The World Famous "Fence Wizard"

The 50 most visited Fence Companies on the Internet...

2010-12-11T12:45:00.000-08:00

The "Wizard 50" is a list of the most visited web sites in the Fence industry. The Fence Wizard has been counting web hits in cyberspace for some time in order to complete the first known Fence Industry traffic list. In doing so we make the following conclusions:
First - It is likely that more than 500,000 prospective fence customers go online each month for product information, company research, and to purchase material from online retailers. Online retailers represent the bulk of the traffic. This is a direct result of the paid advertising they do with google, yahoo, and msn to secure product ads on search engines.
Second - Many of these companies did not exist 1 or 2 years ago - this tells us that online retailing in the fence industry is still growing and new capital is coming in to create some of these companies.
Third - These online retailers are typically competing with Home Depot and Lowe's - meaning that they are pushing inferior product in most cases and often selling products with specs that most of us would refuse to install ....see one of the Fence Wizard's past articles on the subject -click here.

Now without further delay - The "Wizard 50" with traffic totals (these are unique visitors per month as averaged over the past one year)......

Hoover Fence Company (On-line Fence Retail) www.hooverfence.com/ 51,834

Trex (Composite Fence and Deck Manufacturer) www.trex.com/ 29,374

Chamberlain (Access Control Systems) www.chamberlain.com/ 25,870

Invisible Fence (The no fence of fencing) www.invisiblefence.com/ 25,443

Master Halco (National Wholesale Distributer) www.fenceonline.com/ 23,690

Cali Bamboo (Complete Bamboo Product Line) www.calibamboo.com/ 23,153

Academy Fence (NY and NJ Resi - Retailer) www.academyfence.com/ 21,301

Vinyl Fence and Deck (Bufftech and More) www.avinylfence.com/ 18,650

Amazing Gates (Gates and Access Control) www.amazinggates.com/ 18,404

Fence Center (Total Residential Fence Dealer) www.fencecenter.com/ 17,176

Garden Structure (Plans, Custom Wood) www.gardenstructure.com/ 17,009

King Architectual Metals (Iron Parts and More) www.kingmetals.com/ 14,336

Kencove (Farm Fence Supply) www.kencove.com/ 12,313

Fence Depot (Residential Fence Sales) www.fence-depot.com/ 9,839

Long Fence (East Coast full service) www.longfence.com/ 9,308

Husker Vinyl (Westech Vinyl Retail) www.huskervinyl.com/ 8,897

Discount Fence (Resi and Access Control) www.discountfence.com/ 8,819

A Vinyl Fence and Deck Wholesaler www.vinylfenceanddeck.com/ 8,614

Fence Wholesale (Residential On-line Retail) www.fencewholesale.com/ 8,328

Global Fence and Gate (Iron/Aluminum) www.globalfenceandgate.com/ 6,850

Austintown Fence Company (Vinyl/Alum.) www.afencecompany.com/ 5,559

Fence It (Strange link only page) www.fenceit.com/ 5,591

Ameristar Fence ( Leader in Metal Fence) www.ameristarfence.com/ 5,116

Better Fences (On-line Residential) www.betterfences.com/ 4,732

Artisan Precast (Concrete Wall Stamping) www.artisanprecast.com/ 4,303

Completely Random Links Page www.fence4less.com/ 4,072

Pool Fence (Removable Mesh Fence) www.poolfence.com/ 3,885

AFA (official site) www.americanfenceassociation.com/ 3,458

Ametco (Steel Fence and Industrial Products) www.ametco.com/ 2,937

Fiberon (Composite Fence and Deck) www.fiberondecking.com/ 2,670

Pacific Gate Works (Very Custom Gates) www.pacificgateworks.com/ 2,501

Buy Vinyl Fence (Complete Vinyl Line) www.buyvinylfence.com/ 2,483

Fence City (Delgard Aluminum Fence) www.fencecity.com/ 2,303

Vinyl Fence (Residential Vinyl) www.vinylfence.com/ 2,038

Great Fence (Residential Aluminum) www.greatfence.com/ 2,018

Merchants Metals (Complete Wholesale) www.merchantsmetals.com/ 1,997

Protect A Child (Removable Mesh Fence) www.protectachild.com/ 1,736

Select Fence Distributers (Aluminum Fence) www.selectfence.com/ 1,661

Royal Outdoor Prodcuts (Complete Vinyl) www.royalcrownltd.com/ 1,585

Outdoor Fence (Complete Residential) www.outdoorfence.com/ 1,579

Privacy Link (Vinyl Slats) www.eprivacylink.com/ 1,561

Bufftech Vinyl (Official Site) www.bufftech.com/ 1,498

Apollo (Complete Access Control) www.apollogate.com/ 1,480

All Star (Access Control Systems) www.allstarcorp.com/ 1,477

Pro Tarps (Privacy Screen and Solar Shade) www.protarps.com/ 1,425

American Fence Co. (Largest Fence Installers) www.americanfence.com/ 1,386

Danielle Fence Mfg.(Florida Full Service) www.daniellefence.com/ 1,357

Softward Design Specialists (Custom Software) www.fencesoftware.com/ 1,025

Boundary Fence and Railing Systems www.boundary-fences.com/ 984

Collins Company (Custom Screen and Mesh) www.collinscompany.com/ 931

All Horse Fence (Vinyl Rail and other Equine) www.allhorsefence.com/ 789

Kiwi Fence (High Tensile Fence) www.kiwifence.com/ 684

Country Estate (Vinyl and Aluminum Wholesale) www.countryestate.com/ 608

World Fence News (Key Link to News / Trends) www.worldfencenews.com/ 603

Builders Fence Co (Complete Wholesale House) www.buildersfence.com/ 456

Originally posted Dec 2007.

US races to erect controversial steel fence on Mexican border

2008-08-05T10:47:00.000-07:00

www.Breitbart.com
Aug 5 09:27 AM US/Eastern

Just west of El Paso, near where Spanish conquistador Juan de Onate crossed the Rio Grande from Mexico in 1598, construction crews have completed a steel fence authorities say is a new model for border security.

The five-meter (18-foot) tall fence has a mesh woven so tightly that feet and fingers cannot grab hold, but it still allows people to see through. Steel pylons are set close enough to stop a truck from bursting through, and two meters of reinforced concrete underground deters any tunneling.

The structure is designed to push would-be illegal immigrants and drug smugglers out into the desert where they are more easily caught, said Border Patrol Agent Martin Hernandez.

"Will it completely stop them from coming across? Of course not," Hernandez said. "Rest assured, there will eventually be holes in parts of the wall made by people trying to get in. But it buys us valuable time."

The US Department of Homeland Security is racing to meet a December 31 deadline to raise 670 miles of steel fences and vehicle barriers along the 3,200 kilometer (2,000 mile) long southern border. About half has been completed, including this six kilometer (four mile) segment at New Mexico's Santa Teresa Port of Entry..... (Click here for the rest of the article)

Challenges still ahead for the back half of 2008

2008-07-24T12:46:00.000-07:00

Starting with the good news:

Steel, Oil, Coal and other commodities have fallen off their highs. This is the first substantial sign of price deterioration in months. Gas could return to $3.50 a gallon if trends continue and steel products may begin to cheapen in the coming weeks.

Challenges ahead:
It is unclear if commercial credit will survive the scourge of the residential mortgage market and loans have been tightened for corporate borrowers. There will be no additional interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve as monetary policy sits squarely between the battle of raising liquidity and controlling inflation with a stronger dollar.

Listen carefully: The housing market is not about to recover just yet; trends are still getting worse and Freddie Mac's mortgage survey just revealed that bets are now being made on a Fed interest rate hike in the near future....

Mortgage rates spiked this week on inflation fears, with the benchmark 30-year, fixed-rate loan soaring more than a quarter percentage point to a national average 6.63%, its highest level in nearly a year. (Click here for more)

For each set of good news it appears we can find an equally bad set of negative news. But this seems to be better than the onslaught of all bad news that we identified months prior.

Capitalism and certainly the construction market are built upon private property and credit. Both have been badly compromised in the short term and both will return to those who can survive the current period.

More pressure added to iron ore prices...

2008-02-21T10:38:00.000-08:00

The astounding 65% price hikes reported Tuesday here at the Fence Wizard Blog for new iron ore contracts may not be the last of the short term increase. This signals that 2008 will be the sixth straight year for record high iron ore prices. The key problem for any price relief is that just 3 companies control 75% of the worlds iron ore production and emerging markets continue to pressure supply even as U.S. demand slows. Two of those companies may combine as BHP Billiton has been attempting to takeover Rio Tinto for months.
Q> What does this hike mean for final products such as rolled steel or chain link for final buyers such as fence companies?
A> Most likely a 10% or so bump in finished product costs; some good news is that zinc is about 50% lower than the highs reached in Dec2006-Jan2007.

More:
Rio Tinto, BHP want more than 65% increase for iron ore. Rio Tinto (RTP) has indicated it is not satisfied with the 65% iron ore price increase negotiated by Vale (RIO) and Posco (PKX). If it doesn't back down, this may be the beginning of the end for iron ore's benchmark system, under which global iron ore prices follow prices set by Vale, Rio Tinto and BHP Billiton (BHP), who together produce almost 3/4 of the world's iron ore. Rio contends Asian steel mills are saving money due to its proximity to them, and wants a piece of their savings. There are rumors BHP will also hold out for more.
Rolled Steel Price Chart
Kitco Zinc Chart

Outlook worsens for 2008 U.S. Construction Recovery

2008-02-19T20:10:00.001-08:00

It may have seemed like a slow news day with a couple Presidential Primaries, the Dow Jones Industrial Average down just 10.99, and no updates to be found about Britney Spears. Unfortunately, some frightening data came forward today that will add pressure to Fence Installers and other construction services around the country.

Bad News #1:

Crude oil closes above $100.00 per barrel for the first time ever. Look for more pressure on vinyl pricing and lots more bad news at the pump for the near future

Bad News #2:

US Steel reported today that it has accomplished an astounding 65% price hike in steel settlements. UBS followed the news with an immediate upgrade on the companies stock price. In this case the good news for US Steel is terrible news for those of us who buy it and install it. The paradigm trapping the construction economy is continuing: Extremely high raw material prices combined with consumer credit issues has crippled the residential construction economy and is now threatening commercial building and credit. www.Kitco.com's Base Metal Index shows that material prices are rising quickly and may challenge some all time highs in the coming months should trends hold. Here is the 30 day trend chart (click to enlarge):

Bad News #3:

Barack Obama is now completely in control of DNC primary and a 78 to 21 favorite to beat Hillary Clinton for the Nomination according to the best political projector of the moment: www.intrade.com. Obama now also holds 55.4 to 34.2 lead over John McCain on Intrade's Presidential Election odds page (As of 11PM EST). A President Obama would effect your small business in the following ways:
1. Bush tax cuts will not become permanent and will expire.
2. Capital Gains taxes will rise from the current 15% to 28% or beyond on your investments.
3. Death Tax Law will likely become increasingly confiscatory with the current allowance of 3.5 million most likely reduced. Currently, 22,0000 families are penalized each year - many are family businesses. Large Corporations are not affected and will only gain the additional advantage of buying more small business at give away prices. (More on Obama's tax plan)

All in all Feb 19th, 2008 - A Day to forget - if you can.

How to spend about $400,000.00 in March.

2008-02-18T02:05:00.000-08:00

Want to be at the center of the online Fence Universe?
"www.fence.com" goes up for auction on ebay on March 26th, 2008. The reserve is a mere $225,000.00 so make sure your accounts receivables are in order.

If you are more of a bargain shopper you may want to check out "www.decking.com" that will also auction on Ebay 2 days after Fence.com. The reserve for this site is just $95,000.00 (just pocket change really). If you were curious "www.deck.com" already exists; as always just click on the blue words to magically travel to all Fence Wizard Links.

Here is a tip that may save you a fortune: "www.cantaffordawebsite.com" still seems to be available. Supply limited to one of course.

Video and Fence; A YouTube Study.

2008-01-13T11:29:00.001-08:00

From Fence Plowing to FenceTech some strange things can be found on the web when searching for Fence Videos. The Fence Wizard has taken the time to compile the first Fence Video Directory. Grab some popcorn:

Bad Tv Shows try to explain Fence Products:
Designing Spaces at FenceTech 2007
CBS Morning Show Fence Building Advice
Product Display, Installation and Manufacturer Show offs
D & D Technologies Gate Hardware
Amazing Gates - Electric Gate Operator Install
Magna Latch Products
Lock and Latch Gate Handle
Turnstyle Gates- Electric Iron Gates
Elite's Miracle Operator
Viper Electric Operator
Ameristar Montage Install via Hoover Fence
Cantilever Gate Install via Hoover Fence
Electric Fence Installation Part 1
Electric Fence Installation Part 2
Fence Plowing and Electric Fence mishaps:
Kid Crashed into Fence on Skateboard
Electric Fence you guess the rest
Goat that enjoys his electric fence
No explanation; just take a look
Pee on Electric Fence
Invisible Fence.......
Fence Plowing (XL Morning Show)
Interview with the Original Fence Plower
Fence Commercials and other oddities
Budweisser Invisible Fence Commercial
Harper Fencing Commercial (UK)
Himco Security Products Commercial
Simtek - Mity Fence vs. 70mph fastball

Franchise Opportunities in the Fence Industry

2008-01-12T11:32:00.000-08:00

Even if you have no interest in expanding your operation - you better know what the competition could be up to. Here is a comprehensive list of Franchise Opportunities in the Fence Industry that you need to know about - Truth be told there is no single full service fence installation franchise in North America:

1. Babygate Pool Fence - Total Investment to Start: $17,000 - $40,000. Find out more.
2. Garden Structure Decking - Total Investment to Start: not listed. Find out more.
3. Guardian Pool Fence - Total Investment to Start: $10,000. Find out more.
4. Deckare Fence and Deck maintenance - Total Investment: not listed. Find out more.
5. Alco Fence Painters - Total Investment: not listed. Find out more.
6. Jim's Fencing (Australia) - Total Investment to Start: not listed. Find out more.
7. AKJ Fencing (Australia)- Total Investment to Start: $25,000. Find out more.
8. Warner Fence (New Zealand) - Total Investment: not listed. Find out more.

