Iron Fence and Aluminum Fence FAQ
Get all your questions answered about our Stronghold Iron and Infinity Aluminum Fence Products.
Product Questions
1. What is the benefit of using wrought iron over other styles of fence?
The main benefit of wrought iron is beauty. It has several beautiful accents that make it a part of your landscape and not simply an enclosure. It's no coincidence that many historical and high-end properties have wrought iron fences. The timeless appeal and strength of wrought iron makes it a winning choice on both fronts.
The second benefit is strength. Aluminum fence looks the part of wrought iron, but a 4' aluminum panel weighs 12 pounds versus a 4' commercial wrought iron panel that weighs roughly 87 pounds. Some aluminum panels are so lightweight that you can bend the pickets with your hand. For strength, wrought iron can simply not be beat.
Lastly, there is security. Our panels and gates are fully welded. Pickets and finials cannot be removed with a screwdriver. And unlike vinyl and wood, they cannot be easily broken through. If you weld the panels to the posts instead of screwing them in, you will not find a more secure fence.
The second benefit is strength. Aluminum fence looks the part of wrought iron, but a 4' aluminum panel weighs 12 pounds versus a 4' commercial wrought iron panel that weighs roughly 87 pounds. Some aluminum panels are so lightweight that you can bend the pickets with your hand. For strength, wrought iron can simply not be beat.
Lastly, there is security. Our panels and gates are fully welded. Pickets and finials cannot be removed with a screwdriver. And unlike vinyl and wood, they cannot be easily broken through. If you weld the panels to the posts instead of screwing them in, you will not find a more secure fence.
2. What is the benefit of using aluminum over other styles of fence?
The main benefit of aluminum fence is that it is virtually maintenance free. Unlike steel and iron that can rust if its protective powder coat is compromised, aluminum will not corrode.
A second benefit is versatility. Our aluminum fence panels can “rack” to follow yard grades. Simply pull up on the end that needs to follow the grade and you can compensate for yard grade. This eliminates the “stepping” look and gives a continuous line that follows your yard’s contours.
Another benefit of aluminum is it is lightweight. This makes installation easier when having to mount taller panels and large gates.
Lastly, our aluminum fence system has a limited lifetime warranty on it. Sleep easy knowing we will replace any defective parts or workmanship for life! You can view our Infinity Aluminum Warranty here: Infinity Aluminum Warranty
A second benefit is versatility. Our aluminum fence panels can “rack” to follow yard grades. Simply pull up on the end that needs to follow the grade and you can compensate for yard grade. This eliminates the “stepping” look and gives a continuous line that follows your yard’s contours.
Another benefit of aluminum is it is lightweight. This makes installation easier when having to mount taller panels and large gates.
Lastly, our aluminum fence system has a limited lifetime warranty on it. Sleep easy knowing we will replace any defective parts or workmanship for life! You can view our Infinity Aluminum Warranty here: Infinity Aluminum Warranty
3. What makes your wrought iron fence different from other company’s iron products?
When we designed our fence, we tried to fill in the quality gaps that some of our competitors take shortcuts on.
Our fence panels, gates and posts are pre-galvanized. Galvanization is the same protective coating that is used in many automotive finishes to prevent rust and degradation.
We use pre-galvanized material inside and out whereas our competitors galvanize only the outside. While it protects the outside, it will not protect the inner parts and you could have a fence that is rusting from the inside out. Some competitors don’t galvanize at all, but instead use an inferior electra-coat that is not nearly as durable or protective.
All panels, posts and gates receive a 4-stage pre-treatment and wash to rid them of impurities and to meet ASTM A-787 specifications. This is followed by electro-statically applying a polyester TGIC powder coating that is baked on at a minimum 2.5 mil thickness. Some of our competitors only powder coat to a 1 mil thickness and do not utilize a quality TGIC powder with UV fade inhibitors. Those fade inhibitors are important in keeping your fence looking good and not fading or ‘chalking’ after being up a few years. Some competitors skimp on this stage by only giving a pre-wash, or worse, painting or power coating directly to the metal with cheap powder or paint.
All of our finials and brackets are made of ductile iron instead of standard iron. This is the same material street grates are made of. It provides greater strength and longevity.
As you can see, we take finish and protection very seriously. These are two areas that we do not skimp on. Taking shortcuts here only results in a fence that is both unsightly and unsound after only a few years. We take the extra steps so that your fence looks beautiful and functions dutifully for a long, long time.
The construction of our material gets additional attention as well:
Our pickets are welded on 2 sides to the horizontal rail for greater strength and durability unlike our competitors that typically only weld one side or take shortcuts like tack welding. All of our welds are then cleaned by hand with a wire brush before being treated with a zinc rich primer prior to powder coating. This gives better protection and durability to the finish on the welds.
