Livingston Reporting - page 250

The Most Important Renovation For Aging In Place

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

It is incredibly difficult to grasp that our parents are not as young as they once were although they remain as stubborn.  For the most part aging individuals will want to stay in their homes.  If they can fix their own meals, bathe on their own and continue to dress themselves and don’t need personal one on one care you can ensure that they will want to age in place.  With this in mind it is important that as many hazards as exist within the home are alleviated to avoid accidents that can occur.

The number one concern in age in place renovations is to prevent falls.  Do an assessment on the home and begin to look for areas that look like they present further risks of falling.  This means that all throw rugs and clutter need to be removed from the home.  Areas within the home that should be double and triple checked include stairways, showers and kitchens.  As well as making sure there are no throw rugs or clutter present be sure to increase the lighting in these main areas.  A well lit area goes a long way in preventing falls throughout the home.

The bathroom is the most dangerous area with the home for all of us not just the elderly.  The bathroom is the location in which most slip and falls occur.  If you are going to completely gut and renovate any one room in your parents home while they choose to age in place it should be the bathroom.  A bathroom overhaul should include the addition of a barrier free shower with a zero entry.  Grab bars and seats should be installed within the shower.  Grab bars should also be placed near the toilet.  Another highly recommended addition is a toilet that is elevated higher than a normal household toilet.  A bathroom that is ideal for seniors aging in place should also include slip resistant flooring and levered handles on all cabinet drawers and doors.

The cost of a new bathroom can be upwards of six thousand dollars or more depending on the exact renovations that are done as well as the labor fee that is charged by the age in place renovation specialist you choose to hire.  It is advisable to look into hiring a contractor that specializes in age in place renovations or ADA remodeling.  General contractors don’t necessarily know or understand the needs of clients with limited mobility or balance concerns.

The Home Doctor, based in Livingston County including Brighton and Howell Michigan, offers a variety of home renovations to clients ranging from bathroom remodeling to age in place home modifications.  Contact http://glenmillerthehomedoctor.com/ today all of your home renovating needs.

Glen Miller The Home Doctor

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Metal Verses Asphalt Roofing

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Homeowners are always interested in the latest and greatest trends when it comes to upgrading their homes. One item that has become a subject of debate is metal roofing.  In comparison most homeowners will agree that metal roofing is an appealing option over asphalt shingles.  The debate between the two materials often centers on their cost verse longevity.  Does it make sense to pay almost double the amount of money for the materials and installation involved in metal roofing?  What other benefits does metal offer over asphalt to your home to warrant the expense?

What is lighter metal or asphalt roofing?

It is a common myth that metal roofing is heavy.  This could be nothing further than the truth.  In fact metal roofing weighs about one point four pound per square foot where as asphalt shingles weigh anywhere between two to five pounds for each installed square foot.  The major advantage of this is that metal roofing materials are easier to install over any existing roof without compromising the existing roof structure.

What is the lifespan of metal and asphalt roofing?

Most people are not surprised to learn that metal outlast asphalt when it comes to the longevity of your homes roof.  The worry surrounding metal comes from the myth that metal easily rusts.  This again is untrue; in fact metal outlast asphalt more than four to one.  Metal roofing sheets are not easily compromised by the sun and heat unlike asphalt.  The metal will continue to perform for decades over shingles.  Shingle roofing is preferred amongst roofing contractors only because they are easy to install and the roofing contractor does not need any specialized training to be installed.

What is the difference between the warranty between metal and asphalt roofing?

One thing many homeowners are shocked to find out is that the warranty of asphalt composition is that the warranty on the shingle doesn’t necessarily correspond with the lifespan of the actual shingle materials.  If the warranty on the shingle is stated at forty years most homeowners are lucky to get fourteen to nineteen years out of them.  This is hardly comparable to the one hundred year warranty period on metal roofing.

What is the aesthetic value between metal and asphalt shingling?

