Issuu

JA N UA RY 2 0 2 4

ACCESS CONTROL • DECKING • RAILING • OUTDOOR LIVING & LANDSCAPING w w w. f e n c e n ew s . c o m

with

Alix Glodich

STANDARD PAINTS, INC. | WOOD DEFENDER

FARM, WILDLIFE & PET FENCING

In This Issue Women in Fencing Updates for ASTM 1184-16 Taking the Pulse of the Industry

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JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

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*Warranty conditions vary according to gate or door application and usage. See full Warranty details and limitations on D&D Technologies’ website.

FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

HUGE SELECTION OF HARDWARE, FASTENERS AND TOOLS IN STOCK FOR THE FENCING INDUSTRY Abbey is a supplier of standard and specialty gate hardware to fencing industry professionals across America.

GATE HARDWARE DECORATIVE HARDWARE WELDED WIRE TOOLS LOCKS SCREWS NAILS CONSTRUCTION SUPPLIES

View our catalog at www.abbeyhardware.com

FENCING SUPPLY EXPERTS JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

1-866.98.ABBEY | sales@abbeyhardware.com | www.abbeyhardware.com

FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

SAFETY in a Snap with Safety Top Caps from NMI

Add safety and greater visibility to the top of chain link fence systems on athletic fields, in parks and recreational facilities. • Easy to install • Durable and flexible • UV resistant

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Your trusted source for slat orders for over 40 years.

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Cover Story 22 – 25 WOMEN IN FENCING

56 Cornerstone Building Brands Partners with Dave and Jenny Marrs to Showcase Leading Products on Season 5 of Fixer to Fabulous 58 United Site Services Names New CEO and CFO 60 Top of the Chain with Alix Glodich, Standard Paints, Inc. | Wood Defender 62 Top Rail Fence Moves into Florida with a New Tampa location 62 Empower Brands Surges Forward: A Year of Remarkable Growth and Expansion 66 10 Backyarding Trends for 2024 67 AFA Rocky Mountain Chapter Summit Update 68 The AZEK® Company Unveils New Product Innovations for 2024 71 Two Fencing Manufacuring Companies Join the CLFMI Board 74 Recap of 2023 CLFMI Annual Meeting 74 Bergandi Names New VP of Sales and Marketing 75 Key-Link Hires New Midwest Territory Manager 76 Patent-Pending Sign Manufacturing Eliminates Common Problems 80 Gate Safety Standards: Debunking the Biggest Misconception 82 CASE Construction Equipment Announces Addition to its North America Dealer Network 82 Digger Specialties Introduces New Website 82 Lowe's Recognizes 2023 Outstanding Suppliers and Sustainability Award Winner 84 Trex Company Receives the 2023 Sustainable Business Leadership Award 85 Solid Core™ Composite Railing by MoistureShield® Selected as 2023 Golden Hammer Award Winner 85 84 Lumber Continues Western Expansion Plans with New Locations in California 85 In Memoriam: CellGate Announces the Passing of LaTosha Johnson 86 U.S. Fence Solutions Completes Sale of Ideal Fencing Corp. to Soil Nail Holdings

Business Management

FLW International, 39 Hampden Fence Supply, Inc., 75 Homeland Vinyl Products, 10 InCord, 50 International Gate Devices, 62 Interstate Wholesale Fence, 65 Iron World, Front Cover J.C. Gury, 83 Jerith/Assa Abloy, 13 Keener Dupont Wire, LLC, 56

Nebraska Plastic, 37 Pexco, 20 Poly Vinyl Creations, 49 Privacy Link, 83 Pro Access Systems, 42, 75 Quiet Valley Products, 58 Redi-Driver, 40 Rent-A-Fence Wholesale, 52 SCIW Fence Products, 81 Seco-Larm, 29

with Safety Top Caps from NMI 26 – 36 FARM, WILDLIFE & PET FENCING 26 Avoid 7 Common, But Costly, Horse Fencing Mistakes 28 Oscillot® Unveils Groundbreaking Plastic Cat-Proof Fence Roller 30 Maximizing Efficiency: The Perfect Pairing of Meriwether Wire and Protech Fencing Machines 32 Deer Fence Tips from Critterfence 36 Bullet Hits the Target When It Comes to Bracing AG Fencing

Add safety and greater visibility to the top of chain link fence systems on athletic fields, in parks and recreational facilities. Industry News • Easy to install • Durable and flexible • UV resistant 8

Japanese Cedar Posts Offer Beauty and Durability for Fencing Projects 14 Log Cabin Fence Introduces the Billet 15 Oldcastle APG Strengthens Position in Canada with Expanded Permacon Facility 15 ASSA ABLOY Entrance Systems Acquires Leone Fence 18 Trex Company Unveils New Products for 2024 38 Avon Plastics Expands Distribution Operations 40 Nice Names Paul Williams as Head of New Home Management Solutions Business Unit 40 Senstar Releases Senstar Symphony 8.6 40 Canadian Fence Association Holds Annual Summit in February 46 HomeFront Brands Announces National Charity Partnerships with Operation Homefront & The Carson Scholars Foundation 48 Updates for ASTM 1184-16 Standard Specification for Industrial and Commercial Horizontal Slide Gates 50 Encon Electronics Announces 40th Anniversary Year Events 51 Viking Fence Acquires Hook-N-Haul Dumpsters

64 Where Did the Time Go? by Mark Levin, CAE, CSP 70 Taking the Pulse of the Industry from Around the Country by Tom Luby Management Corner: 72 Essential Technology Resolutions for Businesses Success in 2024 73 Maximizing Productivity During the Slow Season

Events & More 86 Events

FENCE NEWS IS A PROUD MEMBER OF THESE ASSOCIATIONS:

Your trusted source for slat orders for over 40 years.

5 1 6 - 5 9 4 - 0 3 6 4 | W W W. N M I F E N C E . C O M

Advertiser Index Abbey Hardware, 4 All-O-Matic, 27 American Fence Association, 53 Ameristar/Assa Abloy, 11, 15 Ball Fabrics, 42 Bergandi, 83 BD Loops, 34 Blackline, Back Cover DAC Industries, 79 D&D Technologies, 3 Dan Wheeler Podcast, 50

Dandy Digger, 21 DKS DoorKing, 16, 17 Dyna-Bignell, 58 Dynamic Tube & Pipe, 84 Eagle Fence Distributing, LLC, 46 Eastern Fence, 44, 45 Encon Electronics, 51 Expert Wood Care, 33, 69 EZG Manufacturing, 38 Fence Empire, 23 Fencing Supply Group, 9

4845 Ihles Rd., Lake Charles, LA 70605 337. 312.0975 Publisher: River Road Publishing, LLC Managing Editors: Kristy Armand & Christine Fisher General Manager: Mary Hummon Sales Manager: Katie Stevenson Creative: Shonda Manuel & Barbara VanGossen

katie@fencenews.com JANUARY 2024 | |fencenews.com FENCE NEWS USA

L&C Enterprises, 54, 55 Larsen Innovations, 67 Little Beaver, 31 LMT Mercer Group, 87 Locinox, 41 Master Halco, 5 Maximum Controls, 59 MySalesman, 57 NAFCA, 35 National Metal Industries, 6, 47

Secure Gate Systems, 34 Shoreline Vinyl Systems, 81 Skidrill, 63, 77 Southwestern Wire, 21 Standard Paints/Wood Defender, 43 Stephens Pipe & Steel, 7 TREX Fencing - SRF Fence, 2 Trident Fence/Deer Busters, 62 US Premier Tube Mills, 12 Wallace Perimeter Security, 8

PUBLISHER’S PROTECTIVE CLAUSE In consideration of publication of an advertisement, by submitting an advertisement for publication by River Road Publishing, LLC d/b/a “Fence News USA”, the advertiser and the agency, jointly and severally, agree to indemnify and hold harmless River Road Publishing, LLC and Healthy Image Marketing, (collectively “Publisher”) and their respective managers, its officers, agents and employees against all expenses, including attorney’s fees, damages and losses resulting from the publication of the advertisement, including but not limited to claims or suits for libel, violation of the right of privacy, copyright or patent infringement, and use of the product or services advertised, either proper or improper. All advertisements are accepted and published based on the representation by the agency and advertiser that both are authorized to publish the entire contents of the material provided to the Publisher in the manner selected by the advertiser, be it print or electronic media. Advertisements and product information do not constitute an endorsement nor a position by the Publisher concerning their suitability. The Publisher reserves the right to reject any advertising in “Fence News USA”, the Publisher’s website or e-newsletter. The Publisher makes every effort to ensure suitable placement of advertising but assumes no responsibility in this regard. All advertisements, including online advertisements, placed in “Fence News USA” must be accompanied by a valid insertion order specifying gross advertising rate, size, color, position and information sufficient for proper identification of the advertisement by the Publisher production personnel. Requested positions are not guaranteed unless stated as a paid position. Contracts for multiple frequency discounts must be in place prior to the first insertion. Publisher will not be bound by any terms and conditions printed on advertising agency or advertiser insertion orders or copy instructions when those rates and conditions conflict with the Publisher’s rate card. While Publisher will make every effort to correct inaccurate artwork, the Publisher is not liable for faulty materials provided by the agency or the advertiser. Such advertisements will be billed as run. The Publisher does not guarantee changes or corrections after the closing date. Publisher is not liable for delays in delivery and/or nondelivery of its publications in the event of any conditions beyond the control of the Publisher that may affect production or shipping of “Fence News USA”. Advertisers may not include product/service pricing or discount copy in advertisements in the Publisher, electronic media. ISSN 2767-8016

Celebrating 50 years of Reliable Service & Quality

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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

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FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

Japanese Cedar Posts Offer Beauty and Durability for Fencing Projects

Visit us at FENCETECH Booth #1246

When it comes to fencing, few woods can match the beauty and durability of Japanese cedar. Japanese cedar is the national tree of Japan, where it is highly-prized for the scented, strong, but lightweight, timber it produces. The wood is reddish-pink in color, straight-grained and medium textured. Japanese cedar has been used for centuries in Japan for everything from shrines and temples to residential and commercial buildings, and according to Jason Lau, CEO of Fence Empire, it also stains and finishes well. “The impressive strength-to-weight ratio and excellent working properties make Japanese cedar ideal for all varieties of construction applications, including fencing.” Fence Empire is a leading provider of Japanese cedar to U.S. wholesaler and building materials stores for use in fencing, railing, posts and decking. New to the product offerings in this line are construction grade Japanese cedar posts. Lau says the features and benefits of these posts include: • Made from premium Japanese Red Cedar • Beautiful rich auburn coloring and tight uniform grain • Appearance-grade, no-hole knotty cedar with four square edges • Great for both interior appearance applications and exterior structural posts/beams • Contains natural oils and resins that make it resistant to insects, rot, and decay • Slot cut into one face to relieve any pressure from the heartwood. Learn more at fenceempire.com.

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JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

LOCAL RELATIONSHIPS NATIONAL SCALE 3 NEW LOCATIONS! PORTLAND, OR

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FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

Available to Download January 24th. Live Demo At FenceTech 2024!

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*Colors may not be available in all profiles or markets.

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

Waypoint® is a registered trademark of Waymark products LLC

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AVAILABLE for YOU

■ ATTENTION TO DETAIL ■ � DEDICATION TO QUALITY ■ � PRODUCT PERFORMANCE US Premier Tube Mills is working for you and we’re making our products readily available to you. Unfortunately, supply chain delays have become commonplace, and in many cases, expected. This provides challenges for everyone with orders to place, loads to ship, work to bid, and fence to install. Our commitment to you and the industry provides us the opportunity to offer the fastest lead times available on galvanized and color coated products through our distribution network. Contact your local distributor for availability of US Premier Tube Mills products.

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JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

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Log Cabin Fence Introduces the Billet Drawing upon over four decades of experience in the fence industry, and more than two decades of expertise in manufacturing auger/post-driver systems, Log Cabin Fence has introduced the Billet, their newest innovation for fence installation. According to Clint Iams with Log Cabin Fence, the Billet represents a breakthrough in contractor-grade auger/driver implements, tailor-made for mini skid equipment. “This innovative tool enables the effortless excavation of up to nine-inch diameter holes, thanks to its cutting-edge down-pressure hydraulic system which ensures enhanced performance even in challenging terrain.” The Billet seamlessly integrates an optional Rhino Tool Company HPD-60 Hydraulic Post Driver, revolutionizing no-dig fence installation. Harnessing the mini skid's hydraulic power, Iams says the Billet allows for the solo installation of posts ranging from 8- to 12-feet in height, with the flexibility to adapt for posts up to 16-feet tall. “No more hoisting gas-powered hammers or conducting precarious ladder work requiring two or three crew members,” he adds. The Billet is less than 800 pounds and Iams explains it can be operated with a minimum of a 25-horsepower mini skid. It comes standard with the universal mini skid mounting plate but can be converted to the Bobcatspecific plate. For auger applications, it functions as a dirt drill press. A hydraulic cylinder forces the auger through the roughest ground conditions. “Additionally,” says Iams, “the auger is offset, allowing your machine operator to drive along the fence as opposed to turning into each post.” When utilizing the Rhino HPD-60 Hydraulic Post Driver, Iams says the same hydraulics effortlessly lift and lower the Driver onto each post. The 18-inch offset from the machine, coupled with 18-inches of extension from the mini skid, allows posts to be driven three-feet or more away from the machine for those tight quarter applications (and that does not even account for the 26 degrees of tilt built into the system). Log Cabin Fence is no stranger to innovation. Founded in 1981, the company was an early adapter of utilizing high tensile wire for agricultural applications. They were one of the first farm and ranch fence contractors to install a post driver onto the side of a 1-ton truck. In 2002, after years of utilizing various post drivers offered from the market, Log Cabin Fence began manufacturing a contractor-grade hydraulic post driver/auger system: the Log Cabin Pro Driver. “It is this experience and ingenuity that has led to the Billet’s production,” says Iams. “While the Log Cabin Pro Driver is perfect for the agricultural fence installer, the residential and commercial markets had few product offerings to service their growing industry needs, so we developed the Billet. Learn more at postpounder.com, and make plans to attend NAFCA's Fence Training School in February to see the Billet in action. Details at 4nafca.com/fence-training-school/.

Visit us at Boot h #1640

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JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

Oldcastle APG Strengthens Position in Canada with Expanded Permacon Facility

MONTAGE

Ornamental Steel Fence

Oldcastle APG, a CRH Company, announced the grand re-opening of its Permacon hardscape production facility in Anjou, Quebec, after extensive renovation and the addition of state-of-the-art MASA equipment. This site will focus on manufacturing and producing residential hardscape and masonry products. "The upgrades at the Anjou facility will create more opportunities for Permacon to provide the highest quality outdoor living solutions to our customers throughout the region," says Tim Ortman, president, Oldcastle APG. "The Anjou enhancement is an important strategic project for Oldcastle APG, set to boost production and almost double current local manufacturing capabilities to meet increased demand in the residential market in the area." Oldcastle APG invested in the implementation of the latest paving technology at the facility, including the installation of a new MASA machine, which will improve production capacity, product reliability and inventory availability. This highly effective new machine and renovation, coupled with Oldcastle APG’s commitment to providing premier products and service to customers across North America, further solidifies the outdoor solutions provider’s position in the region and demonstrates its determination to pursue continued growth in Quebec. "We take pride in our recognition as a leader in the hardscapes market in Canada, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to meeting our customers' diverse outdoor living requirements," adds Ortman. Oldcastle APG operates 46 hardscape facilities across North America, serving residential and commercial customers. For more information, visit oldcastleapg.com.

