Your business is likely one of your largest and most precious assets. You’ve surely worked hard to build it from the ground up and regularly invest your time and money back into it to improve your products or services. Perhaps next up on your list of improvements is to install an attractive, yet secure commercial fence, like those we install at West Florida Fence in Tampa Bay. In this article, we’ll discuss how to choose the best commercial fence for your business.
Check all local regulations first
With so many commercial fence options out there, it can be very overwhelming to decide what to choose. In our opinion, start by contacting your local building authority. There may be local regulations or codes in place that restrict what types of fencing or features you are allowed to have at your business location. If wooden fences aren’t allowed where you are, then there’s no reason to research them while shopping. You should also ask about any required permits for erecting a fence in your location.
What is the purpose of a commercial fence?
You’ll want to consider the primary purpose of the commercial fence you are planning to install. Is it to keep intruders out while you’re not open? Is it simply to create a more defined border between you and neighboring businesses? Is complete privacy required, or is an open fencing option more suitable? These questions will help determine which fencing material and setup you ultimately choose.
You’ll also want to consider whether or not you want your fence to be permanent or temporary. Temporary fencing is great for events and construction projects, but it doesn’t come in a vast variety of options, so only needing a temporary fence makes the decision much easier.
Does the style of the fence fit your business and the neighborhood?
A huge consideration when choosing a new commercial fence solution for your business is how well it fits into your business’ aesthetic. If you manage a day spa, you wouldn’t want a barbed wire fence terrifying your customers on their way inside. Instead, you are likely to want an option that flows seamlessly with your offerings and the existing property features.
Something many business owners often forget is how their new commercial fence will fit into the neighborhood aesthetic. Owning a brick-and-mortar business is very much about building community, and while it is nice to stand out from the crowd, you don’t want to stick out like a sore thumb. Some neighborhood styles are meticulously planned by both business owners and residents, and going against the grain might lead to some undesirable comments from locals.
Making the final choice
After you’ve researched local building codes, obtained all of the required permits, considered your fence’s main purpose, and thought about aesthetics, it’s time to officially choose your commercial fencing material!
The many different material options for your new commercial fence from West Florida Fence include:
Chain link is one of the most popular commercial fence types for almost all business applications. It is strong, durable, and lasts for decades with proper maintenance. We construct chain link fencing of all heights and lengths and offer traditional galvanized chain links along with vinyl coatings in a variety of colors. We can add barbed wire, vinyl slats, and even fabrics to enhance the security, privacy, and style of your chain link fence.
Chain link only requires the occasional rinsing off with an outdoor hose. We recommend using plain dish soap to remove any stuck debris. A yearly rust protection application is also recommended to keep your fence in the best condition for as long as possible.
Vinyl and PVC fencing is highly customizable and offers almost complete privacy. These materials come in a vast array of colors that will not fade over time and require very little upkeep. Since vinyl and PVC are flexible, high winds from hurricanes and tropical storms won’t affect this fencing like most other materials. Many people also love that these fences are made with non-toxic materials.
Vinyl and PVC fencing only requires the occasional rinse with an outdoor hose and yearly pressure washing.
- Aluminum/Steel
Aluminum and steel fencing gives your property an upscale look that just can’t be replicated by any other fencing type. These commercial fences are extremely durable and secure! In fact, we often add security gates and other higher-end security features to aluminum and steel fencing, as they are quite popular with gated communities and multi-family housing units.
Stuck debris should be regularly removed from your aluminum or steel fencing, and a yearly pressure wash is also recommended. After the pressure wash, apply a coat of rust-prevention paint to protect it from the salty Tampa air.
- Composite
Composite fencing gives you the benefits of vinyl/PVC with the luxurious look of wood. It has become very popular in recent years due to its durability, security, longevity, ease of care, and customizable aesthetic. Composite fencing comes in almost any color and can be built to any height. Designs are easily matched to your existing property features for a seamless, long-lasting fencing option.
Clean your composite fencing twice per year with soap, hot water, and a soft brush. Pressure washing is NOT recommended for composite fencing.
- Wood
Tried and true, wood fencing is beautiful, durable, non-toxic, customizable, and gives your property a feeling that no other fencing material can match. Wood fencing can be designed to fit any pattern, built to any height, and painted any color. However, it is important to only use sealed wood for fencing here in Florida due to our high temperatures and humidity.
Wood fencing is also very susceptible to mold and algae buildup here near the Gulf coast, so semi-annual pressure washing is a must. We recommend adding a special mold and/or algae-killing solution to prevent buildup until the next wash. Wood will also need to be repainted and resealed every couple of years so it doesn’t appear run-down.
Where can I purchase a commercial fence in Tampa Bay?
West Florida Fence is Tampa Bay’s premier commercial fencing contractor, serving this community since 1996 with quality residential and commercial fencing installation. Contact us for all your commercial fencing needs and trust that we will provide all the guidance you need to make the best fencing choice for your business. Call (813) 213-3297 or get a quote online and see how we can add value and style to your business today!