Asphalt has been seen as the most affordable option in roofing for awhile now.  This does necessarily make the most eye appealing choice.  With metal roofing you have a variety of choices in styles, colors and shapes.  Metal roofing actually offers more in terms of appearance than any other material in roofing.

Home Pro Roofing contractors offer a variety of roofing services throughout Brighton, East Lansing, Ann Arbor, Fenton and Commerce Township, including installation of shingle roofs, metal roofing and roof repairs.  You will find them at http://www.homeproroofingmi.com today.

Home Pro Roofing MI

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Aluminum Fencing That Meets Homeowners Needs and Local HOA Regulations

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Making an informed buying decision is important especially when it comes to improvements around your home.  There are a several choices to decide between when picking out a fence that is ideal for your home.  The fence needs to compliment the style of your home while meeting the need in which it is being installed for.   Homeowners must also look at the cost, maintenance, neighborhood restrictions and installation before choosing the style of fencing to purchase.

Picking a fence that meets the homeowners need is the most important aspect of choosing a fence.  If the goal of installing a fence is privacy then an open picket aluminum fence will not be the best option.  For privacy homeowners will want to look for a fence that is tall as well as something solid that you cannot see through.  Determine your need before any other decision is made.

Ask yourself why you are putting a fence in.  What need does the fence fulfill?  Prioritize the needs over the wants instead of the other way around.  Aluminum fencing is a great choice for pet and kid containment, enclosing an in-ground pool and for adding a decorative touch to the existing landscape.

The next option is to consider how much maintenance is required to keep the fence as aesthetically pleasing as the day it was first installed.  Wooden fences require the most maintenance.  Wood needs to be power washed, painted and stained every few years.  Aluminum fencing is practically maintenance free.  To keep wholesale aluminum fence looking as good as the day it was first installed all that needs to be done is a quick power washing.

Check into local regulations along with your HOA’s guidelines on fencing.  It is better to find out before the fence is shipped and sitting in driveway if the material you want to install is allowed or if the height of the fence is regulated.  Some HOA rules and regulations are incredibly strict and will only allow the same fencing to be installed throughout the neighborhood or if a variety of materials are acceptable.

Once you have an understanding of the HOA regulations, the need that will be met by installing a fence and the maintenance level of caring for the fence it is time to design and order the new fence.  Online wholesale aluminum fence suppliers have an abundance of tools at their disposal to help in the planning, designing and ordering of fencing.  Working with a wholesale aluminum fence customer service representative via email and over the phone is a sure way to get the fence that was envisioned.

iFenceUSA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

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Wholesale Aluminum Fencing Meets The Needs Of Homeowners

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

There are so many reasons that homeowners consider adding a fence to the perimeter of their homes or even just their backyards.  When it comes to installing a fence the very first matter you must take into account is exactly that; why are you adding a fence to your yard?  This one question can help determine so many things from what height the fence should be to what material to use.

If your goal in fencing in your yard is privacy then you will want to consider only fencing that blocks the site lines.  For this you will need solid fencing, which means that the vertical pickets prevent people from seeing out or seeing in.  Privacy fence is also at least six feet tall to prevent neighbors from seeing over your fence.  Privacy fencing comes in a variety of materials.  Wood is the most common material in privacy fencing but also tends to be the material that requires the most maintenance.

When installing a fence for security the main goal is a fence of substantial height.  A fence of six feet or taller will work to keep outsiders from jumping over the fence into the yard.  The addition of pickets or other spiky tops also help to deter climbing.  Fences with smooth outer faces and rails create a fence that is almost impossible to climb. Security fencing also comes in a variety of materials with the most common being aluminum.  Wholesale aluminum fencing is popular when looking for security fencing because it is practically maintenance free.  It is also popular because although it cost a bit more initially it tends to add the most value to your home without additional maintenance costs.

