Fence News December 2022

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“Knowing you won’t have a callback with Shut It ® hinges is priceless in this business. There is no other hinge on the planet that can take the punishment a Shut It ® hinge can take and still keep on working.“

Chris Harvey C.A.G.O.I 501-945-9700 charvey@efdistribution.com www.efdistribution.com

“At Eagle Fence Distributing LLC we specialize in access control and custom iron gates and we use Shut It® gate hinges ex clusively. No other hinge opens a gate as smoothly and the finish is always first-rate.

For the past 21 years we have installed thousands of Shut It® hinges and there is not a hinge that comes close to Shut Its performance. I don’t care if it is a 4x10 chain link gate that weighs 50 lb or a 12’ tall 1,500 lb gate that we have to get a crane to hang, if it has access control of any kind, it gets Shut It® hinges.

The quality of other hinges just does not measure up to Shut It®. Knowing you won’t have a callback with Shut It® hinges is priceless in this business. There is no other hinge on the planet that can take the punishment a Shut It® hinge can take and still keep on working.

I always use Shut It® gate hinges because I believe in them.”

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Research Roundup: - ReportLinker has released their Fencing Global Market Report 2022

2022 Insights on Fence & Scaffolding Rental in the U.S. Scope, Size, Disposition and Growth of the Industry

In Memory: Charles Richard Walker

Mid-Continent Donates to Farmers and Ranchers Devastated by Hurricane Ian

Trex Teams with DW Distribution to Expand Service in the South Central Region

US Department of Labor Initiates Efforts in Areas Affected by Hurricane Ian 52 Ball Fabrics and R.A.D. Global Establish Strategic Alliance 53 In Memory: Elizabeth Frankel

Business Management

56 Looking Ahead to 2023 by Mark Levin, CAE, CSP 72 Management Corner: Focus on Accomplished Instead of Productive 74 Chain Link Fence Installation Standards by Tony Thornton

Events & More

76 Business Classifieds 78 Events: Nominations are Open for AFA Awards, Jackpot 2023, FenceTech 2023

Abbey Hardware,10

Access Hardware, 30

All-O-Matic, 21

American Fence Association, 61

American Wholesale Fenceworks, 28, 29

Ameristar/Assa Abloy, 11, 15

Ball Fabrics, 59

BD Loops, 57

DAC Industries, 22

D&D Technologies, 3, 5

Dandy Digger, 57

Deer Busters/Trident, 72

DKS DoorKing, 16, 17

DoorBird, 26

Dyna-Bignell, 48

Eastern Fence, 40, 41

EZG Manufacturing, 27

FAAC, 37

Fence Brokers, Inc., 42

Fence Empire, 77

Fencing Supply Group, 9

FLW International, 49, 52

Gregory Fence, 46 GSAFA, 20

Hampden Fence Supply, Inc., 15

Homeland Vinyl Products, 45

International Gate Devices, 20

Interstate Visions, 55

Iron World, Front Cover

J.C. Gury, 39

Jerith/Assa Abloy, 13

Keener Dupont Wire, LLC, 32

L&C Enterprises, 50, 51, 65

Larsen Innovations, LLC, 53

Little Beaver, 19

LMT Mercer Group, 79

Locinox, 71

Maximum Controls, 44

My Salesman, 24

NAFCA, 26

Nationwide Industries, Back Cover

National Metal Industries, 6, 54

Nebraska Plastics, 14 Pexco, 63

Pine Creek Chain Link, 30

Poly Vinyl Creations, 25

Privacy Link, 39

Pro Access Systems, 48, 78

Puljak, 76

Richard’s Fence, 67

Seco-Larm, 23

Security Brands, 18

Skidrill, 12, 69

Southwestern Wire, 48

Specrail, 57

Stain & Seal Experts, 33, 47

Standard Paints, 75

Stephens Pipe & Steel, 7

TREX Fencing - SRF Fence, 4

Uline, 73

Ultra Fencing Railing, 38

US Premier Tube Mills, 31, 73

Wallace Perimeter Security, 43

Wheatland Tube, 2

Merry Christmas from Stephens Pipe and Steel

During this Christmas season, we want to extend our best wishes to you and your family for the holidays. We are grateful to all our customers for your business and loyalty. Thank you for choosing Stephens Pipe & Steel as your one stop source for fencing needs. Let’s hope that 2023 brings everyone health, happiness, and success. God bless you all.

ALABAMA 205-647-0111, CONNECTICUT 860-812-0265, FLORIDA 321-728-2932, GEORGIA 770-868-1800, KENTUCKY 270-866-3331, LOUISIANA 225-387-1838, MARYLAND 301-699-0400, MICHIGAN 616-248-3433, MISSOURI 816-359-3836, NORTH CAROLINA 336-375-3442, OHIO (Columbus) 614-285-3584 or (Mt. Sterling) 740-869-2257, PENNSYLVANIA 570-567-7538, SOUTH CAROLINA 803-849-1625, TENNESSEE 615-860-0001, TEXAS (Dallas) 214-348-2400 or (Houston) 346-271-9017, WEST VIRGINIA 304-522-2210 SPSFENCE.COM

SPSFENCE

Increase Revenue with Fewer Projects: How Composite Fencing Can Boost Profits

It’s a simple equation. To make more money as a fencing contractor, you must install more fences, right? Not necessarily, according to Edward Rose, business development manager for Trex® Fencing with FDS Fence Distributors. In fact, he says this strategy has become increasingly outdated and ineffective. “For one thing, pursuing more projects means hiring more employees, which instantly eats into any additional profits. Then there’s the incessant shortage of skilled labor in our industry, which has made it virtually impossible to find quality employees.”

Wouldn’t it be better if you could increase your annual revenue without adding projects or employees, and make customers happier at the same time

even as you are charging them more? Rose says the secret to this proposition is composite fencing. “The most innovative and versatile material to hit the category since vinyl, composite fencing delivers premium aesthetics, durability and convenience that are winning over today’s customers, while the higher per-project pricing translates into greater profits for contractors from fewer jobs.”

Rose offers reasons to consider composite fencing for your business and clients.

Superior durability. Composite is one of the most durable fencing materials available. Highperformance composite fencing resists cracking, chipping, rotting, splintering, and insects. Additionally, composites are thick, dense and less prone to brittleness and breakage, resulting in fewer callbacks. Composite material also stands up to outdoor elements and is warrantied for superior performance for decades.

Premium aesthetics. Pairing wood-like looks with rich colors, composite fencing delivers a natural appearance. This makes it particularly appealing to consumers who prefer the semblance of wood over a plasticky look. Designs like Trex Fencing remain fully private throughout their lives due to cleverly engineered interlocking pickets. Additionally, both sides of a Trex fence have a finished look, adding curb appeal and making it a hit with neighbors.

Sustainability. High-performance composite fencing provides the look and feel of real wood, but without the environmental impact of deforestation. Trex Fencing, for instance, is sustainably made of 95% recycled and reclaimed content, and keeps plastics like grocery bags and shrink wrap out of waterways and landfills.

Easy to install. Composite fencing is easy to work with and install. It requires no special tools and can be customized to accommodate topography or create unique designs.

Longevity. Moisture-resistant composite fencing is warrantied to last up to 25 years or more. Its ability to hold its value makes it a smart long-term investment for homeowners, property managers and business owners.

Low maintenance. A particularly compelling aspect of composite fencing is that it requires minimal upkeep, so homeowners can spend more time enjoying, rather than maintaining, their outdoor spaces. Composite fencing never needs to be sanded, stained or painted; just an occasional cleaning with soap and water is all it takes to maintain a like-new appearance.

“Considering its many benefits, composite fencing offers a tremendous opportunity to drive business, profits and referrals,” stresses Rose. “This appealing combination has made it increasingly attractive to savvy contractors and something worth considering as we head into a new year.”

FDS Fence Distributors promotes, sells and distributes Trex® Fencing throughout the United States and Canada. Trex Fencing offers beautiful, durable and eco-friendly composite fence panels and gates made from 95% recycled materials and backed by the industry-leading Trex brand and a 25-year limited warranty. For more information, call 877-700-8739 or visit www.TrexFencingFDS.com.

Happy Holidays

All of us at Fencing Supply Group would like to wish you a Joyous Holiday Season and a Happy New Year!

In a challenging time in our industry, Country Estate® continues to lead with the introduction of multiple color, finish and sculpted options that give our dealers a truly competitive advantage.

Nebraska INNOVATION COUNTRY ESTATE

From our exclusive Maxwell Rail to our broad line of color and style options, we offer the innovative products that make any location a destination home.

P.O.

