Fences delineate resource-rich areas and exclude intruders. They can also disrupt a landscape’s ecological carrying capacity.
Fences are among the most common infrastructure elements with which wildlife and ecosystems interact, yet they’ve received relatively little attention in conservation biology. That is changing. The new subdiscipline of “fence ecology” is helping biologists understand their far-reaching impacts. Contact Charlotte Fence Company to learn more.
The origin of fences can be traced back thousands of years across ancient cultures. As humans began to settle in one place and develop agricultural activities, they needed to enclose their crops and animals from predators. These early enclosures took the form of stone formations and vegetation, but over time, they evolved into fence designs. Fencing became an integral part of human civilization and continues to influence our culture today.
The word “fence” comes from the Old English word “fens,” meaning to protect or defend. This is exactly what fences have been doing since settlement and organized society began. Fences are not only used to separate property lines but also to provide security and privacy from intruders. They also mark the transition from a nomadic, hunter-gatherer culture to an economy based on land ownership and agriculture.
Although the term is often associated with gangsters and the illegal trade of stolen goods, fences are found in all walks of life. In fact, fences are an important part of a healthy economy because they help to regulate and control the movement of goods and people. In addition, fences can be used to deter criminal behavior.
In the past, fences were often hired to act as go-betweens in the trade of stolen goods. These individuals would take possession of the stolen items and sell them on to other criminals. In this way, they acted as middlemen and made money by selling the stolen goods at a higher price than the original purchase price. It was not uncommon for fences to make a profit of up to 20 percent over the initial sale price.
Many fences are also involved in the illegal trade of drugs and firearms, and it is estimated that they take in around $3 billion annually. This is an astonishing amount considering that fences are not considered to be a high-risk occupation. In addition to these illegal activities, some fences are also involved in extortion and blackmail.
In order to avoid detection, fences frequently conceal the origin of their products by removing or defacing the serial number, and they may even change the packaging. In addition, they will transport the stolen goods to a different city where they can be sold without being recognized.
Function
In many parts of the world, fences are an essential component of criminal enterprises. They help thieves to sell stolen goods and provide a layer of privacy for both the thief and their buyer. Fences can also play a role in e-fencing, where stolen goods are sold over the darknet rather than through traditional channels.
Some thieves prefer to sell their goods to fences because it can be difficult for them to sell their stolen goods directly to final buyers, especially if they are known to police. Selling goods to fences can be much easier, and it can save the thief time and money by reducing transaction costs. Fences may pay thieves different prices depending on their status and the legitimate market value of their items. For example, a petty thief is likely to receive less than 20% of the value of an item, while a professional thief who has managed to remain anonymous to the police can command significantly higher prices.
In some cases, fences will disassemble stolen goods and sell them as individual parts. This can be particularly useful for vehicles such as cars and bicycles, which can be difficult to sell as whole units without being noticed by law enforcement or pawnshop owners. Fences may also hide or modify serial numbers on the stolen goods to reduce the likelihood of being recognised by law enforcement officials.
Materials
From the zigzag post-and-rail of Colonial-era homes to the elaborately molded vinyl styles available today, homeowners can choose from a wide variety of fencing materials. Choosing the right material for your property will depend on your desired aesthetic, privacy needs, and budget. Wood fences offer a natural look that can complement any home, while vinyl and chain link fences are popular for their durability, minimal maintenance requirements, and robust security features. Wrought iron and steel are also popular choices for more elegant and decorative fences.
If a natural aesthetic is a priority, consider a cedar or teak wood fence. These types of woods are known for their beauty and resistance to rot, shrinking, warping, and insect damage. However, their popularity comes with a high price tag and the need for regular staining or painting.
Chemically- and pressure-treated wood is a cheaper choice for residential fencing. It stands up better to rot and termites than untreated wood, but may need some sort of staining or coating to protect it from the elements. If you decide on a wood fence, make sure it’s treated with a preservative to prolong its lifespan.
Metal fences such as aluminum, wrought iron, and steel are durable and can last for decades with proper care. They are also versatile and can be designed in many different styles to match any home. Wrought iron is a popular choice for more elegant, decorative fences, while aluminum is ideal for pool fences and yard boundaries.
Composite fences are made from reformed wood fibers combined with plastic compounds and polymers. They have a natural wood appearance and require less maintenance than cedar fences, but they can be expensive.
Masonry fences are a great option for properties that want the ultimate in security, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Constructed from bricks or stone, masonry fences are very sturdy and deter intruders effectively.
Fence accessories like post caps and finials help finish off the look of your fence. Post caps are protective covers that keep the top of a post safe from moisture and extend its lifespan. Finials are decorative pieces that can be attached to the top of a fence post and come in a variety of shapes and colors.
Installation
The installation of a fence involves a number of steps. First, the area where the fence will be located must be cleared of debris and plants. Next, the holes for the posts must be dug. It’s recommended to use a power auger to speed up the process and ensure that the holes are deep enough to support the posts. Once the holes are dug, they should be filled with concrete. The concrete should be sloped away from the post to prevent water from pooling in the area. Then, the post must be seated. Use a carpenter’s level to ensure that the post is plumb and that it is the correct height.
Once the posts are in place, the fence rails can be installed. Fence rails come in a variety of sizes and styles, including pickets, privacy, and ranch-style rails. They also come with various coatings, such as galvanized and PVC or polyester. The coatings provide additional rust protection and help the rails resist weathering. Finally, the mesh can be attached to the rails using tension bands or tie wires. If the fence will have gates, the gate hardware must be installed as well.
During the construction phase, it’s important to follow local building codes and homeowner association regulations. Some HOAs have specific restrictions on fence styles, heights, and materials, so it’s important to check these rules before starting construction. In addition, it’s essential to contact your local utility companies before digging and installing any underground lines.
HOAs and other communities may have requirements for fence styles and sizes that must be followed in order to maintain the integrity of the property. For example, the community might require that fences be constructed in a certain color or material to match the neighborhood’s aesthetic. In such a case, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional fencing company to make sure that your new fence meets the community’s requirements.
Once the fencing is complete, you can enjoy the safety and beauty of your property. But remember, just like any other home improvement project, the installation of a fence requires careful planning and accurate layout. If you’re not experienced with the work, it’s best to hire a professional to avoid costly mistakes.