. Fortunately, they can’t jump very far. So, a double line of perimeter property fence can be an effective way to prevent them from entering your yard.

Double property fencing is particularly effective because deer have poor depth perception. With the second fence in place, they won’t be able to see a safe place to land. Consequently, they won’t attempt the jump.

To be effective, double fencing doesn’t have to be too tall. In fact, four feet may be sufficient to prevent deer from getting into your garden.

Would you like explore these and other deer-repellant fence options? Outback Fencing has more than 20 years of experience serving homeowners and businesses throughout Idaho, Utah and Wyoming. Contact us today to schedule your complimentary property fencing estimate today.

3 Easy Steps to Restore & Protect Your Iron Fence

Posted on January 11, 2017 by rusty

An ornamental or wrought iron fence brings timeless beauty to any property. And, for strength, security and longevity, iron fencing is an ideal choice for residential as well as commercial applications.

However, like any outdoor structure made of metal, iron fencing can rust when exposed to moisture. Even though most wrought iron is protected by a rust-resistant finish, rain, snow and increased humidity can still lead to corrosion and damage.

Fortunately, you can restore and protect your ornamental iron fence in three simple steps.

Step No. 1: Remove All Existing Rust from Your Iron Fence

Periodically, walk the length of your fencing and assess its condition. If you spot any rust, it’s important to remove it quickly so that the corrosion doesn’t spread.

To clean those areas with a light amount of rust, rub the area lightly with sandpaper or steel wool. More stubborn corrosion may require a powered disc sander or a stiff metal brush. And, for heavy rust, you may need to apply a commercial rust cleaner or dissolver, such as Naval Jelly.

Regardless of the method you use, always wear appropriate protective gear. Work gloves, safety goggles and a face mask will help keep you safe when removing rust.

Step No. 2: Clean and Dry Your Iron Fence

Once the corrosion is gone, clean away any remaining dirt and loose rust particles on the wrought iron. Wipe the area thoroughly with a cloth dampened mineral spirits or a mixture of warm water and dish detergent. Use an old toothbrush for crevices and other hard-to-reach areas.

Next, rinse the fencing with clean water. Use a clean, dry microfiber towel to dry all surfaces completely. This is the most important step for preventing future rust. If the weather is humid, you can even use a blow dryer or a portable fan to ensure that no moisture remains. Don’t delay in moving on to the next step, however, because new rust can form in a matter of hours if the weather is right.

Step No. 3: Apply a Rust-Proof Iron Fence Coating and Paint

To prevent your wrought iron fence from corroding in the future, apply a coat of oil-based rust-resistant primer. Use smooth strokes with a paintbrush for even coverage. Or, to make the job easier, try a spray-on metal primer. If you suspect that some rust may remain on the iron fencing surface rust converter in place of primer (or beneath it).

Once the primer has thoroughly dried, it’s time to paint your wrought iron fencing with an oil-based metal paint. Paint adds a barrier that helps minimize the risk of rust developing in the future. You can use a small paintbrush; however, many DIYers paint mitts.

Let the paint dry completely, then apply a second coat. If you opt to use a spray-on paint, you may need up to four coats to provide full coverage for the wrought iron.

By following these simple steps, your fencing will remain strong and beautiful for many years to come. If you aren’t interested in the do-it-yourself approach, contact Outback Fencing for professional assistance. We can install maintenance-free new fencing or recommend the best approach for repairing and maintaining your current fence. Outback Fencing serves residential and commercial customers in Utah and Wyoming. Contact us today with any questions you may have about chainlink, wood or vinyl fencing, or ornamental iron fence.

Choosing Vinyl Fence Colors to Enhance Your Home

Posted on December 16, 2016 by rusty

With a vinyl fence, fade-resistant color is integrated right into the fencing material. You’ll never have to apply paint or stain to keep your fence looking as good as new, year after year.

Since vinyl fencing can last for decades, color choice is an important factor. Select the wrong option, and you could be stuck with a ho-hum or unappealing fence. With the right selection, however, you’ll enjoy a beautiful and valuable addition to your property for many years to come.

Check with Your HOA for Rules on Vinyl Fence Color

Vinyl fencing is available in a wide variety of shades and styles. However, if you live in an HOA, you may not be able to select from all the available options.

In many communities, neighborhood or homeowners associations limit the types and colors of fencing that are permitted. The intent is to maintain a consistent appearance throughout the community, to protect property values.

Often, HOA policies limit homeowners to traditional color options, such as white, brown or natural wood tones. Some are even more restrictive, permitting only three or four specific shades. Before choosing a color, review the regulations of your HOA as well as the published design guidelines. If you break the rules, you could face fines, liens or even be compelled legally to remove your new vinyl fencing.

Consider Your Home’s Style when Choosing a Vinyl Fence Color

Once you verify the colors your HOA allows, the next consideration is your home’s architectural style. Building style definitely matters when it comes to choosing the color for vinyl fencing.

Traditional colonial or cottage style homes, for example, often look best when enclosed with traditional white fencing. Farm-style homes, on the other hand, may benefit from a natural wood tone or a subdued neutral color. And, for contemporary or modern homes, a darker vinyl fence may be a better design fit.

The color of your home should also be a consideration. Do you want your fencing to blend in or be a focal feature? You may want to select a shade that matches your roof, trim or gutters. Or, you might prefer a contrasting yet complimentary fence color.

Highlight Your Foliage with the Right Vinyl Fence Color

Don’t ignore your existing landscape and foliage when selecting a fence color. The right shade will help show off your landscaping.