If you are only looking to establish property lines, boost curb appeal, or add appeal to your landscape, decorative fencing is what you are looking to install.  Decorative aluminum fencing is a great option for long lasting fencing with little to know maintenance required to keep it looking as good as the day it was first installed.  Wholesale aluminum fencing comes in a variety of ornamental styles to choose from.  There are at least a dozen colors to choose from and a myriad of decorative touches that can be added to your aluminum fencing.  Decorative fencing ranges in a variety of heights depending on what is complementary to your home and landscape.

If you are looking for safety fencing you also have a variety of choices in materials to choose from.  The main concern is that the pool fencing you choose meets the regulations set forth by B.O.C.A. as well as local regulations.  Aluminum fencing is a popular option when installing a fence for pool safety.

Aluminum is a popular choice no matter what the reason you are looking to install a fence.  Purchasing wholesale aluminum fencing online is a great way to get a superior deal on a practically maintenance free fence for your landscape.

iFenceUSA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

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Order Wholesale Aluminum Fencing Online

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Have you determined that now is the perfect time to fence in your yard?  It’s time to start considering aluminum ornamental fencing.  Not only is aluminum fencing easy t install and practically maintenance free it is also incredibly durable.  It is one of the only attractive barriers for your home and landscape.  Create a detailed fencing plan before placing an order for wholesale aluminum fencing to further simplify the entire project.  In no time flat you will be enjoying your enclosed, secure landscape.

Determine Your Need

What is it that you hope to accomplish with the installation of an aluminum fence?   Are you looking for a pet barrier, an obstacle to prevent children from accessing the pool, or to protect your privacy?  They style fencing you choose will mainly be based upon why you are choosing to install a fence in the first place.  If the goal is to keep a pet within the backyard boundary you will want a fence style that offers puppy pickets.  This style takes into account escape artists with extra bottom pickets in place.  If you are looking for pool safety you will want B.O.C.A. regulation aluminum fencing.

Research Local Code

You need to research state, local and H.O.A. regulations.  Many communities have regulations in place in regards to fencing to sustain a certain appeal within the neighborhood.  Look into the policies that are in place in regards to the height, color and material of fencing that is allowed. Some communities have special rules for the distance between the fence and sidewalks; be sure that you completely understand what is expected out of your fencing before you place an order.

Hire Contractors

When ordering your fence you will have the assistance of customer service specialists that work within the industry.  They will help you plan, design, measure and order everything you need for your new fence.  Wholesale aluminum fence suppliers specialize in decoding what even the most novice client’s need.  Hire a contractor that specializes in aluminum fence installation.  You don’t want second-rate installation to ruin the aesthetics of your new aluminum fencing.

Maintain Your New Fence

After the fence has been ordered and installed it is your job to make sure that the fence is properly maintained and cared for.  Aluminum fencing requires minimal maintenance.  Depending on the season and the weather your climate experiences will determine how often your fence needs to be cleaned.  Even in the harshest climate the most that will need to be done to keep your fence looking as good as new is some soap and water.  Rinsing the fence down with soap and water every few months will keep your home and landscape looking fresh and well maintained.

Ordering your new fence online through a wholesale aluminum fencing supplier will save you money.  This is a great way to get the most out of your hard earned money.  Ordering aluminum fence panels through residential home stores often costs homeowners upwards of fifteen to twenty percent more over online fence suppliers.  Giving you the highest quality of fencing you can buy at an affordable price.

iFenceUSA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from www.iFenceUSA.com!

 

iFenceUSA

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Good Fences Make For Good Neighbors

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Homeowners give a variety of reasons to why they are installing a fence.  Some are interested in keeping the family dog in the yard; others are looking for more privacy while some are looking to block the unpleasant view of the neighbor’s junk collection.  Others may want to protect their family from intruders or to safeguard a pool.  When it comes to choosing a fence there are a variety of materials and styles to choose from.  In order to find a fence that fills the need you must first know what you are looking to achieve with the installation of the fence.  That is the first question homeowners must answer when buying a fence.