Cozad, Nebraska 69130 U.S.A. 1-800-445-2887 www.countryestate.com

Brenton Manufacturing was established in 2019 by Briston Brenton and his wife Sarah. Based in Casper, Wyoming, the company manufactures

the Rocky Mountain region.

Imperial Fence Supply, a manufacturer of chain link mesh fabric, was founded in 2015 with the purchase of two Bergandi weaving machines. They are based in East Point, Georgia and have since grown to sell wholesale pipe, accessories,

gates, temporary fence panels and ornamental aluminum fence. They have another office in Chattanooga, and they manufacture and

Learn more about these companies at www.brentonmanufacturing.com and www.imperialfencesupply.com.

Winners Announced in Miller Edge Giveaway

Six Miller Edge RBand Grand Giveaway winners have received $1,000 after registering their Miller Edge RBand for gates (RB-G-K10C) and RBand for doors (RB-P-K10C) during the promotional period.

The winner’s confidence in Miller Edge RBand monitored wireless edge systems encouraged their entries. “I choose to use Miller Edge RBand products because of the signal strength,” says David Aldave, installer at Automatic Gates and Access, an April RBand Grand Giveaway winner. “Once the transmitter is programmed into the receiver, the communication between both will stay solid and there won’t be any signal lost, which won’t cause any trips back to job sites.”

Tim Castello, vice president of Operations at Miller Edge, oversaw the development of the initial RBand for gates in 2017. Recalling the evolution of the product to include RBand for doors, he says, “The RBand Grand Giveaway is a true celebration to honor the creation of the best wireless solution out there. Thank you to our customers for helping us in making the world a safer place.”

Miller Edge is a leading North American manufacturer of UL 325 recognized safety accessories for motorized commercial doors and automated gate systems. The product line also includes touch sensitive and non-contact devices such as sensing edges and photo eyes, in addition to a complete line of accessories designed to ease installation and enhance the level of safety for automatic door and gate systems.

Product information for RBand for doors and RBand for gates can be found online at www.milleredge.com.

Congratulations to the following dealers and installers who were randomly selected each month during the giveaway:

APRIL WINNER: David Aldave of Automatic Gates and Access in Tracy, CA

MAY WINNER: Henry O. Silsbee IV of Collins Overhead Door, Inc. in Everett, MA

JUNE WINNER: Jason Landvater of Central State Door Service in Middletown, PA

JULY WINNER: Nick Hajek of Barnum Gate Services in Forest Lake, MN

AUGUST WINNER: Robert S. Sehl of Oakdale Fence in Oakdale, CA

SEPTEMBER WINNER: Jeremy Jenson of Crawford Door Service Company in West Saint Paul, MN

Dana Naylor Joins Encon’s Senior Management Team

Leading access control distributor Encon Electronics has promoted Dana Naylor to their senior management team as the new vice president of sales.

Naylor joined Encon as the Sacramento branch manager in September 2017. Since taking on that role, she has been integral to the success of the Sacramento office and helping to grow the surrounding dealer network.

In her new position as vice president of sales, Naylor will continue to manage the Sacramento office while overseeing the Encon sales team. She will also ensure that the company’s sales team continues to provide the best experience for its customers while maintaining its position as one of the most knowledgeable technical teams in the industry.

Naylor has significant industry and distributor experience. Prior to joining Encon, she worked for a Sacramento-based distributor of gate automation and access control products for 12 years. She also previously held various positions for a distributor of electro-mechanical hardware.

Over the years, she has sold millions of screws, nuts, bolts, and washers and served as an inside sales representative for SJS Products, a supplier of Securitron products, one of the many manufacturers Encon supplies.

“SJS’s company motto is something I take with me everywhere I work,” said Naylor. “It says, ‘Our commitment is to cause quality, service, teamwork, excellence, and leadership to happen, which benefits the customer, the company, and ourselves.’ I want to make a difference and leave my workplace even better than I found it.”

Encon President Jeff Harris has no doubt Naylor will do just that. “We are extremely fortunate to have Dana as part of our Encon family, and I am excited to see her thrive in this new role. Her 17 years of distributor experience, strong sales and customer service skills, proven track record, and overall vision for Encon makes her perfect for the position.”

“We look forward to continuing to grow our dealer network and expand with additional branches nationwide,” says Harris. “With Naylor now part of the senior management team, we are better equipped than ever to successfully take on these new ventures.”

Naylor is an IDEA-certified Automatic Gate System Designer, holds a bachelor’s degree in social work from Sacramento State University, and is also a successful novelist with 13 published works in the romance genre under her pen name Lane Martin.

Lightweight and designed for one-man operation.

Cut drilling time in half with rotation speeds up to 360 rpm.

DECREASE LABOR. INCREASE PROFIT$.

See us at booth 932.

Torque-free digging eliminates kickback and reduces injuries.

Barrette Outdoor Living, a division of Oldcastle APG, recently expanded its line of premium railing products to include Elevation Rail, an innovative horizontal cable railing system that can install 38% faster than leading competition with fewer SKUs that need to be ordered. This claim is based on a 12’ x 18’ deck with eight posts and seven panels. The Elevation Rail installed 49 minutes faster than competitive cable railing install of 129 minutes.

Elevation Rail is available as pre-assembled kits with pre-installed brackets and pre-strung, stainless-steel cables. The new system features Barrette Outdoor Living’s patent pending OneTenTM built-in centralized tensioning system, a unique mechanism in the industry. The OneTen system eliminates the need to tension each cable individually and decreases the need for seasonal adjustments.

With its modern, industrial design, Elevation Rail offers a continuous top rail for both stair and level applications. Its adjustable panels that span up to 6’ wide enable the railing to be installed indoors or outdoors without obstructing views. There are no special tools or fasteners required to install Elevation Rail.

“This new system saves contractors considerable time on installation and makes traditionally challenging DIY projects much easier for homeowners,” says Patrick Ianni, director of product management at Barrette Outdoor Living. “This product is a game changer. We really pushed the envelope to ensure a unique offering in the marketplace.”

Barrette Outdoor Living plans to offer Elevation Rail to its network of dealers starting in January 2023, with a launch in the retail market shortly following.

For more information, visit www.barretteoutdoorliving.com.

BOLLARDS Protect Lives and Property

In a unique case, a homeowner purchased bollards. His home and lawn had previously been disrupted when a drunk driver crashed through protective landscaping at the corner of an intersection, causing $40,000 in damage to his home and property. As this wasn’t the first incident, the homeowner contacted Ideal Shield looking for a more reliable barrier solution.

“As we talked through the situation, we landed on the C40 impact bollard, one of the most costeffective crash bollard options on the market,” explains Rick Grove, western regional sales manager with Ideal Shield.

Just months after installing the new bollards, another drunk driver fell asleep at the wheel and struck two of the eight bollards installed. They bounced the car back 10 – 12 feet, causing significant damage to the vehicle but, most importantly, not injuring the driver and they protected the homeowner’s property.

“He said the bollards were the best decision he could have made,” says Grove. “Bollards can offer a good deal of protection and save thousands of dollars in repairs.”

There are a wide variety of bollards available from decorative to industrial guardrails, including bollards equipped as a charging station for electric vehicles. Many government buildings and police stations are equipped with them, as well as airports, military bases, and stadiums.

The bollards are made of carbon steel and engineered to stop a 5,000-pound vehicle at 30 miles per hour. “They are independently tested to prove their reliability,” explains Grove.

For more information, visit www.idealshield.com.

Oldcastle APG Breaks Ground on Expansions at Barrette Outdoor Living Locations

Oldcastle APG, a CRH company, has begun expanding its existing Barrette Outdoor Living facilities in Nephi, Utah, and Dover, Delaware. The two locations manufacture National Vinyl Products (NVP) — a prominent, national brand of PVC fence and rail components.

Once completed, the expansions will significantly increase the company’s vinyl extrusion capacity, further enhancing Oldcastle APG’s ability to provide end-to-end solutions to customers.

In Nephi, a 30,000-square-foot expansion will feature state-ofthe-art automation and allow for additional extrusion lines, in-line fabrication and product kitting. Expected to be completed in early 2023, the expanded space will add a variety of new full-time jobs to the local community.

“With NVP now being a part of the Barrette Outdoor Living portfolio within Oldcastle APG, we are able to grow our footprint in the marketplace, allowing us to serve our customers in more meaningful and efficient ways,” says Zack Clark, general manager of NVP. “Oldcastle APG and Barrette Outdoor Living’s state-of-the-art equipment, manufacturing processes and products help make NVP stronger and more competitive.”

