A fence is a wall or barrier of wood, masonry, or other materials that encloses space and restricts ingress and egress to or from property. Fences may also serve a decorative or practical purpose.
In the criminal world, a fence buys stolen goods from a thief and sells them for a profit. To learn more about this important crime-fighting activity, contact Fence Company Charlotte, NC, now!
Fences can be built from a variety of materials to meet specific needs. Choosing the right material is critical to ensuring your fence is strong and durable. For example, wood or vinyl may be better suited for aesthetics, while metal or chain links prevents trespassing and theft. Understanding the unique characteristics of each fence-building material will help you make an informed decision that meets your unique requirements.
A fence is an enclosure around a property that prevents trespassing and keeps pets, children, and wildlife safe. It can also protect equipment and machinery from theft. Fences can be constructed from a wide variety of materials, including wood, metal, and concrete. In addition to the wall itself, it is important to consider any necessary accessories, such as gates and latches.
Fence materials include wires, posts, rails and gates. A steel wire fence is usually galvanized to resist rust. The post and rails are joined together using ties, which are either knuckled or tied with a turnbuckle. The gate is attached to the frame with a hinge and latch.
Iron and aluminum fences can be made from prefabricated panels that are welded in a factory and powder coated. This process reduces maintenance and extends the life of the fence. These panels can be designed to replicate a number of popular fence styles, including post and rail, picket, lattice and privacy.
In Charles Dickens’ 19th century novel Oliver Twist, Fagin is a fence who recruits homeless boys and trains them as pickpockets. Fences can also be referred to as receivers, receiver men or moving men. A fence purchases stolen goods and sells them to others, acting as both a middleman and criminal. Fences often specialize in certain goods and may rework or recut stolen items to make them more saleable. For example, a fence who specializes in weapons may alter the hilt or make minor cosmetic changes to make a weapon more authentic.
A fence’s prices typically depend on both norms and legitimate market rates for the items they purchase. In the case of stolen animals, for instance, a fence who focuses on livestock may receive as much as 50% of the animal’s total value in the legal marketplace. Fences may also be paid a percentage of the proceeds of burglaries that they participate in.
Materials
Fencing is an important part of a home, allowing you to add privacy and deter intruders while also enhancing your curb appeal. There are many different fencing materials, ranging in cost, versatility, and maintenance levels. Choosing the right material for your yard requires balancing these factors, with your individual needs and tastes playing a major role in the decision-making process.
Wood is a classic option for backyard fences, and is available in a range of styles to suit your aesthetic. Popular choices include cedar, pine, spruce, and redwood. Often, these woods are treated to resist rot and insects. They can also be stained or painted to enhance their appearance. For a more rustic look, try using “dog ear” fence boards (where the manufacturer cuts the tips of the boards at a slanted angle).
Another traditional choice is metal fences, which can be made to suit both commercial and residential properties. These fences tend to feature a galvanized finish and are highly durable, providing a level of security that is hard to match. They can be customized to include spiked caps for added security, and they are generally less expensive than other options.
If you’re looking for a more modern fence, consider an aluminum option. These are lightweight and easy to install, and they can be customized to include a wide range of features, from picket designs to patterned panels. They’re also very resistant to weathering, making them a good choice for areas that are exposed to the elements.
Finally, vinyl fences are a synthetic choice that can be very durable and low-maintenance. They’re resistant to rot, weathering, and pests, and they come in a range of colors to complement your property. They’re a great choice for anyone who wants to avoid the expense and hassle of painting or staining their fence.
Before you head to the lumberyard, consult your local zoning regulations to find out what steps you need to take before erecting your fence. For instance, you may need to survey your property line or submit an application to the local zoning office to determine what kinds of materials and heights are permitted. You should also buy all the necessary supplies, including fence posts, support beams, and the desired length of each piece of fence. You’ll also need tools like a drill, a torpedo level, and a post hole digger.
Installation
The installation of a fence can be a major project for home owners and requires careful planning. It is important to review the fence plans with neighbors and local authorities to make sure your planned fence does not violate any regulations. It is also recommended that you contact a licensed land surveyor to be sure the fence will not encroach upon any property lines.
If you decide to hire a contractor for the job, be sure they are a licensed Home Improvement Contractor (HIC). To verify a license, call 311 or visit DCA’s Instant License Check. A licensed HIC will be able to provide you with a copy of their license and proof of insurance.
Depending on your site, the type of soil you have and the design of your fence, there may be additional modifications or repairs needed. For example, if you have sandy soil, you may need to dig deeper holes for your posts than if the soil were loamy or clay. This can increase the cost of materials and labor, but will ensure your fence is stable.
A common method for adding strength to a wood fence is the use of metal braces called T-brackets. These are placed on the top and bottom of each post, extending beyond the height of the post. The brackets are then screwed to the rail. This adds strength and reduces the likelihood of the rail being separated from the post.
Another method for reinforcing a wood fence is to install sister rails, or parallel rails, between existing posts. These can be used to strengthen a weak section of the fence or to create a more uniform appearance on a sloped grade. Sister rails are usually secured to existing rails using screws or nails.
When installing a chain link fence, it is essential to properly stretch the fabric to prevent damage to the posts and to keep the wires at the right tension. To do this, measure the distance between one end of a terminal post and the other. This will give you the amount of rope required to stretch between these points. When the rope is stretched, it should be tight enough to not move when pulled on by hand.
Maintenance
Whether or not to make a repair to your fence is a personal decision that depends on the severity of damage and how much time, money and effort you’re willing to put into it. A well-maintained fence adds curb appeal and protects your property. It also minimizes the need for costly replacement in the future. To ensure your fence is safe and in good condition, walk along its length regularly, looking for any loose boards or posts, sagging sections and any signs of insect infestation or rot.
Wooden fences are particularly susceptible to insect infestation and rot. If left unchecked, these problems can damage the integrity of your fence and render it useless. To prevent these issues, inspect your fence regularly and promptly treat any infestations with pesticide or herbicide.
Another common issue is the development of cracks or holes in a wooden fence. These may be the result of slow weathering or damage from impact. If caught early, these problems are easy to repair. For small holes, a little wood filler will suffice. For larger holes, it’s a good idea to use a petroleum-based wood filler instead of a water-based one for strength. Once the filler has dried, sand it smooth and repaint the area to match the rest of your fence.
Metal fences are also prone to rust and corrosion. To reduce the risk of this, it’s a good idea to periodically apply a metal preservative or primer to the surface of your fence. It’s also a good idea to occasionally re-stain your fence, especially if it’s been exposed to the elements for an extended period of time.
It’s important to keep in mind that any repairs or maintenance on your fence should be conducted by a licensed contractor. A licensed professional will be able to identify any potential issues with your fence and recommend the most appropriate course of action.