Our finial tips are welded to the picket on all four sides for security and durability. Many of our competitors will charge you an additional amount for the finial tips and they are an inferior ‘press-on’ style that can be easily stolen or knocked loose. Some even supply cheap plastic finials that look terrible and fade prematurely.
Our walk gates and driveway gates are fully boxed in a 1.5" (Residential) or 2" (Commercial) frame that is welded square. This is very important to keep the gate from sagging over the years. None of our competitors do this because of the extra cost. The driveway gate frame thickness is 11 gauge which is 3 times thicker than most of our competitors using 16 gauge. We also weld in a middle rail on the driveway gates for strength and for easier opener arm attachment.
Lastly our iron fence system has the longest warranty in the industry of 25 years! You can view our Stronghold Iron warranty here: Stronghold Iron Warranty
Our fence panels, gates and posts are pre-galvanized. Galvanization is the same protective coating that is used in many automotive finishes to prevent rust and degradation.
We use pre-galvanized material inside and out whereas our competitors galvanize only the outside. While it protects the outside, it will not protect the inner parts and you could have a fence that is rusting from the inside out. Some competitors don’t galvanize at all, but instead use an inferior electra-coat that is not nearly as durable or protective.
All panels, posts and gates receive a 4-stage pre-treatment and wash to rid them of impurities and to meet ASTM A-787 specifications. This is followed by electro-statically applying a polyester TGIC powder coating that is baked on at a minimum 2.5 mil thickness. Some of our competitors only powder coat to a 1 mil thickness and do not utilize a quality TGIC powder with UV fade inhibitors. Those fade inhibitors are important in keeping your fence looking good and not fading or ‘chalking’ after being up a few years. Some competitors skimp on this stage by only giving a pre-wash, or worse, painting or power coating directly to the metal with cheap powder or paint.
All of our finials and brackets are made of ductile iron instead of standard iron. This is the same material street grates are made of. It provides greater strength and longevity.
As you can see, we take finish and protection very seriously. These are two areas that we do not skimp on. Taking shortcuts here only results in a fence that is both unsightly and unsound after only a few years. We take the extra steps so that your fence looks beautiful and functions dutifully for a long, long time.
The construction of our material gets additional attention as well:
Our pickets are welded on 2 sides to the horizontal rail for greater strength and durability unlike our competitors that typically only weld one side or take shortcuts like tack welding. All of our welds are then cleaned by hand with a wire brush before being treated with a zinc rich primer prior to powder coating. This gives better protection and durability to the finish on the welds.
Our finial tips are welded to the picket on all four sides for security and durability. Many of our competitors will charge you an additional amount for the finial tips and they are an inferior ‘press-on’ style that can be easily stolen or knocked loose. Some even supply cheap plastic finials that look terrible and fade prematurely.
Our walk gates and driveway gates are fully boxed in a 1.5" (Residential) or 2" (Commercial) frame that is welded square. This is very important to keep the gate from sagging over the years. None of our competitors do this because of the extra cost. The driveway gate frame thickness is 11 gauge which is 3 times thicker than most of our competitors using 16 gauge. We also weld in a middle rail on the driveway gates for strength and for easier opener arm attachment.
Lastly our iron fence system has the longest warranty in the industry of 25 years! You can view our Stronghold Iron warranty here: Stronghold Iron Warranty
4. What makes your aluminum fence different from other company’s aluminum products?
When we designed our fence, we tried to fill in the quality gaps that some of our competitors take shortcuts on.
∗ Our finial tips are solid aluminum welded on. Most of our competitors simply use what is called a ‘pinch top’. They basically squish the top of the picket into an arrowhead shape and sand it smooth. While adding finial tips is often an option, what you will get is a press-on aluminum or plastic piece. This can sometimes add anywhere from $30 -$60 to the cost of a panel and can easily be pulled off!
∗ We feature a beveled edge horizontal rail on all our aluminum pence panels. It is a small detail, but one that adds elegance to the panel and looks better than a squared edge. Additionally, the posts that the panels fit into are punched to the profile of our rail instead of the commonly seen large square hole that can allow bees and wasps to get in.
∗ All panels, posts and gates receive a 4-stage pre-treatment and wash to rid them of impurities. This is followed by electro-statically applying a polyester TGIC powder coating that is baked on at a minimum 2.5 mil thickness. Some of our competitors only powder coat to a 1 mil thickness and do not utilize a quality TGIC powder with UV fade inhibitors. Those fade inhibitors are important in keeping your fence looking good and not fading or ‘chalking’ after being up a few years. Some competitors skimp on this stage by only giving a pre-wash, or worse, painting or power coating directly to the metal with cheap powder or paint.