An additional 13,000-square-foot building is planned at the Dover location to house its blending operations, enabling custom PVC compounds to be mixed on site. The new building will feature a receiving dock and nine acres of outdoor storage which will improve lead times and product availability for customers.

The new Dover site will also feature a PVC recycling center as part of Barrette Outdoor Living’s GreenWays Recycling Program. The program works with customers to collect recyclable PVC materials that are then processed and used as substrate in the company’s vinyl products. The facility will also have direct access to a rail line, ensuring efficient delivery of raw materials from vendors while helping to reduce the company’s carbon footprint in support of its commitment to sustainable manufacturing.

Expected to be completed in early 2023, the Dover expansion will add several new full-time jobs to the local economy.

About Oldcastle APG

Learn more about Oldcastle APG, a CRH Company and an international provider of outdoor living and building materials at www.oldcastleapg.com.

About Barrette Outdoor Living, Inc.®

Barrette Outdoor Living, a division of Oldcastle APG, is a leading manufacturer of fencing, railing, decking and complementary outdoor products in North America. Learn more at www. barretteoutdoorliving.com.

Pictured (l to r): Justin Seely, Mayor of Nephi; Tim Ortman, President, Oldcastle APG; Rory Johnson, Plant Manager, Barrette Outdoor Living; Jean desAutels, President, Barrette Outdoor Living; Zack Clark, General Manager, Barrette Outdoor Living; Ken O’Neill, Executive Vice President, Oldcastle APG; Trevor Johnson, Maintenance Manager, Barrette Outdoor Living.

Pictured (l to r): Joanne Masten, Kent County Commissioner; Zack Clark, General Manager, Barrette Outdoor Living; Representative William Bush, Delaware General Assembly; Justin Hadfield, Plant Manager, Barrette Outdoor Living; Laura Wisler, Assistant Kent County Administrator; Tim Ortman, President, Oldcastle APG; Jean desAutels, President, Barrette Outdoor Living.

New Ornamental Steel Product Used for Perimeter Security

COLLABORATION ARE KEYS TO SUCCESS

facility was recently built on 40 acres in South Windsor, Connecticut by ARCO Construction. Hartford Fence Company was awarded the fence contract.

Cameron Lange is a project manager for ARCO National Construction. In January, she tapped Hartford Fence Company for the proposal on the perimeter fence. The scope of work called for over five thousand linear feet of an eight-foot-tall ornamental steel product, with five slide gates, two double swing gates, and three pedestrian gates.

The collaboration between the owner of Hartford Fence Company, Jordan Conover, and Iron World took place at last year’s FENCETECH in New Orleans. Steve Royer, regional manager with Iron World explains, “I saw Jordan on the convention center floor and said, ‘Is it true you’re

working on 800 panels of eight-foot spear? Man, I have a product for you! That was the beginning of the connection and collaboration.”

The product was Iron World’s brandnew ornamental Maverick Supreme steel panel, an ornamental panel with a hidden fastener system; a departure for Iron World’s storied riveted-picket panel. “This was the first project to use the product,” Royer says. “And over a plate of oysters in the French Quarter, the plans were made.”

“When the government builds a new facility to store pharmaceutical inventory, establishing a secure perimeter is a top priority,” says Royer. “That’s where Iron World’s top-quality fencing comes in. I think what solidified this deal was the high-quality fence and fast availability that our new Maverick Supreme line offered both the contractor and end user. Our relationship with Hartford Fence through the years has built a level of confidence and trusted partnership that let everyone involved know we would deliver more than expected.”

favorite suppliers and vendors. I started an amazing relationship with general contractors Cameron Lange and Jack Feehan of ARCO, and I did it with my favorite people in the world, my team. Even on a large commercial project, it boils down to people. There is still purpose and connection.”

Conover started Hartford Fence Company in December 2012, but this year has been paramount. “I changed everything,” he says. “I changed how the facility is run, how the material is ordered, how it’s stored, and how it’s loaded. It’s starts with the most basic improvements to efficiency. Those changes created a wave of difference that started with a commitment to lead with love.”

in 11 ga, 9 ga, 7 ga, 6 ga –

for 1-5/8 pipe up to 8-5/8 –

In one year, Hartford Fence Company more than doubled its revenue and quadrupled its profitability. The company has more reviews than a popular restaurant in the area, and more than double the reviews of the next closest fence competitor.

“The reviews tell a story,” Conover says. “It’s a people story, and it’s about when they got the fence. It’s Hartford Fence Company’s story, about how it serves and connects with families and communities. Throughout all the reviews I see a pattern. They are all personal and unique, but they all describe the experience; not just the fence itself. Communication and responsiveness. Collaboration and execution.”

“Fence is about people,” says Conover. “On this project, I was able to work with my

The construction of the distribution center would replace what has been a tobacco field for over 100 years. It’s a stark change of landscape to the flat span that occupied the area of Windsor for generations.

“ Over a plate of oysters in the French Quarter at FENCETECH, the plans were made.”

- Steve Royer, regional manager with Iron World

“When change happens, it’s important to be mindful of how it looks,” explains Conover. “The perimeter fence is the first thing you see. It’s a statement, and an introduction. And in a super visible area, with attention from the community, it must look the part.”

The specialists at the Iron World headquarters in Maryland can discuss projects for any part of the country. Iron World’s sales and design team can accommodate any project for residential, commercial, and industrial of products of steel, iron, and aluminum, including new aluminum hidden fastener system, hardware, custom panels, gates, and color required for any project.

For more information, visit www.ironworldfencing.com.

After you build it, preserve it & extend the life of new fences.

Expect Expert

ANNUAL RECAP 2022

One of the highlights of each issue of Fence News is Top of the Chain, where we feature leaders within the fencing industry. We look at their highs and lows, their achievements and lessons learned, essentially pulling back the curtain of the business to get to know the leader at the helm. The individuals who were featured this year are a wide mix of talents and personalities. It’s our pleasure to share a recap of Top of the Chain for 2022.

JANUARY | Sharon Felcher, president of NASCO

As president of NASCO, Sharon Felcher has almost 40 years of experience in the fencing industry. She handles the importing and distribution of fence products, working with a variety of suppliers from across the world and wearing many hats ranging from sales to sourcing products and supplies to execution.

After being in the field of education for a few years, intuition led her to the business world. Felcher began working at an international trading company in Manhattan as an assistant to the commodities trader. Shortly after, they formed a joint venture with another company involved in the fence industry. In 1982, she was asked to join the sales force and she attended her first fence show in Orlando, Florida. Today, she owns the company.

The best advice she received over the years is, “Cherish your customers or someone else will.”

FEBRUARY | Mark Levin, executive vice president, Chain Link Fence Manufacturers Institute

Mark Levin has been at the helm of the Chain Link Fence Manufacturers Institute for 38 years, seeing massive changes in virtually every part of the business. Some of the highlights at CLFMI include helping the Consumer Product Safety Commission write the guidelines for fencing around home swimming pools, standardizing the bar-coding system in the industry, and helping to design perimeter security systems to protect the North American Energy Grid.

An author of several books about leadership, Levin’s book, The Gift of Leadership, focuses on the opportunities of leadership, to bring the skills and experiences gained and apply them to business, community service work, church work, and anything else you’re involved in.

CLFMI is prospering under Levin’s leadership, retaining more members than ever before in its 62-year history. For more information, visit www.chainlinkinfo.org.

MARCH | Coley Scott, Jr., owner, Keener

Dupont Wire

Coley Scott, Jr., has been part of Keener Dupont Wire since 1975 and became owner in 2004.

He says a critical aspect of his success is understanding that he and his team are problem solvers. His customers know that the team will help them find the product they need, even if they don’t sell it. Personal service is essential, whether it’s to customers, employees, and suppliers. When you treat people well, they remember it, and they are glad to recommend you to other businesses.

His son Thomas is the general manager and Coley’s daughter DeeDee is a machine operator in the company; he says it’s wonderful when family is part of the business.

They anticipate expanding their storage and manufacturing capacity to accommodate the growth of the company. For more information, visit www.keenerdupontwire.com.

APRIL

Keith Armour, president, business segment perimeter security with Ameristar Perimeter Security

Clay Hamann, vice president of sales and marketing with Ameristar Perimeter Security

Honesty, commitment, and hard work. That’s how President Keith Armour and Vice President Clay Hamann sum up their approach. Keith began his career at Ameristar Perimeter Security in 2008 in supply chain before taking over as president in 2019. Clay is relatively new to the fencing industry, but brings 33 years of sales and marketing experience to the table.