The Fence Economy on Google Finance

2008-01-10T20:34:00.000-08:00

The Fence Wizard recently posted an article "Fence Industry Outlook - What Can the Stock Market Tell Us". The trouble of course continues to be that very little information is available regarding the Fence Industry because the vast majority of Companies in the Industry are Private and therefore need not report profits, estimates, or any other data to the public. The past two weeks on Wall Street have sent a strong signal - Ben Bernanke has to cut rates aggressively to avoid what may be an inevitable recession here in the States - Fed Reserve Comments today suggest that the message is getting through and Cash is on the way.

The Fence Industry has been struggling through a soft residential market with mixed opportunity in the Industrial Arena for 18 months or more in some markets. Google Finance does offer some helpful coverage for large private firms (127 companies to be exact) that are related in some way to the fence industry. Here are a few of the most relevant links from that list - click through to pick up some recent news and company info.

Allied Tube and Conduit
Master Halco

Kroy Building Products
Deacero
Merchants Metals Holding Company
Oklahoma Steel and Wire Company
Wheatland Tube Company
Certain Teed Corporation.......... (CertainTeed to cut 125 employees by May)

How to Improve Your Fence Companies Online Presence

2008-01-05T13:42:00.000-08:00

With all signs pointing toward a difficult year ahead it has never been more important to get the most marketing for the least amount of money. How about key marketing for free? Here is the World Famous Fence Wizard link list to free online advertising and marketing for your fence company. Remember, the more links coming back to your website and the higher it will rank in search engine results from Google, Yahoo, and MSN. Here is what we recommend:

Fence Industry Sites that you can participate with for free:
1. www.usfenceguide.com will give you a free listing and send you free traffic through their national fence company database. You are invited to create an advanced account with them but it is not required.
2. DMOZ - An open Directory Project Website. Basically just a Super List of fence company links that you can submit your company to.

Basic Free Advertising Through Company Directories (Find your base add and improve it for free; most of all make sure you are listed)
1. www.Local.com
2. www.Citysearch.com
3. www.Switchboard.com
4. www.Yellowpages.com
5. www.Listcorp.com
6. www.Superpages.com
7. www.Thomasnet.com

Post a free advertisement concerning any service you are offering at:
www.craigslist.com (also - try using it when you need to find a new employee; its free)

Networking Options:
1. Start a Myspace page and throw some pics on - you can do it in about an hour. Here is one company that did just that: Champi Fence
2. Join Facebook - Be an online member of your local community - Network! Network! Network! Join the United Fencers Association Here
3. Go to "Linked" and simply add your personal professional information, company name, and website link. It will take 15 minutes. When someone types your name into Google or Yahoo - your "Linked" information will come up every time.

Fence Discussion Sites that you can participate with, comment on, and leave a link:
1. The World Famous Fence Wizard - leave a comment on any article and link back to your website - Don't forget to sign our guestbook!
2. "Fence Resource" Discussion Page - Become a member for free and dive in!

Help with your website:
Track your traffic and see exactly where your hits come from, with Google Analytics
Find out exactly who is linking back to your website with: Who Links to Me?
Review the First Fence Industry Website Traffic Comparison:"The Wizard 50"

Rainy day reading advice:
Check your company record at The Better Business Bureau (even if you are not a member your company will be listed - you need to know what your customers are reading about you).
How do Google Searches work (how can you rank higher than your competitor who does not read the Fence Wizard Page)???? Click here and take a read!

This free marketing guide has been brought to you by: "Smart Business for Contractors: A Guide to Money and the Law (For Pros, By Pros)" - A Fence Wizard approved resource that you can buy for just $4.48.

2008 - Fence Industry Notices

2007-12-31T10:52:00.000-08:00

Some brief notices that may affect your company heading into the new year:

Starting in 2008 - Tax Law Changes

Self-Employment Tax Contribution Base Increases. The maximum amount of self-employment income subject to Social Security taxes will increase, probably to about $102,000 in 2008, up from $97,500 in 2007. (The exact amount was not set at this writing. Check this Web site for updates.) The self-employment tax rate remains 15.3 percent. The full rate applies to the first $102,000 of self-employment income; after that only the 2.9% Medicare tax applies.

Social Security Tax Contribution Base Increases. The maximum amount of wages subject to Social Security tax will increase to about $102,000 in 2008, up from $97,500 in 2007. (The exact amount was not set at this writing. Check this Web site for updates.) The 7.65 percent tax on employers and employees will apply to the first $102,000 or so of wages; after that only the 1.45% Medicare portion of the tax will apply.

Business Standard Mileage Rate Rises. The standard business mileage rate will increase for miles driven in 2008 for business, up from 48.5 cents per mile in 2007. (The exact 2008 rate was not set at this writing. Check this Web site for updates.) Remember that you can deduct the cost of parking and tolls in addition to the mileage allowance.

Fence Wizard Update on this item:

IRS Announces 2008 Standard Mileage Rates; Rate for Business Miles Set at 50.5 Cents per Mile

Tax-free Parking for Employees. Starting in 2008, firms can pay for $220 a month of parking tax free for employees, up $5 per month from 2007. The cap on tax-free transit passes rises to $115 a month, up $5 a month from 2007.

Increased Section 179 Expense Deduction. The maximum amount of equipment placed in service in 2007 that businesses can expense increases to $128,000, a $3,000 increase from 2007. The annual investment limit increases to $510,000 for 2008, up from $500,000 the year before. Thus, you won't begin to lose the benefit of expensing until you place more than $510,000 of assets in service in 2008.

IRS 2008 Benefit Plan Limits Announced (feed courtesy of Strategic HR Lawyer)

The IRS recently announced benefit plan limits for 2008. Here are some of the highlights:

Maximum 401(k) Contributions - $15,500
Maximum Compensation Limit - $230,000
Highly Compensated Employees - $105,000
Annual Contribution Limit for Defined Contribution Plans - $46,000
Annual Benefit Limit for Defined Benefit Plans - $185,000
Age 50 and Older Catch-Up Contributions (for other than SIMPLE Plans) - $5,000
Annual Contribution Limit for 457 Plans - $15,500

Also:
CA Law will take away hand held cell phones and all phones from CA teenage drivers July 1st

Fleet Decisions: Gas vs. Diesel.

2007-12-28T20:45:00.000-08:00

Often times we fall into the trap of thinking that overhead costs are generally the same for everyone and there is not all that much we can do about it. An average company can get away with that mentality; a great company scraps and claws for every possible cost advantage over their competitors. In a slow Fence Market - cutting costs and buying smart has never been more important for your bottom line. If you are in position to add or replace a truck in your fleet - we hope this diesel vs. gas comparison will help.

Numerous considerations must go into your decision. You have to worry about insulting the local Chevy dealer if you buy a Ford; will Jim (your best foreman) get mad that his truck is now the second newest because Franks 76' International is the truck your replacing and not his. Will your wife complain that you are spending 50K on a new "work" truck while she is still driving the Volvo that she has managed to dent on all four corners, top, and bottom. We can't calculate those items mathematically; we can estimate the cost per mile of a new truck. Your cost per mile vs. your evil competitor is all that matters here.
We all know that Diesel has outpaced the price of gas per gallon for some time now. Lets briefly review the past three years:
As you can see Diesel is projected to stay higher in 2008 but the cost gap is narrowing. The Fence Wizard Calculator says that Gas was running 5.5% cheaper than diesel in 2005 but that number is expected to narrow to 3.1% in 2008. Those who already own diesel trucks know that paying a small premium for fuel is well worth it - lets briefly review why that is the case:
Diesel trucks get much better mileage when comparing gas trucks with equivalent power (if you can find one). Overall Diesel maintenance costs are cheaper despite higher costs for oil changes; lets skip to the chase - Fleet Central has performed an exhaustive fleet review cost comparison for "Medium Duty" trucks. We will not bother re-inventing the wheel so here it is:
If you are not familiar with the depreciation line item ask your accountant if and how he or she is depreciating your rolling stock and read this depreciation guide.
Ready to go Diesel?
Popular Mechanics just completed a three-way comparison of light duty diesel pickups in their December 2007 issue (Fence Wizard readers may access the article and the video free of charge). They gave the trophy to the Chevy Duramax (fastest 1/4 mile and the best fuel economy of the bunch).The fact is that running 20 year old trucks will keep your cost per mile high - you have to ask yourself how much does one transmission failure 40 miles from town actually cost you? If your ready to upgrade - the Wizard recommends that you think Diesel.

Energy Information Agency
Get Popular Mechanics for just $1.00 per issue with this special Fence Wizard Link

Fence Domains; Good Luck......

2007-12-21T01:27:00.000-08:00

The internet has been scoured and picked clean by people with no jobs. They have systematically taken and reserved nearly every possible domain name that you might find useful. If you have an interest in buying a useful domain name in the Fence Industry - here is what we found on www.whois.domaintools.com.
By the way "Fence.com" is for sale but we have not found the information or sale price yet.

Domain	Price
PrivateFence.com	$200.00
StuccoFence.com	$295.00
FenceTree.com	$500.00
CountyFence.com	$500.00
ActiveFence.com	$688.00
FenceMen.com	$750.00
WestFence.com	$999.00
FenceInstaller.com	$1,000.00
AmericanFenceInc.com	$1,388.00
CreativeFence.com	$1,688.00
FenceKing.com	$1,800.00

A Wizardly Billing Tool....

2007-12-13T13:28:00.000-08:00

Doing one of your first Public Works Projects? Have a big Residential job that you need a to send a professional looking progress billing on?

The Wizard has a free tool for you. Call it an early Xmas present. We have developed an Excel file that you can use to professionally bill for partial payments. All you have to do is figure out what percentage of work you have done and punch in the numbers. The rest of the headache of redundant math and percentage calculations will be done automatically for you. This file will also calculate the retention (you choose between 5% or 10% retention). Most General Contractors require a similar format - they should accept this (and they will be impressed with the automatic template). The only problem is that Google Blogger does not allow us to upload the file to this site. So if you want the excel file template just send an email to: fencewizard@gmail.com (Type "Request Excel" in the subject) and we will forward the file to you. You obviously need to already have Microsoft Excel to run this file.

Here is what the template looks like, you can enter in your own item list in the "B" Column - I entered in some example descriptions and values. (click on it to view a larger image):

2007 Fence Photo Winners

2007-12-09T22:03:00.000-08:00

Thanks To all those who responded to the Photo Competition , We really appreciated the ones too explicit to post, remember if you're nude you must be an animal.

The "John 3.16" of your large fence project management.

2007-12-08T11:07:00.000-08:00

This post will likely be the most important information that you will ever read here at the Fence Wizard Blog. We say that because if you follow this advice carefully you can avoid being trapped in a position that can unfairly cost you thousands of dollars as a prime contractor or a subcontractor. The Topic: "Organizing and maintaining Correspondence". Have no idea what I'm referring to? That's OK - your in the vast majority group of people who are not attorneys - surely a good thing.

First off this post is specifically a guide for how to manage information from the moment you meet a customer until final payment is received. We are not tackling contracts, profit markup's, bidding, or any type of selling technique.........you are thinking: "What else is there?".

Now - follow this line of thinking: Once you sign a contract with a customer, general contractor, or any entity whatsoever; you are entering a "Legal Agreement". MOST customers will attempt to breach this contract by encouraging you to do work beyond the explicit agreement without compensation. Your goal as a "FOR PROFIT" business is to avoid providing free services at every possible opportunity!

You are reading more carefully now because you are now thinking of the last customer who did this to you - and it may well have been within the past week. Do not get into the truck ever again ready to kill somebody because you just caved in and agreed to provide extra work for a customer who is breaching what you thought was a clear contract for work. All of us have 10,000 of these stories so I wont write the full book here. Every contractor knows this problem; how do you keep yourself out of the work for nothing change order game?

Start Here. From the moment you meet a customer (by phone or in person) begin keeping detailed notes about everything the customer says. Even if they are using incorrect product language or descriptions WRITE IT DOWN and KEEP YOUR NOTES ! It is amazing how many customers will refer to the first or second phone call that you had with them and claim that they had implied for you to include a particular item in your bid (how could they possibly know that you forgot that conversation and did not include the diamond encrusted strike latch (dipped in liquid platinum). Well, the fact is they probably never mentioned the latch - but since you can't remember all 2,000 phone calls this week and you have no method to prove them wrong - you now have to give away the diamond encrusted latch and how on earth will you melt the platinum. While you must begin with good notes, you must take the time to reasonably list all important items and spec descriptions on your work proposal or contract. If your proposal is detailed and never mentions the special latch , then you have ground to stand on. If your proposal and contract never mention any product details - then it can't be assumed that you included or excluded the special latch. Please allow the latch example to be synonimous with (Part 203 F of the 300 page job book that you priced to the school district) or (Option 13 to the Army Core of Engineers that included adding six gate operators but deleting 1800' of a Concrete Retaining Wall previously listed in Option 7A and 7B.

Ok - so first we must keep good "Phone Notes" from day one; second a detailed work proposal or contract. Now the job starts; this means that unexpected events will occur - but before they do you are going to begin keeping a "Daily Project Log". Contractors who win lawsuits brought against them often have just one piece of relevant evidence: THE DAILY PROJECT LOGBOOK. Why? Because a Daily log is the only method you have for proving job site conditions, scheduled events, peculiar things, the light rainfall on Tuesday, your workers hours on site, and any other acts of God that can and will occur. Often small miscellaneous inputs in a logbook will trigger the memory of other things that happened 18 work days ago when the landscaping company was trenching along your posts holes (now a telephone cable is out and you are tagged with a bill for repair). There are millions of reasons to keep project logs; as a rule of thumb for small and mid size fence companies - utilize them for every public works project and every job that will account for 3% or more of your estimated yearly gross income. The format is not crucial but you need to include: the date, weather conditions, scheduled events for the day, worker list with time in and time out, safety meetings and sign ins, and the rest and often the majority should be for miscellaneous notes such as "Dave, the assistant manager, asked for workers to park on street instead of the parking lot for the duration of the project". (Knowing the exact day you were asked to do this could be important - hopefully it is not).