ASSA ABLOY Entrance Systems Acquires Leone Fence ASSA ABLOY Entrance Systems acquires Leone Fence, a Canadian manufacturer, distributor, and installer of fencing products for commercial and residential applications. Leone Fence has been in the business since 1975 and is headquartered in Ontario, Canada, which also houses its manufacturing facilities. The company consists of three business units, Iron Eagle Industries, Shield Fence & Wire Products, and Leone Fence, which focus on the manufacturing, distributing, and selling of fence and gate products throughout Canada. “With the company’s local production capabilities, nationwide coverage, and excellent reputation, the acquisition of Leone Fence will make it possible for us to provide an even more comprehensive product offering,” says Clay Hamann, vice president of sales in the business segment with Perimeter Security. “We look forward to having Leone Fence as part of our team. For more information, visit these sites: ironeagleind.com, shieldfence. com, and leonefence.com.

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FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

Member: AFA, DASMA, NAA, IDA, NPA, SIA, SSA, CANASA, NOMMA

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Access Control

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

Gate Operators

Traffic Control

Don’t Be a Sheep, it’s Time to Eliminate Clones

Now anyone can easily replicate access codes to any property using off-the-shelf devices to scan Access Control Systems, RFID, and Radio Protocols. It’s time to improve your security. The solution is DoorKing ProxPlus™ Secure Card Readers and MicroPlus® Transmitters for applications that desire a higher level of security than standard Proximity Card Readers and RF Controls can offer. Our ProxPlus™ Secure Cards and MicroPlus® RF Transmitters are programmed with a unique identifier, making them extremely secure and almost impossible to duplicate.

Affordable and easily installed, peace of mind is now within reach. Plus, both DoorKing devices output code in a 26-bit Wiegand format, providing compatibility with almost any Access Control System on the market. When crime goes high-tech, DKS takes access control to high-security.

Extremely High Security Card Readers and RF Remotes for Gates and Doors 800-673-3299 • info@doorking.com

doorking.com/noclones FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

Trex Company Unveils New Products for 2024

with Innovations for Every Build & Budget As a brand focused on engineering what’s next in outdoor living, Trex Company remains steadfast in its commitment to continuous innovation. The world’s largest manufacturer of wood-alternative decking and railing and a leader in high-performance, low-maintenance outdoor products plans to roll out a robust selection of new offerings for 2024, further reinforcing its position as a total outdoor living resource for trade professionals and consumers. “2024 is going to be a big year for Trex and our channel partners,” says Adam Zambanini, executive vice president and COO for Trex Company. “This is the year Trex will truly become a one-stop supplier for nearly everything needed to create a high-performance, low-maintenance outdoor living space. We will be expanding our offerings within existing categories via new product introductions while also extending into complementary category adjacencies. The result will be a dynamic portfolio of high-quality products thoughtfully created as a system and engineered to maximize value at multiple price tiers.”

What’s Next from Trex in 2024? A Full Line of Fasteners from the Composite Decking Leader. In a bold move that promises to disrupt the industry, Trex is launching its own branded fastener collection. Through a strategic collaboration with the Phillips Screw Company, Trex is adding more than 120 new SKUs to its Trex Hideaway® Fastener Collection including solutions for every composite deck fastening need – from colormatched screws and plugs to specially engineered bits, depth setters and clips – all designed to make installation easier and more efficient while delivering a clean cohesive aesthetic. “This addition to our portfolio brings meaningful innovation to what has been a relatively stagnant category,” explains Zambanini. “It also affords us greater quality control and offers our channel partners a competitive advantage by allowing them to deliver end-to-end solutions from one supplier for a seamless and worry-free deckbuilding experience from the joists up.” While Trex has offered its popular Hideaway fasteners for years, this expansion firmly establishes the brand as a serious player in the decking hardware category. Following are a few of the collection’s many noteworthy products and performance benefits: • Color-matched decking screws (patent pending) – offering the best possible color match for Trex decking with a unique design that delivers optimal stability, increased drive speed and a mushroom-free finish. • HEXSTIX® technology* – built into every Trex drive bit and depth setter, this patented Phillips® technology hangs onto screws like a magnet to deliver a stable and wobble-free drive experience. • Counterbore bit (patent pending) – this unique tool features a forged (vs. stamped) spade-type bit for enhanced durability, surrounded by an innovative cone and ejector arm that is strategically designed to remove debris and prevent scratching the deck or fascia surface. • Depth setters (patent pending) – specifically engineered and labeled for decking and fascia applications, each setter is protected by an ultra-durable, glass-filled nylon sheath and rubber bumper to protect the deck surface during installation. • Collated decking and fascia plugs (patents pending) – these first-to-market collated plugs feature proprietary construction, widely spaced collation, precise color and embossing match that promises to change the landscape of the fastener category. • Trex Enhance® scalloped decking plug system – this first-of-its-kind (and only Trexapproved) plug solution for use with Trex Enhance scalloped deck boards doesn’t rely on locator tools to ensure safe and effective installation, giving installers confidence in concealing fasteners anywhere on the deck. • Butt joint clip (patent pending) – a wide hidden fastening clip that eliminates the need for a sister joint in end-to-end deck board applications, making installation faster, easier and much more reliable.

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

Hideaway Fascia Plug

Butt Joint Clip

Slated to roll out in early 2024, the new Trex Hideaway Fastener Collection components are fully compatible with all Trex decking products and have also been tested and proven to work with most competitive offerings.

Decidedly Distinctive Decking Introducing the New Benchmark in Authenticity. Marking a watershed moment for the decking industry, Trex Signature® establishes the next category of composite decking, pioneering a whole new level of aesthetic authenticity. Using a notably different process than any other Trex product, Signature decking offers the ease of maintenance and high performance of WPC with a proprietary shell formulation that delivers the most realistic representation of wood attained to date. Available in two nature-inspired colors, Trex Signature establishes a new luxury tier in the brand’s decking lineup as its top offering. “Trex Signature is a crowning achievement in our long legacy of decking innovation,” Zambanini notes. “Distinctively durable and luxuriously crafted with ecofriendly materials, Signature represents the pinnacle of style for the composite decking category and sets a new standard for aesthetics, performance and sustainability.”

Transitioning Our Coolest Shade of Grey to Our “Coolest” Product Offering. Offering a medley of calming silver tones, the Island Mist decking color has been a top seller since it was first introduced as a tropical offering in the Trex Transcend® decking collection. Given its proven popularity, Trex is moving this well-known color to its new Trex Transcend® Lineage™ decking line, where it will take on an even more natural look with refined graining and enhanced performance. Considered Trex’s “coolest” decking yet – literally – Lineage boards feature heat-mitigating technology in the shell to reflect the sun and keep the surface cooler than other composite offerings**. Like all Trex decking, the new Signature and Lineage boards are crafted in the U.S.A. and sustainably made from recycled and reclaimed content, making them eco-friendly choices that feel as good as they look. They also require minimal maintenance and won’t rot, warp or splinter over time. Additionally, both offerings are backed by 50-year limited warranties.

Signature Decking & Railing

Signature Decking

Railing Components that Span New Lengths and Fill Gaps Cable and Glass Railing Systems that Increase Style X-ponentially. Among the most noteworthy introductions from Trex for 2024 is the addition of the new X-Series™ Cable Rail and X-Series™ Frameless Glass Rail to the Trex Signature® railing lineup. Delivering a modern, streamlined profile, this new series is anchored by the versatile X-Series Post, which can be configured to accommodate cable or glass infill. “Cable rail is a complicated specialty segment we have eyed for a while but, as with all Trex products, we wanted to get it right,” says Zambanini. “The innovative X-Series system not only simplifies specification and installation for cable railing, but also affords the flexibility to accommodate frameless glass, allowing us to add two new specialty options to our premium railing line, giving consumers even more style choices to achieve their desired outdoor aesthetic.” Sold in easy-to-order kits, and using the versatile X-Series Post, Trex Signature X-Series Cable Rail features springloaded cables for optimal tension management. Trex Signature X-Series Frameless Glass Rail is sold in a one-sizefits-all infill kit. Both products are expected to be available in spring 2024. Like all Trex Signature railing options, the new X-Series offerings are crafted with premium-grade aluminum to deliver effortless style and exceptional strength. A durable powder-coated surface allows the railing to retain its color and resist corrosion. Adding further appeal, all Trex Signature railing is backed by a 25-year Limited Residential Warranty. Lighted Post Caps Powered by the Sun. Joining the Trex® Outdoor Lighting™ line-up for 2024 is a new Solar Post Cap. This energy-efficient component harnesses the power of the sun to deliver all the ambiance customers want without any electrical wiring. Compatible with Trex 4x4 composite post sleeves, the Trex Solar Post Cap is extremely easy to install and automatically lights up when the sun goes down – no timer needed. Illumination can last as long as 19 hours

with ample lighting conditions delivering a longer run-time than most solar caps on the market. Backed by an industryleading warranty, these caps are available in Trex’s three most popular railing colors – Vintage Lantern, Charcoal Black and Classic White, making them an easy upgrade to a deck that already has composite posts and the perfect finishing touch to any new deck build. Railing Performance and Affordability Down to a “T”. Launched in mid-2023 and available for the 2024 deck building season, Trex Select® T-Rail is a competitively priced rail system designed to make the beauty and convenience of Trex’s high-performance composite railing available to a wider audience. Engineered for ease and efficiency with pricing that competes head-to-head with hollow PVC vinyl railing, this new offering allows Trex and its channel partners to compete more aggressively at the entry level of the competitive railing market. Featuring a classic T-shaped top rail, the versatile system comes with a choice of two infill options – square composite balusters in Classic White or round aluminum balusters in Charcoal Black. In addition to expertly curated color and material pairings, the system uses a low-profile, underside bracket system for quick, easy assembly.

Cable Rail

Post Cap

A Full-Span Railing Expansion. In response to channel partner and contractor demand, Trex recently brought true 72” and 96” lengths back into the popular Trex Select® Classic railing line. In early 2024, the brand will do the same for Trex Transcend® railing, ultimately standardizing all Trex railing offerings. “Engineering what’s next leads to what’s new. That’s why we continue to add to our innovative collection of products that are designed to fit every build and budget,” Zambanini adds. “From decking and railing to lighting and fasteners, you can rely on Trex to be your source for all things outdoor living.” For more information about all of the latest product offerings from Trex, visit whatsnext.trex.com. FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

WE’RE INTO

CHAIN LINK FENCE SYSTEMS for all the right reasons! • Privacy • Security • Enhanced aesthetics

FENCE PRODUCTS PDS® Fence is the brand you’ve trusted and proven in the field for over 40 years. Still providing the same great looking, durable, cost effective product you’ve relied on to add privacy, security and aesthetics to any chain link fence system. • Fourteen unique chain link enhancement products • Nine standard slat colors or customized options • Easy to clean with high-pressure garden hose With East and West Coast manufacturing facilities, to ensure the quickest service and highest quality products. PDS® Fence from Pexco. Beware of imitations.

Visit www.pexco.com/fence to learn more, or email us at fence.sales@pexco.com

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

SPECIAL SECTION

WOMEN in Fencing

Women are leading the way in a variety of roles within the fencing industry. We’re excited to highlight just a small sampling of the women who are blazing the trail, mentoring younger professionals, and creating unique niches for themselves and those who follow.

Jennifer Cutting Chief Financial Officer, Eastern Fence

" Build a Good Team." With 25 years of experience in industrial manufacturing, Jennifer Cutting was no stranger to the challenges on the financial side of the industry when she joined Eastern Wholesale Fence in May of last year. She started her career as a controller and then worked as a chief financial officer (CFO) for 20 years in both private equity sponsored and privately held midmarket industrial companies before taking on the role of CFO at Eastern Wholesale Fence, a distributor and vertically integrated manufacturer of fence products. The company has 850 employees with its main office in Long Island, New York, and multiple locations in North Carolina, South Carolina, New Jersey and New York. Cutting attributes her success in her field to a strong work ethic, team-building skills, confidence and candor. “I’ve always wanted to understand how the operations work in a business and how the data can align to drive financial performance and leverage operational efficiency.” As the Chief Financial Officer, Cutting is responsible for the company’s finance, treasury, credit, risk management and strategic outlook. The information technology and supply chain teams fall under her supervision as well. With her focus on team building, it’s no surprise that one of the things Cutting enjoys most about her job is the people she works with and the team they’ve built at Eastern. “I love having the ability to drive change in an organization and see the excitement in the team as we celebrate wins together and troubleshoot opportunities to improve. There’s nothing better!” The challenges of the industry are an inherent part of Cutting’s job responsibilities. “Balancing the ever-changing market and its impact on cost and pricing strategies makes forecasting and modeling more difficult, but I find I thrive on this type of challenge to assess and improve,” says Cutting. The best advice Cutting ever received has provided the foundation for her career growth. “Build your team. If you have a good team around you, then you can accomplish anything.” She has never felt that being a female in a male-dominated industry has had a negative impact on her career. In fact, Cutting says this experience served to make her more focused and determined to succeed. “I think it’s fantastic that more women are assuming leadership positions in construction-related fields. Women in our industry can make a such a positive impact and continue to stomp through the glass ceiling. My advice to women entering this field is to learn the operations of the business and understand how it impacts the financial performance. The more you understand the different aspects, the more impactful you will be. Don’t set limits – believe you can accomplish anything you want!” Learn more at easternfence.com. 22

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

Tina Estep

Business Manager, Hurricane Fence

“ Women Help Balance the Industry.” As business manager with Hurricane Fence in Richmond, Virginia, Tina Estep enjoys the people she works with. “I love the satisfaction of helping out others, from co-workers to customers to vendors,” she says. “There are so many different aspects to the fence industry which leads to endless learning opportunities. As the industry evolves, we are continuing to learn daily.” The fencing industry was a new field for Tina when she joined Hurricane Fence, but after 14 years with them, she’s embraced it wholeheartedly. “It’s a very rewarding industry and you control your own destiny. There is no ceiling in career development for women in the fence industry. When I first started in this field, I had no idea the strides that could be made, and here I am today not looking back.” Women have a lot to offer the fence industry. “Women help balance the industry with offering organization, attention to details, and different points of view,” Tina says. “I think women tend to be more passionate and caring when it comes to customer service. I think having a good balance is key.” Continuously learning is a key to career success. “Never stop learning and share your knowledge with others,” she says. “It is important to enjoy what you’re doing and don’t be afraid to take risks. Life is too short to be unhappy. I look forward to what the next day brings. It’s also OK to venture outside of your comfort zone but be true to yourself and your visions.” To learn more, visit hurricanefenceinc.com.

FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

SPECIAL SECTION

Stephanie Olynick National Sales Director, Wallace Perimeter Security

" Diversity Brings Fresh Perspectives & Innovative Solutions." Although she grew up with a construction industry background, it was a summer job that launched Stephanie Olynick’s career. “While finishing my education, I worked at Wallace Perimeter Security, in what I believe is one of the most important positions at any company, the front desk.” At the end of the summer, Olynick was asked to stay on and over the past 13 years, she has worn many hats within the organization, from administrative roles and marketing to sales and leadership. This diverse experience, along with her education in marketing, human relations and business administration, prepared her for her current role as national sales director. Wallace Perimeter Security manufactures automatic vehicle gates, including the popular bi-folding speedgate, and welded wire fencing. The company based in the middle of Canada in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Olynick’s primary responsibilities revolve around developing and executing sales strategies to drive business growth. She also oversees the sales team, nurturing their development and ensuring their customers receive the best possible service. “I learned the importance of hard work and finishing a job at an early age,” says Olynick. “I also gained experience in customer service roles in the hospitality industry before joining Wallace, which I feel helped me develop key skills in relationship building, which are essential in my current role. I cherish the relationships I’ve built with our customers, many of whom have become friends over the years.” She also enjoys the ever-evolving nature of the fencing and gates industry. “It's a dynamic field with a wide range of applications, making each day unique. One day I may be working on a dog park project, and the next, I’m helping to design fencing for a prison. It is always different and challenging.” Part of the challenge for Olynick is staying ahead of industry trends and technology advancements. “Wallace is an industry leader in the security sector, so it's vital to continue to provide cutting-edge solutions,” she explains. She says being a female in a male-dominated industry has presented some challenges along the way. “I’ve been in situations where men preferred dealing with other men, but these have often turned into opportunities to demonstrate my expertise, not to mention, adding fuel to my fire to continue to hire and train more amazing and smart women.” But overall, Olynick says being a woman in this field has had a positive impact on her career. “The ownership at Wallace has always fostered an inclusive and empowering environment, valuing strong female voices within the company. This support has been instrumental in my professional growth.” She says advice from her dad has guided her as well. “He told me to always say you can do it, and then figure out how to do it. This mindset has helped me advance by taking on challenges I wanted to say no to, and to always continue learning. I don’t want to generalize, but I think as females we often wait until we can do things properly, and miss out on opportunities because of that." Olynick says seeing more women joining the fencing and related construction industries is promising. “Diversity brings fresh perspectives and innovative solutions to the table.” Her advice to women entering this field, or any other where you feel you are a minority, is to be confident in your abilities. “Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and never underestimate the power of networking and mentorship. I’m so grateful for the women – and men – who have and continue to guide me in my career.” Learn more at wallaceperimetersecurity.com.

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

Karen Pierce President, Pierce Fence

“ Women Bring Valuable Skills & Perspectives to the Fencing Industry.” Pierce Fence is a third-generation business in Dover, Delaware. Founded by William “Bill” Pierce in 1969, they provide sales and installation of all types of fences and gates. Karen Pierce, president, married Bill’s grandson, Bob, in 2000 and began working in the office a few years later. Over the course of 20 years, she’s worked in virtually every capacity within the office. “Bob and I are a team, tackling every situation together,” Pierce says. Fencing can involve a high level of problem-solving and precision. Each property presents its own set of challenges, whether due to uneven terrain or specific client requirements. “I find clients are surprised to learn that installing a certain type of fence is not comparable to carpentry work where everything is checked by a level,” Pierce says. One of the things she loves about her work is leading her team of 28 employees. “Being able to mentor and support my employees in their professional growth while collectively working toward the success of the business is incredibly rewarding,” Pierce says. “Watching our team develop and excel in their roles over the years has driven me to continuously improve our business practices. We would not be one of the most well-known fence companies in our state without the help of everyone who works at Pierce Fence. It is a great joy to work with such good people and provide top-notch service in the fence industry.” When it comes to traditionally male-dominated industries, she views women as contributing valuable perspectives and skills. “Their participation is crucial for innovation and progress. Men and women working as a team provides balance,” she says. “Regarding the fence industry specifically, I believe there are numerous opportunities for women to thrive and make meaningful contributions,” Pierce says. “Despite its maledominated history, I see great potential for women to succeed in various roles within the industry, whether it be design, installation, fabrication, sales or management. I have found that my gender has not hindered my ability to succeed in the fence industry. In fact, I believe that it has brought a different perspective and unique approach to the way we do business.” As an example of a woman who is thriving in the fencing industry, Pierce says she would encourage her younger self to “not be afraid to step out of the comfort zone. The fence industry and life in general are constantly evolving, and it’s important to adapt. Worry less, pray more and enjoy the ride.” To learn more about Pierce Fence, visit piercefence.com.

Robyn Chambers

Trex District Manager, Southeast

Terri Brinkman

Business Administrator, GateArms+

“ I like being in a position where I can drive & feel the heartbeat of the company.” Her career path in real estate and property management led Terri Brinkman to establish GateArms+, a manufacturing company that makes customizable LED safety light systems for high traffic environments and gated entrances. “My husband and I started the company in 2014,”Terri says, “as a solution to address common concerns that many property managers faced, particularly when managing gated communities. Simply put, whether intentional or not, people hit gates and gates hit people.” GateArms+, based in Florida, provides highly visible alerting systems critical for safety, liability and damage prevention. As business administrator, Brinkman is a “Jill-of-all-trades”. “I like to think of myself as the engine in the background doing all the things that people don’t think about, until or unless something goes wrong,” she explains. Some of these facets include human resources management, recruiting and hiring, payroll processing and benefits administration, operations management, legal compliance, financial management and strategic planning. “I wear many hats for the company. I’ve found it works best to be both ‘adaptable to’ and ‘a driver of’ change to make an impact on the long-term success of the company,”Terri says. “As a business owner, I like being in a position where I can drive and feel the heartbeat of the company,” she says. “As an employer, I like having the ability to provide a career path for jobseekers.” She offers this advice to other women in the fencing and security fields. “Educate yourself. There are a lot of friendly folks in this industry. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Check out the American Fence Association’s website as a starting place: americanfenceassociation.com. Also, if you’re a small business owner, know your resources and use them. The Small Business Development Center, americassbdc.org, and the US Small Business Administration, sba.gov, are great places to start. Also, get certified as a Women-Owned Small Business, wosb. certify.sba.gov.” For more information, visit gatearms.com.

"Come to the Table with Knowledge and Passion. " For Robyn Chambers, her love for sales began at a young age. Her father and grandfather both sold cars in her hometown, but neither was a typical“car salesman.” Instead, their customers saw them as consultants and friends.“I was inspired by their careers and example of building real relationships with their customers, and proudly followed in their footsteps.” After majoring in sales and sales management in college, Chambers joined the Trex team 20 years ago as a sales associate. She spent 18 years in Trex’s Florida market, earning promotions to sales representative, account manager, and then to district sales manager of the Southeast region in 2021. Trex is the world’s leading brand of sustainably made, wood-alternative decking and deck railing and a leader in high performance, low-maintenance outdoor living products. The Southeast region encompasses Tennessee, the Carolinas and Florida, and currently holds the top ranking for growth across the company. “My career success was truly influenced by my family,” says Chambers. “From them I learned it was important to work hard, be honest, be loyal and show up every day prepared to do your best. .” Chambers says her responsibilities range from organizing and implementing distributor planning and sales meetings to working directly with each rep in his or her market to grow their business and personal career. Team success is her driving force and the people she works with are what she enjoys the most about her job. “I want my team to succeed; their growth and happiness are what is important,” Chambers adds. “In addition to the relationships we have with each other, our team has great customer relationships. Many of the people I work with today I have known for nearly 20 years and consider to be friends.” Learning how to successfully manage her team was a challenge earlier in Chambers’s career. “When I took on a management role, I had the natural inclination to coach based on how I ran a territory. I learned very quickly that people are vastly different in their communication and learning styles and I needed to cater my coaching to the individual. Now, I come from a position of support and empowerment. I encourage our team to make decisions, even if I would have handled a situation differently.” Another challenge she faced when she started with Trex in 2003 was being one of very few females in the industry. “I was young and meeting with mostly males who had extensive knowledge of the lumber business. Luckily, I had a very supportive and inclusive group of customers who helped me learn and succeed. It didn’t matter what someone initially thought when a young female walked into a meeting, it only mattered what they thought after the meeting. Being knowledgeable, prepared, and professional allowed me to overcome any gender-based bias. If anything, being a female has driven me to be more prepared and has allowed me to stand out in an industry full of men.” Chambers thinks women are uniquely qualified to play a major role in this industry. “Our communication style, organizational skills and natural ability to build relationships help us succeed. I think the dynamic of female energy in a male dominated industry is very powerful. My advice is to come to the table with knowledge and passion. Anyone can sell a good product, but it takes an individual who is invested to help customers grow their business. Our jobs are about bringing value to our customers daily for joint success.” Learn more at trex.com.

FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

SPECIAL SECTION

AVOID 7 COMMON,

FARM, WILDLIFE & PET FENCING

BUT COSTLY,

HORSE FENCING MISTAKES Whether you’re a first-time horse owner or a seasoned veteran, it’s important to know the ins and outs of horse fencing. After all, the safety of the horses the fence protects depends on it. According to Zach Romero with BLACKline, there are a wide variety of horse fencing options on the market, and each has its own set of pros and cons. “It’s important to do your research and choose the fence that’s best for the horses and the specific property. Once you’ve decided on the type of fence you want to install, it’s then important to avoid making mistakes.” Romero and the professionals at Blackline highlight the most common horse fencing mistakes to avoid when installing or repairing horse fencing.

1. NOT DOING YOUR RESEARCH.

Determine what type of fence is best for the project’s scope and budget. There are many resources available to help you make an informed decision with your client, including books, websites, and the local extension office.

2. NOT PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE.

Horses grow quickly, so it’s important to plan for the future when installing fencing. Make sure the fence you install is tall enough to contain fully grown horses. It’s also important to choose a fence that will be durable and easy to repair.

3. NOT TAKING INTO ACCOUNT THE HORSE’S NEEDS.

Horses are social animals and need companionship. When installing fencing, make sure there is enough space for more than one horse. If fencing is for a stallion, he will need his own space away from the mares. It’s also important to make sure the fence is tall enough to prevent the horse from jumping over it.

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

4. NOT CONSIDERING THE TERRAIN.

The terrain of the property is another important factor to consider when installing horse fencing. If it is hilly, you’ll need to ensure the fence is installed properly to prevent it from collapsing.

5. NOT USING THE RIGHT MATERIALS.

Not all fencing materials are created equal. When installing horse fencing, it’s important to use materials that are specifically designed for horses. For example, using barbed wire is a bad idea because it can injure your horse.

6. NOT INSTALLING THE FENCE CORRECTLY.

Even the best fence will only be as good as its installation. If the fence is not installed correctly, it will not be effective. If you are installing horse fencing, make sure you have done your research about the requirements for this type of fencing.

7. NOT MAINTAINING THE FENCE.

Once the fence is installed, it’s important to maintain it – whether this is done by the property owner or the contractor. This includes checking for loose boards or posts, repairing damage, and painting or staining the fence to protect it from the elements. Neglecting to maintain the fence can lead to serious problems, such as horses getting loose or the fence falling apart. Romero says BLACKline offers a wide range of vinyl horse and ranch rail fencing to fit any project needs. “Our black vinyl fencing is durable, stylish and designed for high-temperature performance. We uphold BLACKline high quality in all our fencing products.” Learn more at blacklinehhp.com.

FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

SPECIAL SECTION

OSCILLOT® UNVEILS GROUNDBREAKING PLASTIC CAT-PROOF FENCE ROLLER Affordable, Expansive Backyard Protection Is Now Available

Oscillot®, a pioneer in cat containment solutions, has released a significant innovation in pet safety with their new plastic cat-proof fence roller. Building on eight successful years of manufacturing top-quality aluminum cat fence rollers, this new product offers an affordable and visually appealing alternative to traditional containment systems. The new plastic rollers, available for preorder in North America, reflect Oscillot's dedication to quality, safety, and design. The rollers, already popular in Europe with deliveries that started in October 2023, are expected to begin distribution in North America in early 2024. "The introduction of our plastic cat fence rollers represents a significant advancement for Oscillot, expanding our reach to assist a broader range of pet owners,” says Madison Taylor with Oscillot. “By making our proven cat containment solutions more accessible, we're enabling even more homeowners to protect their pets with a system that is both effective and aesthetically pleasing, without the barrier of higher costs." Like other Oscillot products, the new cat fence rollers are designed for durability, ensuring longevity, with minimal need for maintenance. Oscillot machined components are crafted with high precision and use only the toughest materials to withstand harsh weather conditions, explains Taylor. “Whether faced with dust, rain, or snow, our system keeps on spinning.” For more details on Oscillot® and the new cat fence rollers, visit oscillotamerica.com.

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

GOING THE DISTANCE Long Range

Up to 1,800ft (550m)

Wide Voltage Range Up to 48VDC

ENFORCER 900MHz HL SERIES RF The ENFORCER 900MHz* HL Series RF transmitters and receivers use digital modulation for improved immunity to interference, better signal penetration in environments with heavy obstructions, and significantly longer range of up to 1,800ft (550m)† line of sight. The ultra-low power consumption gives you up to 10-years battery life‡ using common CR2032 coin cell batteries. • • • • • • •

Digital Modulation – Better immunity to interference Consistent Transmission – As temperature varies & voltage drops Armor-Piercing Technology – Improved penetration of obstructions Receiver PCB Antenna – Easy installation, less prone to damage Receiver Has Wide Voltage Range, Low Current – 10~24 VAC / 9~48 VDC Pocket-Sized Transmitter – IP68 Waterproof, up to 10-years battery life‡ Receiver LED Display – Shows reception, signal strength, # of transmitters learned, etc.