For Keith, his career philosophy centers around being direct, honest, hardworking, knowledgeable and caring. People work for a person, not a company; and customers want to buy from a person who is honest and fair. For Clay, his business approach involves sharing accurate information and being transparent.

The advice Keith would offer to someone starting out in the fencing industry is this: take time to listen and learn. It’s an inviting industry if you are willing to listen. Clay says the industry is very accepting of new people, and he has found experts in the industry who have countless decades of knowledge and experience are typically happy to share their knowledge.

For more information, visit www.ameristarperimeter.com.

MAY | Charlie Larsen, founder and president,

Larsen Innovations

A problem solver by nature, Charlie Larsen with Larsen Innovations has found a way to incorporate his knowledge of the fencing industry with his creativity of developing new products.

He was with Master Halco for 30 years and had the privilege to work with some of the best industries’ best people. As he considered his next chapter, he wanted to create new opportunities and products.

Larsen views problems as opportunities, so he likes to probe into the challenges when a customer mentioned a problem. Rather than glossing over the complaint, he values peeling the onion to come up with a solution.

With several patents in his name, he continuously looks for ways to improve things. For more information, visit www.larseninnovations.com.

JUNE | Caleb Roth, CEO and founder of Stain

& Seal Experts

Caleb Roth and his wife, Ashley, started Stain & Seal Experts in 2012. He was working in his family’s fencing business at the time and wanted to earn extra money by staining fences on the side. His volume of business increased so much, they started Stain & Seal Experts to focus solely on staining fences.

Frustrated by the stain products available off the shelf, they decided to make their own stain formula. Soon, dozens of contractors started calling to buy the new stain and their manufacturing business was born.

They host Staining University, an annual convention for wood restoration and staining contractors across the country. It gives them an opportunity to train and share ideas about the wood restoration industry.

Growing up in the fencing business gave Caleb a bird’s eye view of the challenges in owning a company. He continuously studies sales, marketing, business, and finance to navigate through the potential pitfalls. Every problem brings the opportunity to learn and share.

For more information, visit www.stainandsealexperts.com.

JULY | Jessica Burton, president of

Poly Vinyl Creations

Jessica’s parents owned Burton Fence and were one of the pioneers in the industry who began offering vinyl fence. In 1996, Poly Vinyl Creations was formed to offer the ability of custom fabrication to end users through working with licensed trade contractors. Jessica became president in 2018 after working in various roles within the business.

She is a certified Women’s Business Enterprise and handles a variety of aspects of the business, mostly marketing, accounting and technology. As a hands-on owner, she also works in the warehouse, assists with machine maintenance, inventory and special projects.

A male contractor asked if she was a Women Minority Owned Supplier Manufacturer, as it would help him in his bid if they were certified. She checked into it and went through the nine-month process of submissions and interviews to become certified.

Burton enjoys developing leadership within her organization and she’s excited to see employees spread their wings and develop their leadership skills.

For more information, visit www.polyvinylc.com.

AUGUST | Matt Warner, president and chief visionary officer with Empire Netting and Fence

Motivated is the best word to describe Matt Warner. As president and chief visionary officer for Empire Netting and Fence, he is motivated for success.

Empire Netting and Fence is the umbrella company providing residential and commercial netting and fence for local, national, and international companies. Under the umbrella are also:

• mySalesman: fence qualifying and estimating software

• ESC: Fabrication, sandblasting and painting

• The Wave Athletics: full-service, multi-sport and fitness facility

• Woodstock Holdings: commercial property development

• Unlimited Sports Solutions: retail sales for sports construction

His goal is to inspire his 85 team members, as the team is his most valuable asset. Warner’s goal is to create a culture of people in progress working together to achieve something bigger than any one person.

Warner’s view is that taking care of people is the “why” for owning a business, and going through the challenges it brings. The business is the tool he uses to change lives.

For more information, visit www.empire-fence.com.

SEPTEMBER | Alex Parsadayan, CEO of Maximum Controls

At the helm of Maximum Controls for 13 years, Alex Parsadayan has been in the field of gate operator and access control designer and marketing for over 40 years.

With the rapid pace of change within the technology sector, Parsadayan and his team research extensively to stay ahead of the curve. When faced with challenges, he says you have to find a way to overcome it to move ahead and always look for ways to improve the products and provide the best quality.

For more information, visit www.max.us.com.

OCTOBER | Bill Peterson, president with Richard’s Fence

Bill Peterson’s father, Richard, founded Richard’s Fence in1968, installing fence for Montgomery Ward and Sears. Bill grew up in the industry, working for his father and learning the intangible qualities of dependability, honesty, integrity, and the value of a good reputation.

An active member of the local and national American Fence Association, he has been president of the local chapter, director for two terms of the national AFA and he served on the AFA Show Committee for three shows in the 90’s. He is also active in the Chain Link Fence Manufacturers Institute, becoming the company representative about 12 years ago. He was appointed to be the chairman of the technical support team committee for several years. Peterson is the secretary/treasurer of the CLFMI and continues to serve on the technical support team.

Although officially retired, Peterson’s father continues to give great advice, stressing that a manager needs to be present and involved with what is happening within the company, and to keep an eye on the margins. Sales do not mean a thing without profits to keep everything running.

Peterson’s brother, Eric, is the vice president and runs the manufacturing operations. Bill’s son, Drew, and daughter, Jacqui, are active in the business. As the third generation become active, they feel the business is on solid ground. For more information, visit www.richardsfence.com.

NOVEMBER | Barry Zekelman, executive chairman and chief executive officer, Zekelman Industries

The companies of Zekelman Industries manufacture distinct tube, pipe and modular building innovations to help designers, developers and builders work with greater efficiency. Within the family of companies are Atlas Tube, Sharon Tube, Picoma, Western Tube, Z Modular and Hayes Modular.

Barry Zekelman leads the largest independent steel pipe and tube manufacturer in North America with sales in excess of $5 billion. His father owned a mobile home manufacturing business in the 60’s and solid it to Beatrice foods in the early 70’s. He used tubing for the base frames and axles. He liked the product and had always wanted to manufacture it, thus Atlas Tube was born.

Barry started in 1966 at 19 years old, shortly after his father passed away. The business had five employees and everyone did whatever it took to survive. At the time, they had $2 million in sales and were losing $60,000 a month, the business was about to go bankrupt.

By concentrating on productivity and engaging teammates, they turned the company around. Barry learned early on the most valuable asset are the people; empowering them, they are unstoppable.

He says it’s rewarding to see the team members achieve their goals, and welcoming second and third generations of families to the team, as well as seeing the communities prosper from the success of the business.

A few of their recent projects include Facebook data centers, Vanderbilt One in New York City, JP Morgan Chase Headquarters in New York City, Atlanta Hartsfield airport and departure terminal and the Space X launch tower.

The business advice Barry received that resonates with him is to always do the right thing, never be arrogant and remember where you started from.

For more information, visit www.zekelman.com.

Ultra developed their highstrength Ultrum™ Alloy to be as strong as steel, but to never rust. It’s the look and feel of traditional wrought-iron fencing, with a low-maintenance, warranted powder-coated finish.

Miller Edge Welcomes New Eastern US Regional Sales Manager

Miller Edge welcomes Glenn Smith as the new regional sales manager for the US east region. Smith brings over 30 years of safety experience working in production and sales for companies throughout the US and Canada. In his new role with Miller Edge, he will provide personalized service and communication to customers in the US east region.

“It’s important to have a mission in what you do,” says Smith. “It allows you to believe in the product you are selling. For me, it’s safety, and knowing that people can go home at the end of the day. Miller Edge was the company that checked all the boxes for me.”

Smith graduated from Widener University with a bachelor’s degree in business management. His employment history includes working in the production shop at Ritter Engineering, as the eastern regional sales manager at TSI, regional and national sales manager at Bacharach, and North American sales manager at Sensidyne.

Customers located in the following states can contact Glenn Smith at 800-220-3343 extension 311 or email gsmith@milleredge.com: Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Main, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Vermont, Virginia and West Virginia.

For more information, visit www.milleredge.com.

is one of our most popular chain link fences with factory inserted slats. Plus, it incorporates flexible round tubes, or noodles, to lock the slats securely in the 2” wire mesh at the top and bottom of the fence

Research Roundup

ReportLinker releases their Fencing Global Market Report 2022

According to the report, the global fencing market is expected to have grown to $29.53 billion this year, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.75%. This market is expected to reach $40.05 billion by 2026 at a CAGR of 7.93%.

North America was the largest region in the fencing market in 2021 and is also expected to be the fastest-growing region in the forecast period. The regions covered in the report are Asia-Pacific, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, North America, South America, Middle East and Africa.