∗ Our finial tips are solid aluminum welded on. Most of our competitors simply use what is called a ‘pinch top’. They basically squish the top of the picket into an arrowhead shape and sand it smooth. While adding finial tips is often an option, what you will get is a press-on aluminum or plastic piece. This can sometimes add anywhere from $30 -$60 to the cost of a panel and can easily be pulled off!
∗ We feature a beveled edge horizontal rail on all our aluminum pence panels. It is a small detail, but one that adds elegance to the panel and looks better than a squared edge. Additionally, the posts that the panels fit into are punched to the profile of our rail instead of the commonly seen large square hole that can allow bees and wasps to get in.
∗ All panels, posts and gates receive a 4-stage pre-treatment and wash to rid them of impurities. This is followed by electro-statically applying a polyester TGIC powder coating that is baked on at a minimum 2.5 mil thickness. Some of our competitors only powder coat to a 1 mil thickness and do not utilize a quality TGIC powder with UV fade inhibitors. Those fade inhibitors are important in keeping your fence looking good and not fading or ‘chalking’ after being up a few years. Some competitors skimp on this stage by only giving a pre-wash, or worse, painting or power coating directly to the metal with cheap powder or paint.
5. Can you make custom panels and gates if I have a design in mind?
We certainly can. Simply send us a design or give us a call to discuss what you are looking for. Lead time on custom is typically 8-12 weeks depending on the time of year and the number of custom projects in line with Production already.
6. What is the difference between Iron Residential and Commercial Grade Fence?
The makeup of our Residential and Commercial Panels and Gates are as follows:
|
Residential |
Commercial |
Horizontal Rails |
1" wide x 1/8" thick punched channel |
1.5" wide x 1/8" thick punched channel |
Pickets |
1/2" square x 18 gauge thickness |
3/4" square x 16 gauge thickness |
Finial Tips |
4" welded finials w/ safety ball |
6" welded finials w/ safety ball |
Gate Frame* |
1.5" Boxed Frame |
2" Boxed Frame |
- Driveway Gates come only in Commercial Grade
7. What is the difference between Aluminum Residential and Commercial Grade Fence?
|
Residential |
Commercial |
Panel Width |
6’ Wide |
8’ Wide |
Horizontal Rails |
1" wide x .070 thick punched channel |
1.25" wide x .10 thick punched channel |
Pickets |
5/8" square x .050” wall thickness |
3/4" square x .050” wall thickness |
Finial Tips |
4" welded finials w/ safety ball |
6" welded finials w/ safety ball |
Gate Frame* |
2" x .125” Thick Boxed Frame |
2" x .125” Thick Boxed Frame |
- Driveway Gates come only in Commercial Grade
8. Do I need Residential or Commercial Grade Fence for my application?
This is largely a matter of preference in most situations. We typically recommend commercial over residential grade fence in the following situations:
• The fence is going to be in a public setting such as a business.
• The fence is going to be in a front yard or corner lot with a nearby sidewalk where kids could run into or climb on the fence repeatedly.
• Aesthetically, Commercial grade may have a more desired profile when being installed around a larger residence or if the fence is going to be set far back from the residence. There is no hard and fast rule on which to utilize. Discuss where you will be installing the fence with your Iron Fence Shop Sales Rep and they can help suggest which application may work best.
• The fence is going to be in a public setting such as a business.
• The fence is going to be in a front yard or corner lot with a nearby sidewalk where kids could run into or climb on the fence repeatedly.
• Aesthetically, Commercial grade may have a more desired profile when being installed around a larger residence or if the fence is going to be set far back from the residence. There is no hard and fast rule on which to utilize. Discuss where you will be installing the fence with your Iron Fence Shop Sales Rep and they can help suggest which application may work best.
9. How are your iron panels and gates mounted to the posts?
Our panels are mounted to the posts utilizing an iron collar style brackets and self tapping screws. The bracket slides over the horizontal rail and has a small lip underneath that the screw is driven through.
Our walk gates utilize a 5.5 inch J-Bolt Hinge and the Driveway Gates utilize a 7 inch J-Bolt. The J-bolts make for a very secure, greaseable and strong connection for the gate to swing on. And unlike a door style hinge, there is adjustability to our J-bolt hinges. Simply use the two nuts to adjust the distance of the gate from the post and then tighten them down.
The typical way to mount the J-Bolts to the post is to drill the post and use our supplied hinge hardware kit. However, you can also weld the hinges to the post or use alternate methods if mounting the gate to something other than one of our posts.