* 868MHz also available and has CE † Actual operating range will vary greatly depending on the installation and operating environment ‡ Calculated based on ten 1-second button presses per day

Tel: (800) 662-0800 Fax: (949) 261-7326

Email: sales@seco-larm.com Website: www.seco-larm.com Manufacturer of

FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

SPECIAL SECTION

MAXIMIZING EFFICIENCY: THE PERFECT PAIRING OF MERIWETHER WIRE AND PROTECH FENCING MACHINES In the realm of commercial and agricultural fencing, time is money, and efficiency is the name of the game. For professional contractors seeking to streamline their operations and elevate the quality of their finished projects, the strategic pairing of big rolls of agricultural fencing wire from Meriwether Wire of Kentucky with one-man-operated fencing machines from Protech Machinery in Indiana, proves to be a game-changer. Meriwether Wire in Bowling Green, Kentucky, has emerged as a reliable manufacturer of top-notch agricultural wire. “Our commitment to providing innovative fencing solutions to professional contractors is evident in the unparalleled benefits our wire offers when coupled with cutting-edge machinery like the Protech range,” says Luke Gibson, one of the founders of Meriwether Wire. One of the key considerations when selecting fencing wire is the roll size. Gibson explains that the adage "bigger is better" holds true here, especially when aiming for an uninterrupted workflow. “Larger rolls mean fewer stops to join wire, translating to a significant time-saving advantage for contractors. Meriwether can supply wire specifications as tall as a 2096-6 deer fence in quarter mile rolls. These taller specifications of wire are proving popular for the expanding solar farm market as well as the more traditional applications.” According to Gibson, the Protech machines drive posts quickly and consistently and seamlessly handle big rolls of Meriwether Wire, allowing for continuous, efficient installation without the hassle of frequent interruptions. “Moreover, the even pull-up of the wire net is crucial for maintaining a uniform and aesthetically pleasing fence. The Protech, designed for one-man operation, ensures a smooth and consistent pull. This precision in wire deployment not only enhances efficiency but also contributes to the overall quality of the finished fencing project.” One of the common pitfalls in woven wire fencing installation is dealing with slack line wires, which can be a persistent source of frustration and time loss. “By opting for Meriwether Wire and Protech pairing, contractors mitigate this challenge,” says Gibson. “The combination ensures taut and secure line wires, reducing the need for constant adjustments and rework. This results in a more efficient installation process and a professionally finished fence that stands the test of time.” Rigorous quality control measures employed by Meriwether Wire play a pivotal role in preventing snapping wires during installation. Nothing can derail a project faster than inferior wire prone to breakage. Meriwether Wire's commitment to quality ensures contractors can trust the durability and reliability of their products. This reliability minimizes the risk of on-site setbacks, saving contractors valuable time and resources. While the upfront investment in high-quality machinery and wire may give some contractors pause, Gibson says the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial costs. “As a former fence contractor for 25 years, the time saved in installation, coupled with the assurance of a superior finished product, pays dividends for the cluedup contractor,” he says. “Meriwether Wire's dedication to quality and the seamless compatibility with Protech machines create a synergy that transforms the fencing process into a streamlined, efficient, and ultimately more profitable endeavor.” Overall, Gibson says the marriage of Meriwether Wire's big rolls of agricultural fencing wire with the advanced capabilities of Protech fencing machines represents a paradigm shift in the world of agricultural fencing. The benefits, ranging from minimized installation time to superior project quality, underscore the importance of thoughtful consideration when selecting wire for fencing projects. He adds, “For professional contractors looking to stay ahead in the competitive field, the investment in top-tier machinery and quality wire is not just a wise choice; it's a strategic imperative.” Learn more at meriwetherwire.com and protechmachineryusa.com.

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

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FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

SPECIAL SECTION

DEER FENCE TIPS

FROM CRITTERFENCE It looks easy to install a deer fence. Knock in some posts, attach the fencing, put up the gates, and you’re done. But it’s not quite that simple, according to Jonathan Leonard, product and installation specialist with Critterfence. “Deer fencing has rules that differ from those applicable to most other kinds of fencing. That’s where a lot of installers go astray.”

So don’t take chances. “We’re not talking rocket science,” says Leonard. “We’re talking installation of low-visibility lightweight barrier fencing – a process that, with the right materials and know-how, creates strong, longlasting structures that not only keep out deer, but are far more cost-effective, foot-by-foot, than most chain link, split-rail, or picket fences. Leonard says this is important because demand for deer fences is growing. “The US deer population now totals about 30 million, roughly the number present in colonial times. But colonial deer didn’t have to cope with shrunken forest lands given over to cities, suburbs, and other impact from urbanization. So it’s hardly surprising to find deer invading and denuding yards and gardens, or to find increasing numbers of homeowners determined to keep them out.”

Further fueling the demand, deer carry the ticks responsible for transmitting Lyme disease. This condition is the most common vector-borne disease in the United States. It can be debilitating and often resists treatment. Moreover, because deer have invaded the suburbs, most of those afflicted get the disease not from tick bites in the wilderness, but from tick bites in their own backyards. “Within this context, deer fences are a critical tool, not only for preserving plants, but for keeping deer ticks out of yards and gardens,” adds Leonard. “As a result, the demand for these fences is on the rise. The good news is it’s easy to learn how to build them right.” He offers some key recommendations from Critterfence for successful deer fence installation:

NO PARTIAL FENCES Partial deer fences won’t work. The deer will go around them. So make sure you create a complete enclosure by providing fencing across everything – including gate openings and densely vegetated zones.

FENCE HEIGHT A low-visibility six-foot deer fence, especially in a wooded area, will generally keep out deer. However, seven feet is better, because a 7-foot fence will reliably keep out virtually all browsing deer. Continued on p34

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

POSTS We favor long-lasting round black steel posts, which look good in suburban and estate settings. If appearance doesn’t matter, use studded steel T-posts (not U-posts), being sure to put at least two feet of the post into the ground. Avoid wooden posts, which are cumbersome to move about, more visible than the other types, subject to frost heaves, and laborintensive to install.

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For all 50 states and beyond, a new VOC standard has been set. While coating industry giants nimbly reformulate, EXPERT Professional Wood Care has always formulated eco-friendly stains that contain lower VOCs than the EPA’s 250 grams per liter.

*EXPERT Professional Wood Care performs internal product testing during stain formulation. ©2024. EXPERT®™ Professional Wood Care and EXPERT Stain & Seal are registered trademarks. All rights reserved by Restorative Wood Products, LLC.

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FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

SPECIAL SECTION FENCE BOTTOM Deer don’t want to go over a tall fence, they want to go under it. They will search along the bottom looking for weak spots. If the fence is unprotected at the bottom, they will simply nose underneath and enter the enclosure. To prevent that, some people stretch a taut line along the bottom. However, that leaves small openings at the bottom wherever ground irregularities occur, inviting deer to nose under the fence. A better answer is to fold out six inches of the fencing at the bottom toward the deer and stake it down once every six feet with foot-long kinked galvanized ground stakes. Even before grass grows into the bottom fold and holds it down, this does the trick.

FENCE TOP Don’t put a board or pipe on top of the fence. That will increase the fence’s visibility and encourage deer to jump. However, don’t expect a poly or metal hex (steel web) fence to run absolutely straight along the top. You can fix the wobbly appearance with a top support wire or tensioning system. If the wobbly appearance doesn’t matter, leave it as it is. Alternatively, you can resolve the appearance issue by installing sturdy welded wire fencing with square mesh and keeping your posts fairly close together (not over 10 feet apart).

PLASTIC AND METAL FENCING Never use weak plastic fencing. The deer will walk right through it. Also, avoid plastic (polypropylene) fencing with a breaking strength of less than 650 pounds per linear foot. In general, plastic fencing is less expensive than black metal hexagrid (steel web) or welded wire fencing, but it doesn’t hold up as well or last as long. Also, rabbits and woodchucks (groundhogs) gnaw holes in plastic fences that deer commonly find, poke their heads into, and enlarge to enter the enclosure. So, if you have rabbits or woodchucks, apply a 2-foot strip of metal fencing as a “rodent barrier” along the bottom of the plastic fencing. Or skip the plastic and install more expensive, but stronger and longer-lasting, metal fencing.

GRADE CHANGES A bottom fold will take care of small ground irregularities. Deer fencing is not installed under tension but is drawn taut manually, so when you come to a grade change, install a post at the point where the change seems greatest, terminate the fencing at that point by cutting it and attaching it to the post, and start a new run of fencing following the new grade. Note that in most cases going around a corner has the effect of changing the grade along the fence line. Therefore, when you get to a corner, plan on cutting the fencing, attaching it to the corner post, and starting a new run of fencing following the new grade.

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JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

CEMENT FOOTINGS Avoid most cement footings. Line posts and Critterfence brace posts don’t need them. Reserve cement footings for brace posts bought from other vendors and for gates.

Learn more about deer fencing and how it works at critterfence.com/deer-fence.

Join Our Annual Fence Training School & Capstone Memorial Project Starting February 11 - 15, 2024

NAFCA’s Fence Training School provides a hands-on, real-world learning led by industry professionals with a combined 450+ years of experience.

Learn innovative, professional training techniques in-field during FTS2024 on a wide variety of topics: • Access Controls • Chain Link • Farm & Ranch • HTP Rail & Strand • Ornamental, Vinyl, Wood Fencing • Welding • Tools • Stain Application • Equipment & Safety

DON’T MISS THIS MUST-ATTEND EVENT.

FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

SPECIAL SECTION

BULLET HITS THE TARGET WHEN IT COMES TO BRACING AG FENCING Ag Fencers have many choices, as Ronald Goedecke, owner of Bullet Fence Systems, learned first-hand when working with Oklahoma ranchers during his time as an Oklahoma NRCS soil conservationist.. “There’s no doubt that choosing the right materials, installation equipment and construction methods will result in a high-quality fence, built more efficiently,” he says. “Knowing what to choose is the challenge, and if you have ever had to install a pipe fence brace, you likely know some of the challenges that can come with those choices.” Conventional wisdom might tell you to hire a welder and call it a day. (Or, if you’re more self-sufficient and have the right equipment at your disposal, perhaps you’ll plan on performing the necessary welds yourself.) The problem with securing a professional is that it can be costly, according to Goedecke, as much as $20 per weld or more in many cases — and you might run into timing issues depending on your welder’s availability. To further complicate your project timeline, hot, dry or windy conditions can make welding a risky activity, if not prohibited altogether. The Fence Bullet Pipe Brace Kit system, developed by Goedecke on his ranch, in similar circumstances to those described above, offers a simpler remedy for a range of projects for professional fence contractor jobs. After building and testing his pipe brace kit and seeing the reaction from ranchers who used it, Goedecke founded Bullet Fence Systems, LLC, to put the do-it-yourself pipe brace kit into the hands of even more ranchers, farmers, landowners and contractors in search of simple, affordable fence solutions. Benefits of the Fence Bullet Pipe Brace Kits include: Fast, easy and strong Minimal hand tools required for assembly Adjustable and reusable Long life, all galvanized No welding required, no fire risk “We want to offer a solution for everyone,” says Goedecke. “Not everybody is going to hire a contractor or has a portable welder that you can take out in the field. The Fence Bullet just eliminates that need.” Easy assembly means potential savings. The kits come in a variety of size 36

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

and include post bands, pipe sleeves, nuts and bolts as well as a press-on cap for protection against the elements. The streamlined simplicity the Fence Bullet Pipe Brace Kit delivers can translate to significant value. With uprights in and pipes cut, Goedecke says it can take as little as five minutes to connect an H style or N style brace, or just 10 minutes for an HN style brace. “What this means for your fence project is a shortened timeline with less labor required and, ultimately, serious savings potential.” And while a welded brace is still going to be your strongest solution, the Bullet Fence System does not compromise when it comes to strength and durability. Its well-crafted steel components are designed to last under a variety of conditions. Best of all, Goedecke says the Bullet kit is versatile and compatible with existing fencing already in place. Goedecke says several steel no weld pipe brace alternative methods have emerged because of fire danger. “And although fire was the main reason for development, no-weld systems, such as Fence Bullet Kits, reduce cost and improve efficiency in many ways. No weld pipe connectors are another product to add to your list of choices for ag fencing success.” Learn more at bulletfence.com.

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FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

Avon Plastics Expands Distribution Operations Avon Plastics has expanded its distribution operations in Paynesville, Minnesota, with the opening of an additional 40,000 square-foot warehouse. The expansion is a part of Avon Plastics’ continued commitment to meeting the growing demand for its products and improving its supply chain capabilities. The new warehouse will not only enhance the company’s distribution network, but also enable Avon Plastics to better serve its customers across the nation. Equipped with advanced technology and modern infrastructure, the new warehouse will significantly increase Avon Plastics’ storage capacity, allowing the company to streamline its inventory management processes, ensuring efficient order fulfillment and timely deliveries. Additionally, the facility’s strategic location will facilitate quicker transportation and reduced lead times. Avon Plastics specializes in a wide range of products, including Armadillo composite decking, Master Mark lawn and garden products, Grid Axcents decorative lattice, QuixTile interlocking flooring tile, and TurboClip decking fasteners. Learn more at avonplastics.com.

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JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

12/10/23 6:41 PM

FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

Nice Names Paul Williams as Head of New Home Management Solutions Business Unit Global home management solutions provider Nice has announced the appointment of Paul Williams as managing director of the new Home Management Solutions Business Unit. Williams, currently chief product officer at Nice North America, will head up the new unit that was established to allow the company to oversee a worldwide approach to this sector to bridge the gap between technology, design, ease of use and sustainability, and make home an active, efficient and safe system capable of taking care of the people who live there, improving their quality of life and ultimately simplifying their everyday. The Home Management Solutions Business Unit

aims to provide a holistic home management experience where integration and connectivity are key to creating living spaces where everyone can feel protected and free. “Taking on the leadership of the Home Management Solutions Business Unit is more than a new role for me; it is a chance to redefine how we interact with our homes and evolve our development culture,” Williams says. “My vision is for us to be highly focused on delivering holistic experiences for our users, crafting solutions rooted in powerful platforms and interconnected ecosystems. I genuinely believe that by creating complete solutions, we are not only meeting

expectations but surpassing them, bringing unparalleled value and satisfaction to our customers.” Prior to joining Nice in 2022, Williams spent nearly 15 years at Control4, where he held numerous senior leadership positions in the areas of operations, support, hospitality sales and product/R&D. After Control4, he joined GE Lighting, where he built a team that has created a do-it-yourself smart home ecosystem integrating dozens of products and a mobile app experience that is now used by millions of consumers. Learn more at niceforyou.com.

Senstar Releases Senstar Symphony 8.6 Senstar has released its newest update to the Symphony platform, its high-performance video management solution. New features include full-featured, two-stage alarm management, new GUI customization options, new rule functionality and enhanced cybersecurity. The Senstar Symphony Common Operating Platform with sensor fusion is a modular solution for security management and data intelligence. In addition to being an open, highly scalable video management system with built-in video analytics, it includes full-featured access control and perimeter intrusion detection modules. As an open platform, Senstar Symphony supports cameras from all major vendors and easily scales to any size, providing intuitive operator clients and simple per-camera licensing, Learn more at senstar.com.