The fencing market research report is one of a series of new reports that provides fencing market statistics, including fencing industry global market size, regional shares, competitors with a fencing market share, detailed fencing market segments, market trends and opportunities, and any further data needed to thrive in the fencing industry, including an in-depth analysis of the current and future scenarios.

The report found that increasing urbanization, which is the movement of mass population from rural areas to urban settings, is significantly contributing to the growth of the fencing market. The need for residential and non-residential structures is expanding as a result of urbanization, which will propel the fencing industry forward. The rise of the middle class is also supporting the growth of the fencing business.

Growing strategic partnership and collaboration were found to be key trends gaining popularity in the fencing market. Major companies operating in the fencing sector are focused on partnerships and collaborations in order to expand their expansion into new areas and become industry leaders.

The full report can be accessed at www.reportlinker.com. ReportLinker is an award-winning market research solution.

2022 Insights on Fence & Scaffolding Rental in the U.S.

Scope, Size, Disposition and Growth of the Industry

The construction industry ebbs and flows with its downstream construction markets. When investment in the nonresidential construction and renovation sector dropped during the pandemic, industry revenue suffered as well.

However, according to a new report from ResearchAndMarkets.com, recovery is evident in each of the industry’s markets, which is expected to bring about a rebound in industry revenue. However, rising competition from home improvement stores will limit the industry’s potential for growth.

In

Memory

Charles Richard Walker

Companies in this industry install and rent out fencing and scaffolding equipment. This report covers the scope, size, disposition and growth of the industry including the key sensitivities and success factors. Also included are five year industry forecasts, growth rates and an analysis of the industry key players and their market shares.

Access this report at www.researchandmarkets.com.

Charles Richard Walker of Hot Springs, Arkansas, founder of Fence Brokers, passed away October 21, 2022 at the age of 82.

He is survived by his children, Chris Walker (Laura) and Traci Hogue (Michael) along with his grandchildren, his sister and several nieces and nephews.

Your time matters to us. And so do our commitments: Quotes delivered within 24 hours. Drawings within 48 hours and product in stock and shipped within 72 hours

Want more time on your side? Work with us. Wallaceperimetersecurity.com

Max Keypad

Driven by design.

Combined with our uniquely redesigned adjustable metal bracket, Gregory Fence’s roll-formed C-Post can eliminate many of the complaints and customer callbacks associated with warped, split or rotting wood caused by wind or water damage. With our wood fence system, you get the strength, longevity and durability of steel without sacrificing the beauty of wood. The best alternative to wood post

Mid-Continent Donates to Farmers and Ranchers Devastated by Hurricane Ian

Mid-Continent Steel and Wire (MCSW), one of the biggest wire manufacturers in North America, sent a semi-truck carrying 42,000 pounds of materials to help farmers and ranchers devastated by Hurricane Ian. The truck was delivered to the Florida Cattlemen’s Association (FCA), which handled distribution of goods. Donated materials include Stay-Tuff® brand barbed wire, staples, and brace wire.

The donation came two weeks after Hurricane Ian made landfall in the state on September 28, causing catastrophic flooding and damage. It’s estimated that across Florida, four million acres of farmland were trampled and 42% of the state’s cattle population was affected, raising questions about the impact on the food industry.

“Our hearts go out to all of the people whose lives have been impacted by Hurricane Ian,” says Fernando Villanueva, Mid-Continent’s CEO. “Florida’s agriculture community has been dealt a devastating blow, and the true toll won’t likely be known for a while. As farmers and ranchers work

to rebuild and restore, we are proud to donate barbed wire, staples and brace wire to the effort.”

Stay-Tuff is a leading manufacturer of agricultural fences, making some of the most durable and impact resistant fences in the market, plus a full line of fencing tools and accessories. Stay-Tuff fences are renowned for their impact resistance, durability, and a lower total cost of installation than any other agricultural fence. The products are currently used on farms and ranches, as well as other types of locations in Florida and throughout the country.

“The Mid-Continent family knows how devastating natural disasters can be, both physically and emotionally, and how long the recovery process can take,” says Tim Hooks, MidContinent’s Florida sales manager. “When Florida’s farmers and ranchers receive these materials, I hope they are reminded that they aren’t in this alone. Mid-Continent’s got their back.”

Mid-Continent has been serving customers across Florida for many years and has a large

network in the state that includes authorized sellers of product lines like Stay-Tuff and more. Mid-Continent Steel and Wire is one of the biggest wire manufactures in North America. The company’s main locations are in Poplar Bluff, Missouri; Houston, Texas; and Laredo, Texas.

For more information, visit www.mcswusa.com.

Trex Teams with DW Distribution to Expand Service in the South Central Region

There’s a new “Big D” in Texas. Dallas Wholesale Distribution (DW Distribution), a Specialty Building Products, Inc. (SBP) brand, has teamed with Trex Company to further expand availability of the brand’s industry-leading decking and outdoor living products across the South Central region. The well-established Texas-based distributor of building materials and millwork products will supply Trex products through its three Texas locations in Arlington, DeSoto and Round Rock, along with its facility in Oklahoma City.

“As the industry leader, we want the best possible teams in place to represent our brand,” says Bret Martz, vice president of North American professional sales for Trex. “DW Distribution has a well-earned reputation for providing outstanding service to its customers and boasts some of the best distributor sales representatives and management in the industry. As demand for high-performance, low-maintenance outdoor living products continues to grow, this relationship will allow us to collectively tap the potential of the high-growth South Central region while delivering the best products and service to our valued channel partners.”

Headquartered in DeSoto, Texas, DW Distribution was founded in 1955 and has been operating as an SBP brand since 2021. This long-standing distributor of building materials and millwork products serves customers in Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas and New Mexico. The company was honored with the Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award (GEWA) in 2021, which recognizes the most engaged workplace cultures in the world.

“We are pleased to expand our relationship with Trex Company and its products, programs and people,” says David Cusey, vice president of building materials for DW Distribution. “Trex’s position as the industry leader, combined with the company’s commitment to product innovation and advancing the outdoor living category, make it an ideal brand for us.”

Trex products are offered through an extensive network of building products distributors and dealers and are sold at more than 6,700 retail locations. For more information about Trex, visit www.trex.com. For more information about DW Distribution, visit www.dwdistribution.com.

US Department of Labor Initiates Efforts in Areas Affected by Hurricane Ian

In the aftermath of Hurricane Ian, the US Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has initiated efforts to provide on-site technical assistance and outreach in the areas of Florida hardest hit by the storm to protect workers involved in the recovery and response and to prevent any further injury or loss of life.

The agency had ceased programmed and planned enforcement inspections in counties identified in the hurricane’s path and, once the storm had passed, deployed safety and health professionals to help employers and workers engaged in recovery operations to eliminate serious hazards.

While this work continues in heavily impacted areas, OSHA retains the right to perform enforcement inspections related to fatalities, catastrophic incidents, employee complains, incidents involving life-altering injuries and employers who expose employees repeatedly to serious hazards during cleanup and recovery.

OSHA has suspended programmed and planned inspections to provide outreach and technical assistance in several counties hit by Hurricane Ian. A complete list of these counties can be found at www.osha.gov.

Ball Fabrics and R.A.D. Global Establish Strategic Alliance

Ball Fabrics has entered into an agreement that makes them the exclusive North American distributor for R.A.D. Global. As an industry-leading manufacturer of fence screen, windscreen and athletic netting for nearly 40 years, Ball Fabrics brings a vast depth of experience with both emerging market creation and product development.

R.A.D. Global has established a reputation as a top-tier knitting mill with cutting-edge technological capabilities and complete reliability. Their unique skill set and process innovations have proven successful with numerous rollouts of proprietary fabrics throughout the world.

Please visit www.ballfabrics.com for more information.

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Memory

Elizabeth Frankel

Elizabeth Frankel, 76, died October 7, 2022 in Jackson, Wyoming. She and her husband Marshall Frankel co-owned Builders Fence Company with several locations in California and Washington. She is survived by her husband, her two daughters and four grandchildren.

Looking Ahead to 2023

by Mark Levin, CAE, CSP Executive Vice President, Chain Link Fence Manufacturers Institute 2022 Inductee, American Fence Association Hall of Fame

This next year is going to be a challenge for all of us.

Of course, every year is a challenge in some ways, but 2023 is shaping up as an unusually uncertain year for our industry. Here are some of the reasons that I am cautiously optimistic, with the emphasis on cautiously.