The typical way to mount the J-Bolts to the post is to drill the post and use our supplied hinge hardware kit. However, you can also weld the hinges to the post or use alternate methods if mounting the gate to something other than one of our posts.
10. Are your iron posts pre-drilled?
They are not for several reasons. The first is that this allows our customers to choose the spacing from the bottom of the panel to the ground along with post and panel height relationship. Second is to allow for ‘stepping’ of panels for mild yard slopes. You may need to mount a panel a little higher or lower from one side of the post to the next to accommodate minor yard elevation changes. Lastly, some people want to weld panels to posts. This avoids unsightly holes or plugs in the post that would not be used.
11. How are your aluminum panels and gates mounted to the posts?
Our panels are installed into the punched holes in the aluminum posts. The panel slides into this hole and is then held to the post by a screw. Instead of a square hole that leaves access for bees and wasps, we punch the post to follow the contour of the fence panel rail.
Our walk gates utilize a 5.5 inch J-Bolt Hinge or self closing hinge. Driveway Gates utilize a 7 inch J-Bolt. The J-bolts make for a very secure, greaseable and strong connection for the gate to swing on. And unlike a door style hinge, there is adjustability to our J-bolt hinges. Simply use the two nuts to adjust the distance of the gate from the post and then tighten them down. The self closing hinges pull the gate shut and are required for pool enclosures by most city code.
Our walk gates utilize a 5.5 inch J-Bolt Hinge or self closing hinge. Driveway Gates utilize a 7 inch J-Bolt. The J-bolts make for a very secure, greaseable and strong connection for the gate to swing on. And unlike a door style hinge, there is adjustability to our J-bolt hinges. Simply use the two nuts to adjust the distance of the gate from the post and then tighten them down. The self closing hinges pull the gate shut and are required for pool enclosures by most city code.
12. Can I get your fence in a color other than black?
We can do custom colors if we can find a powder match to the color you want. Custom colors will be an additional charge based on the job size. In most cases we will want you to provide us a color sample (except for white which we can match in-house easily) for us to match to. Custom colors follow the same 8-12 week lead time that our custom crafted pieces do.
13. Can I get a sample of your fence sent to me?
Yes, we can send you a residential or commercial sample for you to see up close. The sample has a welded picket, horizontal channel and the finial tip. Larger samples are available by request.
14. Do you offer a warranty on your fence?
Yes, we offer a 25 year warranty on our Stronghold Iron products (longest in the industry!) and a limited lifetime warranty on Infinity Aluminum products. You can view the warranties here.
Stronghold Iron
Infinity Aluminum
Stronghold Iron
Infinity Aluminum
Installation Questions
1. Do you offer installations services or have installers you can recommend?
While we do not have company installers, we can assist you in trying to find a local company that will come out and quote installation of our product. Finding a reputable fence installer in your area can also be easily done using www.servicemagic.com or www.angieslist.com. These sites offer recommendations for your area based on business practice and prior customer reviews. If you would like us to recommend and installer, just let us know when you request the materials quote.
2. Can I install this fence myself?
Yes! You can and most of our customers do. Installation requires only basic hand tools. The only specialty tool you may need to rent is a post-hole digger (manual or motorized) and a reciprocating saw (sawzall) if you need to cut fence panels into smaller sections. Installation consists of laying out the installation area with a string line, digging your post holes, setting your posts and then hanging your panels and gates. For more detailed install guidelines, click here (link to installation guide).
3. Can the fence be installed in any season?
Yes, fence can be installed year round. Simply follow the instructions on your concrete bag for temperature tolerance and curing time in colder temperatures.
For those not installing the fence on their own, off season installation may yield additional savings from contractors depending on where you live in the country.
For those not installing the fence on their own, off season installation may yield additional savings from contractors depending on where you live in the country.
4. What if I need a fence panel that is shorter than the standard section size?
It is rare for a project to end up with all full panel sections over the course of a project. You can trim down the iron or aluminum fence panels using a hacksaw or sawzall. Simply mark where you need to cut, hold the panel and then cut through the horizontal rails. Try to maintain picket spacing as best you can for a cleaner look.
5. How deep do the posts need to be buried in ground?
This varies by region due to different soil composition, climate, and fence height/ material. You should be able to call your local Building Department and get suggestions from them. Conventional wisdom is that areas free of winter can bury posts 18-24 inches deep. Areas that have winter and persistent freeze should bury posts 20-36 inches deep. In winter areas, you want to be sure you are burying the post below the freeze line. Situations such as sandy soil, poor drainage or rocky soil may dictate different post depth. It is best to inquire locally with your local municipality and/ or installers to get suggestions from them.