Choosing vinyl fencing that is too close in color to your trees and plants will detract from the appeal of your property. Well-planned landscaping boosts the value of your home, but only if it can be seen and appreciated. For maximum effect, choose a fence color that enhances – rather than competes with – your foliage.

Would you like assistance in making the right fencing choice for your Utah home? Outback Fencing can help. We are experts in the installation, repair and restoration of wood, vinyl and ornamental iron options. Contact our West Jordan office today for professional advice on selecting your ideal vinyl fence.

Wood Security Fence Tops Invisible Fencing for Containing Pets

Posted on December 2, 2016 by rusty

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.

Decorating Your Vinyl Fence for the Holidays

Posted on November 22, 2016 by rusty

This holiday season, don’t neglect your vinyl fence with it’s time to break out the outdoor decorations.

Vinyl fencing makes an ideal backdrop for outdoor decorating. Incorporating your fence into your holiday decorating scheme can help turn your landscape into a winter wonderland.

Creating a festive display is fun and easy with our creative holiday decorating ideas.

Use Vinyl Fence as a Backdrop for Twinkling Light Displays

One of the best ways to add season magic to your landscape is with strands of holiday lights. Why not use your vinyl fence as a blank canvas to create a festive display?

If you prefer the simple approach, simply hang strands of mini white or multi-colored bulbs along the top. If you prefer a novelty style, use icicle lights or tiny, illuminated snowflakes. If you do select the simple approach, take your time hanging them to ensure a precision result.

If you prefer a more elaborate light display, create a festive scene on your vinyl fence with holiday lights. You can create stars, simple snowflakes, presents or reindeer, or spell out holiday messages. Use removable adhesive hooks to attach the lights and you won’t have to worry about damaging your vinyl fencing.

Decorate Your Vinyl Fence with Wreaths, Bows and Garland

If you prefer an elegant, classic holiday look, adding greenery to your white vinyl fencing will create the perfect result. Wreaths and garland made of evergreen, pine or spruce add life and color, but many homeowners prefer the ease of artificial greenery. Silk or plastic garland can be reused for many years and don’t pose the fire hazard that live versions do.

When draping garland, aim for consistency. If the greenery hangs lower on one fence panel than the next, the design won’t look as attractive. Hang a wreath at each fence post, and add red bows to create a gorgeous traditional holiday display.

Create Holiday Scenes Along the Bottom of Your Fence

If you want to kick your outdoor holiday decor up a notch, use an entire span of vinyl fence in your festive decorating.

This area ideal for large-scale yard decorations, like colorful wooden wrapped presents, Christmas trees or snowmen. Or, stake giant candy canes along the bottom of the fencing. Reposition your landscape lights to focus on your design or add portable spotlights in the yard.

You can also place seasonal planters at the base of your fence. Filled with large swags of greenery and sprigs of bold red winterberries, planters can provide a festive burst of color to your holiday landscape.

Do you have boxes of outdoor holiday decorations with nowhere to go? Give yourself the gift of new fencing for the holidays. Outback Fencing has 20 years of experience serving residential and commercial customers throughout Idaho, Utah and Wyoming. Contact us today for more information or to schedule your complimentary wood, iron or vinyl fence consultation.

Who Pays for a Boundary Fence Between Two Utah Properties?

Posted on November 8, 2016 by rusty

You want to install a boundary fence but your neighbor doesn’t have room in the budget right now to share the cost. Or, perhaps they don’t currently perceive a need for fencing.

The fence will sit on your shared property line. Does that mean that your neighbor is legally obligated to contribute to the costs? Not necessarily, at least according to Utah law.

Can You Ask Your Neighbor to Help Pay for a Boundary Fence?

Of course, you can ask your neighbor to share your costs for new shared property line fencing. However, they don’t have to agree to share the costs if they don’t intend to use the fence.

So, what exactly does “use” mean, in this context?

Each state interprets the meaning of “use” differently. In Utah, the term pertains to an enclosure wherein boundary fencing is constructed around an entire property. In other words, if you enclose your yard with fencing, you will be using the common fence. By the same definition, if your neighbor doesn’t place fencing around the rest of their yard, they will not legally be using the fence.

In that case, your neighbor won’t be legally obligated to share the cost of the boundary fencing.

What If They Change Their Mind and Use the Boundary Fence?

Let’s say you install a partition fence, but your neighbor doesn’t want to financially contribute. After a few months or years go by, they decide to place fencing along the other edges of their yard, enclosing the property. You’ve already paid for the fencing at the property line, so are you still stuck shouldering the entire cost?

Not in Utah. State statute says that, if your neighbor wants to enclose their yard later, they will begin using the boundary fence and must contribute to the cost of its construction. Before installing the balance of their boundary fence, they are obligated to pay you one-half of the value of the fence along your shared property line.

What if You Don’t Want to Share Boundary Fence Ownership?

Not all neighbors are cordial, and you may not like the idea of co-owning a partition fence. Though it would be somewhat unusual, you could come to an agreement, with one of you assuming full responsibility for the fencing.

It is important to note that this type of ownership arrangement could be invalidated if either party sells their property. Unless the new owner accepts the current agreement, Utah law will deem the two neighbors to be co-owners of the partition fencing.

Of course, the best course of action is to work things out with your neighbor to your mutual satisfaction. To protect your interests, however, you may also wish to consult a real estate attorney with your property fence questions.

The experts at Outback Fencing can assist you in determining the best type of fence to fit your needs, whatever they may be. We serve commercial and residential customers throughout Utah and Wyoming. Contact our West Jordan office today to schedule your free consultation or to learn more about boundary fence.

Three Popular Styles of Wood Fence

Posted on October 21, 2016 by rusty

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.