1) The midterm elections did nothing to make the situation in Washington any better, or even clearer. The surprisingly close midterm elections did not infuse the nation with hopes that Congress will be any more efficient in doing its work or working together at a higher level. If anything, the results just assured that the terms “winners” and “losers” will still describe the only thing our politicians seem to care about. They all take pride in denying the other side any “wins” that we, the American public, are the ones that come up “losers” over and over. As I mentioned in an earlier column, what happens in Washington affects us all in the fence industry. While our industry can be glad that the infrastructure bill was passed and projects will be funded, the toxic atmosphere among our nation’s leaders and institutions is something that must change or the gridlock we all dread will continue.

2) The term “post COVID world” has taken on a life of its own.

I know, we never want to hear about post-COVID this or post-COVID that ever again. Too bad because we’re stuck with it for the foreseeable future. Even when the disease reaches the point where the medical effects of it are under control, and it not a big threat anymore, the term “post-COVID” will still be around. That’s because it has attained the status of terms such as “post-War” and “post-Depression,” etc. Post COVID now refers to the changes that these past two-plus years made on our entire worldwide society.

We don’t work the same way or even in the same places. We don’t see our fellow employees as much, or we see them on Zoom or some other platform. We have changed the expectations we have of our employees, and they have of us. Customers have raised their expectations of us to provide on-time, upto-standard, and cost-effective products and services. The companies that not only acknowledge but embrace these changes are the companies that are going to thrive in the “post COVID world.”

3) Nothing is on the horizon to solve the ever-growing manpower needs of the fence industry. Despite this being a priority for many years, making the fence industry attractive to new people is still its number one short- and long-term challenge. Everyone is so focused on short term survival and profitability that efforts to improve the fence industry’s overall brand have been put on the back burner.

We might want to look back and remember when most of the industry was made up of family businesses. The founding generation invariably turned the business over to the next generation, who had grown up in the fence business.

It is not that simple anymore, as companies consolidate and younger generations gravitate away from fencing. But the fence industry is still a fairly close-knit family. Let’s hope that 2023 helps us to find ways to work collectively to present the fence industry as a viable option for a rewarding career for a new generation of men and women.

It is never going to be business as usual again, because nothing is usual about the post-COVID world. We’re going to have to help each other if we want to overcome many of the challenges 2023 holds for us.

Please visit www.chainlinkinfo.org for more information.

THE MODERN FRONTIER

FENCETECH is ready to take on Oklahoma City! Pack your bags to head to the fence and metal crafting industry’s biggest event of the year in a vibrant, up-and-coming location. Named one of the Best Places to Visit by Frommer’s Travel and Travel + Leisure, Oklahoma City offers all of the culture, cuisine, attractions, and amenities you’d expect in an urban metropolis. Whether you’re searching for the sleek modern edge of a city or a true-to-its-roots destination, Oklahoma City presents an exciting, inviting blend of both. With a brand new convention center in the heart of everything, OKC is ready for FENCETECH 2023!

ABOUT THE AFA

Celebrating its 60th Annviersary, the American Fence Association (AFA) has served the fence industry since 1962 by promoting the highest level of professionalism, ethics, and education. AFA is the industry’s largest and most comprehensive resource for the latest developments, tools, materials, standards, and discounts. Offering online and in-person education, certification, and networking opportunities, AFA ensures its 1,500+ members and 20 chapters have a competitive edge among their industry peers and the tools needed to build a successful career.

OUR 2023 LOCATION

Opened in January 2021, the stunning Oklahoma City Convention Center is 500,000 square feet of highly desirable meeting space. Right in the heart of downtown, the state-ofthe-art center is walking distance to unique dining options, hotels, cultural attractions, and historic neighborhoods.

MEET IN OKC DISCOUNT PASS

How It Works

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 28

7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Registration Hours

Gate Automation Designer School (GADS)

Missions Day Budget Development and Forecasting for Fence Company Growth CLFMI/ASTM Post Setting Practices

The Benefits of Stained Wood Fencing for Revenue Generation

Increased Profitability Through Group Purchasing Telephone Entry/Smart Video Intercom - New Technologies and Solutions Managing Your Money

Estimating and Bidding

Electrical Theory and Wiring Practices Workshop

Electrical Theory and Wiring Practices Workshop Wood Care for Contractors

Culture is King

Business Insurance 101

Apps and Tech Tools that Crush Residential and Negotiated Sales Workflow Procedures

Using Data-Driven Insights to Grow Your Fencing Business Train, Retain and Grow

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 1

Registration Hours

Gate Automation Designer School (GADS)

The Economic Heartbeat of the Fence Industry for 2023

FOLDED: Season 2

S.T.A.R.: How to Identify and Understand Your Potential Buyers Automation Doesn’t Have To Be Complicated: Streamline Your Business Today

The Digital Success Blueprint for Fence Companies Working With Solar Power for Access Controls Collecting Your Money Once the Job is Completed

Keynote Speaker Ribbon Cutting Show Floor Hours CFC

THURSDAY, MARCH 2

Leadership Breakfast

Show Floor Hours Women In Fence Seminar Women In Fence Reception Sponsored by Ameristar, Fencing Supply Group, Master Halco, and Wheatland Tube Awards Dinner

FRIDAY, MARCH 3

Registration Hours Registration Hours

MISSIONS DAY

Tuesday, February 28 // 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Each year, we give back to our FENCETECH host community by helping with minor repairs, painting and cleaning, or donating money to help out a charity in the area. For this year’s Missions Day, we’re taking our volunteer efforts in Oklahoma City. If you are interested in participating or making a monetary donation, select this event through FENCETECH registration. This is a free event and all are welcome.

SHOW FLOOR HAPPY HOUR

Oklahoma City Convention Center

Wednesday, March 1 // 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

Grab a drink and join your friends from both AFA and NOMMA as we kick off the opening of another great tradeshow. There will be activities, music, food and a chance for you to mingle and meet some new faces and greet familiar ones. No need for exhibitors to be tied to their booths during this time, but should your conversation lead to business you can always come back to showcase your products booth-side. Open to all attendees with an exhibit hall badge.

YOUNG FENCE PROFESSIONALS AFTER GLOW

Bricktown Brewery: 1 N. Oklahoma Ave

0.7 mi to OKC Convention Center- Bricktown Streetcar Stop

Wednesday, March 1 // 8:30 PM - 10:30 PM Clink glasses and get to know other passionate young fence professionals at our annual YFP After Glow. This is a free event and anyone 35 and under is welcome.

LEADERSHIP BREAKFAST

Oklahoma City Convention Center

Thursday, March 2 // 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

After a successful Leadership Breakfast in New Orleans, the collective celebration for our volunteers and leaders is here to stay. Join us to salute these standouts within the American Fence Association. If you are interested in participating, select this event through FENCETECH registration.

WOMEN IN FENCE EVENTS

Oklahoma City Convention Center

Seminar: Thursday, March 2 // 4:15 PM- 5:00 PM

Reception: Thursday, March 2 // 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM

Gain new insight about women in the fence industry, learn about how to enhance your business and develop your professional skills, and engage with women in the industry at the Women in Fence seminar and reception. At the seminar, the discussion will include views on 2023 economic/industry outlook and you will hear from women in leadership positions who will share ideas and wisdom from their experiences in our industry. Please join us for a reception immediately following the panel discussion to gain a new understanding of how to expand the candidate pool to include women and how they can become more involved in the fence industry at all levels.

AWARDS DINNER

Oklahoma City Convention Center

Thursday, March 2 // 7:00 PM - 10:30 PM

Celebrate your accomplishments and toast your fellow members as we honor the recipients of AFA’s Distinguished Service Award, Ambassador Award, Hall of Fame Award, Fence Contractor of the Year Award, Maufacturer of the Year Award, and Outstanding Service Award. We will also unveil the winners of our annual PRO Awards for the industry’s best projects in 16 categories and the AFA Education Foundation scholarship recipients. Register for the Full Package at registration or purchase individual tickets.

SPONSORED BY

SPONSORED BY

Rhino’s high-performance hydraulic post driver is perfect for fencing, road signs, farm, ranch, forestry, vineyards, DOT applications - essentially any heavy duty driving job.

Rhino’s high-performance hydraulic post driver is perfect for fencing, road signs, farm, ranch, forestry, vineyards, DOT applications - essentially any heavy duty driving job.

Efficient driving powerCompact and lightweight with performance equal to much larger, bulkier pounders.

Efficient driving powerCompact and lightweight with performance equal to much larger, bulkier pounders.

Durable and low maintenanceFewer wear parts, and continuous lubrication in an enclosed system make our hydraulic tools practically maintenance-free, and useable in below-zero temps.