After understanding why the fence is needed it is important to ensure you are following all of the rules that are in place for installing the fence.  The fence you choose is not only governed by the style you want.  It must meet local zoning codes, HOA regulations and with pool fencing the rules set forth by the B.O.C.A. (Building Officials and Code Administrators).  Many HOA’s regulate the materials used as well as the height of fencing installed throughout the neighborhood.  These rules are in place to keep continuity throughout the neighborhood and to ensure that the fencing that is installed is not an eyesore.

Once you have an understanding of what purpose the fence serves as well as the rules you are ready to start the buying process. Wholesale fencing online is a great way to go if you are looking to save money.  Online wholesale fence manufacturers offer customer service support by phone, email and chat.  Most representatives are experts in fencing and can help you through the design, order and installation process.

Wholesale aluminum fencing is an incredibly popular option.  Aluminum fencing comes in a variety of styles, colors, heights and serves multiple purposes as far as fencing goes.  Aluminum fencing offers a maintenance free upkeep routine as well as a warranty that exceeds all other fences.

Another major benefit of purchasing wholesale aluminum fencing is that it is easy to install.  Aluminum fencing comes in sections that are preassembled.  Even the most novice do it yourselfer can decipher the instructions that come with aluminum fencing.  On average it takes about ten to fifteen hours to properly install a new aluminum fence.  This is a job that can be started and finished within one weekend.  Make sure the online wholesale aluminum fence suppliers that you purchase your fence from offers installations consultations.  The savings on the installation of your fence means you can purchase the upgraded aluminum fencing without blowing the budget out of proportion.

iFenceUSA offers the widest variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for exceptional value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct to your home or business anywhere in America from www.iFenceUSA.com!

 

iFenceUSA

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Freight Shipping Methods Used In Less Than Truckload Shipping

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

It is important that you choose a freight company that meets your needs when you are shipping larger items. Less than truckload shipping is a popular option within the freight industry. There are several methods used to ship freight. The one that you choose will depend on a few things such as what you are shipping, when it needs to arrive, if it’s perishable or fragile. Below you will find each method used within the industry. When you are choosing a freight carrier you can choose one or more methods of getting your LTL shipment where it needs to be when it needs to be there.

Options for Shipping Freight

Shipping By Road: Trucks are used for large items that can fit into a transport vehicle. This method is most often used when travel from one location to another is convenient. It is however, one of the slowest methods in shipping so time should not be a factor when shipping by road.

Shipping By Rail: When you have a large cargo shipment that does not fit into a transport vehicle railway is the way to go. Rail is a quick method of shipping large cargo items. When there is a time crunch rail is one of the best shipping methods. Rail is most often used for shipping vehicles, manufacturing goods, equipment and farm supplies.

Shipping By Sea: Shipping by sea is one of the most cost effective ways to send large shipments. It is also one of the slowest; it takes a lot longer to ship an item via sea over other options in shipping. Larger vehicles, industrial vehicles, heavy machinery, manufacturing vehicles and more are shipped by sea.

Shipping By Air: Using an airplane to ship is another option. This method is used to get goods to remote locations, when there are no time constraints, there are no roads or routes to the location or your shipment needs to go to another country.

Consider the type of shipment you are sending as well. If you are shipping perishable items or hazardous items you will want to be sure the carrier you select is equipped to handle it. Some companies will not ship these items that need to be handled with special care.

You will also want to look into the companies shipping track record when choosing a shipper. Make sure they are reliable, honest and have a solid customer service record. Also check to the carrier’s damage history. Carriers that offer 24/7 support is preferred over those that are only offer support during normal business hours.

The shipping rates and transportation methods carriers’ use are important as well. LTL freight shipping can be complex but when you take your time to understand the process and research freight carriers you will come out on top.

Jefferson Diversified Group, LLC is a Global Logistics expert offering LTL shipping and more. Check out available rates today at http://www.detroitltl.com.