Canadian Fence Association Holds Annual Summit in February The Canadian Fence Association’s (CFA) annual summit will be held February 7 – 9 in Quebec City at the Delta Marriott. It provides the opportunity for networking, educational seminars, socials and trade show. “We purposefully chose the dates and location to coincide with the world-famous Quebec Winter Carnival, February 2 – 11,” explains Scott Ruzesky, president of Rite-Way Fencing and president of the CFA. “Our annual summit is the premiere event for our industry and we’re looking forward to seeing new and familiar faces join us.” Included in the CFA Summit Package are scheduled educational seminars, giving the opportunity to learn from long-time fence industry professionals and starting new conversations about the industry and its changing dynamics. “From the seminars to the gala, to the keynote speaker, we’re anticipating a dynamic summit and hope as many people as possible are able to join us,” says Ruzesky. Room reservations should be made using the CFA block of rooms for the discounted rate. For more information, visit canadianfenceassociation.ca.

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HomeFront Brands Announces National Charity Partnerships with Operation Homefront and The Carson Scholars Foundation HomeFront Brands, the property service franchise platform with six emerging concepts in its franchise portfolio, recently announced partnerships with two prominent national nonprofit organizations, Operation Homefront and The Carson Scholars Foundation, a reflection of its own recently established tagline, "The family of brands that C.A.R.E.S" (the company's five core values: Community, Accountability, Respect, Excellence, and Service). "We are beyond grateful to partner with two remarkable organizations that align so perfectly with our mission and values at HomeFront Brands," says Jeff Dudan, chairman and CEO of HomeFront Brands. "These partnerships reflect our shared commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders and expressing our profound appreciation to the courageous individuals who have selflessly served our nation. I, as well as the rest of my team, am looking forward to the meaningful impact we can make now and into the future in tandem with Operation Homefront and The Carson Scholars Foundation." Since 2002, Operation Homefront has been proudly serving America's military families. The nonprofit organization provides relief and recurring family support programs and services throughout

the year to help military families overcome shortterm difficulties so that they don't become long-term hardships. Prior to the partnership announcement, HomeFront Brands made an initial donation of $20,000 to the organization, and in addition, has set a goal to raise more than $50,000 in 2024 for its military families. Additional commitments of the partnership include helping to provide transitional homes for veterans, awarding recipients of the nonprofit's Military Child of the Year with laptops to support their educational endeavors, participating in the organization's 11 days of impact for Veterans Day and more. HomeFront Brands is recognized as a one-star partner of Operation Homefront. The Carson Scholars Foundation is a nonprofit organization that seeks to combat the American education crisis by rewarding excellence in the nation's youth through its Scholarship programs and by developing reading rooms in libraries and schools across the country through The Ben Carson Reading Project initiative. Through an initial donation of $20,000, HomeFront Brands will be donating a state-of-the-art reading room to a deserving school in the Charlotte, North Carolina, area, reaffirming its commitment to promoting literacy and education within its local community. The donation will mark

the beginning of a nationwide expansion effort, where HomeFront Brands aims to replicate the reading room donation in schools across the country. "Leading by example has always been a fundamental principle at HomeFront Brands," continued Dudan. "Embarking on these transformative partnerships will serve as a guiding light, not just for our dedicated franchisees, but for everyone affiliated with HomeFront Brands. We're thrilled to be launching both partnerships with our initial donations, which serve as a catalyst to propel our collective efforts into action." HomeFront Brands offers community-based franchise opportunities to aspiring entrepreneurs seeking to build a dynasty and create generational wealth. By leveraging data-driven insights and enterprise level solutions with a focus on responsible franchising, the brand is accelerating the growth of its portfolio of property service franchise concepts. For more information, visit homefrontbrands.com.

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EAGLE FENCE — TE XAS 14430 Smith Rd. Humble, T X 7 7396 281.741.1503 87 7.741.4896 Fax : 832.288.5197

EAGLE FENCE — ARKANSAS 1145 Baucum Industrial Dr. Little Rock , AR 72117 501.324.1800 888.324.1803 Fax : 501.324.1801

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Updates for ASTM 1184-16 Standard Specification for Industrial and Commercial Horizontal Slide Gates Most fence professionals are not aware of the work being done by ASTM

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

and others such as Underwriters Laboratory (UL) to enhance the safety and

Gates shall be designed, constructed, and installed to not fall over more

protection for the industry. Unfortunately, tragedies and fatalities happen

than 45 degrees from the vertical plane, when a gate is detached from

often in our industry. ASTM F2220 and UL325 standards were written to

the supporting hardware.

provide safety and protection for all gates that are automated. But what about manual gate installations? “ASTM 1184-16 is the standard

Positive stops shall be required to limit travel to the designed fully open and fully closed positions. These stops shall be installed at either the

specification for industrial and commercial horizontal gates and has always

top of the gate, or at the bottom of the gate where such stops shall

been part of the fence standards, but now has been enhanced to provide

horizontally or vertically project no more than is required to perform their

more focus on fall over protection,” explains Tony Thornton, president and

intended function.

founder of Fence Consulting Group. “We see manual slide gates like overhead, v-groove, roll and cantilever gates that are not automated, and as an industry

3. All weight bearing exposed rollers 8 ft (2.44 m), or less, above grade shall be guarded or covered.

we haven’t taken the necessary requirements to protect these gates from

4. A gap, measured in the horizontal plane parallel to the roadway, between

fall over, but with the updates on 1184-16, we are now required to do so,

a fixed stationary object nearest the roadway (such as a gate support

regardless of manual or automated.”

post) and the gate frame when the gate is in either the fully open position

Automated gates aren’t the only risk of danger, manual gates require

or the fully closed position, shall not exceed 2 1⁄4 in. (57 mm).

a focus on safety as well. “Our industry has placed so much emphasis on

Exception: All other fixed stationary objects greater than 16 in. (406 mm) from the

F2200 and UL325 for automated gates we didn’t place the same focus on

gate frame shall not be required to comply with this section.

manual gates,” Thornton says. “As more studies and research has been done, our industry has seen an increase in manual gate injuries and fatalities and hopefully the updated 1184 standard will help curb these.” The only way to increase awareness is through awareness and education for both manual and automated gate installations. Is your company doing enough to educate yourself, your team and the consumers? “As an industry, we have worked diligently to educate, but the industry professionals have taken a lack luster attitude towards adopting the standards as a company practice. When are you going to start?” he asks. ASTM F1184-16 was adopted by committee on October 13, 2022, and the revisions for the classification and requirements is now better defined. CLASSIFICATION 4.1.1 Type I – Overhead Slide – Any horizontal slide gate supported only from above. 4.1.2 Type II – Cantilever Gate – Any horizontal slide gate spanning as opening lacking a top or bottom support within that opening. Type II gates shall be supplied in one of two classes. • 4.1.2.1 Class I – Steel frame gates and aluminum frame gates using external rollers. • 4.1.2.2 Class II – Steel frame gates and aluminum frame gates using internal rollers. 4.1.3 Type III- Rolling gate- Any horizontal slide gate that requires support on grade to traverse the gate opening. Type III gates shall be supplied with one of two classes. • 4.1.3.1 Class I – Steel frame gates and aluminum frame gates using an on-grade track support and guide the entire gate. • 4.1.3.2 Class II – Steel frame gates and aluminum frame gates using a supporting pipe track at the trailing edge and an on-guide roller support at the leading edge of the gate.

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

5. All gates shall be designed with sufficient lateral stability to assure that the gate will enter a receiver guide. 5.1 Single Panel: Receiver guides shall be recessed behind the leading edge of the receiver post or fixed object. Exception: Receiver guides mounted greater than 8 ft (2.44 m) above grade shall not be required to comply with this section. 5.2 Dual Panels: Receiver guides, if used, may be installed on either panel, and shall include a cross-sectional area of 9 in.2 (5806 mm2) or greater as measured on the leading edge of each guide. 6. Gates shall be designed, constructed, and installed such that their movement shall not be initiated by gravity and shall not result in continuous, unimpeded movement in either linear direction of it travel.

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Encon Electronics Announces th 40 Anniversary Year Events Encon Electronics was founded on August 4, 1984, by a groundbreaking trailblazer named Betty Mullin. Over the years, the company has established and maintained its reputation as a pioneer and leader in the gate and access control distribution industry. 2024 marks Encon Electronics’ 40th anniversary. In honor of this milestone, the company is planning a slew of events throughout the entire year dedicated specifically to their customers and vendors. MAY 16

MAY 18

SEPTEMBER 5-7

The company will hold its popular vendor dinner where various manufacturer representatives from across the gate and access industries join with Encon employees for a fun-filled dinner and night of friendly collaboration.

Encon will host the 2024 NorCal Expo trade show at their headquarters in Hayward, California. All gate, door, and access dealers should save the date for one of the only trade shows offered in Northern California. Industry leaders will be showcasing new and featured products and promoting NorCal Expo-only discounts.

Encon will be exhibiting at the West Coast Fence Show taking place at the Peppermill Resort, Spa, & Casino in Reno, Nevada. Attendees can stop by Encon booth #335/337 to meet with their crew and take advantage of the many 40th anniversary giveaways the company will be distributing throughout the show.

MAY 17 Encon will host its annual golf tournament. The shot-gun event will be held at the Los Positas Golf Course in Livermore, California, and will feature a 1980s theme in honor of the company’s founding year. All Encon customers and vendors are invited to attend.

AUGUST 2 (TENTATIVE) The primary anniversary celebration is being planned. Additional details will be available in the coming months.

In addition to the scheduled events above, Encon will also be offering incredible deals and unique training opportunities throughout 2024. Each month, Encon will announce a different manufacturer as their “Vendor of the Month.” The featured manufacturer will offer “Encon 40th anniversary” specials and discounts available for Encon dealers only. There will also be a variety of sponsored seminars and training sessions scheduled in the year. To learn more about any of Encon’s anniversary events or specials, call 800-782-5598 or email jeff@enconelectronics.com.

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Viking Fence Acquires Hook-N-Haul Dumpsters Viking Fence, a leading provider of temporary site services (temporary fence, sanitation, and portable storage), permanent fence installations and complementary building products to commercial and residential markets throughout Texas, has acquired Hook-N-Haul Dumpsters, a premier provider of dumpster rentals throughout the greater Austin metroplex. Founded in 2013, Hook-N-Haul has built a solid reputation as a reliable and affordable dumpster rental company in the Austin market. Operating out of two locations, Hook-N-Haul serves a broad range of commercial and residential customers with a large fleet of 12- to 40-yard dumpsters and a tenured and professional team of drivers and employees. “Viking could not be more excited about our partnership with Stacy & Joanie Shamblin, and the rest of the Hook-N-Haul team,” says Sal Chavarria, Director and Co-Owner of Viking Fence. "We have been looking for the right partner to add a high-quality dumpster rental service to Viking’s existing fence,

sanitation and portable storage rental services as a way to better serve our customers throughout Texas. Given Hook-N-Haul’s reputation for service and commitment to its customers, we knew we had found that partner from our first conversation with them.” Stacy Shamblin, Owner of Hook-N-Haul, states, “Hook-N-Haul was really born from necessity. After 25 years in the construction industry, we were unable to find a reliable dumpster company who could provide the level of service most contractors and homeowners expect. My wife, Joanie, and I set out to build a team that could. Hook-N-Haul is proud to be partnering with Viking Fence. Viking’s core values of delivering unmatched service and dedication to their employees line up well with Hook-N-Haul’s. I believe this acquisition is just the beginning of exciting things to come for both companies.” Learn more at vikingfence.com. FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

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JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

Cornerstone Building Brands Partners with Dave and Jenny Marrs to Showcase Leading Products on Season 5 of Fixer to Fabulous Cornerstone Building Brands, the largest manufacturer of exterior building products by sales in North America, will be featured in Dave and Jenny Marrs’ hit series Fixer to Fabulous as the company kicks off a multi-year, multi-brand agreement with the esteemed home renovating duo. Season 5 of the show follows Cornerstone Building Brands Brand Ambassadors Dave and Jenny Marrs as they transform historic houses into charming forever homes around their hometown of Bentonville, Arkansas. Three leading product brands from the Cornerstone Building Brands family — Ply Gem, Mastic Siding & Accessories and Reed’s Metals — will be featured in six episodes throughout the season that began in late 2023. These products were all selected by Dave and Jenny Marrs to provide beauty, durability, efficiency and long-term cost savings to unique properties throughout the Bentonville area. "Jenny and I will not recommend a product until we have personally used it and verified its quality. On this season of Fixer to Fabulous, we use siding, stone, windows, metal roofing, trim, shutters and fencing — all provided by Cornerstone Building Brands," says Dave Marrs, host of Fixer to Fabulous. "We never thought one company could provide essentially everything on the exterior envelope of a home, but they are doing it with a commitment to sustainability without sacrifice." Ply Gem’s made in the USA products that will be featured throughout Season 5 of the show with other Cornerstone Building Brand Partners, include: PLY GEM FENCE & RAILING WIDE SCALLOPED PICKET FENCE: Durability meets the American Dream with the Wide Scalloped Picket Fence from Ply Gem. Featuring a unique scalloped design, the series is both eye-catching and elegant with acrylic impact modifiers that increase strength and flexibility for maximum durability. PLY GEM TRIM: From elegant mantels and crown moldings to crisp corner posts, Trim & Moldings from Ply Gem add the finishing touch to a home’s exterior. They’re easy to install, durable and can be painted to match the color of existing siding. “At Cornerstone Building Brands, we have a deep commitment to positively contribute to communities now and for generations to come,” says Susan Selle, Cornerstone Building Brands' chief marketing officer. "Dave and Jenny Marrs' parallel dedication to building a better tomorrow in their community and hands-on experience with our portfolio of products make them a natural fit for Cornerstone Building Brands." Fixer to Fabulous airs on Tuesdays at 8 pm EST on HGTV. For more information on Cornerstone Building Brands’ partnership with Dave and Jenny Marrs, visit plygem.com/siding/dave-and-jenny-marrs/

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United Site Services Names New CEO and CFO United Site Services (USS), the leading provider of portable sanitation and temporary site services in the United States, is pleased to announce the appointment of James E. Hyman as chief executive officer (CEO) and John Hafferty as chief financial officer (CFO). USS is the nation’s leading temporary site services provider with a comprehensive offering of portable restrooms, hand hygiene solutions, temporary fence, trailer solutions, roll off dumpsters and more. Hyman brings more than 25 years of experience in business leadership, with a proven track record of driving demonstrated performance improvement, particularly for multi-location, service businesses. He has also served on the board of multiple public and private companies. His experience will allow him to work with the team to both enhance operational processes and foster new growth across United Site Services. Hafferty joins USS from Husky Injection Molding Systems where he served as CFO. He brings more than 25 years of experience in finance, accounting and transportation, logistics, and finance leadership roles. He will leverage his expertise in financial reporting, financial controls, strategic planning and change management to improve financial operations at USS. "We are pleased to welcome James and John to United Site Services," says Bryan Kelln, platinum partner and interim CEO for USS. "James has a track record of delivering large and sustained improvements in operating and financial performance that he can leverage here at USS. John brings a depth of expertise in implementing and managing financial controls. Their appointments mark the beginning of an exciting new chapter for USS." Learn more at unitedsiteservices.com.