The Project Logs are essential but here is another tip that will not eat up any of your time or your foreman's time: Ask your customer to email you all questions or requests. I know you have email or you would not be reading this. Email is best automatic correspondence device. It marks the exact time and is an exact quote of whatever your customer wants or wants to know about. Email is the contractors best friend and it can bail you out of major disagreements if you can force your customers to use it. The fact is that when you get a cell phone call while you are trying to load a bobcat you are going to forget a certain percentage of the conversation. Very simply ask the caller to shoot you an email because you can't write the message down at the moment. This is the best habit you can get in; avoid blindly discussing project details when you are ill prepared to do so; the customer has the advantage in those scenarios because they prepared prior to calling you. Remember , whatever you say will be held against you when the customer is looking for free add on.

When you follow those basic steps you will have important reference tools for an argument, should one occur. The reality is that doing these things avoids arguments and misunderstandings. There is still the question of how to handle a customer that has a passive aggressive technique of pushing you into a bad position. You have to be tough and calm in these situations - a fight with the customer will never help you finish the job or get paid - never. If you can, avoid making any decisions at the moment a customer corners you. The reality is that a customer can and will develop a strategy to confront you on something you have not thought about and had no intention of providing. Being caught off guard often causes us to simply give in to requests because we feel nervous or unprepared. Listen to all requests, if you do not feel comfortable explaining any answers - then reply: "please let me review my notes and I will call you from the office" or "its a good question, let me review it with the boss and find out".
(SIDENOTE: Its always to your benefit to have a secret evil boss). If you can buy yourself some time you can make a better decision about throwing in the strike latch or presenting your customer with evidence that they chose the fork latch and what the change order amount would be "to add that item to the project". The reality is that sometimes you must throw something in to close out a job. When you provide anything beyond your agreement but decide not to charge for it- send your customer an invoice with the description of the extra work, the fair value price, and then credit the account for a reason such as "good customer discount". It is vital that the customer see what the value of the "free" service was. This encourages them to not actually think its free - reasonable people do not expect free things; they just want a good deal.

Again, unexpected events will occur on every job site and you must protect your company. We know this will happen - when it does:RELAX and do not take personal blame for not having Wizardly foresight. Use your notes and collection of correspondence to prove yourself right; you deserve to be paid for extra work. But are your employees doing extra work without you knowing??? Stay tuned to the Wizard, that article is coming soon.

For a far more detailed experience on the topic The Fence Wizard recommends these books:
Contractor's Guide to Change Orders
Construction Daily Project Log for Construction & Maintenance

Fence Industry outlook - what can the stock market tell us?

2007-12-04T08:29:00.001-08:00

We have all been affected by the construction slowdown - especially those who are focused on residential work. When will it come back? How can we forecast 2008 and beyond. Well, no single person or indicator could do that alone. However, "The World Famous Fence Wizard" is here to guide the Fence Universe and that is what shall be done.

Lets give Wall Street a chance to help. The Wizard has developed the following fund (first of its kind) of publicly traded companies that are directly related to fence material, raw product, and the Construction Industry. The idea is to evaluate a group of companies and stocks to get an idea of what Wall Street is betting on going forward. The difficulty is that there are very few publicly traded companies that focus on the fence industry. The test fund is diversified but the focus is on companies with a strong American presence; this is not an international gauge at this time. When it comes to materials such as raw steel, zinc or timber we must remember that such markets are without doubt related to the world economy, if zinc prices are up worldwide then zinc stocks will rise even if domestic demand is weak. Also - high raw material prices often indicate a strong market but we must recognize they directly hurt end users like Fence Installers who have to pay more for product. So if world demand for zinc is high - Joe Blow's Chain Link Fence Company will pay the high demand price regardless of the strength of demand in his market . Without further ado here are the fund selections, split into three groups:

1. Residential Related industries
TWP (Trex, the largest composite fence and deck manufacturer).
HD (Home Depot - we must included the giant in building product retail).
XHB (This is an index fund of U.S homebuilders...... new homes = new fences).
WLK (Westlake Chemical Principal is a leader in manufactured vinyl products including fence).

1year chart for this group: down 45% combined

3 month chart for this group: Down 32.25% combined

Conclusions - as expected, residential related industry has been hit very hard, the worst of our 3 subgroups, the sub prime fiasco seems to have pushed these stocks down further, the 3 month drop is substantial.

2. Commercial and Industrial Related Industries
ZRBA (Zareba Systems, Inc. is the world's leading manufacturer of electronic perimeter fence and security systems for animal and access control).
GVA (Granite Construction Co. is a regular play for those betting on increased spending on public works and building projects throughout the country)
DJ_2357 (Dow Jones Heavy Construction Fund - we all know that security and fence follow these projects at regular if not increasing rate)

1year chart for this group: Up 19.33% combined

3 month chart for this group: Down 14.66% combined

Conclusions: Stronger then the residential indicators because it is not dependent on the rise and fall of new homes and less dependent on consumer spending and credit worthiness. The Government will keep spending on public works -that helps holds heavy construction spending closer to constant.

3. Raw material / mining, lumber, chemical, steel etc.- again international demand affects this group and it relates to all types of end users. Did you know copper prices affect the cost of pressure treated wood posts?

VMC (Vulcan Materials;concrete and aggregate products).
DJ_1733 (Dow Jones US Forestry Index covers all the major lumber yards and mills).
DJ_1770 (This global mining index includes holdings in all the big names).
DJ_1757 (Dow Jones U.S. Steel Index)

1year chart for this group: Up 15.5% combined

3 month chart for this group: Up 8.5% combined

Conclusion: this group has gathered significant profit from worldwide demand for material, strength in these stocks, especially mining, will actually create a burden for domestic construction to recover as foreign demand drives up pricing. Another issue - the weak dollar makes it more and more expensive for American business to buy anything on the world market. For example - if a vinyl manufacturer is buying chemicals and oil derivatives it will cost more in dollars as our currency remains weak. Conversely, If you are drilling for crude in Texas you are benefiting greatly from a weak dollar that is helping to push up the price of oil. World markets are affecting your local company, it is important to understand why.

The Wizard Fence Fund Indicator totals:
All groups combined past 1 year: Down 3.4%
All groups combined past 3 months: Down 3.1%
This suggests that the forward thinking is very negative. We need to see the past 3 months beat the 52 week trend and turn positive in order to conclude any positive outlook is occuring on Wall St. Most of the weakness remains in residential building - this wont change much in 2008 and will likely get worse. Lets check back on this in 3 months and see if we can locate any improvement.

Here is a tip - try to avoid investing in any of stocks or etf's that i listed in the first two categories. In fact, you would want to do the opposite - short those groups (bet against them). As a member of the fence industry and the overall construction industry you already have significant risk and reward already built in to everything on the list. To be diversified, you need to invest in other industry. Remember all of the workers at Enron who had all of their savings in Enron stock..... bad idea. You could take a small stake in the "raw material" group - this would help "Hedge" your company against rising material costs in the same way that Airlines invest in crude oil futures. You too would want to have some investment in energy, this would help to "Hedge" your bottom line against things that hurt your company like higher fuel prices and electric bills. If stock in Exxon Mobile drops - don't worry too much, your probably paying less on fuel for the company fleet. Please remember - these are very basic concepts to consider and not right for everyone.

Related Articles of interest:
World Fence News Contributer Jim Lucci describes the tight rope for the fence industry.
Jp Morgan Analyst predicts Lumber Markets have reached bottom.
Matt McCall, president of Penn Financial Group says its time to look at investing in homebuilders.
World Fence News Staff Aritcle "December Field Report"

Fencetech 2008 etc.......

2007-12-02T08:40:00.000-08:00

FEB 5-7: Fencetech will be at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, NV. Click here for AFA's website information and schedule. Still no indication if the Fence industry will take a larger role in the installation of pipe for pole dancing, apparently most show goers spend significant time analyzing structural stability of such "posts" from a 10' - 20' distance.

For those on the east coast you can see most of of the big names the following week at......
FEB 13-16: The 2008 International Builders Show will be in Orlando, FL - Tickets will set you back $100.00 so don't bother taking the kids. To see the complete list of fence manufactures and distributors that will have booths click here.
Also - for a quick look at the ISB show featured products click here.

For a huge list of construction related Trade Shows, locations, and dates try: www.biztradeshows.com. The Biztradeshow list is not complete to be sure - it does not have either show I described above.
World Fence News Puts Out This Event List As Well.

United Fencers Network Established on Facebook...

2007-11-29T10:51:00.000-08:00

The United Fencers Network or UFN has recently been established on facebook. Facebook allows groups of the same ilk to converse, meet, and discuss common interests. The UFN will be focused on concepts and concerns that suppliers and installers are currently dealing with. The advantage of using Facebook for this enterprise allows free access to all who join, access to industry news, and instant communication with other companies, suppliers, and even customers that are literally around the world.

When you have a minute or two - stop by www.facebook.com - sign up - and look for the United Fencers Network (UFN). It's easier than running a 20' stringline and hopefully it will keep us all in line. Our consumers are online now - lets get back ahead of the game, get informed and connected. Let me make it easier::::
Here is a shortcut - follow the linkbelow:
http://www.facebook.com/p.php?i=773340998&k=Y6GZYVUZQWXMXEGDSJ46R

Everyone can join Facebook free and easy. To register, go to:
http://www.facebook.com/p.php?i=773340998&k=Y6GZYVUZQWXMXEGDSJ46R&r

Historic Fence photos......

2007-11-26T11:55:00.000-08:00

The Fence Wizard will be posting historic pictures of installation and equipment in December. Send the Wizard a historic pic from your companies past with a full description. Lets not forget where we all came from just a short time ago.

Send your pics to: fencewizard@gmail.com

A New Player In Aluminum Fencing...

2007-11-18T12:34:00.000-08:00

North Carolina based "Aluminum Fences Direct" has jumped into the retail and wholesale aluminum fence market. All panels are assembled in the U.S. - they also get all raw material from U.S. sources - a rarity in the segment. The Warranty appears to be an industry best and pricing appears to be extremely competitive with wholesale sources. I asked management a few questions and here is some more info for Fence Wizard readers:

With our volume commitment and national coverage, we have contracted an aggressive discount structure that we're able to forward on to you... the DIY home owner and smaller fence contractors.

As mentioned, all of our aluminum fence panels, posts and gates are made and assembled in the USA which is why we can offer such a quick turn-around of just 5-10 business days.

We have some traditional styles like most aluminum fence companies, but another thing that sets us apart is some of our unique styles. We have a cast aluminum style that looks just like wrought-iron and we have a more traditional style that resembles a curved gothic top. These styles and more are only offered through our unique manufacture source.

We have a great deal of knowledge about fencing, especially aluminum, so if you have any questions in what you might need, please don't hesitate to contact us. Visit our website to see how we’re different from all of our competitors. Thank you for your consideration!

Additional Information:
Limited Lifetime Warranty Info
Pictures

Architects already know it - go to caddesisgns.com

2007-11-12T10:14:00.000-08:00

This website can be a great tool for folks looking to specifiy exactly what they want on their private business or even residential fence project. Its very simple and this is a free site --- go to http://www.caddesigns.com/
Type in "Fence" in the main search on the top of the page and you will see:

CSI CATEGORIES (Select category to refine search)

	(32 31 00) fences and gates
	(32 31 13) chain link fences and gates
	(32 31 19) decorative metal fences and gates
	(32 31 29) wood fences and gates
	(32 31 23) plastic fences and gates
	(32 31 16) welded wire fences and gates (Go ahead and use the above category links, I made them active) Follow your nose from there - you will have acces to designs like the one pictured (Top) from Builders Fence Company.

TREX sets aside another $45 million for defective product replacements....

2007-11-11T22:14:00.000-08:00

TREX is one of the nations largest manufacturer of Fence and Deck material and has seen its stock price fall from $27.70 back in February to the current price of $8.00 on Nov 9, 2007. Trex had already lowered 2007 earnings estimates citing a significant effect from the construction slowdown. But the Fence Wizard is focused on the announcement of the massive $45million charge to create a reserve for defective product replacement. If you install or own a TREX product - please comment and let us know what is going on with this company and how you have been affected. Is Trex paying for labor to replace defective products?

Nov. 6, 2007, 7:48AM: 3Q Loss for Deck and Fence Maker Trex
© 2007 The Associated Press

WINCHESTER, Va. — Trex Co. Inc., which makes decking, railing and fencing products, said Tuesday it swung to a loss in its third quarter due mainly to a large reserve for replacing defective decking material manufactured at one of its plants.

For the quarter ended Sept. 30, the company reported a loss of $41.2 million, or $2.77 per share, compared to a profit of $4.6 million, or 31 cents per share, in the prior year quarter.
Analysts polled by Thomson Financial expected a profit of 11 cents per share. Trex said its profit was hurt by a $45 million increase to a product defect reserve for the replacement of decking material manufactured at its Nevada plant between 2003 and 2006 and a $9.4 million inventory adjustment. Revenue fell 18 percent to $64 million from $78.1 million in the third quarter of 2006. Analysts predicted revenue of $75.9 million.

Trex Warranty Infomation
Trex Press Release addresses Defect Issue

How to find and hire an employee....

2007-11-09T11:39:00.000-08:00

This is the best article I have read on the subject, it was brought to us from Fenceweek.