6. Can I mount your fence panels and gates to masonry (rock) or wood posts?
Yes, you can utilize posts other than ours for the fence panels. We have had many clients that used our mounted our fence panels and gates to a brick, masonry, rock or wood post. You will have to judge if the columns/posts you have can hold the fence panel/ gate. You will also need to provide the masonry or wood screws to mount the panel using our brackets. Our screws are recommended only for mounting to our posts.
Gates can be mounted on these as well, but additional care needs to be taken that the post can hold up to the additional movement and weight of gates. Depending on the type of post you are mounting to, you may need to provide your own hinge and hanging hardware.
Iron products can utilize the standard supplied iron brackets for mounting to a surface other than the steel posts. Aluminum products will require the purchase of aluminum wall mount brackets that are not required in standard installation.
If mounting to something other than our posts, it is best to ask one of our Iron Fence Shop Sales Representatives. You can describe your particular setup and get feedback from them.
Gates can be mounted on these as well, but additional care needs to be taken that the post can hold up to the additional movement and weight of gates. Depending on the type of post you are mounting to, you may need to provide your own hinge and hanging hardware.
Iron products can utilize the standard supplied iron brackets for mounting to a surface other than the steel posts. Aluminum products will require the purchase of aluminum wall mount brackets that are not required in standard installation.
If mounting to something other than our posts, it is best to ask one of our Iron Fence Shop Sales Representatives. You can describe your particular setup and get feedback from them.
7. What if I need to mount the fence over concrete and cannot dig post holes?
Mounting over concrete can be handled in two ways: Flange Posts or Core Drilling
For our iron products, we offer a 2.5” post in several heights that has a flange welded to the bottom of the post. The flange is 5” square and has a hole drilled in each of the four corners. You can then utilize a concrete wedge anchor bolt thru to secure the post to the concrete.
For our aluminum products, we offer a 2” and 2.5” deck mount flange that can be affixed to your standard post. This will provide a way to affix the posts to a concrete surface. You can then utilize a concrete wedge anchor bolt thru to secure the post to the concrete.
For both iron and aluminum products you can core drill the concrete and use standard posts. This requires special equipment that cuts a circular hole a few inches deep, taking care not to go through the bottom of the concrete. The post is then put in this hole and fixed in place using exterior anchoring cement such as Super Por-Rok. Core drilling equipment can often be rented from local tool rental centers.
Core drilling is the stronger of both methods, but it is also more difficult. Either approach will work in the situation of mounting over concrete. Talk to your Iron Fence Shop Sales Representative about your application and they can advise the best method to pursue.
For our iron products, we offer a 2.5” post in several heights that has a flange welded to the bottom of the post. The flange is 5” square and has a hole drilled in each of the four corners. You can then utilize a concrete wedge anchor bolt thru to secure the post to the concrete.
For our aluminum products, we offer a 2” and 2.5” deck mount flange that can be affixed to your standard post. This will provide a way to affix the posts to a concrete surface. You can then utilize a concrete wedge anchor bolt thru to secure the post to the concrete.
For both iron and aluminum products you can core drill the concrete and use standard posts. This requires special equipment that cuts a circular hole a few inches deep, taking care not to go through the bottom of the concrete. The post is then put in this hole and fixed in place using exterior anchoring cement such as Super Por-Rok. Core drilling equipment can often be rented from local tool rental centers.
Core drilling is the stronger of both methods, but it is also more difficult. Either approach will work in the situation of mounting over concrete. Talk to your Iron Fence Shop Sales Representative about your application and they can advise the best method to pursue.
8. What are the different types of posts for aluminum for?
Our aluminum fence panels insert into pre-punched holes in the posts and then are affixed with a screw. There are different posts for different panel orientation. They are as follows:
• Line Post - a post that runs in-line with the fence. Holes are punched on the right and left side.
• End Post – a post for where a fence terminates. It is punched on one side only.
• Corner Post – a post where panels intersect at a 90 degree angle.
• Gate Post – Similar to an end post, but a heavy- duty 0.125 thick to compensate for gate movement and leverage.
• Blank Post – A heavy-duty 0.125 thick post with no punches holes. Used where standard punched holes will not work. Panels are typically held on using a wall mount bracket.
• Line Post - a post that runs in-line with the fence. Holes are punched on the right and left side.
• End Post – a post for where a fence terminates. It is punched on one side only.
• Corner Post – a post where panels intersect at a 90 degree angle.
• Gate Post – Similar to an end post, but a heavy- duty 0.125 thick to compensate for gate movement and leverage.