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

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John Hafferty chief financial officer (CFO)

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Alix Glodich

VICE PRESIDENT, RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT STANDARD PAINTS, INC. | WOOD DEFENDER Images courtesy of Standard Paints, Inc. Photography by Taz Bentley Photo

Holding to an internal standard of excellence, Alix Glodich excels in the fields of math and science. She is vice president of research and development at Standard Paints, Inc. | Wood Defender in Mansfield, Texas, immersed in the world of chemistry, coatings, applications and formulas. Read her story and learn how the pandemic brought her a new perspective on her career, and her advice for other women in the fence industry. WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES? My department, research and development, is responsible for new product development, existing product support, raw material sourcing and implementation, safety and compliance, and quality control. We test all production batches to ensure that they meet current standards for color and performance. Once the batches are made to our standards, we’re responsible for SDS (Safety Data Sheet) authoring and management, compliance, reporting, permitting, and chemical training. A large part of my job also involves testing raw material offsets to stay ahead of supply chain shortages and price hikes. In addition to identifying quality raw materials, we prioritize testing safer, greener options. WHAT WAS YOUR CAREER PATH PRIOR TO STANDARD PAINTS? Following a lifelong passion for math and science, I pursued a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry and a master’s degree in polymers and coatings chemistry at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. Cal Poly is unique in that it’s one of the only universities to offer a graduate program for coatings chemistry. For my master’s thesis, I studied polyurethane-graphene nanocomposites as potential binders for anticorrosive coatings. My first job was at Dunn Edwards Paints, an architectural coatings company headquartered in Los Angeles, California. I worked as a product development chemist and developed a waterborne direct-to-metal paint. In 2017, I moved to Fort Worth, Texas, and started working for Kelly-Moore Paints, which is another architectural coatings company. At Kelly-Moore, I was a group leader for the research lab. My team specialized in developing and testing specialty coatings, finding raw material offsets, and investigating customer complaints. WHAT LED YOU TO STANDARD PAINTS? When the pandemic started, I was at a different company. Things became increasingly difficult for many people around the country. Like many others, those of us in the coatings industry were worried about getting laid off. We didn’t know if lockdowns would affect manufacturing or if people would continue to buy coatings during the pandemic. Our lives and our livelihoods hung in the balance. That brought things into perspective for me.

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

I realized I needed to work in an environment where people are prioritized and valued for more than the services they provide. I have also found that rigid bureaucracy can inhibit innovation. Coatings development, which is a science, is also an art. You need space to be creative. As soon as I stepped in the door at Standard Paints for my interview, I knew it would be home. Everyone is down-to-earth and humble, as well as open-minded and happy to share in the responsibility for the wellbeing of the company and its team members. I found my home at Standard Paints in 2022. HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT WORKING IN A PRIMARILY MALEDOMINATED INDUSTRY? Standard Paints maintains a balanced ratio of men to women in the workplace, so I wouldn’t say that my experience has been particularly male dominated. However, there are certainly more men than women on the contractor side of the industry. It’s always important to consider how bias impacts our experience in the workplace and beyond, whether it surrounds gender or other inherent or even learned traits. I always try to look at people as individuals and treat them as such. WHAT QUALITIES DO YOU BRING TO YOUR JOB? I love solving problems, and thoroughly enjoy researching solutions. I have a good organizational system and can tackle multiple projects at once. I take pride in tailoring my management style to each individual member of my team to motivate and encourage each person. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ABOUT MORE WOMEN NOW WORKING IN THE FENCE INDUSTRY? I am excited that more women are joining the fence industry. It is an innovative industry full of amazing people. It is very beneficial for companies to have employees with a wide range of lived experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds. Having different perspectives on the team ensures that we can create products for a broad spectrum of customers.

Standard Paints research and development team pictured in the lab. From left to right are Andy Bare, quality control manager; Alix Glodich, vice president of research and development; and Taiwo Olaoye, junior chemist.

Alix demonstrates how to use the lab’s automatic flash point tester.

WAS THERE A PARTICULAR TEACHER OR ACTIVITY THAT SPARKED YOUR LOVE OF MATH AND SCIENCE? My parents encouraged me to be inquisitive from a very young age. My favorite toy was a snap circuit set. Throughout my childhood I participated in extracurricular academic programs from Johns Hopkins CTY, Institute for Educational Advancement, and Mathletes. When I was in middle school, I went to a science summer camp with a teacher named Mr. Shargel. We built hovercrafts, blew stuff up, dissected frogs, and launched eggs off a balcony in custom-designed parachutes. I honestly think anyone would love science after going to that camp. A good teacher makes all the difference! WHAT IS SOMETHING ABOUT YOUR JOB THAT SOME PEOPLE MIGHT FIND SURPRISING? Most people underestimate the complexity of coatings formulations. You have a variety of different materials that are often inherently incompatible with one another, mixed together in a formula. Some of the ingredients are dissolved, and some are merely suspended, susceptible to gravity and other forces. As a formulator, you must be aware of stability, application, and long-term performance. Changing one small ingredient can be massively detrimental to the performance of other ingredients in the formula. Often, coatings labs get mischaracterized as primarily color formulation labs, but that’s only a small part of coatings research and development.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A YOUNGER WOMAN STARTING HER CAREER IN THIS INDUSTRY? Every person faces unique challenges throughout life. Discrimination and bias can be difficult to overcome. Instead of focusing on potential barriers, focus on shattering negative biases and expectations by doing the absolute best job you can. If that doesn’t work, shift your priorities to finding a workplace more in line with your values. You have a choice about where you work. When people are consumed by the feeling that they are perceived as inadequate, it can wreak havoc on their careers. I don’t want to be judged or valued based on characteristics that are out of my control. I don’t want to be an amazing scientist for a woman. I want to be an amazing scientist. I’m fortunate to have found an employer that recognizes my accomplishments, values the expertise that I bring, and appreciates me for the person I am. Learn more at wooddefender.com.

WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ON YOUR OFF-TIME, AWAY FROM WORK? I’m still very involved with Cal Poly and conduct mock interviews for graduating seniors so they are better prepared when they enter the job market. I also tutor high school and college students in math, chemistry, and physics. To unwind, I play video games. From time to time, I attend music festivals with my husband. I also love animals. We have three dogs and two cats: there’s never a dull moment in our house!

Taiwo Olaoye tests the colors of a batch next to the color standard.

FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

Top Rail Fence Moves into Florida with a New Tampa location

Top Rail Fence, the on-time professionals in fence design, quality, installation and service, has opened a new location in Tampa, Florida. Top Rail Fence Tampa is owned by Matthew and Alicia Heck. The Hecks were both born and raised in Indiana but moved to the Tampa area more than 10 years ago. Matthew Heck worked as a sales and marketing executive for a local television station and an advertising agency before moving into business ownership. Alicia Heck is an interior designer specializing in custom closets and accent walls. Top Rail Fence Tampa serves residents in Carrollwood, Davis Islands, Lake Magdalene,

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Land O Lakes, Lutz, Midtown, Odessa, Seminole Heights, Tampa, Temple Terrace, Town 'N' Country, University, Wesley Chapel, Westchase and Zephyrhills, Florida. Top Rail Fence is a part of HomeFront Brands, a family of emerging, franchised residential and commercial property service brands that includes Top Rail Fence, Temporary Wall Systems, BiltRite Home Inspections, The Designery, Window Hero Exterior Cleaning Services and Mozzie Dome. Top Rail Fence provides residential, commercial and agricultural fencing in a variety of styles and materials. Learn more at toprailfence.com/ locations/tampa/.

Empower Brands Surges Forward: A Year of Remarkable Growth and Expansion Empower Brands, multi-brand franchisor of premium commercial and residential services, is celebrating remarkable milestones just one year after its rebranding. The umbrella company has navigated an extraordinary path since November 2022, achieving unprecedented growth through strategic acquisitions and expansion, solidifying itself as a top player in the franchising industry. When the rebranding was announced last year, Empower Brands set an aggressive goal to increase its portfolio to 10 brands by the close of 2023. Empower currently boasts 11 brands on its roster. Empower not only grew its brand roster but expanded its already established brands adding over 200 new franchise territories, bringing its portfolio to over 800 territories across 42 states and eight countries. The brand also set a company record by surpassing $1.2 billion in systemwide sales. The exceptional growth has garnered recognition for Empower Brands in prominent industry listings, including Entrepreneur's Franchise 500, Inc. 5000 and Franchise Times' Dealmakers of the Year. "This year stands as proof of the dedication and hard work of our team, strategic partners and franchisees," says Scott Zide, CEO of Empower Brands. "Their commitment has been instrumental in our success, driving our growth and achievements. We're poised to build upon this foundation of collaboration to further innovate and excel what we've established." The brand's commitment to a franchisee-first approach is evident in the formation of a seasoned senior leadership team and an increase in corporate staff by over 40 individuals. Additionally, the establishment of an incubation team signifies Empower Brands' forward-looking strategy to nurture and cultivate emerging brands within its ecosystem. Empower Brands remains committed to its vision of continual evolution and innovation. As the brand looks ahead to 2024, its theme will be to adapt, evolve and innovate. To learn more about franchising with Empower Brands, visit EmpowerFranchising.com.

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Where Did the Time Go? Why the trip down memory lane? Two reasons. First, it is sometimes fun to look back to see the by Mark Levin, CAE, CSP Executive vice president, Chain Link Fence Manufacturers Institute 2022 Inductee, American Fence Association Hall of Fame

In my last column, I wrote about some of the ways to make FENCETECH 2024 a profitable investment. Afterward, I started thinking about my own participation in the annual industry trade show. It reminded me of how long I’ve been part of the fence industry, and all the changes that I’ve seen over that period of time. With a little research, I discovered that the first

isn’t fully understood. However, it is already

what was going on then with what is happening

impacting the design and architectural

in 2024. It is eye-opening to see how much

professionals, it is already being used extensively

has changed. Of course, for those of us who

in manufacturing, including fencing materials,

can actually remember that far back, it is also a

and it has the potential to become a part of

reminder of how old we have gotten and how fast

the industry on job sites (delivery of materials,

the years roll by!

hazardous materials handling, installation, etc.)

Second, it is a good way to remind us of the opportunities that are out there today in the fence

When walking through the exhibit hall at

industry that didn’t exist 40 years ago! These

FENCETECH 2024, it is somewhat like walking

include:

through a maze of products, services, and systems

• The solar/renewable fuels market, which is estimated to continue growing beyond the $33 billion industry it is today. This industry uses

even sure it was called FENCETECH at that time. I

perimeter security fencing on projects in every

know that AFA wasn’t AFA at that time; it was IFIA,

conceivable setting – urban, suburban, rural and

the International Fence Industry Association. The

remote. Many projects have fencing measured in

executive director wasn’t Michael Reed, it was

miles, not feet.

its own “pavilion” at the show, where most of the companies had exhibits next to each other. The world outside of FENCETECH was a lot different in 1984, too. There was no internet. Only 8% of American households had a home computer. What $1 could buy in1984 would take about $3 today. The Dow Jones Average ended the year at 1,200, it is at 36,000 today. Ronald Reagan was re-elected president in a landslide over Walter Mondale. Wendy’s kicked off their “Where’s the beef?” campaign. Alex Trebek asked his first question on Jeopardy! Cabbage Patch Kids continued their reign as the top-selling toy in America. Pritzker Award-winning Frank Gehry was awarded the first Chain Link Fence Manufacturers Institute Design Award for his sign at Santa Monica Place project.

• The high security market, which was a much narrower field 40 years ago. Since then, 9/11, cybersecurity concerns, civil unrest, and greater

FENCETECH was like 40 years ago. There are solutions to problems that didn’t even exist when I started in this industry. The chain link fence manufacturers don’t want to even be near each other now because they all make such a wide range of products. Education programs with titles and content that wouldn’t have attracted a handful of contractors in 1984 are sold out as soon as they are announced. Nostalgia is great for looking back and making us feel good. FENCETECH 2024 will represent

this a hugely different opportunity in 2024.

a chance to look ahead and be glad for the

(Note: yes, it is sad that places such as schools

opportunities the future holds.

and parks are now considered candidates for “high security” fencing, but that’s the world in which we live.) • The green market, which doesn’t refer to a local grocery store or a lawn and garden outlet. Rather, it refers to the growing (pardon the pun) emphasis on making construction projects as environmentally friendly as possible. End users, from government agencies to local communities to individual homeowners, are requiring building materials to meet certain contractors, suppliers, and manufacturers need to know which products meet clean, green, and LEED requirements. It also means that designing and installing environmentally friendly perimeter security systems can be a big advantage in a market that didn’t exist in 1984.

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

from another planet when compared to what

government oversite have combined to make

environmental guidelines. That means fencing

technology so its potential impact on fencing

way things were so long ago, and to compare

FENCETECH I attended was 40 years ago. I’m not

Rodger Duke. The chain link fence industry had

• AI (artificial intelligence) which is a still-evolving

As executive vice president of Chain Link Fence Manufacturers Institute for 38+ years, Mark Levin is also an author and avid promoter of the fence industry. He believes in the successful leadership qualities he promotes, including listening, delegating, consensus building, communications and effective decisionmaking. Chain Link Fence Manufacturers Institute 10015 Old Columbia Road, Suite B215 Columbia, Maryland 21046 301-596-2583 info@chainlinkinfo.org www.chainlinkinfo.org

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Backyarding Trends for 2024

The TurfMutt Foundation Shares Its Predictions

"Backyarding" – the act of taking activities typically associated with the indoors outside into the green space around us – will continue taking root in 2024, according to the TurfMutt Foundation, which advocates for the care and use of green space, including our own backyards, community parks, green space, and school yards. But next year, the TurfMutt Foundation expects the practice of "backyarding" to evolve into an ongoing sustainability practice. "Now more than ever, homeowners are recognizing the power of their yards and parks doing environmental good, as well as benefitting their health and well-being," says Kris Kiser, president and CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation and its parent organization the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI). "Homeowners are making improvements in their yards with many goals in mind, thinking about what's good for their families, pets, and our planet."

High interest rates and low housing inventory mean more homeowners have chosen to renovate rather than move into a new home. With interior improvements complete, the focus turns to backyard improvements that customize the outdoor space and artfully merge indoor and outdoor living.

The TurfMutt Foundation predicts these 10 backyarding trends for 2024: Improving Existing Space (Rather Than Moving to a New One). High interest rates and low housing inventory mean more homeowners have chosen to renovate rather than move into a new home. With interior improvements complete, the focus turns to backyard improvements that customize the outdoor space and artfully merge indoor and outdoor living.

Seeking a Home Near a Park or Nature. Even homeowners looking to downsize still want to maintain a connection with nature. They know backyarding can happen in any size yard and seek additional connection to nature through community parks, school yards, and other green space.

Return of Neighborhood Parties…in the Backyard. Over the last several years, homeowners

homeowners are turning their backyards into a place for fun and games. Some go all out to install a pool or pickleball court while others take a simpler approach like designating a strip of grass for cornhole or a small soccer pitch.