FINDING GOOD EMPLOYEES (using your cell phone)

Good employees, with a strong work ethic and knowledge of their trade, are already employed. When they want to change jobs, they can usually do so quickly. That is why, when you decide to hire an employee, you also need to move quickly.

Here is a method that some of our coaching clients are using and so far it is working great.

Write a four or five line ad, starting with "Top Pay for (insert job name here)." Then list briefly what you are looking for, i.e., experience, must have own hand tools, late model vehicle, good driving record, no drugs or alcohol, whatever else you feel is important. The key phrase is "Top Pay for . . . "

Put the ad everywhere you can: in the paper, on the Internet, on the bulletin board at the supply house. List your cell phone number - and make sure you have your cell phone with you to take the calls. When potential employees call in, here is what you say:

"I'm going to give you a 30 second commercial about the job, when I am done I want you to tell me if you can do it. You will be checked and evaluated during the first two weeks of employment so if you tell me you can do the job, be aware you will be checked and tested. I will not talk about money on this call. If you can do the job, we will meet later today or tomorrow morning, have some coffee, talk about the job, the pay and see if there is a fit between us. Is that fair enough?"

Now, notice that you won't talk money. That forces the potential employee to focus on the job requirements, and it stops your competition from calling and finding out what you are willing to pay good help. If the caller comes back with any questions about pay, they are the wrong person for you. Their focus is obviously on the pay, not the work, and it tells you they won't follow directions!

Give them the short commercial, describing the work and the requirements. Remember to keep it short and to the point. 30 seconds is plenty of time to tell them what you want. When you are done, you ask them, "Can you do that job?" If they say no, then say good-bye nicely. That is one less resume to look at, one less interview to hold - both you and the potential employee have saved time.

If the answer is yes, set a time and place to meet for coffee. When you meet, go through your normal hiring questions. If they measure up, hire them on the spot. Forget the resume and job history stuff. Good employees are not going to hang around waiting for you to go through the three to five week game of interviewing every guy in the world. Give your new employees a two-week trial period. If they make it through the first two weeks, there should be a second probationary period so you get a chance to really see what they are like and what they can do. The second period should be at least six weeks or more. At the end of the second trial period, you set their wage.

Remember, asking for resumes, former employers, and the rest of the fall-da-rah that goes with that approach seldom will get you the same truth that a short trial period will provide. If they don't work out, send them down the road and start over.

You should have an employee manual in place, and one job requirement is reading and signing the manual. If they won't sign the manual, don't hire them. In today's market, the deck is stacked more and more on the side of employees, and you must protect yourself and your company from those who are looking for a free lunch.

Using this approach, you will find that good employees are available, and they are ready to move ahead. Be ready to move ahead as well and you'll save yourself time and aggravation.

Final Comment:

I can't emphasize enough the value of a good employee manual.

I received a call from a company that terminated an employee. Almost a year later, the employee sued them for $26,000 for discrimination, etc. In your employee manual, include language that states they can only file a claim against your company for a period of 6 months after they leave. That limit has been upheld in the courts. Have your attorney write it, add it to your employee manual, and be sure that everyone, including long time employees, sign off on it. Cover Your Assets.

The Story long ignored by US media: the overwhelming success of Israel's border fence

2007-11-08T19:53:00.001-08:00

The Fence Wizard staff has brought you the complete story that has miraculously gone unreported concerning the Israeli border fence and its effect against terror attacks. The links, videos, and slide shows below will convey an enormous amount of information in just minutes - this is well worth it, the information is well presented. Once you absorb this basic information you will be forced to wonder- Why have I not heard about this?????

Click HERE for the official Israeli Diplomatic Website....below are the key links:
The Anti-Terrorist Fence - Facts and Figures: English
The Anti-Terrorist Fence - An Overview: A comprehensive summary of the major issues concerning the fence (WORD 62 KB)
Saving Lives: Israel's Security Fence (pps): English (2mb)
Which Is Really Worse (pps 1mb)

Fence Against Terror (Video - IDF Spokesperson production). Ramadan Shalah, Palestinian Islamic Jihad leader,publicly admits that Israel's Security Fence is an important obstacle to the terrorist organizations policy of carrying out suicide attacks.

Although the media describes the fence as a wall, 96% is rather rudimentary chain link fencing. The walled section was erected to protect a highway from rooftop sniper fire that had become a regular problem. The erection of a fence in this case has saved lives. It has increased the freedom of peaceful people. The ultimate display of a good fence making good neighbors. The fence is not the answer to all problems, but it is saving lives and adding Wizard like stability.

Update: Golden State Fence, Guilty or an unfair poster child?

2007-11-06T21:07:00.000-08:00

As promised the Fence Wizard responds to Golden State Fence founder and CEO Mel Kay's rebuttal regarding his company, for full context the Wizard recommends reading Mel’s comments, click: The World Famous "Fence Wizard": Mel Kay defends Golden State Fence reputation and history....

Here is the Wizardly Response:
Mel States: “First of all, there has never been any attempt to sidestep the law to undersell our competition”

The Wizard finds that sidestepping the law is exactly what your company pled guilty to. Golden State Fence was not just found guilty of hiring illegals; it was the conspiratorial aspect that Golden State Attorneys could not shake the prosecutors from. Those “10 employees (who didn't make one iota’s difference to our bottom line)” were found in prior government audits to be illegally employed. When they were later found at other Golden State locations still employed - it was clear that Golden State had not made a satisfactory effort to change its ways. So why was Golden State made an example of when so many companies have been caught hiring illegals? The Associated Press offered the following: “You have to show a kind of criminal conspiracy,” said Steven Camarota, research director of the Center for Immigration Studies in Washington, a group that advocates tighter immigration controls. “The mere hiring of illegals is not enough.”

Prosecutors agreed and brought charges against Golden State Fence for the repeated non-compliance. Its hard to ignore that the Federal Government notified your company in writing in July 1999 that at least 15 of its employees at its Oceanside office were discovered to be illegal aliens following a visit by agents. “At that time, Golden State executives said they were terminating the illegal workers, but in September 2004, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents found that 49 Golden State employees at the Oceanside office were illegal aliens”. http://search.washtimes.com/national/20070330-124512-2035r.htm

This is not a record of attempted compliance – after being warned at just one of eight locations (Oceanside) your company increased the amount of undocumented labor by 310% at that location alone.

Mel States: “We lead the nation in our industry regarding the wages we pay our employees from the yard personnel to installation to office”

How can you possibly know this? Have you surveyed every fence company in the nation? Certainly any company that regularly wins government contracts must pay prevailing wage rates (either state or federal) to it’s workers. Those rates are typically between $35-$60 per hour depending on the project and classifications assigned for the project. Non-Union workers earning those rates can make over 100K per year; certainly a wonderful thing – but these rates are not established by Golden State – they are required rates. This makes the undocumented labor violations all the more egregious. By knowingly hiring illegals, as you pled guilty to – you took excellent jobs away from US citizens. Lets be direct on this – the growth and success of Golden State Fence Company came at the expense of some US citizens and to the great expense of companies who did not hire suspected illegal immigrants. Although Judge Moskowitz agreed that Golden State had paid good wages and benefits; the advantage of hiring undocumented workers cannot be discounted. With low unemployment rates, as seen over the past several years, there are only so many workers available in the labor pool – companies that did not hire suspected illegals were at a great disadvantage to Golden State and any other company that did not constrict themselves to the law. This is why it is remarkable that after years upon years of increasing its market share, Golden State Fence has the audacity to ask other companies to forgo the practice that gave it such market advantages and profits while taking away so much work from any company that held the line regarding employment law.

This begs the question – How does Golden State Fence or Fence Corporation, or whatever other name you like, get away with continuing to bid government projects despite being caught for hiring illegals? Maybe the attorneys at Golden State have figured out how to duck the law on this as well – I think we are all curious as to how its possible. Are we to believe that Golden State made sure to only allow its illegal workers to work for the residential portion of the company? Would this not prove without any doubt that you knew exactly which workers were illegal and which ones were legal? If not, how can you explain the continued bidding on public works projects with Fence Corp? Is Fence Corp not part of the Golden State Family that paid about $5 million in fines for the violations described, thus making it in-eligible to bid public works?

Mel states: “We also provide two-three week vacations, holiday, sick pay..”

The Wizard is very impressed with this, although it seems nearly impossible to give workers 6 weeks off per year plus sick pay. This equates to over 15% of the year paid without work – hard to believe but we will take you at your word.

Mel states: “Illegal Immigration - We hired 1942 employees from September 1999 thru November 2005.” ……… “The majority of our installers have been with our company 15-25 years”

The Wizard Cannot ignore these two conflicting statements. If “most” workers have been with the company for 15 years or longer how can you explain the turnover you cite with hiring over 1942 workers over a 6 year span while maintaining a workforce of about 500-700 according to quoted sources.

To make these figures fly we would have to assume the following:

Most workers= at minimum 251 (a tiny majority of 500). This leaves 249 others (the minority). 1942 workers hired /249 slots available = 7.8 workers hired per slot. Using that data over a period of approximately 6 years:

6years/ 7.8 hired per slot = .77 years worked per employee hired during the 1999-2005 span.

This basic math tells us that roughly half of the employees hired during that period would not have ever become eligible for the vacation pay and probably other benefits that arise from working at least a full year. Perhaps this explains some of the savings that comes from hiring and firing (or simply losing) such huge numbers of workers. Certainly this amount of turnover is not common in the industry – not to that degree. In fact it reminds me of a scheme that many US resorts use during peak season; ski resorts for example will hire large percentages of young foreign workers to work the season. Most of the benefits offered to them require a full years work, however most of them did not understand the benefits package and never intended to work more than the peak season and do not have legal visas to stay that long. Its a great deal for the resorts; very misleading to the foreign students on the work visas.

In short, the Fence Wizard wishes to bring attention to your new programs that are targeted at fixing the system that we all have to deal with. If the Wizard can be of service - we would be happy to share and help provide such information to others in the fence industry and beyond. Certainly no person wishes any other business to suffer as yours surely has from workers who bring false ID and false SSN’s to a job interview.

Finally, while the Wizard will not waiver regarding the law, we can certainly move forward to insure that others comply with the law. The terrible misfortune for all of us is that the Federal Governments is has been unable to seal the border and to provide a reasonable guest worker system that is accountable to the American Voter and the American Taxpayer. Had these ends been met – no company would ever have the burden that Golden State Fence Co. has faced.

The following publications were utilized:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/16211320/ ; http://search.washtimes.com/national/20070330-124512-2035r.htm http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9B0CEEDC1231F936A25751C1A9609C8B63
San Diego Tribune
Relevant Links about this discussion:
Golden State Employment Link
Golden State Fence Official Website
Mel Kay Autobiography

1st annual web design awards for fence companies

2007-11-06T09:07:00.000-08:00

This guide should serve a model for up and coming companies to view and emulate the best websites in the fencing industry. If you see a category that we have missed or a company website that trumps our choice -LET US KNOW! Its a big internet out there.

Category #1: Best product (manufacturer website)..........www.fenceonline.com
Lots of ideas, options, and pictures. Clearly the online fence info winner and its from a company with a long history of quality distribution.

Category #2: Best new product website.............. www.simtekfence.com
This must be the fastest growing fence product in America with dealerships now expanded throughout the country. The growth is so promising that Simtek spun off from the parent company "Mity Lite" into a stand alone company.

Category #3: Best local fence company website............www.champifence.com
Found this one from Central California - gives viewers important company information and background and then hits you with recent project pictures and key links right on the homepage; very professional. Nick Champi Enterprises Inc.

Category #4: Most travelled Fence Website..............www.hooverfence.com
According to alexa.com and wholinkstome.com the winner for this category is Hoover Fence - they have been online retailing for longer then anyone and getting more hits than anyone else.

Category #5: Earth friendly Fence product that makes sense.... www.calibamboo.com
Cali Bamboo is worth a visit even if you have no current fence needs; check out the multitude of project pictures and ideas for inside and out of your home. For you Greenies - check out their regular newsletter and total commitment to renewable resources; the Wizard is impressed the companies 1% giveback program .

Category #6: Best online tool for Fence Companies...........www.fencebids.com
A good source of projects coming up for bid and vast array of industry news; Gene Kalb has been a well known member of the fence industry for many years, thank Gene. Just remember, he is no Fence Wizard - but then again, who is?

Golden State Fence changes name to "Fence Works" in attempt to rebuild reputaion....

2007-11-05T17:13:00.000-08:00

For many years Golden State Fence sidestepped the law in a successful attempt to undersell its competition. Golden State Fence attacked competitors from every angle - Cheaper labor, cheaper materials, and even targeted price dumping in order to put some competition completely out of business. Approximately 225 workers at Golden State Fence were found to be illegal aliens - some of them had already been outed 6 years prior by an immigration audit and Golden State simply shuffled them around. The following legal drama resulted in millions of dollars of fines and a house arrest for owner Mel Kay, the company has now floated several new names. The first attempt was "Fence Specialties" however when looking at the website and the name "www.fencespecialties.com" one may have thought that they were selling special "ties". The name was skirted and according to the latest available news the new name will be "Fence Works". Other indications are that the industrial side of the company will operate under the name "Fence Corp". Whatever the name - Golden State Fence is a proven cheater of the worst kind. For years they cheated the law in order to beat down any competition that dared to abide by the basic labor laws. Now "Fence Works" has the audacity to beg other companies to implement a special citizenry check; here is what they write on their web page:

"Fenceworks encourages other companies in the fencing business to also participate in these government programs as this creates a level playing field in the industry and is the best way to reassure our customers that we are providing dependable service with legally documented workers."

Lets leave it at this - The World Famous Fence Wizard has a good memory, whatever the name, a cheater is a cheater.

Mel Kay defends Golden State Fence reputation and history....