• Blank Post – A heavy-duty 0.125 thick post with no punches holes. Used where standard punched holes will not work. Panels are typically held on using a wall mount bracket.
9. Are there different types of posts for iron fence and gates?
No, all of our posts for iron fence and gates are ‘blank’ as described above. The different mounting method of the iron versus aluminum fence means it does not require specialized posts with punched mounting locations. The iron brackets can be mounted anywhere on the post and secured with a self-tapping screw.
10. My yard slopes. Do your panels rack to flow with the grade?
Due to differences in construction, our aluminum panels do rack for grade while the iron ones do not.
Our iron panels are fully welded for strength and racking a panel requires the pickets to be screwed in like aluminum or have a single weaker weld that can be bent. However, yard slope can be handled in two ways using iron material:
• On a mild grade, you can ‘step’ the panels. This means mounting one panel at a higher or lower height than the previous panel to handle the grade. You can also cut panels in half to shorten the gap over a mild slope as well; however that approach will require additional posts.
• On more severe grades where stepping will leave too large a gap, we can create custom panels that would follow the grade of your yard. You would need to provide us the drop over an 8’ section so that we can quote out the panel price. Custom piece lead time (8-12 weeks) would be applicable to these custom panels.
The screwed together construction of the aluminum panels do allow them to ‘rack’ from level so that you can more easily follow the contours of your yard. If the slope exceeds the rack of the panel, we recommend back filling the area with material such as dirt, decorative stones, plants, etc.
Our iron panels are fully welded for strength and racking a panel requires the pickets to be screwed in like aluminum or have a single weaker weld that can be bent. However, yard slope can be handled in two ways using iron material:
• On a mild grade, you can ‘step’ the panels. This means mounting one panel at a higher or lower height than the previous panel to handle the grade. You can also cut panels in half to shorten the gap over a mild slope as well; however that approach will require additional posts.
• On more severe grades where stepping will leave too large a gap, we can create custom panels that would follow the grade of your yard. You would need to provide us the drop over an 8’ section so that we can quote out the panel price. Custom piece lead time (8-12 weeks) would be applicable to these custom panels.
The screwed together construction of the aluminum panels do allow them to ‘rack’ from level so that you can more easily follow the contours of your yard. If the slope exceeds the rack of the panel, we recommend back filling the area with material such as dirt, decorative stones, plants, etc.
Quotes and Ordering
1. What information do I need to provide to you have a quote sent to me?
At bare minimum, we would need the following information to get you an itemized quote:
• The height and grade (residential or commercial) of fence you would like
• The overall footage of the project
• If you have any gates, where they would be located in the footage run and what size
• Your name, email and/ or phone number
• The zip code we would be shipping the fence to
We also provide a simple worksheet here (add link to Quote Request) that gives you an area to fill out at the top and a grid for you to sketch a bird’s eye view. Sometimes a drawing of your layout is very beneficial to us in the quoting process. To see an example of a filled out quote request, click here (add link to a dummy quote form).
If you are just looking for a rough estimate, we can give you one based on footage and fence height using a per foot cost. This would cover panels and posts only. Gates would need to be added on separately.
• The height and grade (residential or commercial) of fence you would like
• The overall footage of the project
• If you have any gates, where they would be located in the footage run and what size
• Your name, email and/ or phone number
• The zip code we would be shipping the fence to
We also provide a simple worksheet here (add link to Quote Request) that gives you an area to fill out at the top and a grid for you to sketch a bird’s eye view. Sometimes a drawing of your layout is very beneficial to us in the quoting process. To see an example of a filled out quote request, click here (add link to a dummy quote form).
If you are just looking for a rough estimate, we can give you one based on footage and fence height using a per foot cost. This would cover panels and posts only. Gates would need to be added on separately.
2. What is included on your quote?
We will provide you an itemized quote that includes all panels, posts, gates, hardware and shipping. This will give you the ‘out-the-door’ price of the entire order.
3. What payment methods do you accept?
We accept Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express credit cards. We also accept checks, money orders and electronic wire transfers.
4. How long will it take to receive my fence once I order?
This will vary depending where you are located in the country, but most standard orders will be delivered within a week.
Custom orders require an 8-12 week lead time.
Custom orders require an 8-12 week lead time.
5. How is the material shipped?
Shipping method will vary based on order size. Small orders can be shipped via UPS or FedEx Ground. Larger orders are shipped by truck.
6. Do I need to be there when the order arrives?
Yes, with residential delivery, you or your installer will need to be present to accept the material. Once we have shipped your order, we will email or call you with a tracking number and phone number for the local terminal it will come into. You can then call the terminal to schedule the day when it will be delivered to your house. The terminal will call you, but we suggest calling them first as it speeds up the delivery process.