Durable and low maintenanceFewer wear parts, and continuous lubrication in an enclosed system make our hydraulic tools practically maintenance-free, and useable in below-zero temps.

Cost effectiveNo compressor costs. Post Driver/Power Pack can be hauled easily and access difficult job sites. Tool efficiency reduces fuel consumption.

Cost effectiveNo compressor costs. Post Driver/Power Pack can be hauled easily and access difficult job sites. Tool efficiency reduces fuel consumption.

VersatileAdapters and drive caps from the Rhino PD-55 post driver, can also be used with the HPD-60 to fit ground rod, channel, square and round posts. The Chuck-Lok Adapter system from the Rhino Gas Post Drivers is also available for 2 ⅜” & smaller post driving.

VersatileAdapters and drive caps from the Rhino PD-55 post driver, can also be used with the HPD-60 to fit ground rod, channel, square and round posts. The Chuck-Lok Adapter system from the Rhino Gas Post Drivers is also available for 2 ⅜” & smaller post driving.

PORTABLE

Easily accesible, quick release trigger, flat face quick couplings and vibration dampen ing, lightweight per formance expedite post driving.

Easily accesible, quick release trigger, flat face quick couplings and vibration dampen ing, lightweight per formance expedite post driving.

optional remote valve (801011) with the HPD 60 tor driving tall posts.

Use

Little Beaver to feature Mechanical Earth Drill During FENCETECH 2023

The mechanical earth drill is available with either a 5.5 or 8-horsepower engine and is mounted on 8- or 10-inch semi-pneumatic tires, respectively. Both versions offer a small footprint for easy access in any area and can be used on lawns, golf course greens, and other delicate surfaces without causing damage.

Built to be reliable, powerful, and lightweight, the mechanical drills are ideal for a variety of industries, including rental centers, fence and sign installers, landscape and building contractors, and parks and recreation departments.

The mechanical drills feature a steel torque tube that allows operators to use large diameter augers without fear of dangerous kickback. In addition to increasing operator safety, the torque tube provides easier drilling, reducing operator effort and fatigue. To enhance operator safety further, all models feature a centrifugal clutch. If the drill encounters a buried object or the auger is overloaded, the clutch automatically slips to protect the operator from serious injury and the drive cable and transmission gears from damage.

“We offer two kits to allow users to easily convert our mechanical drills into horizontal boring machines,” says Haynes. “The sidewalk auger kit includes a 5-foot extension with a universal joint and a 5-foot auger to make it ideal for drilling as much as four feet under sidewalks. The driveway kit is for applications like plumbing, electrical and water lines. It includes a water swivel and achieves horizontal drilling distances up to 40 feet.”

Each mechanical drill is backed by a one-year warranty, with the engine covered by a two-year manufacturer’s warranty.

“Our mechanical earth drills are a favorite of fencing contractors because they offer true one-man operation,” explains Joe Haynes, president of Little Beaver. “These drills are safe, fast, and powerful with auger rotation speeds up to 360 rpm.”

“We’re excited to showcase our mechanical drills along with other products at FENCETECH. We always enjoy connecting with our customers at the show and learning about how we help them maximize productivity for their fencing business,” Haynes says.

For more information, visit www.littlebeaver.com.

Little Beaver Mechanical Drills are ideal for a variety of industries, including rental centers, fence and sign installers, landscape and building contractors, and parks and recreation departments.

Little Beaver Mechanical Drills feature a steel torque tube that allows operators to use large diameter augers without fear of dangerous kickback.

Little Beaver will feature their mechanical earth drill March 1 – 3, 2023 at booth 932 during FENCETECH in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Richard’s High-Security Mesh Fence delivers protection without sacrificing aesthetic appeal. Available in 3/8", 1/2", 5/8" or 1" mesh, our security mesh can be effective in deterring and delaying intruders and provide protection from vehicular impact in high security applications when properly specified and installed (see chainlinkinfo.org). It can be ordered in galvanized, aluminized, or a multiple of PVC Vinyl-Coated colors as well as a number of wire gauges depending on your level of threats.

For added security we domestically manufacture barbed wire in PVC Vinyl-Coated, aluminized, or galvanized finish as well as spring tension wire.

Complete your project with Pre-Tied Ties and Hog Rings. The number one fence tie in the industry available in many lengths, gauges, and finishes.

info@richardsfence.com

info@richardsfence.com

info@richardsfence.com

Richard’s without 1/2", in deterring from properly It can of PVC gauges

For added wire as well

Complete The number

Reduce Environmental Impact with Eco-Friendly Fencing

Fortress to Showcase Environmentally Friendly Products at FenceTech

Fences serve many functions. They can act as barriers to protect your property. They can keep children and pets away from potentially dangerous areas like pools or high drops. Available in a variety of styles, fences can also help define the aesthetics of your outdoor living space.

“In addition to a fence’s visual appeal and safety factor, it’s important to consider its impact on the environment,” says Toby Bostwick, Vice President of Product and Brand for Fortress Building Products. “One of the primary indicators of a fencing material’s eco-friendliness is its ability to be made from recycled materials.”

Bostwick highlights some of the key features of certain fence materials that make them more eco-friendly.

• Fencing made from steel is recycled and fully recyclable, reducing the resources (like energy and water) needed to produce them. Further, steel is an extraordinarily durable material that lasts for many years— so the recycled materials used to produce steel fences can help them last for decades.

• Aluminum is another material that’s a great option for sustainable fencing. Like steel options, aluminum fencing is often made of recycled and recyclable materials without sacrificing anything in terms of durability or aesthetic appeal.

• Select composite fencing options can also be framed with ecofriendly metal. When these systems also use sustainably harvested bamboo and recycled plastics, they support more regenerative materials and divert materials away from landfills. Fortress Building Products options like the Evolver®, framed with eco-friendly aluminum or Estate®, which uses steel, give homeowners the choice of a sustainable combination of materials.

• Additionally, high-quality steel fencing and aluminum fencing only need soap and water for routine maintenance, which helps keep toxic chemicals out of the local water supply. This makes steel and aluminum easier for a homeowner to maintain and a great choice for more ecofriendly fencing.

• Likewise, composite fence options, especially those made of sustainably sourced bamboo, are another wood-alternative that boasts a long life with little to no maintenance. Moisture- and weather-resistant, composite boards will last longer than traditional wood fencing in almost every climate.

When choosing a fencing material for its sustainability, Bostwick says it’s important to examine its impact on the environment throughout its lifecycle—from how resource-intensive it is to produce to the environmental impact of its upkeep, and to its longevity and viability as a recyclable material. In each of these areas, options like steel, aluminum and composite offer an excellent choice.

Fortress is passionate about supporting practices and materials that protect our planet. Learn more about the products mentioned in this article, as well as Evolution Framing and Pergolas at the 2023 FenceTech in Oklahoma City February 28 – March 3, or visit www.fortressbp.com.

Guarding What Matters: Quality and Service

At the upcoming 2023 FenceTech show, Wallace will be displaying a full-scale folding gate to give attendees an up-close-and-personal look at what sets their products apart.

“We are known in the industry for the quality and durability of our gates,” says Kevin Frain, Project Director with Wallace. “We offer a range of folding gate options to meet the budget and needs of a variety of industry demands. These gates have nearly limitless options to match any project exterior.”

Folding gates are designed to save space and time. Of critical importance is a quick open/close cycle to accurately control access even in the busiest traffic environments. Because folding gates do not require as much room to operate as other gates, this enables valuable space to be used for other purposes. “This compact installation allows effective security installations in the most controlled spaces,” says Frain.

Wallace Perimeter Security offers several folding gate product lines, each with its own unique features, including:

PDTT Series: The PDTT SpeedGate is designed with security and speed in mind. Installed in North America’s highest security facilities, the top track gate has an imposing presence. The top track on the gate allows for integration of additional security devices such as, razor wire, anti-climb hardware and traffic lights.

FoldSmart Speedgate: The FoldSmart is designed for everyday use in a wide variety of applications. Built on the proven mechanical elements of the PDXT, the FoldSmart achieves a perfect balance of reliability and cost effectiveness. Built-in battery backup and 24 programmable features ensures a user friendly solution.

PDXT Series: The most robust and adaptable SpeedGate available. From elegant to bullet proof, the infill can be customized to serve the application, and meet demanding requirements for speed, security and aesthetics.

Frain says there are many options in gate manufacturers, many of them offering excellent quality. “We are glad our industry is in such great shape. We know the choice in provider often comes down to the service provided after the sale, and that is a critical area of focus for us.”

