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Top: Shown here is a high-tech hydraulic and electro-mechanical gate opener. It comes in three models for slide gates, and five for swing-style gates. All models use 24V DC and/or 120 VAC power, and most are compatible with BFT's Ecosol solar technology. For slide gates, Deimos BT, Icaro Fast, and Ares 1500 provide smooth-gliding operation, and for swing gates, the Phobos BTL, Igea BT, Lux BT and Sub models ensure swift, effortless opening performance. Ultrafence.com Middle, Top: The ALUMINATE screwless ornamental aluminum fence system purports to be maintenance-free, durable and strong. It is available in residential, commercial and industrial grades, and is said to qualify for LEED points. It exceeds AMAA 2604. Specrail.com Middle, Bottom: With a 6-foot high tongue and groove white privacy panel (Illusions® V300-6), this fence comes via Illusions. The next best-selling styles have a lattice top (Illusions V3215D-6) or 1-1/2 x 1-1/2-inch Classic Victorian picket topper (Illusions V3700-6) on the solid panel fence sections. Illusionsfence.com Bottom: Designmaster Fence is a complete welded wire fencing system with eight different colors to choose from. Designmasterfence.com Future Material Trends Even though wood accounts for more than 70 percent of the jobs performed in 2012, contractors predict that the use of non-wood fencing materials will increase. Most pre- dicted that vinyl-fencing products will lead the way. When asked about growth po- tential, 40 percent predicted decorative fencing would increase, while 45 percent said security represents the biggest trend. Challenges Facing Fencing Contractors In the survey's comment section, a clear pattern emerges as to what contractors feel are the biggest challenges they face. To a large extent, challenges come from unlicensed contractors who under-bid and use inferior products, as well as the challenges faced from undocumented workers, whom don't carry the financial liability of taxes, license fees or proper insurance. And, of course, the sluggish economy in general was cited as a major obstacle to future growth. The fencing market, like many construction-centric industries, seems to be in lock- step with the economy as a whole. Fencing contractors appear to be doing slightly better than they were a few years back, but substantial growth appears tied to a rebounding new-home market. Fencing Style Guide There are a host of dif- ferent materials and products landscape contractors can choose from. These styles can be specified based on cli- ent wishes, applications, climate conditions, du- rability and ease of in- stallation. Wood Fencing This Seo Construction, Southern California project shows how wood can be used to create an elegant fence. Using more than 250 linear feet of clear-heart (knot-free) redwood boards, the fence is held in place by 50 4x4-inch posts set in concrete. The fence was finished off with eight gallons of Cabot clear stain and sealer to protect the fence and give it a protective shine. Wood is a popular fencing option as both a practical and attrac- tive way to add fencing to a property, and new developments in wood- fence installation help decrease the potential for warping and rotting. Steel and metal posts can be used to install wood fences to help increase longevity. Clever design can make the metal components virtually invisible, which enhances aesthetic appeal. This solution helps make wood fencing a durable option. It's easy to change the look of a wood fence by choosing from the many varieties of stains available, along with being able to paint it any color. July 2012 25