You and at least another person will need to be present for the delivery to hand unload the material from the truck and inspect for damages. In most cases the driver will help, however, they are only required to get the material to the back of the truck. Any damages will need to be noted on the driver’s bill of lading prior to them leaving.
You and at least another person will need to be present for the delivery to hand unload the material from the truck and inspect for damages. In most cases the driver will help, however, they are only required to get the material to the back of the truck. Any damages will need to be noted on the driver’s bill of lading prior to them leaving.
Policies
1. What is your Satisfaction Policy?
We want you be 100% satisfied not only with our products, but with your buying experience. We will strive to go the extra mile with our customer service to make sure you are happy with both our staff and our products. If for any reason you are not satisfied, please contact us at 800-261-2729 or sales@ironfenceshop.com and let us know what we can do to see that you are satisfied.
2. What is your cancellation policy?
If for some reason you need to cancel your order with us, we can honor the request. If you cancel prior to the order shipping, there will be no out-of-pocket cost and your order will be refunded in full. If the order has shipped, this will be treated as a return.
Custom orders must be cancelled prior to production.
Custom orders must be cancelled prior to production.
3. What is your return policy?
We want you to be satisfied with your purchase, but if you need to return the material for any reason, we will refund your purchase less the original and return shipping costs. We do not charge a re-stocking fee; however, to obtain a refund material must be returned and inspected to ensure all parts are accounted for and in damage-free, sellable condition. We can assist in arranging the pickup.
Once we receive the material back at our warehouse and find it to be in satisfactory condition post inspection, we will issue the refund.
Please note that custom orders cannot be returned.
Once we receive the material back at our warehouse and find it to be in satisfactory condition post inspection, we will issue the refund.
Please note that custom orders cannot be returned.
4. What is your Damaged Material Policy?
If you encounter damaged material, call us immediately at 800-261-2729.
The reason we have you on-site to unload the fence is to inspect for damages. If you do find damages, you will need to make note of it on the driver’s bill of lading before they leave. Once you send us a copy of the bill noting the damage, we can get a replacements sent out ASAP. If you cannot inspect the material at the time of delivery, you need to write “Subject to Inspection” on the Driver’s Bill of Lading and inspect the material as soon as you can.
If you find damages after the driver has left, you will need to call the shipping company and log a Concealed Damage complaint with them within 3 days of delivery.
The reason we have you on-site to unload the fence is to inspect for damages. If you do find damages, you will need to make note of it on the driver’s bill of lading before they leave. Once you send us a copy of the bill noting the damage, we can get a replacements sent out ASAP. If you cannot inspect the material at the time of delivery, you need to write “Subject to Inspection” on the Driver’s Bill of Lading and inspect the material as soon as you can.
If you find damages after the driver has left, you will need to call the shipping company and log a Concealed Damage complaint with them within 3 days of delivery.
5. What is your Privacy Policy?
We respect your privacy. We do not sell or distribute any customer information to third parties.
Company
1. What makes your company different?
There are a lot of choices when it comes to buying fence material. We strive to set ourselves apart from the rest in such ways as:
• We don’t deal with middlemen, you buy direct. Our fencing comes right from the manufacturer shipped directly to you. This is a huge advantage because most fence companies (local or online) buy from a distributor that buys from another distributor that buys from the manufacturer. Buying through us eliminates all of those middlemen and the markups that go with them. Also, we have direct access to the manufacturer and play an active role in inventory, products, quality control and planning. We are not a reseller of multiple fence brands. We do not go through different companies so that we can bring a singular, consistent, quality product to our customers.
• We have over 50 years of combined fence experience in the sales group. We know what works and we know what doesn’t. Best of all, we know what the customer wants in a fence product and the company selling it. This allows us to provide installation help and use past experience when assisting you.
• Our customer service simply cannot be beat. We are here to help from initial questions all the way up to questions after the fence has been installed for years. We know that nobody likes to wait, so we make all attempts to get your quote request returned same day (sometimes even within the hour). We make sure to follow-up on our quotes after they are sent to make sure there are not any questions or required changes. We want the buying process to be a painless one where you TRUST and ENJOY working with us.
• We don’t deal with middlemen, you buy direct. Our fencing comes right from the manufacturer shipped directly to you. This is a huge advantage because most fence companies (local or online) buy from a distributor that buys from another distributor that buys from the manufacturer. Buying through us eliminates all of those middlemen and the markups that go with them. Also, we have direct access to the manufacturer and play an active role in inventory, products, quality control and planning. We are not a reseller of multiple fence brands. We do not go through different companies so that we can bring a singular, consistent, quality product to our customers.