Taking Better Care of Living Landscapes. Since homeowners have come to value their lawns, trees, and plants more than ever, they are investing in their care like never before. This means investing in equipment for DIY work and calling in professionals, as needed, for pruning, rescuing diseased trees, and revitalizing turfgrass, just to name a few. Choosing Real Grass. The trend of ripping out real

have invested in their outdoor living areas, and now they are using that space to bring back neighborhood block parties in their own backyards.

grass and replacing it with fake, plastic alternatives is fading as homeowners and communities recognize the limitations – and downsides – of plastic grass. Synthetic turf is hard to clean, hot on feet and paws, and difficult to recycle.

Creating a Backyard Oasis for Fun. From parents

Planting for Pollinators. Once a niche practice,

looking for ways to lure their kids away from screens to neighbors wanting to connect with friends,

planting for pollinator support is omnipresent. Homeowners understand the importance of their

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

backyards to provide food and shelter to pollinators like birds, butterflies, and bats year-round. And they are selecting plants for their yards with pollinators in mind.

Adding Drought Tolerant Plants. Plants that are especially adapted to drier landscapes are better for water-stressed areas in our environment. Homeowners are doing their research and selecting plants that will thrive in their micro-climates.

Mixing Materials. As outdoor living has become incorporated into daily life, homeowners are taking care to design cohesive outdoor spaces. They factor in landscaping, hardscaping (patios, outdoor kitchens, etc.), and natural aesthetics (trees, boulders, etc.).

Backyard Birding. The birdwatching craze really took flight during the pandemic, but it's not a fleeting fad. Birdwatching is not only relaxing; it is a great way to connect with the nature right outside our back doors. To learn more about the research and the backyarding trend, visit TurfMutt.com.

AFA Rocky Mountain Chapter Summit Update The Rocky Mountain chapter of the AFA held their summit last year in October. It was their largest chapter meeting with 65 people in attendance. Sixteen exhibitors showcased their new products. Several companies led training classes, including DoorKing, All-O-Matic, Fence Cloud, Job Nimbus and Thornton Consulting Group. Testing for AFA certifications was also available. Antebellum Aluminum, Ameristar and Homeland Vinyl sponsored the lunches and Jerith, DoorKing and Tilt-A-Way sponsored the chapter dinner. “The location was spectacular,” says McKay Lundgren, president with Siren Operated Sensors and board member with the Rocky Mountain chapter of the AFA. “Yellowstone National Park was an ideal setting. For many, it was their first visit to the park. We plan to make this a regular event; our next Yellowstone Summit will be September 2025.” For updates, follow the AFA Rocky Mountain Chapter on Facebook.

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The AZEK Company Unveils New Product Innovations for 2024 ®

The AZEK Company Inc., an industry-leading manufacturer of beautiful, low-maintenance and environmentally sustainable outdoor living products, has announced a new suite of offerings from its TimberTech®, AZEK Exteriors® and StruXure™ brands, including the debut of an innovative aluminum framing product, new decking and porch colors, expanded railing offerings, and a Cabana X® model now available with a modular design. “We are excited to announce the addition of several new and innovative decking, railing and exteriors products to the AZEK portfolio for 2024, supporting customer demand for more style, design and performance options while also keeping contractor productivity and efficiency top of mind,” says Jesse Singh, CEO of The AZEK Company. “Notably, we have expanded our offering of products with Class A Flame Spread – the best possible fire rating – and products that comply with the California Wildland Urban Interface building codes. Our new TimberTech Aluminum Framing product combined with our TimberTech Advanced PVC Vintage Collection® decking now offers homeowners a complete decking and framing solution for those living in fire prone regions and offers contractors a framing option that is easier, more predictable and more efficient to install than wood. “We are strengthening our already strong position with pro contractors and supporting homeowners in every step of their journey to create beautiful, low-maintenance and sustainable outdoor living spaces. We believe that our commitment to new product development, combined with our unmatched material science expertise and proprietary production technologies, continues to drive our position as the industry leader in innovation, design, best-in-class aesthetics and performance,” adds Singh.

TIMBERTECH COMPOSITE TERRAIN+ COLLECTION™ – NEW AND IMPROVED Through proprietary technology, TimberTech material scientists have developed more sophisticated aesthetics featuring multi-color variegation and more realistic emboss patterns, while still maintaining the superior, scratch-resistant durability of the original Terrain® Collection. Featuring protective 4-sided capping, the Terrain+ Collection will continue to stand out as a superior choice in scalloped-back decking for contractors, dealers and consumers. The palette includes three new on-trend colors, including Weathered Oak, Natural White Oak, and Dark Oak – each delivering a sophisticated, versatile and natural wood look. TimberTech’s composite decking is sustainably manufactured with up to 85% recycled content. TIMBERTECH ALUMINUM FRAMING – NEW PORTFOLIO ADDITION A modern, better performing alternative to traditional wood framing for decks, TimberTech’s Aluminum Framing offers notable benefits to both deck builders and homeowners. Homeowners get a solid deck substructure that will not split, rot or decay, meaning a long life and 25-year limited product warranty. Builders are provided a full solution with engineered components designed to work together and install easily. Compatible with all TimberTech Decking and Railing systems, TimberTech’s Aluminum Framing is made in part from recycled aluminum and can be reused or recycled at end of life. And, because it’s made of aluminum, it’s a better choice for fire-prone regions than wood framing. TIMBERTECH ADVANCED PVC PORCH COLLECTION – NEW COLORS AVAILABLE The TimberTech Advanced PVC Porch Collection features an innovative tongue-and-groove installation that allows for smaller gaps between boards, which delivers a traditional hardwood flooring look that is perfect for any homeowner’s porch surface. The popular English Walnut® and Cypress® colors in TimberTech’s Advanced PVC Vintage Collection® of decking will now be available in both standard width (3.125”) and wide-width (5.5”) tongue-and-groove profiles for porch applications.

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

TIMBERTECH ADVANCED PVC RISER BOARD - NEW PORTFOLIO ADDITION As an alternative to using fascia or wide-width decking, TimberTech’s new Advanced PVC Riser Boards can provide a finished, cohesive look to any deck. Built to withstand the elements just like TimberTech’s Advanced PVC Decking, our Riser Boards offer enhanced durability and unparalleled aesthetics. COLLATED CORTEX® PLUGS FOR TIMBERTECH COMPOSITE DECKING – NEW PORTFOLIO ADDITION The most aesthetically pleasing, top-down hidden fastening system is now even more convenient. With material-matched plugs made of the same decking as the surface boards and pre-aligned grain patterns to completely blend in, collated Cortex plugs are now available for use in all TimberTech full-profile composite collections and colors. TIMBERTECH RAILING HORIZONTAL CABLE INFILL FOR IMPRESSION RAIL EXPRESS® – NEW PORTFOLIO ADDITION Made from powder-coated aluminum, TimberTech’s Impression Rail Express delivers a durable, corrosion-resistant aluminum design with stylish, wrought-ironinspired aesthetics. Plus, with its pre-assembled, panelized design, TimberTech’s aluminum railing is simple and straightforward to install. With the highly desired Horizontal Cable infill option and no exposed hardware, homeowners can enjoy an almost unobstructed view. CABANA X MOD – NEW PORTFOLIO ADDITION Originally launched in 2022, Cabana X is the ultimate high-quality, high-tech, ultra-versatile cabana. The 10’ x 10’ footprint of Cabana X was designed to go wherever needed and provides protection from the elements via remotely controlled louvers and accessories that deliver both comfort and shelter. Now with the innovation of the Cabana X MOD extensions, you can expand a custom covered space in any direction with the same Cabana X ease and quality. Appropriate for both homeowner and commercial spaces, Cabana X MOD offers adaptive configurations, customizable amenities and flexible layouts as well as simple and straightforward assembly that’s permit-free in most locations. “We are at the forefront of home design trends, inspiring and validating consumer preferences for real wood looks with a portfolio of outdoor living and home exterior products that offer the most convincing aesthetics combined with engineered performance,” says Sam Toole, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of The AZEK Company. “Because products across our portfolio are made in part from recycled waste and scrap material, we are supporting consumers’ growing desire to live their lives more sustainably while keeping hundreds of millions of pounds of waste and scrap out of landfills each year and revolutionizing our industry.” For more information visit azekco.com.

FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

Taking the Pulse of the Industry from Around the Country At the beginning of each year, Fence News USA asks me to assess the previous year and project what the future year might hold for fencers across America. To that end I reached out to several fence industry friends and clients from different parts of America about how things look from their perspective. Below are unique views from their vantage point and helpful advice we can all take to heart. “2023 has been another great year for Kansas Fencing. 2022 was a record year for us with sales up over 40% from 2021. So far, 2023 is a dead heat from where we were at the same time last year and with the current backlog, it appears we will match 2022 numbers when the year is done. We have some nice projects lined up that should get us through the winter season and into the start of spring. We also have a handful of industrial projects that are pretty good size that we are in the running on. If we can land a couple of these larger projects, we should be in great shape for a strong 2024 season. Our profit margins have been steady at around 40% gross (18% net). We are well diversified with the mix of residential, commercial, industrial, temporary fence, material sales, and automatic gate operators. If one area slows down, one of the other revenue streams always seems to increase making our sales volume stable. Industrial/ commercial work is steady. Residential is down 4-6% and temporary fence and material sales are up around 20%. It's always a good sign with Temporary fence increases. That tells us we should see an increase in industrial/commercial projects next year.” Dirk Henderson Kansas Fencing in Topeka, Kansas

“Business has done quite well over 2023. Not as busy as the “COVID years”, but still steady flow of work. Fence companies continue to pop up everywhere, so we just focus on setting our company apart. We’re down to five crews for the winter months, but still holding a six-week backlog. I have a feeling business is going to continue to slow down due to inflation. We will most likely keep the downsize and try to cut expenses as needed to remain in a healthy spot. 70

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

Residential has slowed down a little bit, but commercial has been steady. Bufftech recently sold to Barette Outdoor Living so we’re still unsure where that ship is headed. We haven’t heard much besides “business as usual”. I heard some products are being discontinued but hope there are no drastic changes. Vinyl and chain link seem to remain our most popular sellers. I don’t see that changing anytime soon. People like peace of mind having little to no maintenance.” Kim Miller Miller Fence in Worcester, Massachusetts

“The fence business overall sales have steadily slowed down compared to last year by 20%. In 2023 we are about the same as we were prepandemic in revenue, this is not considering the increase of cost from the suppliers (fence material costs have increased due to inflation, something that did not happen pre-pandemic) as well as fixed expenses such as rent, utilities, etc. Another change that we face is the coming and going of multiple unlicensed companies who undercut the market by giving unsustainable prices to which any established business cannot compete with. This leads to an apparent short-term solution for customers, but then they face after-the-fact installation problems. Most of these start-up companies are no longer in business, this results in a spike in repair requests. Our backlog is three to four weeks compared to six to eight weeks from last year, there is no question that sales are declining in the fence industry as well as other industries. My projections are that suppliers will be forced to reduce their prices due to slower demand. This will translate into fence prices being more affordable for your customers. I expect sales volume to be lower in 2024 and if fence companies fail to adjust and evolve with the market, this could lead to business liquidity. It is important then, to strengthen the business from within to be better prepared and to work on innovation that will ultimately benefit the customer. I have not seen any major changes in the industry. In central Florida PVC/vinyl is the top seller followed closely by aluminum, chain-link and wood. 80% of our sales are residential, while the other 20% are commercial. The focus of residential fence is to keep the property secure, embellish it or keep small children and pets in

by Tom Luby, owner of Profit Builders International the yard with no risk of running outside.” Dany Rodriguez Fence Direct in Orlando, Florida

“I consider 2023 to be a very solid year for us. We are currently 6% ahead of goal and have plenty of work on the books to finish the year strong, at above goal. Close rates for 2023 are also well ahead of goal, providing for a substantial backlog created in 2023 alone. Couple this with a very strong backlog coming into 2023 and we’re in a very good position. We have started seeing residential demand slow down dramatically, paralleling the federal government raising of the interest rates. Since we focus more on commercial work, I’m confident we will be able to bridge the gap from a weak residential market, but we are going to have to be very intentional in doing so. It won’t come easy. Overall, I’m cautiously optimistic that 2024 will provide a solid year for us. No real changes in product mix this year. PVC has softened with oversupply, which helps consumers make the jump from wood to PVC. Overall, commercial chain link seems to be the staple in our market.” Bobby Batchelor Seegars Fence Company, headquartered in Goldsboro, North Carolina

“We did ok in 2023. Our residential and private industrial work dried up so we are cautious in our forecast for 2024. We are heavy in several segments that we expect to continue to do well but overall, we expect a flat to slower 2024 especially as it pertains to residential. We are doing a lot of chain link and agricultural fence. Also, a fair amount of industrial steel. In backyards we’ve seen a stable mix, no drastic changes.” Kevin Hohe CNI Fence in Chicago, Illinois

“We have done well considering the threats to our economy. We have moved more into commercial work this year, which has yielded high profit margins. Our residential market is down by 30% and overall, the number of jobs completed is down, but we will have a 10% increase in sales volume. We are expecting a strong start to the new year as many commercial jobs are going through the bidding process. We are also starting to work with a few HOA management companies. I do see residential fencing continue to be slow. As far as product mix, it has been the same. Residential sales down 30%, commercial work up 50%. With commercial work, chain link is strong. Wood and aluminum have always been our bread and butter.” Gary Meyer Accent Fence in Atlanta, Georgia

“Our business has been strong, and we were able to grow in sales numbers. We have experienced a major push on labor costs over the past year and at this time I do not see this getting better over the next year. Employees are seeing what the large unions are getting for pay raises since they are public. This is helping push wages up. We will have to readjust our labor rates again in the first quarter of next year. Equipment costs have skyrocketed in the past year, and we will also have to watch where these items go. A skid loader that we purchased three to four years ago for $65,000 are now $105,000. This is also true with trucks. We have had to run our trucks longer that what we normally do, due to the fact new trucks have been extremely hard to get and the prices on these have gone from around $56,000 for a cab chassis truck to $79,000 to $83,000 for the same truck equipped the same way. Our backlog is good for next year. We are seeing a good amount of work looking forward in the commercial side of the business and the residential work has slowed up by quite a bit in the past six months. Leads on the residential side are down by roughly 30 - 40%. This we expected as we experienced record years during COVID. The lower end residential customers are being priced out of the market on the lower end chain link fences but the higher end residential clients are still spending on projects

Tom Luby has helped hundreds of contractors within the fence industry achieve success with maximum profitability and efficiency. With over 25 years of experience consulting in the fence industry, he developed the “Roadmap for Success”, a program that can help contractors succeed. The program is available on CD, along with the sales and marketing guide “The Close” by contacting him at:

Two Fencing Manufacuring Companies Join the CLFMI Board Richard’s Fence in Akron, Ohio, and Southwestern Wire in Norman, Oklahoma have joined the board of directors of Chain Link Fence Manufacturer’s Institute for three-year terms. Bill Peterson will represent Richard’s Fence, and Jason Gardiner will represent Southwestern Wire. Peterson was later elected to the seat of president for 2024. The other officers elected were Tats Kimura with Master Halco as vice president; and Brian McMillan with Liberty Wire – Johnstown as secretary-treasurer. 2024 Nominating Chair Ted Eysenbach with Stephens Pipe & Steel, guided attendees at the recent annual meeting through the election process.

so we are see the high end product lines moving better at the moment. Residential sales are slowing in the lower categories such as galvanized chain link and vinyl coated chain link compared to the past two years, but that is what we expected for the year. The high-end products seem to keep going as these customers tend to have money to spend. Commercial work is still strong and hasn’t showed signs of slowing down in the next year in most commercial or industrial market segments at this time although we have been starting to see some very large projects in certain segments of the commercial and industrial market get put on hold or a couple of projects got halted due to customers budget cuts in the past two months.” Anonymous in Midwest

Thank you to everyone who participated in my fence industry inquiry. There are a lot of smart, talented and astute fencers out there and your input is much appreciated. The COVID pandemic-driven residential windfall of work is all but over. Residential demand has softened while commercial and industrial work is on an uptick, and this trend will probably continue well into 2024 and beyond. It appears that residential work is off by roughly 30% across the board and commercial work may be up by about the same. Naturally, a big factor for next year and beyond will be inflation and the overall health of the economy. I feel we have been living in an economic bubble for several years with the excess cash the federal government has plied into the US economy. I think that excess cash is finally being flushed out of the system and the economic recovery (as the physical pandemic recovery was) can and probably will be difficult. This next year will probably be a challenge. I think Dany Rodriguez from the Fence Direct in Orlando put it quite succinctly when he advised businesses to strengthen from within and to promote innovation to benefit the customer. God bless all our loyal readers and we wish you all a safe and prosperous 2024.