Detroit LTL

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Decisions With In-Ground Pool Installation

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

One decision that seems to make everyone in a household happy is the installation of an in-ground pool. Once this decision has been made there are hundreds to follow in regards to the installing the pool. The decisions are endless when it comes to integrating a pool into your landscape. You want to incorporate the pool without hiding it or having it scream “I am here, in the middle of the landscape.” Here are a few tips to help homeowners make a few of the many decisions they will have to when adding a pool into their landscape.

What type of pool should be installed?

There are three main types of pools that are installed in-ground. Homeowners can choose between vinyl liners, fiberglass and concrete. All three materials have pros and cons. Out of the three most homeowners choose to install concrete poolsas this material can be produced in a variety of sizes, styles and designs. Even though concrete pools require the most upkeep and tend to cost a bit more than fiberglass or vinyl they tend to be the most popular because if you can dream it, they can make it. Concrete, also known as gunite, is incredibly durable and can easily be enhanced using color, quartz, glass beads and even pebbles. The repair most needed it to the plaster. Pool plastering can be done by hiring professional plasters.

What type of decking would best fit?

When considering the size of the deck error on the side of too much decking over not enough. There has never been a homeowner who has complained that their pool deck is too big. Small decks are inconvenient. When the deck is too small it is hard to relax or lounge around let alone entertain. The color and style of the deck needs to compliment the pool as well as your homes landscape and exterior. It also has to feel good on your feet.

There are several materials to use for our pools deck, each coming with their own set of advantages. Look into poured concrete if you’re on a budget, wood is nice if you don’t mind the upkeep, composite is beautiful but a bit costly, stone is great for a natural look, pavers are convenient and tile is picturesque. Whatever you choose make sure the decking material is not too slippery!

What type of pool fencing is ideal?

Like every other decision so far there are a number of fencing materials to choose from. When it comes to fencing you will want to find a fence that meets B.O.C.A. regulations and is in line with state, local and H.O.A. guidelines. Aluminum is practically maintenance free while being easy to install. It is the most popular option when it comes to in-ground swimming pool perimeter fencing.

Decisions both big and small are hard to make when they are permanent fixtures in your landscape. Take your time in analyzing how each material fits with the vision you have of the overall project.

Pound Pool Plastering repairs commercial and residential gunite swimming pools including coping, tile and plaster repairs. For more information or to request a quote, visit us at http://www.pound-pool-plastering.com/.

Pound Pool Plastering

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Create Curb Appeal With Exterior Updates

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

When it comes to your home it is true that appearances aren’t everything but it sure does help with curb appeal.  Your homes vibrant exterior and vivid landscape can really change your homes entire vibe.  If you are looking for another way to make a home that is more welcoming and causes the neighbors to take a second look enhancing your homes curb appeal is the way to do it.  If you need some ideas on how to boost your homes allure consider the following five ideas.

Revamp The Front Door:  It is so simple and inexpensive to restore your homes front door.  First you will want to make sure the door is in good shape.  If the door is in terrible shape it is not only a good idea to replace it for aesthetic purposes but for your family’s safety as well.  If the door is in good shape a fresh coat of paint can add so much character to your home.  A small cosmetic change with the addition of color can make an incredible difference to your homes curb appeal.  Look into colors that pop like shades of red, green, yellow or blue.

Add Color To Your Landscape:  This is another pretty simple update to your home’s exterior.  Plant a variety of flowers in a combination of complimentary colors to really boost your curb appeal.  The addition of window boxes is another way to add color using plants if you aren’t looking to update the landscape.  When choosing flowers to add take into account the type of soil you have, the amount of sunlight offered and the level of care needed to keep them looking amazing.

Include Lighting: This addition is a bit more of a challenge than the first two.  Adding lightning to your home’s exterior can be done in several ways.  Outdated fixtures around the doors can be update to include a more modern style.  Solar lights can be carefully placed to shine light on impressive pieces within your landscape which will not only add light but interest to your landscaping plants.  Lamp posts are extremely outdated.  Consider removing this type of lighting and replacing it with a more updated feature.