• We have over 50 years of combined fence experience in the sales group. We know what works and we know what doesn’t. Best of all, we know what the customer wants in a fence product and the company selling it. This allows us to provide installation help and use past experience when assisting you.
• Our customer service simply cannot be beat. We are here to help from initial questions all the way up to questions after the fence has been installed for years. We know that nobody likes to wait, so we make all attempts to get your quote request returned same day (sometimes even within the hour). We make sure to follow-up on our quotes after they are sent to make sure there are not any questions or required changes. We want the buying process to be a painless one where you TRUST and ENJOY working with us.
2. Where are you located? Can I meet you in person?
Our sales office is located in Cuyahoga Falls, OH. We have a showroom here with our panels, select walk and driveway gates and hardware on display. We can meet with you during business hours to show the products and answer any questions.
Our main warehouse is in Memphis, TN. A representative can meet with you there, but this is by appointment only. If you like, your order can be picked up at the warehouse to avoid shipping costs so long as it is set up in advance.
Our main warehouse is in Memphis, TN. A representative can meet with you there, but this is by appointment only. If you like, your order can be picked up at the warehouse to avoid shipping costs so long as it is set up in advance.
3. What is the best method to contact you?
We can be contacted via the following methods:
• Toll Free Phone: 800-261-2729
• Fax: 330-470-2444
• Email: sales@ironfenceshop.com
• Toll Free Phone: 800-261-2729
• Fax: 330-470-2444
• Email: sales@ironfenceshop.com
Glossary
1. Blank Post
A post with no punches holes. Used where standard punched holes will not work. Panels are typically held on using a wall mount bracket.
2. Bracket
This is the part that holds the iron fence panel to the post. It slides over the horizontal rail and then has a small hole at the bottom where a self-tapping screw goes into the post.
3. Corner Post
An aluminum post where panels intersect at a 90 degree angle.
4. Deck Mount Plate
A small aluminum plate that can be affixed to the bottom of a post for installation over wood or concrete.
5. Driveway Gate
These gates are typically used to block an entrance that a vehicle will need to pass through. The unique feature of these gates is that they have a decorative arch that rises in the middle.
6. Drop Rod
Typically used to hold a double gate closed in the center so that the leaves cannot swing back and forth. The rod is attached to one of the gate leaves and then put into the ground to hold the gate stable so the other leaf can latch to it.
7. Double Gate
A gate that is split in the center and has two separate leaves of equal width.
8. End Post
An aluminum post for where a fence terminates. It is punched on one side only.
9. Estate Gate
See ‘driveway gate’.
10. Gate Post
Similar to an aluminum end post, but a thicker (0.125) diameter to compensate for gate movement and leverage.
11. Gravity Latch
A small arm and clasp that is used to hold single and double gates shut. The arm slides into the clasp which locks it in. This is to keep gates from swinging free.
12. GTO Gate Opener
A line of powered gate opener and accessories. Typically used on driveway gates so that the gate be opened via wireless transmitter, keypad, intercom or vehicle sensor.
13. Finial
The welded on decorative point at the top of the picket.
14. Freeze Line
The depth in-ground where winter freeze does not reach beyond. This varies widely by location and is important to know for setting posts. You want your posts to be set below the freeze line to avoid heaving by ice and freeze.
15. Horizontal Rails
The rails running left to right on a fence panel which the pickets are passed through and welded.
16. J-Bolt Hinge
Adjustable hinge used on walk and driveway gates. The name is due to the bent threaded portion of the hinge shaped like a “J”.
17. Line Post
An aluminum post that runs in-line with the fence. Holes are punched on the right and left side.
18. Panel
This is the fence that is comprised of the pickets, horizontal rails and finials that is hung between the posts.
19. Picket
Square tube that passes through the horizontal rails vertically and has the finial welded on top.
20. Post
Large square pieces that are put in-ground in concrete and that the panels and gates are hung from.
21. Post Cap
Decorative accent that can be screwed, epoxyed or glued to the top of the post.
22. Self Tapping Screw
A screw that is cut to drill into metal when force is applied and then self taps itself with the threaded portion under the head. Panels, drop rods and gravity latches are all held on with self-tapping screws.
23. Wall Mount Bracket
This is the part that holds the fence panel a blank post or something other than our punched aluminum posts. It slides over the horizontal rail and then has a small hole at the bottom where a self-tapping screw goes into the post.
24. Walk Gate
These are smaller gates that are typically used in entrances people will be walking through. Walk gates mainly come in a flat top design that matches the fence panel, but there are limited sizes of arched walk gates available too. Walk Gates can be used for smaller driveways too if a flat top design is desired.