Profit Builders International 3421 10th Lane West, Palmetto, Florida 34221 www.profitbuilder.org | tluby@profitbuilder.org 941-981-3677

Jason Gardiner

Brian McMillan

Bill Peterson

Tats Kimura

FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

t n ESSENTIAL TECHNOLOGY e m e g RESOLUTIONS FOR BUSINESSES a n er a SUCCESS IN 2024 M orn In the fast-paced digital age, small businesses must continually adapt and leverage technology C to thrive in a competitive landscape. As we move into 2024, here are some crucial technology resolutions that will help propel your business forward.

Establish a Robust Online Presence. A strong online presence is nonnegotiable. Ensure your website is not just a placeholder but a dynamic representation of your brand. Optimize it for search engines, mobile devices, and user experience. A well-crafted online presence can be a game-changer for attracting and retaining customers. Prioritize Cybersecurity. With the rise of cyber threats, now is the time to fortify your digital defenses. Invest in reliable cybersecurity solutions, conduct regular employee training on security best practices, and implement secure data storage practices. A secure business is a resilient business. Embrace Cloud Solutions. Transition critical business operations to the cloud for enhanced flexibility and scalability. Cloud solutions not only streamline operations but also facilitate remote work. Explore cloudbased collaboration tools, document storage, and project management systems to boost efficiency. Update Software and Hardware. Stay on top of software updates and ensure your hardware is up to date. Regular maintenance and updates not only improve security but also ensure that your business operations run smoothly without disruptions. Invest in Marketing Technologies. Develop a comprehensive digital marketing strategy encompassing social media, SEO, and email campaigns. Leverage analytics tools to understand customer behavior and tailor your marketing efforts for maximum impact. Leverage Automation for Efficiency. Identify repetitive and timeconsuming tasks within your business processes and automate them. Whether it's invoicing, inventory management, or customer communication, automation tools can significantly improve efficiency, reduce errors, and free up time for more productive tasks. 72

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

Implement Data-Driven Decision Making. Data-driven insights can guide strategic planning and foster a competitive edge. Implement analytics tools to track key performance indicators, customer behavior, and market trends. Foster Digital Collaboration. Enhance team collaboration with digital tools that facilitate communication and project management. Invest in collaborative platforms, video conferencing tools, and documentsharing solutions to streamline workflow. Enhance Customer Engagement. Invest in customer relationship management (CRM) tools to manage interactions with customers effectively. Consider deploying chatbots on your website for instant customer support and engagement. A personalized and responsive approach to customer interactions can enhance loyalty and satisfaction. Set Tech-Driven Goals. Establish measurable technology goals for your business. Whether it's increasing online sales, improving website traffic, or enhancing internal processes, setting clear objectives allows you to track progress and adjust strategies accordingly. By committing to these technology resolutions, your business can not only survive but thrive in the digital era. Here's to a tech-powered and prosperous year ahead!

MAXIMIZING PRODUCTIVITY DURING THE SLOW SEASON

In every business, slow periods are inevitable, and for contractors, the winter months are often a slower season. Instead of seeing downtime as unproductive, leveraging these periods effectively can lead to significant business improvements, positioning your business for greater success in your peak season. Here are strategies for transforming downtime into productive opportunities: Inventory and Equipment Maintenance: Utilize slow periods to take stock of inventory and ensure that equipment is in optimal condition. Conduct thorough equipment maintenance, inspect tools, and perform any necessary repairs. This will ensure that when busy times return, your team is equipped with well-maintained tools, enhancing efficiency and reducing potential delays. Training and Skill Development: Encourage your team to engage in skill development and training. Offer opportunities for certifications, training programs, or workshops related to safety measures, new techniques, or industry-specific skills. Sharpening skills during downtime positions your team to deliver higher-quality work and adapt to changing industry trends. Revise and Enhance Business Processes: Slow periods are the ideal time to review business processes. Evaluate past projects, identify inefficiencies, and seek improvements. Implement new systems or tools that can streamline administrative tasks, project management, or client communication. Strengthening these processes can lead to better project execution in the future.

Explore New Opportunities and Markets: Slow periods provide the mental space to strategize and identify new business opportunities. Research new market segments or potential niches for expansion. Explore diversification strategies or partnerships that align with your business goals. Analyze industry trends and identify areas for potential growth. Business Strategy Review and Development: Revisit your business plan and strategy. Assess the feasibility of goals and objectives and realign these based on changing market conditions. Set measurable targets for the future and establish a clear roadmap. Enhance Online Presence and Marketing Efforts: Optimize your online presence by updating your website, portfolio, and social media profiles. Craft content, case studies, or blogs showcasing successful past projects. Engage in targeted marketing efforts, such as email campaigns or advertising, to generate new leads and improve brand visibility. Making the most of downtime can set the stage for increased efficiency and stronger performance when busier times return.

Develop Client Relationships and Networking: Use downtime to connect with past clients or potential new leads. Follow up on previous projects, request feedback, and maintain communication. Networking events, industry seminars, or professional associations are excellent places to foster new relationships.

FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

Recap of 2023 CLFMI Annual Meeting

Once again, the Chain Link Fence Manufacturing Institute annual meeting was a success. Palm Springs, California, was the setting for the November, 2023, event that brought together leaders in the industry to share ideas, trends, and noteworthy happenings. “The speakers were exceptional for CLFMI 2023,” says Mark Levin, executive vice president of CLFMI. “We were fortunate to have a variety of perspectives. We greatly appreciate their time and the content they shared.” The speaker roster featured these individuals:

Tom Muth, Zekelman Industries Tom is the executive vice president and chief operating officer of the Tubular Products Division of Zekelman Industries, which includes the businesses of Wheatland Tube, Western Tube, Atlas Tube, Picoma, and Sharon Tube. Tom has over 30 years of experience in the pipe and tube industry. Under his guidance, Atlas Tube has propelled itself to the leading manufacturer of HSS in North America. Tm spoke about the status of the steel industry in North America, what to expect in 2024 and how those indicators will affect the tubular part of the fencing industry. Eric Hartley, the Palm Springs Desert Sun Eric is the news editor for The Desert Sun, the largest local newspaper in the Palm Springs area. His previous experience includes assignments as a reporter, columnist, and editor in Maryland, California, Nevada, and Virginia. Among his stops were eight years at The Capital in Annapolis, Maryland, and five years at The Virginian-Pilot in Norfolk, Virginia. Eric spoke about key issues and candidates in the 2024 presidential and congressional elections, the current state of the news media and how that affects national and global information cycles. Eric Marksberry, C&W Construction Eric has been with C&W Construction for more than 30 years. The company was founded in 1948 and is in Ventura, California. Originally a fencing company, they have consistently expanded the scope of operations to include guardrail, highway safety projects, and all types of custom security systems. They are major users of chain link fence on solar, highway, commercial, and industrial projects. Eric spoke about current concerns of contractors, developers, and specifiers regarding a variety of projects and markets.

Steel Supply Increases Stock of Galvanized Tubing Steel Supply, headquartered in Houston, Texas, has increased its supply of ¾ - 4-inch galvanized square tubes. Some sizes are available online and more in their warehouses. “The corrosion resistance of galvanized tubing is exceptional, making it a great option for many applications. This supply increase means we can bring them to contractors and customers at a lower price,” says Juan Martinez, vice president of sales with Steel Supply. To view sizes and get more information, visit steelsupplylp.com.

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

Dr. Barnard Markstein, CLFMI Chief Economist Dr. Markstein was formerly the U.S. chief economist for Reed Construction Data (now ConstructConnect), where he analyzed, commented on, and forecasted residential and commercial construction activity. Prior to that, he was senior economist and vice president of economic forecasting and analysis for the National Association of Home Builders, where he provided analysis on national and regional housing issues, on developments and trends in the multi-family housing market, and on the forces affecting building materials prices. His construction0related experience also includes extensive work with Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. He presented his third quarter 2023 market analysis and economic forecast. Brad Howard, American Fence Association Brad is the president-elect with the AFA. He has worked in the fence industry for 30 years. He is presently the vice president of business development for Security Contractor Services, working out of the Greater Seattle area. He gave members a preview of FENCETECH 2024 in Nashville and an overview of the many exciting changes and programs currently underway at AFA. He focused on the growing need to strengthen the contractor/manufacturer relationship. “As always, the CLFMI annual meeting showcases the camaraderie within our organization,” says Levin. “We have much to be proud of, and we know we have work to do to make this industry even better.” For more information about CLFMI, visit chainlinkinfo.org.

Bergandi Names New VP of Sales and Marketing Bergandi Machinery has welcomed Joe Penrod as their new vice president of sales and marketing. With 20 years in the building products industry, starting in rebar and agricultural metals at Georgia Pacific and most recently leading product management and marketing at Alta Forest Products, the world’s largest producer of western red cedar fencing, Penrod brings a wealth of experience to his new position with Bergandi, the worldwide leaders in wire machinery. Learn more at bergandi.com.

Key-Link Hires New Midwest Territory Manager Key-Link Fencing & Railing announces the hiring of a new territory manager, Brent Mason, based in Kansas City, Missouri. His territory includes Missouri, Iowa, and parts of Illinois, with expansion into other states as needed. Mason comes to Key-Link with eight years of sales experience and more than four years of experience as a distributor representative selling deck products and accessories. “We were impressed with Brent’s experience, attitude and approach to his work, Says Tim Smoyer, Key Link’s vice president of sales. “As he gets to know our customers in the channel, he’ll be a valuable asset to them in growing their business.” “I really value Key-Link’s people-centered approach,” Mason says, “and the way the company focuses on education and development. I also know from past experience that Key-Link has quality products that contractors appreciate.” For more information, visit keylinkonline.com.

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www.G8Pro.com FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

Patent-Pending Sign Manufacturing Eliminates Common Problems It’s Not Your Average Sign Fencing signage has traditionally had drawbacks of being visible only from one or two angles, being blown away during inclement weather, and fading over time. John Gaunt has invented a new product to help eliminate these problems: the Slot-Loc360 dome marker sign. The dome marker signs are UV inked and can be customized with any message, attached to fencing with the included fasteners which require no tools, or it can be slid over any freestanding post or pole measuring 3.5” or less in diameter. “The idea was born out of necessity,” explains Gaunt. “Like many landowners, I battled with trespassers on my hunting property and tried virtually every variety of signage available; everything either was blown away after a thunderstorm, faded so much it was illegible, it didn’t provide enough visibility from all angles or just deteriorated in the weather. So, I began working on creating what I needed, and soon found there was a market for it.” The Slot-Loc360 patent-pending design has these benefits: • 360 degrees of long-range high visibility from any angle • Weather, high wind, UV and theft resistant • UV rated light weight and durable material ( will not decay or tear) • Simple, fast, secure installation with no tools required • Securely and quickly attaches directly to new or existing wire or woven strand fences, or slides over Tposts, Uposts, wood posts or poles • Custom branded labeling and messaging available (UV rated ink) • 10-year outdoor life guarantee Gaunt partnered with one of the largest established dome manufacturers in the nation. ACP International / SASO Signs have produced domes and similar signage products since 1986. He incorporated the patent-pending slot designs into the domes and a new product was born. “We debuted the product at the Tulsa Farm and Ranch Show in 2023. They loved it and said this was exactly what landowners and businesses have asked for,” explains Gaunt. “After the successful launch, we streamlined our high-volume production capabilities and began introducing it to land, farm and ranch-oriented retailers and wholesalers. I’ve had the pleasure to work with Greenway Equipment with 33 John Deere dealerships and K&K Vet Supply, a major farm and ranch wholesale/distributor, plus several mini storage facilities, along with numerous farm, ranch and hardware retail locations. Land real estate companies and agents are also having much success with the product, too. Now, with our high-volume production capabilities in place, we are ready to reach out to the fencing industry, larger retailers and wholesalers and hope to bring an end to their frustration and they can see how easy and effective this is. For more information, visit slot-loc360.com or call Gaunt at 501-412-7886. 76

JANUARY 2024 | FENCE NEWS USA

RIG-MOUNTED POST DRIVER HP1000SS ULTRA HEAVY DUTY HIGH POWER-TO-WEIGHT RATIO ONE MAIN MOVING PART LOW-FLOW REQUIREMENT • High-impact force • Uses less than 8 GPM • Patented accumulator reduces recoil, adds power • 6” driver tool standard • Near perfect center of gravity • Highest hitting force per pound of tool • Self lubrication prevents damage • Closed circuit hydraulics creates no exhaust • Drives wood and steel up to 6” diameter, guard rail and more • Drives stakes, rods and pins • Runs off of skid steer loaders and tractors • Can be slung or hard-mounted • 1 year parts and labor warranty Dimensions: 40 x 18 x 12 (main body without quick-mount plate) Weight: 496 LB w/quick-mount plate & tool

Pressure: 1650 PSI

SKIDRIL

Impact Energy: 350 Ft-lb Flow: 5.5 - 7 GPM

P.O. Box 8041 Greensboro, NC 27419 Tel: 800-843-3745 Fax: 336-674-6690

FENCENEWS.COM | JANUARY 2024

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