Install An Electronic Driveway Gate: An electric driveway gate is not only good to add curb appeal to your home it is a convenient way to add some security to your home.  Although the most expensive suggestion on the list, installing a fence around the perimeter of your yard while adding an entry gate is  way to increase curb appeal as well as the equity in your home.  Consider the options in gate operators and control systems to ensure that you install the most convenient gate for your driveway.

Consider Shutters: Shutters add so much definition to your home.  Not only do they accentuate the outline of the window they work to add a classic flair to your home’s exterior.  The most common colors to use for shutters are white and black.  However, some homeowners take this opportunity to get really creative with color and style.  Whatever shutter style and color you choose rest assured that it will add a classic element to your exterior.

Depending on the amount of time and money you have available to enhance the exterior of your home the sky’s the limit.  Take time to consider what the best features of your home and work to enhance them using some or all of the suggestions above.

SAC Fence Michigan offers a variety of electronic entry gates, access control entry systems and fence options for homeowners to choose from.  You will find a variety of fencing options online at http://www.sacfencemi.com/.

SAC Fence

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Buying Aluminum Fence Through Wholesale Suppliers

Posted on by Creative Programs and Systems

Have you determined that now is the perfect time to fence in your yard?  It’s time to start considering aluminum ornamental fencing.  Not only is aluminum fencing easy t install and practically maintenance free it is also incredibly durable.  It is one of the only attractive barriers for your home and landscape.  Create a detailed fencing plan before placing an order for wholesale aluminum fencing to further simplify the entire project.  In no time flat you will be enjoying your enclosed, secure landscape.

Determine Your Need

What is it that you hope to accomplish with the installation of an aluminum fence?   Are you looking for a pet barrier, an obstacle to prevent children from accessing the pool, or to protect your privacy?  They style fencing you choose will mainly be based upon why you are choosing to install a fence in the first place.  If the goal is to keep a pet within the backyard boundary you will want a fence style that offers puppy pickets.  This style takes into account escape artists with extra bottom pickets in place.  If you are looking for pool safety you will want B.O.C.A. regulation aluminum fencing.

Research Local Code

You need to research state, local and H.O.A. regulations.  Many communities have regulations in place in regards to fencing to sustain a certain appeal within the neighborhood.  Look into the policies that are in place in regards to the height, color and material of fencing that is allowed. Some communities have special rules for the distance between the fence and sidewalks; be sure that you completely understand what is expected out of your fencing before you place an order.

Hire Contractors

When ordering your fence you will have the assistance of customer service specialists that work within the industry.  They will help you plan, design, measure and order everything you need for your new fence.  Wholesale aluminum fence suppliers specialize in decoding what even the most novice client’s need.  Hire a contractor that specializes in aluminum fence installation.  You don’t want second-rate installation to ruin the aesthetics of your new aluminum fencing.

Maintain Your New Fence

After the fence has been ordered and installed it is your job to make sure that the fence is properly maintained and cared for.  Aluminum fencing requires minimal maintenance.  Depending on the season and the weather your climate experiences will determine how often your fence needs to be cleaned.  Even in the harshest climate the most that will need to be done to keep your fence looking as good as new is some soap and water.  Rinsing the fence down with soap and water every few months will keep your home and landscape looking fresh and well maintained.

Ordering your new fence online through a wholesale aluminum fencing supplier will save you money.  This is a great way to get the most out of your hard earned money.  Ordering aluminum fence panels through residential home stores often costs homeowners upwards of fifteen to twenty percent more over online fence suppliers.  Giving you the highest quality of fencing you can buy at an affordable price.

iFenceUSA offers a variety of maintenance-free, no-rust aluminum fences and gates in the industry! Whether you are a pool contractor, a building contractor, an architect, a landscaping professional, or a “do-it-yourself” homeowner looking for value and installation advice, you’ll benefit by buying wholesale aluminum fences shipped factory-direct from http://www.iFenceUSA.com!

iFenceUSA

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