2007-11-03T22:50:00.000-07:00

As visible below, Mel Kay has commented directly on the Fence Wizard article "Golden State Fence changes name to "Fence Works" in attempt to rebuild reputation...."
Because this is an open forum we are posting Mel's response as an original article in order to provide him with a fair opportunity to have his comments read by all.

Dear Fence Wizard:

I was shocked at all the inaccuracies after reading your column in regards to Fenceworks. Please allow us the same space to address these outrageous accusations.

First of all, there has never been any attempt to sidestep the law to undersell our competition. Our success rate from bid to sell is not much different that anyone else. We just bid more projects.

Cheaper labor? We lead the nation in our industry regarding the wages we pay our employees from the yard personnel to installation to office. Our installers averaged $59M a year for 2004-2006. Some earned as high as $105M. We also provide two-three week vacations, holiday, sick pay plus health insurance along with a life insurance policy and it doesn’t matter what color their skin is or where they were born. The majority of our installers have been with our company 15-25 years. That must say something for our company.

Cheaper materials? Oh my goodness – we’re the ones that led the way starting in 1992 changing the standard practice of setting raw steel posts for wrought iron fencing to using all galvanized posts and we are still one of the few contractors doing this.

We’re the ones who developed and changed the installation method of welding to bolt-on attachments to avoid field welding which penetrates all the coats of paint and promotes rust.

We’re the ones who led the industry in selling only pre-galvanized wrought iron or aluminum and today, we’re one of the few shops adhering 100% to this policy – all at an additional cost to us.

We’re the ones who set the standards for implementing the use of only hi-grade fence board and rails. If it doesn’t meet the grade standard of the West Coast Lumberman’s Inspection Board (WCLIB) Paragraph 117A, we leave it alone and let others buy it. Please visit any of our jobsites over the last 12-15 years and see the proof.

We’re the ones that were instrumental in getting some of the major vinyl fence manufacturers to increase the thickness of their product to improve stability.

Price dumping? Where in the world did this come from? Because we pay our bills on time, work our butts off, and put our company first allowing us to buy direct from the source such as sawmills, steel mills, vinyl manufacturers, etc., we’re accused of price dumping? Nothing is further from the truth. We just eliminate the middleman.

Illegal Immigration - We hired 1942 employees from September 1999 thru November 2005. Ten of those employees were rehired under different names at different locations – not 235. For this we paid a steep, steep price – a lifetime of retirement savings and investments, and irreparable damage to an impeccable record of 40+ years in the fence business. As Harry Truman once said, “The buck stops here” and along with my VP & GM, Mr. Michael McLaughlin, we stepped up to the plate and accepted full responsibility for the 10 employees (who didn’t make one iota’s difference to our bottom line). If anything, we were guilty of too much compassion!

Name Change? Since our incorporation in 1998, we’ve always been Fenceworks, Incorporated DBA Golden State Fence Company and this was only because we found there was another Golden State Fence that had incorporated that name in Sacramento before us. As work has slowed due to the horrific construction slump, we’ve been pushing out further and further to try and get work. In doing so, we’re now operating in the Sacramento area – the same city the other Golden State Fence operates out of so therefore it was necessary to switch to Fenceworks Inc. to avoid confusion. Nothing devious about this.

Fence Specialties – We have a wholesale operation that sells only materials and we operate it as a separate division. Nothing devious about this.

Fencecorp – Yes, it’s our public works shop, same as some of our other competition does with different shops. These jobs pay extremely high wages and are much different than the private contractor-type fencing we provide through Fenceworks/Golden State Fence and it helps to keep it separated. Nothing devious about this.

You say we have the audacity to beg other companies to implement a citizenry check. You bet we do. I will do whatever I can to warn others in my trade (or any other) to avoid what happened to Golden State Fence, Mike McLaughlin, and me personally. I wouldn’t wish that on anyone.

We’ve become very proactive. We’ve paid our attorneys to speak before builders conventions. We’ve done the same at subcontractor meetings. Many of our competitors have visited our office for further guidance and information which we gladly provided. I am personally speaking before the American Immigration Lawyers Association Convention on 11/30/07 in Scottsdale, AZ. We are signatory to the E-Verify Federal Voluntary Program and every Fenceworks employee has been run through it. We’ve adopted a new Code of Ethics and Conduct that the government helped us prepare and we’ve shared this with numerous competitors. So yes, I am guilty of the above. Please keep in mind, more fence companies than not currently employ “illegals”.

In closing, I am hoping you will be fair and let this also be publicized. I would also like to extend my personal invitation (all expenses paid by us) for you to visit our facility so you are able to meet those that make our organization work. I believe once you see first hand how Fenceworks really operates, you will realize how unfair it was in accusing us of being cheaters. I look forward to meeting you. I feel between what you have to offer along with ourselves, this may be an opportunity to help a lot of other companies from falling into the same situation we experienced.

Sincerely,
Mel Kay
President/CEO

Technorati invites Fence Wizard Blog to domain.....

2007-10-17T21:03:00.000-07:00

Google Analytics reports that the Fence Wizard has quickly become one of the most travelled sites in Fence related industries, hits have been collected from over 60 countries with an average of 250 unique visitors daily. Thanks to all of you that are sending in email questions, we respond as quickly as possible.
Click: Technorati Profile

Unique and Unusual Fence Gifts and Apparel

2007-10-02T13:34:00.000-07:00

You were kind of hoping that this stuff did not exist..........Well - it does. Consider this the complete list of ridiculous gifts for the Fence Man or Fence Woman that has everything.

Fence Industry Wildcard: "DOGS".

2007-09-21T02:38:00.000-07:00

As implied in previous articles by the Fence Wizard the residential fence installation market is enduring a complete recession in "most" American markets and will likely get worse in the short term. One bright spot - new dog owners. Americans have a love affair with dogs. Chances are if a homeowner has no dog; they will get one soon. In addition, new laws such as the no chain law in California are basically forcing some Dog Owners to repair, replace, or add a new fence to comply. It is vital to focus on any trend that could make your company more competitive. The facts are clear, more Americans are getting pets and they are spending more money on pets every year.
Here is some relevant data from the APPMA (American Pet Products Manufacturers Association):

In 1988, the first year the survey was conducted, 56% of U.S. households owned a pet as compared to 63% in 2006

Total U.S. Pet Industry Expenditures

Year............... Spending (in billions)

2007............... $40.8 Est.
2006............... $38.5
2005............... $36.3

2004............... $34.4

2003............... $32.4

2002............... $29.5

2001............... $28.5

1998............... $23

1996............... $21

1994............... $17

Now, we know we have demand for anything relevant to pet owners and specifically dog owners. Lets address a big problem: "ELECTRONIC DOG FENCING" or "INVISIBLE FENCE". I have linked our readers to these products on the sidebar under "Fence Builders Enemy". Indeed it is exactly that and for a couple hundred bucks homeowners can avoid a $ 5 -10,000 perimeter fence installation. So lets review your sales technique if you think your customer might go to the dark side......
Invisible fence will NOT:
1. Keep out other animals
2. Protect your animals from attack by other animals
3. Keep out thieves
4. Keep out vandals
5. Keep out Jehovah's Witness's
6. Most importantly - it will not guarantee a pet from escape
7. It Can and Will effectively lock your dog out if they get excited and breach the perimeter then they may be too scared to return and suffer another shock.

Get your sales pitch straight, it only takes 2 minutes to explain why you would personally avoid the lure of a cheap invisible fence for your own animals. Be a good member of the community and stop by the local SPCA and even pet shops to leave your card. Develop relationships with others in the animal care industry including your local veterinarians. Use this bright spot in the market to your advantage - the growth in this area will not stop anytime soon.

Ten BooksTo Improve Your Fence Company

2007-09-20T12:16:00.000-07:00

Principia announces results of Fence Market Study...

2007-09-13T07:05:00.000-07:00

Unfortunate for us, Principia does not believe in the free lunch philosophy that guides the Fence Wizard Blog. The major results of the survey are described HERE.
However, for the full report you will have to pony up some money. Here are the points that I wish to pass on to Fence Wizard readers:

1. Demand for residential fence is estimated to be nearly $3 billion of the total fence market value in 2006. Steve Van Kouteren, a Principal at Principia Partners explains, “The residential fence market consists of five major fence styles including privacy, post and rail, chain link, ornamental, and post and wire/wire mesh. The market can also be segmented by the four distinct material segments including wood, metal, plastic and mineral-based or masonry materials. Wood and metal are the dominant materials used, accounting for over 70% of the total value.”

2. In addition to vinyl fence, polystyrene, wood-plastic composites (WPC), and polyethylene are the other plastic-based fence materials. Mr. Van Kouteren says that the recent study estimates demand for plastic fence materials in the North American residential market to be over $600 million or nearly 25% of the total market in 2006.

3. Plastic fence will continue to grow its market share over the next five years. Most demand growth will be for vinyl and for new wood-plastic composite privacy fence. Both materials will be replacing wood. Plastic fence manufacturers have developed new privacy fence products with embossed wood grain and earth tone colors as well as low gloss to mimic wood. The new WPC fence products have an edge over vinyl in regards to availability of a wide range of darker colors. Both vinyl and WPC suppliers are looking to take advantage of the growing consumer demand for low maintenance, non-shiny, white plastic fence by tapping into the huge portion of the wood privacy market that will not consider white vinyl as an option.

Compared to vinyl post-and-rail fence, which has successfully penetrated and displaced as much as 50% of wood in many regional markets, vinyl only has about a 16% share of the North American privacy fence market. The large wood privacy market is also a target for the foamed polystyrene and 100% polyethylene-based fence products.

Again, thank you to Principia for this 2006 Fence market review.

CBS attempts to put fence installers out of business...

2007-09-09T15:40:00.000-07:00

"Home improvement correspondent Danny Lipford shows Harry Smith how to build a good fence".
Good luck to those hoping to build a fence based on this short video. The Fence Wizard is frankly tired of the constant attempt from big media to minimize construction work and quality workmanship with short and pathetic do it yourself videos. Harry Smith actually takes time to make fun Danny for actually digging holes, thank you Harry Smith for the remarkably unabashed arrogance to all of us in the construction industry. You have earned the coveted "Wizard Finger" of the week award. To view this silly CBS video and low quality garbage fence they want you to buy click here.
To learn, understand, and plan for a fence project: Tune into THE FENCE WIZARD. ( 24 hours a day)

Opinion piece: What fence is for.

2007-09-06T07:44:00.000-07:00

Longtime Fence Wizard readers know that there is no such thing as opinion; it either is or it is not. The Fence Wizard will make such determinations on his schedule and with complete infallibility. So here is a short list for some newcomers about the pure essence of fence and what it is truly for.

Fence is for the demarcation of private private; private property being the cornerstone of a capitalist system which sits squarely upon the concept of private ownership, the ability to obtain credit, and the accumulation of wealth. The wizard determines these truths to be positive concepts that combine the fabric of an exceptional nation not unlike a perfect splice of chain link.

Fence is not for the unnecessary wholesale destruction of limited forest resources (i.e. cheap wood fencing)

Fence is for the protection of property enhancement, personal safety, and national security.

Fencing for private property should always compliment the prime features: house, pool, landscape. It should not dominate and seek attention; if it does - your priorities are backwards. (The Wizard does allow for individual liberty to do otherwise; just know that you are wrong).

Here is a great example of "Fence is not":

A non wizard described the above failure as:
"The Playground Fence by Tejo Remy is a translation of what is normally a mundane object - by manipulating the fence he reprograms it, creating seats and play areas. What is normally built as a barrier or a separator becomes an area for connecting and hanging out. Beautiful idea!"

Wrong. The fence is a clear trip hazard guaranteed to create liability for whatever public entity paid for its installation (meaning tax payers on the hook as always). It begs for children to climb it and play on it - the opposite of what a fence should be. Fencing by rule should improve safety for the property owner and be glamorous only in its ability to blend inconspicuously with the landscape. A Wizard Eye also catches the failure to match picket height from the modified "art" fence to the existing fence. Enough said.

The Do It Yourself Fence Builder Reference Guide

2007-08-30T13:10:00.000-07:00

Fence Books: Ornamental Iron

2007-08-30T12:33:00.000-07:00

Ornamental Iron Books and Reference

Just Click on the title to find a complete description and purchase information.

"Hand Forging and Wrought-Iron Ornamental Work"
"Ironworkers fabrication manual;: Presenting practical illustrations, methods and procedures for the fabrication of structural steel and ornamental metal work"

Click here to find the complete fence industry tool and link page courtesy of the "World Famous Fence Wizard"

ASTM Fence Spec and Standards BOOKS.

2007-08-20T12:24:00.000-07:00

Fencing Calculators and Conversion Tools

2007-07-30T12:46:00.000-07:00

Just Click on the appropriate description to find the calculator that you need. Courtesy of the World Famous Fence Wizard Blogsite. Visit us at the mainpage for breaking news, tools, and links. Keep on Fencing!

Calculators:
Fast Chain Link Parts Calculator
Concrete Yardage for Wall, Column, and Pad
Concrete Yardage and Bags for Post Holes
Wood Fence Material Estimator
Picket Fence and Split Rail
Master Halco's Project Estimators
More Calculators for ....(everything)

Conversion Calculators:
Area, Length, Volume, Weight, Temp etc.

Other Tools:
Privacy Fence Wind Load Chart (Page4)
OK Brand Ag Wire Tools and Charts

Fence Manufacturers and Associations - LINK LIST

2007-07-30T12:38:00.000-07:00

Fence Books: Ornamental Iron

2007-07-27T12:33:00.000-07:00

Ornamental Iron Books and Reference

For additional Books on any subject - Find the lowest price and fastest shipping from Amazon:

Fence Project Leads, Architect Resources

2007-06-30T12:51:00.000-07:00

Here is an extremely useful list of Commercial - Industrial Fence Project Lead Sources. Thank you Gene Kalb for the Fencebid link. For complete Fence Industry Links, Tools, and News visit the Fence Wizard.

