Definitions of Fence Installation Contractor terms as used by Summit Fence in Acworth, GA. 22 terms defined.
Aluminum fencing is a rust-resistant metal fence option that mimics the look of wrought iron at a lower cost and weight. It requires little maintenance, works well on sloped terrain, and is often used around pools, gardens, and residential perimeters.
Board on board is a wood fence style where vertical pickets overlap slightly to eliminate gaps as the wood shrinks over time. This construction provides maximum privacy and a fuller, more solid appearance than standard dog-ear or stockade styles.
A cantilever gate is a rolling driveway gate that slides horizontally on a track above the ground rather than on wheels touching the driveway. It's ideal for uneven surfaces, snow, or debris and is often used for commercial and long residential entrances.
Cedar is a naturally rot- and insect-resistant softwood commonly used for fence pickets and panels. It contains natural oils that repel moisture and pests, weathers to a silver-gray if left unsealed, and generally lasts longer than untreated pine.
Chain link is a woven galvanized or vinyl-coated steel wire fence supported by metal posts and top rails. It's an affordable, durable option commonly used for backyards, dog runs, and commercial properties where visibility and security are more important than privacy.
A concrete footing is the poured concrete base that surrounds a fence post underground to anchor it securely. Footings prevent shifting from wind, soil movement, and gate weight, and are especially important for corner posts, gate posts, and taller privacy fences.
A dog-ear picket is a wood fence board with the top two corners cut at 45-degree angles, creating a subtle decorative edge. It's one of the most common and budget-friendly picket styles used in residential privacy and semi-privacy fences.
A fence permit is a local government authorization required before installing certain fences, particularly those over a specified height or around pools. In many Georgia municipalities, permits ensure compliance with setback, height, and safety codes such as pool barrier requirements.
A fence setback is the required distance a fence must be placed from property lines, sidewalks, or roads according to local zoning codes. Setback rules vary by city and HOA and are commonly checked before installation to avoid violations or costly removal.
Fence staining is the process of applying a penetrating sealant to a wood fence to protect it from UV rays, moisture, and mildew. Staining is typically recommended every two to three years and helps preserve color while extending the fence's lifespan.
Gate hardware includes hinges, latches, drop rods, and closers that allow a fence gate to operate properly. Heavy-duty, weather-resistant hardware is essential for wide gates and daily-use entries to prevent sagging, misalignment, and premature failure.
HOA fence approval is written permission from a homeowners association allowing a fence to be built to specific standards. Most HOAs regulate fence height, style, material, and color, and require an application with drawings before any installation begins.
A kickboard, also called a rot board, is a horizontal board installed along the bottom of a wood fence between the posts. It protects the vertical pickets from ground moisture, pests, and lawn equipment damage, extending the overall life of the fence.
A picket fence uses evenly spaced vertical boards attached to horizontal rails, typically 3 to 4 feet tall. Traditionally used for front yards and decorative borders, pickets can be pointed, flat, or gothic-topped and are commonly made from wood or vinyl.
A pool code fence meets safety regulations that require a barrier around residential pools, typically at least 48 inches tall with self-closing, self-latching gates. These codes are designed to prevent unsupervised child access and are enforced through local building departments.
Post setting depth refers to how deep fence posts are buried into the ground, typically one-third of the total post length. Proper depth—usually 24 to 36 inches in Georgia—prevents leaning, frost heave, and wind damage over time.
Pressure-treated pine is lumber infused with chemical preservatives to resist rot, termites, and fungal decay. It's the most common wood used for fence posts and rails in the Southeast because of its affordability and resistance to Georgia's humid climate.
A property line survey is a professional measurement that identifies the exact boundaries of a lot. Homeowners often need a current survey before fence installation to avoid encroaching on a neighbor's land, which can lead to disputes or forced fence relocation.
A shadow box fence is a wood privacy fence with alternating pickets on both sides of the horizontal rails, creating a decorative, semi-private look. It offers airflow and looks finished from both the front and back yards, making it a popular choice for shared property lines.
Stepped and racked describe how fences follow sloped terrain. A stepped fence installs panels in level sections that drop down like stairs, while a racked fence angles the rails to follow the slope smoothly, eliminating gaps beneath the panels.
Vinyl fencing is made from PVC panels that resist rot, insects, and fading without needing paint or stain. It comes in privacy, semi-privacy, and picket styles and typically costs more upfront than wood but requires far less long-term maintenance.
Wrought iron is a heavy, ornamental metal fence traditionally forged from iron and known for its strength and classic detailing. Today, most 'wrought iron' fences are made from welded steel to reduce cost while retaining the decorative scrollwork and durability.