Wallace started as a fence and gate installation business, so Frain says their team understands the needs of their installation partners. “We take the ‘measure twice, cut once’ carpentry principle to heart, investing extra tine up front to ensure a smooth and money-saving install for our customers. Our partners trust us, and we work hard to earn and maintain that trust. We know how difficult it is to generate new business, particularly in the current economic environment, and we also understand the labor challenges our contractors face. We do everything we can on our side to help them be successful.”

Learn more at the Wallace Perimeter Security exhibit at FenceTech or visit www.wallaceperimetersecurity.com

As one of the most respected security gate companies in the industry, Wallace Perimeter Security has had a frontrow seat to product evolution to meet the demands of consumers. One of the products they are most well-known for is their folding gate.

Management Corner

FOCUS ON ACCOMPLISHED INSTEAD OF PRODUCTIVE

Most people measure their daily success based on how productive they believe they were. But does productivity really give an accurate picture of how much work gets done? You may complete every item on your to-do list, but did any of those tasks get you closer to completing a big goal or project you have been working on? Being productive feels like you spent your time wisely, but it’s easy to keep yourself busy without getting any real work done.

One work methodology gaining in popularity is the Completion-Centric Plan. It focuses on completing projects instead of just daily tasks. The idea is to work toward completing your goals and projects while still tackling your daily responsibilities. However, instead of basing success on productivity, the set goal is to be accomplished by finishing or moving closer to finishing a project. Here are the steps for this process:

1. Make an Active Projects List.

Getting started is easy. Simply make a list of all your most important projects. This productivity model can be used in your professional and personal life, so you may want to include non-work-related projects as well.

2. Label Each Project with a Completion Criteria.

Next to each of the projects you listed, make a detailed note on what you must get done for that project to be considered completed. Ask yourself, “What does this completed project look like?”

3. Label the Bottom Half of the Page as a “Holding Pen.”

Any new projects that come up while you’re focusing on your active ones will go in this section. You can list as many as you want and as your active list clears out, begin to move some of these to the top of the list.

Use this project list in addition to your to-do list each day. For each project, consider what is the most amount of progress toward completion you can make that day. If you can’t finish the project, what can you do that puts you closer to finishing it the next day?

Consider the Completion-Centric Plan if you have been searching for a way out of the infinite task loop. The plan is designed to help you focus on your most important projects and move you toward completing entire projects instead of just checking off independent tasks.

Once you did finish a project, don’t forget to take a quick mental break before diving into your next accomplishment.

by Tony Thornton President, Thornton Fence Consulting Group

Chain Link Fence Installation Standards

Many of our fence professionals are not aware that we have a standard for proper chain link fence installation. Like many, I was six or seven years into my fence career before I knew about ASTM and the purpose.

I was introduced to ASTM Fence Materials and Products as I began to study for the American Fence Association Certified Fence Professional designation. This opened my eyes and mind to a whole perspective to what our industry was all about. Until this introduction, I had been taught the “proper” installation techniques by several different mentors that I was helping on the installation crews.

These guys probably never heard of a standard, much less been provided the information because they had their way and really didn’t want anyone to explain or share anything new. they were set in their ways and they always commented, “We have never done it that way.” The worst comment for any professional!

ASTM Fence Materials and Products enhances our fence installations and places minimum expectations on all fence companies to adhere to these standards. These standards protect your company and the consumer and if your company has embraced these standards, you are positioning your company for success, but we must promote these standards and sell the customer on the importance.

ASTM F567-14 is the Standard Practice for Installation of Chain-link Fence, (updated in 2019). We all know the steps required to build a fence, but if we focused on the standards and trained our installation teams on the proper procedures, every fence company would see improvements in their installations time and quality.

These standards outline site preparation, post location, post setting, driven post, bracing, and middle rails, top rail and tension wire, tie wire and clips, chain-link fabric, barbed wire, gates, appearance and safety.

An example of post location states that all post will be placed at equal intervals, not to exceed 10’. Pretty simple concept but how many companies just set 10’ spacing until the end and then space accordingly the last few sections? As you see, this isn’t meeting the ASTM standard and as professionals, we go with our best practice methods.

An additional example is bracing and middle rails which states, no braces are required on fabric 6’ high or less, where the top rail is specified. With 12’ fabric or taller in height, a middle rail is recommended and required when specified. Braces are required on all terminals regardless of height, on fence without a top rail.

These two examples are very helpful in understanding that the ASTM Fence Materials and Products Standards provides information to help your company grow and prosper. If every fence company used these standards as a basis for training, our level of professionalism would skyrocket, and everyone would be on the same level playing field as contractors and what is expected.

If you need to purchase the ASTM Fence Materials and Products Standards guide, you can contact ASTM International at service@astm.org or through www.astm.org. Also, please contact me at info@fenceconsutlinggroup.com if you have any questions about ASTM.

Tony Thornton is a 45+ year veteran of the fence industry and is a subject matter expert in all areas of fence and gate automation. His passion is to elevate and promote the fence industry in a professional manner and provides consulting services to support fence industry owners in understanding how to implement effective procedures into their operation and maximize their profitability.

Thornton Fence Consulting Group

4261 East University Drive PMB #30-108

Prosper, Texas, 75078 Phone: 972-533-3658

Email: info@fenceconsultinggroup.com Website: www.fenceconsultinggroup.com

JOB OPPORTUNITY

Fence Company has been in business for over 35 years looking for a commercial/ residential sales representative with reliable transportation. 2 years sales experience, customer service, good work ethics. Call 713.862.7320 or email resume to riograndefence@live.com.

NOW HIRING

Competitive Wages and Benefits

West Coast Fence Corp., 6500 49th St N. Pinellas Park, FL 33781 727-647-0367 westcoastfence1@verizon.net

OVERSEAS DISTRIBUTORS INC., A LARGE AND GROWING NATIONAL DISTRIBUTOR OF CHAIN LINK

FENCE FITTINGS, is seeking experienced, results-driven Inside/Outside Salespersons and Office Personnel for existing locations in KENNESAW, GA / TAMPA, FL / BALTIMORE, MD / HOUSTON, TX. Frequent travel required for sales. Experience with chain link and farm fittings preferred. Excellent organizational, communication and people skills are a must. MS Office computer skills are a plus. Relocation expenses may be reimbursed. Please send resume with verifiable work history and salary requirements to job@odifence.com.

2015 DD30-30T TURBO DIESEL DANDY DIGGER FOR SALE

623 hours, runs great.

Includes Trailer, Water System, Bucket, Forks, Dual Wheels, 4-Wheel Drive. 7 bits included. $75,000. Call Jeff at (928) 941-1000 or email jmiller@yumafence.com for more information.

2004 DANDY DIGGER DD2-25 FOR SALE

Original owners purchased directly from Dandy Digger. Machine has just under 900 hours, maintenance has been kept up on and done in house. Machine comes with trailer, front end loader and other accessories. Please contact us for further details or any questions at 801-796-8800 or cboyce@northwestfenceutah.com.

puljakusa.com

PULJAK COMPANY IS FOR SALE!

Please contact Nancy or Mark for more details. 203-500-2520 sales@puljakusa.com

is

NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN FOR AFA AWARDS

Do you know a hard-working American Fence Association member who has devoted outstanding service, leadership and contributions to the fence industry? If so, nominate them for one or more of the following Association Awards:

• Ambassador Award

• Distinguished Service Award

• Fence Contractor of the Year Award

• Hall of Fame Award

• Manufacturer of the Year Award Nominations are due January 11, 2023.

JACKPOT 2023

January 20 & 21, 2023

Atlantic City, New Jersey

For details and registration visit www.gsafa.com.

NAFCA FENCE TRAINING SCHOOL

February 5 - 8, 2023

Sebring, Florida

Visit www.4nafca.com for details and to register.

FENCETECH 2023

February 28 – March 3, 2023

Oklahoma City Convention Center

Registration is now open! Celebrate the 60th anniversary of American Fence Association with your peers at FENCETECH. Visit www.fencetech.com for updated information and to register.

COMMON GROUND ALLIANCE 2023 CONFERENCE AND EXPO

April 17 – 21, 2023

Orlando, Florida

For details, visit www.commongroundalliance.com.

editor@fencenews.com.

OPEN WIDE!

When a project calls for a large gate turn to Pro Access Systems and Doorking to meet the speci cations. With over a 20 years of gate system design and fabrication expertise, Pro Access has been supplying premium quality gates for critical infrastructure security applications including Commercial / Industrial, Energy Distribution, Transportation, Municipal Facilities and Residential Properties.

Pro Access Systems specializes in large systems and is a leading single-source provider of integrated gate hardware, access control solutions with experienced technical support.

www.G8Pro.com