Government Project Leads:
Fencebids Weekly Release
Federal Business Opportunities (Type "Fence" into Search)
"Dept Of Defense Military Handbook For Fencing, Gate, Barriers, and Guard Facilities"

Spec Project Resources
Wheatland's Architect cheat - "spec wizard" for Chain Link
Allied's Spec Literature
ARCAT Architectual Resources

Cad Designs list ---- (www.caddesigns.com):

	(32 31 16) welded wire fences and gates (32 31 00) fences and gates
	(32 31 13) chain link fences and gates
	(32 31 19) decorative metal fences and gates
	(32 31 29) wood fences and gates
	(32 31 23) plastic fences and gates

Fence Contractor Software and Design Systems

2007-05-30T13:04:00.000-07:00

Software ideas to improve your fence company

Fence Industry Discussion Pages - Links

2007-05-30T12:58:00.000-07:00

Follow these links to read and discuss eveything fence. For a plethora of additional Fence Links, Tools, and Industry News just click here!

Fence Wizard Myspace Page
"Fence Resource" Discussion Page
United Fencers Network at Facebook
Fence Week Blog
Vinyl Fence Blog
Garden Guides Blog
Champi Fence Myspace Page
Invisible Fence Discussion Forum (Amazon)
Fence History Blog
Mark-Up and Profit Blog
Building Decks and Fences (gardenstructure.com)
Search Page for Blog Catalog

Fence Tools For Sales, Limited Pricing

2007-04-30T13:15:00.000-07:00

Ameristar announces warranty upgrade on Iron Products...

2007-04-21T15:09:00.000-07:00

Easily the best warranty in the iron business Ameristar Fence manufacturing has upped its warranty period to 20 years. Click here to review their best in segment coating process. Ameristar is a leader in the industry and comes with a healthy recomendation from the Fence Wizard. It is easy to find cheaper product, as Fence Wizard readers know - we are looking for best value.

Visit Ameristar and view their product here.
Cad designs are available as well.

Queensboro Shirt Offer to all Contractors

2007-04-10T15:43:00.000-07:00

For more information on this and other Fence Wizard Specials - just Visit the Homepage at www.fencewizard.blogspot.com

Invisible Fence, Wireless Dog Training Devices

2007-04-10T13:29:00.000-07:00

Fence builders enemy: Wireless Dog Training Devices....

Dog Dazer II
Petsafe IF-300 Wireless Pet Containment System
Petsafe IF-275 Wireless Fence Receiver / Collar
Petsafe SDF-100 SportDog In-Ground Fence System
Petsafe UL-250-11 In-Ground UltraLight Receiver / Collar
Innotek ULTRASMART CONTAIN AND TRAIN
Innotek ULTRASMART REMOTE TRAINER, 300YDS

To read and discuss everything Fence - visit: "The World Famous Fence Wizard"{homepage}

Border Fence Talk... The real issue.

2007-03-16T11:04:00.000-07:00

Has one fence ever caused so much concern, panic, and general confusion??
The Fence Wizard says no. Now lets clean this mess up.
Issue #1:
Does a Nation have the legal and moral authority to define its borders, language, and legal system? Yes.
Issue #2:
Should a Nation have rules concerning where, when, and to whom access is granted? Yes.
Issue #3:
Will a border fence help meet basic security improvement goals regarding sentry, licensing, and the future of any labor regulation that may occur in the United States? Yes.

Too Simple? No. This is a basic issue - its not right wing or left wing; its about common sense. all other debate regarding immigration, work visas, and citizenship should occur on their own merits. "Comprehensive Immigration Reform" as described by the President and Congress is a total failure of thought and practice. Enough said; the Fence Wizard has fence to build.

Videos: Fence Plowing, Bloopers, and other Electric Moments

2007-02-15T13:25:00.000-08:00

The Rainy Day Link List - When you have nothing better to do....

Video: Kid Crashed into Fence on Skateboard
Video: Electric Fence you guess the rest
Video: Goat that enjoys his electric fence
Video: No explanation; just take a look
Video: Pee on Electric Fence
Video: Invisible Fence.......

For everything cutting edge in the world of fence - Visit The World Famous Fence Wizard

Fence Company Directory and Link Sheet

2007-02-13T00:06:00.000-08:00

A-1 Fence Company - Chainlink & wood fences, a full line gate shop, and custom built dog kennels. Serving Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Acorn Fencing and Concrete - Chesterfield leading fencing and concrete product manufacturers.
Agriflex Incorporated - Fencing systems for agricultural construction and other applications, including windbreak, snow fence, bird barrier and safety fences.
Agripal - Sells zinc-plated poles for vineyards enclosures. Page includes diagrams and description of products. Located in Tavagnacco, Italy.
Aluminum Fences Direct - Retail and Wholesale Aluminum Pre-Assembled Panels, based in North Carolina.
Allied Tube & Conduit - Manufacturer of galvanized and commercial quality tubing. Producer of welded carbon steel tubing and pipe, electrical conduit, fire protection piping, fence framework and mechanical tubing.
Amazing Gates of America - Manufacturer of ornamental iron gates and automatic electric gate kits for contractors and end users. Ordering available via catalog and website.
American Netting - Polypropylene knitted netting for protection of birds and other wildlife. From hazardous materials and other adverse environmental conditions
Archer Co. - Manufacturer of welding rods, ornamental fence iron casting, cutting wheels and non-explosive demolition agent.
Argo Line Sales - Fabricators of hydraulic post drivers for the professional fencing contractor. Located in Montana
Ashlee Fence - Residential and commericial sales and installation. Custom built wood fences, electric gate openers, and all types of chain link fences.
Aztek-Fencing.com - Many fencing products to choose from. From vinyl to chain link plus installation in Colorado.
Barlow Farms - Corral panels and gates for round pen, corraling cattle, and training horses.
Barretts - Family owned company with 20 years of experience selling and installing all types of agricultural fence. Ontario, Canada.
Benner's Gardens - Non-electric fence that controls deer damage,
BF Products, Inc. - Snow fencing, netting and many other products and accessories.
Black Cat Post Pounder - Fence post pounder driver designed for fence building contractors farmers and ranchers.
Blitz Enterprises - Supplier of electric fence wire, insulators, fencers and supplies for animals and pets.
Boundary Fence and Railing Systems - Manufacturer and distributor for chain link, PVC, and wire mesh fencing material and hardware.
Brazil Forest Products - Pine sawmill in Brazil, working with own reforested timber. Producer and exporter of fencing, pallets, boards and lumber.
Cape Wire (Pty) Ltd. - Manufacturers, distributors and exporters of wire & wire products. Rep of South Africa
Cardinal Fencing Company - Sales and installation. Serving Milton Pennsylvania.
Carolina Wire Products LLC, - Full line electric fencing distributor.
Cebeco Timber Group - Lithuanian-Swedish export company, specialising in production, impregnation and export of machine rounded & peeled poles.
Cedar Split Rail Fences - Custom built cedar split rail fences for stock, or residential fences or corrals.
Centaur HTP Northeast - Dealer of the Centaur brand fencing. Contact information and installation tips. Serving Northeast U.S.
Champi Fence Company - One of California's original full service fence companies, a leader since 1954 serving all of Central California (Nick Champi Enterprises Inc)
Cocklestorm Fencing Company - Manufacturers and suppliers of fence panels. Bury, Manchester, UK.
Comos Kokosystems - Fencing material produced from recycled synthetic tubing wrapped in cocos fibers, a waste product of coconut processing.
Crowder Supply Co. - Supplier of air powered post drivers and post pullers. Includes selection of models and pricing.
Customized Vinyl Sales - Fences, railing, and decks from aluminum to vinyl. Extensive help for first-time buyers.
Derek Fox & Sons Timber - Manufacturers and suppliers of timber, fencing, railway sleepers, outdoor furniture, gates and decking. England
Digger Driver - Fencing Equipment, Hydraulic Post Pounder, Munro's Digger Driver.
Dry Creek Fencing - Sales and local installation, includes gates, and horse stalls.
Dubose Panels - High tensile steel.
Easygates Automatic - Automatic Gates, Access Systems and Home Security. UK
Electric Deer Fences - Electric deer fences and products relating to deer control.
Electric Fencing Direct - Full range of energisers, ultrasonic systems, netting, planning guide and helpful hints. (UK)
Electrobraid Farm Fence - Manufacturer of permanent electric fence conductors which have no sharp ends, splinters or tangled wires.
Equi-Tee Farm and Fence - Manufacture and distributor of high quality products to add safety and security to horse fencing.
Farm Trak - High Impact polymer electric safety fencing systems.
Feedlot Fencing - Sales and installation. Located in Nebraska
Fence Master - Manufacturers of American-made electric fence chargers.
Fence Wire Tensioning Tool - A tool designed for stretching all types of barbed, stock and fence wire.
Fencing & Awning Inc. - Chain link, ornamental, and PVC fence products.
Fickle Hill Deer Fence - Deer control fencing.
First Fencing Co. - Fencing and building contractors, for the private sector as well as business customers.
Forcefield - Electric Fencers, pet care and accessories. France
Gallagher Australia Pty. Ltd. - Manufacturers of electric power fences.
Gardner Fence Systems, Inc. - Supplier selling Gardner fencing since 1988.
Gripple Limited - Tool for installation maintenance and repair of wire and barbed wire fencing.
GWP Industries - Manufacturer and exporter of welded and woven mesh, chain link, and fence products. Tianjin, China
Hazel Wattle Products - Old rural craft making wattle hurdles. Hurdles used to be used for folding in sheep, but now are used for garden fencing.
Hitz Fence Supplies - Supplies, poly lumber, porch railings, and other fencing needs. Lebanon PA
Horizont Agrartechnik - Produces electric fences, fencers, electric nettings, electrified ropes, posts, wires, tapes and insulators.
Horseguard Fence - The original electric fencing tape. Today, at factory outlet prices* from the manufacturer to your doorstep, 10 cents per foot.
Hutchison Western Farm and Ranch Supply - Manufacturers of farm and ranch products.
Inland Tarp & Cover Inc. - Tarps for hay, trucks, and custom covers.
International Pipe Group - Manufacturer and nationwide distributor of chainlink fence, ornamental fence systems, and supplies.
Interpipe Inc. - Steel pipe distributor of new and used surplus fencing pipe. Locations in Canada and US.
J.C. Wilhelm, Inc. - Producing lumber, fencing, stakes and mulch. Manchester, MD
JH fencing - Local sales and installation. West Sussex, Henfield NR Brighton. UK
K Fence, Inc. - Complete line of electric and non-electric farm fencing.
Kencove Farm Fence, Inc. - Supplies and tools for electric fences, portable fences, plastic tensile rail fences, and non-electric high tensile wire fencing.
Kiwi Fence - Farm fencing supplies including Max-Ten high tensile wire and all accessories for the do-it-yourself market.
Koehn Marketing Inc. - A supplier of unique products for the livestock industry including drive through electric gates.
Lacme - Manufacturer of Low Impedance Electric Fencers, Insulators, Wires, Ropes and Tapes.
Larsen Ranch Supply - Continuous fence, livestock handling equipment and post pounder rentals.
Long Fence - Manufacturers and installers of residential and commercial fence structures. All types of ornamental iron fencing, window grates, security gates, railing and wood fencing.
M & M Timber Co Ltd - Manufacturer of round timber and market leader in the supply of landscaping timber. Europe.
Matrix Fencing Systems Ltd. - UK-based company supplying mesh panel fencing systems and gates suited to a variety of applications.
Max-Flex Systems - Supplier of high tensile and electric fence and high powered fence energizers.
Meps Electric Fencing - Manufacturers and suppliers of electric fencing products. Located in South Africa.
Merit Enterprises - Steel Pipe and Tubing. Sapulpa, Oklahoma
Metal-Cynk - Manufacturer of fence spikes and connectors. Galvanization services. Localization: Poland.
MG Centaur Fencing - Vinyl fencing for horse enclosures.
Miller Fence Co. - Fence and installations. Located in Worcester, Massachusetts
Munro Engineers Pty Ltd - Manufacturers of hydraulic post drivers and augers for fencing, stockyards, and vineyards. Victoria, Australia.
Noble Panels & Gates - Manufacturing safe permanent and temporary horse fencing products, round pens, stall systems and barns.
Pasture Management Systems - Supplies and tools for electric fences.
Perma Well Inc. - National wholesale distributor of Ultraguard vinyl fence products. Horse fencing, picket fences, vinyl railings and decking available.
Picket Post Driver - Revolutionary air-driven Picket Post Driver now available in the UK.
POSTSAVER USA. - Manufacturer of post boots specifically designed to prevent post decay.
Power Wizard - Complete line of electric fence energizers and accessories.
Powercrete Products, LLC - Source of modular, easy to install precast concrete fences for security, sound barriers, enclosures, perimeter walls, and privacy fences.
Protector Aluminium - For fencing contractors located on the Sunshine Coast Australia
R. Benner and Associates - Installers of black polypropylene deer control fencing. Serving properties in Pennsylvania and the mid-Atlantic states.
Ram Fence Inc. - A family owned fence business that sells wood, & chain-link. Located and serving Savannah, Georgia.
RAMM Equine Solutions - Products for your horse and livestock.
Recycled Plastic Products - Manufacturer of recycled plastic fencing. Poly-Coated Steel Frame with 100% recycled plastic pickets. Available in white, cedar and gray.
RedBrand Fencing - Manufacturer of high strength wire mesh fencing. Includes a horse fencing guide to assist the horse owner in fence type selection and lay-out.
Rhino Tool Company - Manufactures 6 air operated post drivers & 2 post pullers.
RSG Associates - Manufacturer representatives for electric fence supplies and equipment.
Rutland Electric Fencing - Manufacturers of electric fence energizers, accessories and equipment for agriculture, equestrian and security.
Score Construction - Your experienced wildlife, farm and chainlink fence contractor throughout Western Canada.
Select Fence Distributors - Many different products to choose from.
Sherman Wire - Manufacturers of RedBrand wire and wire fencing products including wire mesh, hardware cloth, animal fencing, cage fencing and poultry netting.
Silverado Fencing - A distributor of HTP fencing system products, which feature high tensile wire with a HTP polymer coating to provide safety to livestock by spreading impact loads.
Smallburgh Crafts - Hand made timber entrances and field gates. Steel framed timber planked benches. UK.
Southwest Fence Systems, Inc. - Developers and manufacturers of livestock, farm, ranch, and highway fence components since 1970.
Southwest Power Fence & Livestock Equipment - Specialists in electric fence systems & solar powered automatic gate technology.
Spiralfast Wire Products - Manufactures wire connectors for high tensile fence wire. Suitable for viticultural trellising.
Split Cedar Products - Hand split Western Red Cedar fence rails, posts, boards, and pickets. BC Canada
Superior Concrete Products - Precast concrete products with the beauty of Wood, Stone and Brick but with the durability of precast concrete.
Sureguard Electric Farm Fence - Manufacturer of solar and battery powered portable electric fence energizers and hidden electronic dog & cat fencing.
TARC - The new wire fencing stretcher.
Tennessee Fence Works - Vinyl fencing, decks, docking, porch rails and wooden round rail fencing.
Timber Garden Gates - Forest Products supply and gates. Supplied by gate manufacturers & sellers from Huntley, Gloucestershire and Cowbridge, Glamorgan
Timber Line - Tyne and Wear - For Timber , Sheds , Decking ,Summerhouses and Fencing. Located in UK
Trans Canada Wood Products Ltd. - Manufacturer of acoustic and residential fencing products, wooden bridges, and railway tie plugs.
Tri-City Fence Company - Local sales and installation. Kingsport, TN
Tundra Sales - Equine fencing, stalls and equipment for the home or farm. Vinyl or electric fencing and horse stalls.
Uniwire - Manufacturer and supplier of wire fencing products, stock fencing, agricultural netting, barbed wire and staples.
Valley Fence - Installation and sales, including, barbed and barbless wire & field fence. Serving the Spokane, WA and North Idaho area
A Vinyl Fence & Deck Wholesaler - Factory direct vinyl fence and vinyl decking. View online many vinyl fence styles. Privacy fence, picket fence, pool fence, plus horse fence. Fast worldwide shipping, lifetime warranty, and no sales tax.
Wallick Post and Lumber, Inc. - Wholesale supplier of fence posts and forest products for fence builders, game breeders, vineyards and residential construction companies.
West Virginia Split Rail - Provider of split rail fencing and other wood fencing to distributors nationwide since 1929. Buckhannon, WV
World Famous Fence Wizard - The Premier Fence Industry News and Discussion Forum
Zareba Systems - Manufacturer of electric fence controllers to provide containment of pets and livestock.

If you should be listed send an email to fencewizard@gmail.com and we will list your company.
List courtesy of DMOZ

A new indoor fence solution from Supply Rack.

2007-02-08T22:42:00.000-08:00

Supply Rack Indoor Fence System is ideal for concrete floor installation and is a nice upgrade to the standard chain link on posts and plates installation. Give your customer another option; in many cases this may be the most efficient option to comply with OSHA requirements. Steve Rushing from Supply Rack Sales & Marketing has answered our questions about his product- here is what you need to know:;

Fence Wizard,
Yes, the fencing is quite strong, durable, and helps in many ways to protect employees in the workplace. As far as OSHA regs, this is probably the most prevalent regulation...

http://www.osha.gov/pls/oshaweb/owadisp.show_document?p_table=STANDARDS&p_id=10415

The product is manufactured by the Folding Guard Corporation out of Chicago. My firm, The Supply Rack covers the entire USA, trading cad drawings, sketches and floor plans with customers that go back and forth via fax, email, and phone, all the way up to the formal quotation process. Most of my customers are packaging the fence with an automated (robotic) systems to increase production at a manufacturing or process facility. This makes my customer primarily an OEM. The markets are widespread, but some of the more popular applications include fencing security for.. robotic welding cells, automated sorting, palletizing projects, packaging operations, conveying systems, automotive manufacturing, aerospace, medical, etc. Here's an animated sketch of what a simple robotic cell might look like.

There are many ways to protect employees from machine hazards, and safety fence with interlock devices is quite common.. Here are the types that I recommend most often..

For Perimeter jobs, our Cell-Guard II is excellent for custom configurations if we need to design "around" obstructions, posts, or anything that might require circlulars, oblongs, etc.http://www.supplyrack.com/product/7de561d1-7e5b-48b8-b290-2c6aaa6ca765.aspx

An economical version of the Cell Guard 2, is the standard Cell Guard offering..

http://www.supplyrack.com/product/52859b29-32d7-491f-9509-817eec6d95f9.aspx

Our Saf-T-Fence is quite useful for jobs requiring maximum strength. The panels are "through-bolted" to the posts.

http://www.supplyrack.com/product/20ee0c06-3abf-4533-889b-d90e98608fed.aspx

Hope this information is useful, and thanks for featuring the Supply Rack at "The World Famous Fence Wizard Blog".

Always available for questions...

Steve Rushing
Supply Rack Sales & Marketing
847-715-9097
847-612-3775 (cell)
www.supplyrack.com

New growth product that can generate sales now!

2007-02-07T13:21:00.000-08:00

There is nothing better than a fence product that creates new profit opportunity where none existed before. If you install or sell temporary fence - read carefully: www.fencefabric.com is a new enterprise that manufactures and distributes specialty fabrics that can be installed to existing fence, new fence, or other free standing objects. Hi-visibility construction sites will tap this product first - the future growth will surely include the residential market, event fencing, and any location where printable advertising can benefit. Early projects for Fence Fabric have included: The Trump Towers in New Orleans, The Boston Redevelopment Agency, and Starwood Hotels. New Dealers are now being recruited, you may want to be the only play in your area that offers this product!

Project Coordinator Mathew Murray answered our product questions this week:

Mr. Fence Wizard,

Thank you for your interest and review of our product; here is a rundown about our products:

Fence Fabric is a unique product that was designed to transform ordinary surfaces into classic stone walls, beautiful hedges, pristine landscapes, or other high-quality designs of your choice. Our products improve the aesthetics of any surface, increase privacy and security, and also add a unique and distinguishing element to any property. The versatility of Fence Fabric in terms of size, design, and installation makes our products ideally suited to a wide range of applications, including commercial development projects, residential landscaping, sports complexes, zoos and amusement parks, public works projects, event tents, and other creative uses.

We feature five separate materials:

Supreme Mesh Vinyl- a tight weave, permeable to wind while reducing light penetration

Scrim Vinyl- non-porous and perfectly suited to cover solid walls or other surfaces

Block Out (white back)- internal block-out layer completely obstructs light penetration

Block-Out (black back)- a light-blocking material engineered with a black color on the reverse side

Backlit Vinyl- creates a stunning effect with a light source placed directly behind the material.

All materials used for Fence Fabric prints have been chosen for their superior printing properties and outdoor durability. Both the materials and the inks used in printing are UV-stabilized allowing for long-term installations. Most of these materials can be printed on both sides. Prints are expanded beyond the dimensions of the project and then folded and bound at the edges to provide finished image panels at full size that are ready for mounting. We have an extensive library of stock images and are able to produce custom logos for your business, event, or product. Just let us know how we can help put a better face on your fence.

As regards installation, grommets and zip ties can be used to mount Fence Fabric with most projects. Other fastening options are possible and can be explored with your local fence installer. Our products are competitively priced amongst similar privacy screens or slats. Most projects range in the $2.00 per square foot range and up, depending on material and finishing options.

Contact Fence Fabric at:

Fence Fabric

18520 Burbank Blvd. Ste. 103

Tarzana, CA 91356

888-336-2350 (p)

818-774-1286 (f)

www.fencefabric.com

Fencing Calculators and Project Estimators!

2007-02-07T08:52:00.000-08:00

The question we get most here concerns planning and material needs. Here is a collection of some helpfull fencing calculators from around the web:

Concrete calculator (tells you how many bags or yards you need):
Calculator provided by Hoover Fence - click back to the homepage for some other options

Fence Project Price estimator (Includes Labor)
Total project calculator from Master Halco

The Master Halco link will actually give you project options for several types of fence and can link you to companies that will respond for installation. These are real fence companies that are not forced to purchase material from Master Halco.

PLEASE NOTE:
Be very careful of some of the new companies that are advertising leads - service magic and others - I can not vouch for these services or how they do business.

How to find qualified contractors for your residential project.....

2007-02-05T10:36:00.000-08:00

This may be the most important post that the Fence Wizard will author. The following advice can be used for any project but seems to be absolutely crucial for fencing.

First off: How to find companies to bid on your project?
Be careful. Using the Internet can often generate paid lead finders that have connection with companies not close to your area. Also, running a simple search on yahoolocal.com or yellowpages.com will not actually categorize the companies in order of how close they are to you. They are organized based on their account status with marketing firms.
So what should you do? First and foremost ask around and get some word of mouth advice. Check the local phone book to see who offers the service you are looking for. Narrow your search down to 3 companies - usually the closest to your location. Make certain they are licensed and insured.

Second - call them up and describe your project the best you can and make sure the company is interested in providing a bid to you.

Third - Provide all bidders with the same information - footage/ height/ specs/ etc. If you are not familiar with fence specifications then ask each bidder to clearly define the spec and quality of each major component of the fence that they are proposing to use. Read those specs carefully and make sure you understand them. For example 9 Gauge tension wire is thicker than 10 gauge.

Forth- Pick the highest value bid not just the lowest price bid. By this point you should have also learned if the contractor is responsive to your questions and concerns.

Finally - Make sure you see a display or sample of the product and see an installed example nearby to your location. Only then should you ask for a contract from the company so that you can sign and approve the price they quoted. NEVER EVER EVER pay more than 10% deposit on any project. The Best companies rarely even ask for that.

As with all advice - use common sense and if you are unsure at all - blog to the FENCE WIZARD for some advice. Good luck.

Sign the Fence Wizard Guestbook and Leave us a Link to Your Website!

2007-01-30T13:54:00.000-08:00

The Few, The Proud, The Guestbook Signers.

Click on that little pen and you will appear at the guestbook. View my Guestbook Free Guestboo

Fence Wizard Year In Review: 2007 Article Index

2007-01-30T13:43:00.000-08:00

The 2007 Blog Index is sponsored by:

FOUND: The motherload link for international fence product wholesale

2007-01-05T16:30:00.000-08:00

Not sure how this website has been hiding for so long but the Fence Wizard Web Search Crew has uncovered a vast collection of International Fence Industry Links all on one convenient site:
EC21- The Golbal B2B Marketplace. The site is loaded with just about everything - so we ran a search for Fence and struck gold. Here is what we found"

These are worldwide companies manufacturing, selling, importing, and buying Fence Product on the World Market.
18 Companies involved with Vinyl Fence
29 Companies involved with Bamboo Fence
473 Companies involved with Chain Link Fence
493 Companies involved with Iron Fence

Follow your own nose from the Home Page if you want to explore importing or exporting product. We will be testing the links over then next couple of week and will add to this report soon.

FENCE WIZARD MAD. Online fence companies that suck!

2007-01-04T16:01:00.000-08:00

The Fence Wizard is here to lend a hand. This time we would like to lend a finger. Today's rant is directed at two online retailers of fence prodcut.

First off - Do not buy chain link products online ever. You will pay far too much and get despicably lightweight specs. If you didnt know - such is the case at home despot and lowes as well. Where should you buy? Find a local fence company that offers retail sales - they are hard to find but well worth the trouble.

Here was my test quote from fencecenter.com.
I asked for 6' high x 100' of chain link fence. The spec they provided is less than pathetic, it includes 1 5/8" 17 Gauge Line Posts - the FENCE WIZARD would not bother pooping on this. Also included 11 Gauge Aluminum ties - I have never heard of anything weaker than 9 gauge until now. Remarkable. Total cost with shipping ran $8.16 per foot. A fence with appropraite specs should run about $6.50-7.00 per foot retail. Again with "appropriate specs".

What a nightmare, but it doesnt end there by any means. I next went to efence.com and priced out a basic 6' high cedar fence. Spec included 5/8" x 6" wide Cedar Pickets and 2 rails. Wood posts included "for beauty and strength". I had the online calculator run me a price for a 100' straight run - no gates. The price----An unbelievable $2,144.00 excluding concrete. This is far above what such a fence should install for with labor. Is anybody buying this garbage for these prices??? Once again - efence.com and fencecenter.com are complete rip offs. Sadly they are likely two of many.

A Fence Company Guide to: Labor Law

2007-01-02T09:40:00.000-08:00

Construction Labor Law, Links, Blogs, and Key Information

Top Ten Reasons To Install A Fence!

2006-12-30T12:08:00.001-08:00

Top Ten Reasons to install a Fence.

1. Neighbor just installed a fence, took ownership of your pool
2. Someone has been sneaking in and shearing mohawks on all of your sheep
3. Neighborhood cat gang keeps coming through and roughing up your dog
4. You spotted an endangered species in the backyard, want to trap it / eat it
5. Because your never planning on accessing those 7 cars anyway
6. Local Walrus keeps using the pool univited
7. Someone pitched a tent in your backyard and wont pay you rent
8. Your yard is sloped; tired of rolling all the way down the hill after a night of drinking
9. Your neighbors horse keeps using your wifes feedbag
10. Installing deck sideways is too costly

View the Rest of the World Famous Fence Wizard's Original Content and Fence Industry Links (Click here)

Top Ten Reasons To Install A Fence!

2006-12-30T12:08:00.000-08:00

Top Ten Reasons to install a Fence.

1. Neighbor just installed a fence, took ownership of your pool
2. Someone has been sneaking in and shearing mohawks on all of your sheep
3. Neighborhood cat gang keeps coming through and roughing up your dog
4. You spotted an endangered species in the backyard, want to trap it / eat it
5. Because your never planning on accessing those 7 cars anyway
6. Local Walrus keeps using the pool univited
7. Someone pitched a tent in your backyard and wont pay you rent
8. Your yard is sloped; tired of rolling all the way down the hill after a night of drinking
9. Your neighbors horse keeps using your wifes feedbag
10. Installing deck sideways is too costly

View the Rest of the World Famous Fence Wizard's Original Content and Fence Industry Links (Click here)

Golden State Fence hit hard for Hiring Illegals

2006-12-30T08:11:00.000-08:00

Southern California border fence builder pays $5 million fine for hiring illegal immigrants

Saturday, December 23, 2006 by: Jerome Douglas
Printable version Key concepts: border fence, illegal immigration and immigrants.

(NewsTarget) A fence-building company in Southern California has agreed to pay nearly $5 million in fines for hiring illegal immigrants.

In addition to the fines, two executives from the company may also end up serving jail time. A company called Golden State was found to have hired and retained illegal immigrants for part of a border fence building project -- and the company, when caught, agreed to cleanup its act.

When the company was investigated again in 2004 and 2005 to ensure compliance with its promise, some of the same illegal workers from an immigration check in 1999 were still working for the company. Indeed, it's now estimated that as many as one-third of the company's 750 workers may have been in the country illegally.

Golden State Fence built millions of dollars' worth of fencing around homes, offices, and military bases, and the U.S. Government is now suggesting jail time for Melvin Kay and Michael McLaughlin, the company's president and a manager, respectively, to the tune of six months.

It's a rare twist to see employers of illegal immigrants actually face jail time or even prosecution. The case against Golden State, therefore, is almost a first of its kind as pressure increases from the public to crack down on the hiring of illegal immigrants.

Immigration raids on six meat-packing plants netted almost 1,300 suspected illegal workers recently, but no charges were leveled against Swift, the company that ran the plants. Golden State Fence's attorney does admit that his client broke the law, but he states that the case proves that construction companies need a guest-worker program.

www.newstarget.com/021350.html
www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=6626823
www.diggersrealm.com/mt/archives/001974.html

A book that can boost your profit and reduce stress.

2006-12-09T00:20:00.000-08:00

Book Description
Turn a profit on every construction project. An exhaustive, business-boosting reference, Construction Operations Manual of Policies and Procedures, Third Edition, by Andrew Civitello, Jr., is loaded with procedures and step-by-step details for successfully managing construction operations. You get over 300 pages of methods, strategies and tactics, forms and ready-to-copy letters all layed out for you in a concise, easy-to-grasp style. This new edition, now the most timely, complete, and useful guide available for managing construction, packs over 20% more forms and templates. It also covers new developments in construction management software, as well as recent advances in claims and dispute resolution. Significant new material is devoted to the Design-Build process. You'll also explore the distinctions between each of the project delivery formats, and find enhanced coverage of safety and loss control. Included CD-ROM packs project management software tools and plenty of useful advice.

Book Info
Addresses how to ease time pressures, organizational hassles, procedural dilemmas, materials and cost wrangles, and legal and regulatory issues. Includes cost control, budgeting, and planning outlines. CD-ROM includes downloadable forms, ready-to-use letters, checklists, and sample management software.

Guest Columnist Jason Hommel describes the Zinc Price problem.

2006-12-06T14:41:00.000-08:00

Zinc Mystery Unveiled?

By Jason Hommel
06 Dec 2006 at 06:22 PM GMT-05:00

GRASS VALLEY, Calif. (Silver Stock Report) -- I have been perplexed as to why LME zinc inventories are continuing to rapidly shrink, with the current high price for zinc having so little impact to discourage zinc depletion. It's like watching a train wreck in slow motion. Aren't high prices supposed to slow down consumption?

As I have explained previously, zinc inventories of 85,000 tonnes will last about 85 days at current depletion rates, whereas zinc inventories need to last about 700 days, or two years until new zinc projects come on stream.

See: Zinc Prices set to continue to explode
http://silverstockreport.com/email/zinc_explode.html

Why can't the owners of zinc figure this out?

This appears to indicate that we will see an explosion of zinc prices within the next three months, in my opinion, which is needed to slow or halt inventory declines. But why are zinc prices not already higher--high enough to slow down the inventory drawdown to sustainable levels? What explains why zinc inventory drawdowns are seemingly not affected by the existing high zinc prices? How much higher do zinc prices need to go? What is going on in the zinc market?

About 60% of zinc is used is galvanized steel. Zinc is about 3% by weight of galvanized steel, on average. Since zinc is a minor ingredient in steel, the market can sustain and tolerate and absorb substantial price increases. I explained this previously, in my article where I noted that zinc was up by "60% in 60 days!"
http://www.silverstockreport.com/email/60-60.html

So, moderately higher prices will not significantly slow down demand, and are already high enough to stimulate explorers and investors--even though it takes years to set up a large scale mining operation like you see on "Modern Marvels".

But here's something else to consider.

How much zinc is traded on the spot market verses the futures markets? I don't know. Derivatives can be a big problem, and in my opinion, may be thwarting the free market process whereby higher prices are supposed to cause reduced demand.

Perhaps many end users are not paying $2/lb. for zinc at all! Perhaps many end users are still only paying about 50 cents per pound of zinc! And thus, there is still little incentive for many zinc consumers to conserve zinc usage. How is this possible? Stupid miners hedged! Apex Silver and Penoles are two miners that I know of that have hedged zinc. But how widespread was this practice, and how much damage has it caused, and will it yet cause? I don't yet know, but perhaps someone else will find out.

Apex Silver hedged, 358,150 tonnes of zinc x x 2204lbs./tonne = 789 million pounds.
See http://www.silverstockreport.com/email/Apex_swindle.html

Since Apex hedged zinc at around $.48/lb., at $2.04/lb. for zinc, that's a mark-to-market loss of $1.56/lb., or $1.2 billion dollars, since Apex still has not yet started to mine any zinc. That's a larger loss than the market cap of Apex Silver! Apex also has losses on the silver and lead. Apex also sold 1/3 of their hedging liability, and 1/3 of their project to Sumitomo. Apex has not yet covered the majority of their hedges, claiming that their future losses will be realized as they come due, since they hedged 358,150 tonnes of zinc, silver, and lead for up to 7 years.

So, Apex may be providing zinc to the market at well below free market prices, about 51,000 tonnes per year, at $.50/lb., for the next 7 years. Perhaps some fortunate end user who will have a tremendous competitive advantage since they will not only get zinc cheaply, but also hopefully won't have to stand in line to get zinc during a time of crisis! Perhaps this partly explains the upcoming disaster unfolding in the world wide zinc market. I call it a disaster because zinc prices should have risen higher, sooner, to affect all market participants equally, to help to most efficiently and appropriately ration (by price) the remaining zinc that we have left.

Instead, it seems that big companies that made stupid hedging mistakes are continuing to supply many zinc users with sub-economic, low priced zinc, which is not encouraging them to conserve. So, the drawdown of zinc inventories is continuing at an unsustainable pace, and it looks like we'll see either a terrible shortage of zinc, or an explosion of zinc prices.
The key flaw of communism is that when prices for goods are set below free market prices, shortages and misery are always the result. I just don't see how anyone can justify futures contracts as a part of the ideal free market. Futures contracts, by definition, lock you in and force you to perform, and are the exact opposite of freedom.
This analyst says: "I expect zinc to be selling over $2.50 a pound in 2007. After that, sky's the limit. With the right conditions I believe we could be looking at $5 or $6 zinc within a few short years."
http://www.marketwire.com/mw/release_html_b1?release_id=181534

Metalline Mining (MMG on the AMEX)
http://www.metalin.com/

MMG is my number one stock position, over 10% of my portfolio. I own 400,000 shares of MMG, and 400,000 warrants at $1.25 good for 5 years. I can't sell this until the 1-year hold time expires, perhaps in late January, 2007.
MMG has about 50 million shares fully diluted, at a share price of $4, and is a market cap of nearly $200 million.
MMG has 5.8 billion pounds of zinc resources (More than Apex Silver), and is working on a feasibility study that may take another 1 - 1.5 years to finish. This zinc is all unhedged.

There is a great blog that covers MMG here:
http://www.greatinvestments.blogspot.com/

Important Xmas shopping notes..........

2006-11-10T14:27:00.000-08:00

Get this "Picket Fence" Cardigan for just $17.00. I know every woman in my family is expecting one this year.........
Click HERE to buy it; yes this is a joke - but you really can buy it.

Can Fencing Stop Copper Wire thiefs????

2006-10-07T07:16:00.000-07:00

Extremely high unit prices for copper and other metals have created a massive trend of theft and destruction for various industries and government agencies. Hardest hit are Agriculture and Farming where diesel and electric pumps are often not secured. Even if a chain link fence is around such a pumpstation the chain link can quickly be cut and penetrated.

What fencing options can keep out thiefs from rural sites like this???
1. Omega fence --- Comes much cheaper than Iron fence but more costly than chain link. Boats a heavy 4 or 6 gauge welded wire panels with various designs and heights. Requires a thief to have a sawzall or grinder to penetrate -you cant cut it with pliers. www. omegafence.com

2. Iron Fence
No picture needed here - think of a jail - the most expensive option on this list can be climbable if not designed properly.

3. Chain Link with Razor Ribbon and Barbed Wire. Chain Link itself will do little to keep out copper thiefs - loading up the fence with Razor Ribbon will certainly help. Razor Ribbon or Barbed Tape is dangerous and is likely to make thiefs move on to an easier target.

New Products and review for residential fencing.

2006-10-01T07:20:00.000-07:00

1. Oasis by Simtek Fence, formerly Mity Fence.
Designed and manufactured in Orem, UT. Simtek produces, sells, and markets the "Oasis" line of fence products. The fence quickly spread through the Colorado and Utah markets and now has dealership agreements with installation companies throughout the country. The product offers a bridge between low cost vinyl fencing and high cost block walls and masonry. This is a 100% private fence that appears to have a custom rough granite finish. Six colors are available immediately in 6' and 3' heights. Gates are made in the 6' height for 4' or 6' wide applications; the gates can be doubled to accomplish a 8' , 10' , or 12' opening.

Product features:

Graffiti resistant material

Lifetime warranty

Fast Installation

Unique and Eye Catching Custom Block Design

Galvanized Steel Enforced Panels and Posts

Good up close digital pic of product and color options: HERE

www.simtek.com, recommended dealer for do it yourselfers: www.champifence.com

2. Cali Bamboo
Along the same lines as the Simtek fence, CaliBamboo offers a range of product that will convince the market to slow the need to harvest our forests for short lived wood fencing such as seen at home depot. CaliBamboo offers a truly Green product line of rechargeable material - and yes its real bamboo. One of the best new product websites on the net - www.calibamboo.com
For picture gallery click HERE

3. Child Guard (removable pool fence)
This design has been around for several years now and is the lowest cost option for safely securing your pool from children. Downside: NOT DOG PROOF. This is a hybrid plastic type mesh that is woven through steel poles that quickly installs into sleeves. Can be installed over pool deck or grass. This fence is believed to be compliant with pool codes throughout the country but please check with you local codes to make sure your covered -especially if you are running a daycare. Fence can be removed in short order to open up the yard for parties etc.
www.childguard.com

Thinking about buying wood posts? Stop, Wizard Time.

2006-01-10T08:41:00.000-08:00

Regular Wizard visitors know the routine - if it is not a long term product; DO NOT BUY IT! Such is exactly the case with wood posts, especially 4" x 4"s (which are actually 3 1/2" x 3 1/2"). The Fence Wizard will not go out of his way to poop on a wood post, if the post is already there and its convenient - then maybe.
The point is- wood posts are a short term product. Are they cheap? Yes. But wood posts on any type of privacy fence will last little more than 8-12 years with new records coming in daily on the short side. Today's Cedar and Redwood posts are from younger trees and less dense to be sure.
Here comes the whining - "But Mr. Wizard, I was careful to buy only pressure treated wood posts". The only thing The Wizard hates more than garbage is glorified garbage. If you are building a wood picket fence of any type - The wizard commands the use of a galvanized steel post. If you want quality spend a little extra and use "Postmaster Steel Posts" . You will not need any brackets to attach your rails (Use three rails of Douglas Fir 2" x 4"s). If you just can't afford the $24-25 each for the Postmaster Posts then go with a 2 3/8" (O.D.) 16 Gauge. The round post will require brackets and a cap so you will not save much and will get much thinner steel.
If your vinyl fence kit requires wood inserts or posts - be careful. Remember that when moisture, dirt, and wood combine - the wood will return to the earth as nature intended.
If someone puts a gun to your head and makes you install a wood post - make certain that you build up the concrete base above the surrounding dirt level - then cone it off so moisture falls down away from the base of the post. Then ask the gunman if he/she is happy.

The World Famous "Fence Wizard"

The 50 most visited Fence Companies on the Internet...

US races to erect controversial steel fence on Mexican border

Challenges still ahead for the back half of 2008

More pressure added to iron ore prices...

Outlook worsens for 2008 U.S. Construction Recovery

How to spend about $400,000.00 in March.

Video and Fence; A YouTube Study.

Franchise Opportunities in the Fence Industry

The Fence Economy on Google Finance

How to Improve Your Fence Companies Online Presence

2008 - Fence Industry Notices

Fleet Decisions: Gas vs. Diesel.

Fence Domains; Good Luck......

A Wizardly Billing Tool....

2007 Fence Photo Winners

The "John 3.16" of your large fence project management.

Fence Industry outlook - what can the stock market tell us?

Fencetech 2008 etc.......

United Fencers Network Established on Facebook...

Historic Fence photos......

A New Player In Aluminum Fencing...

Architects already know it - go to caddesisgns.com

TREX sets aside another $45 million for defective product replacements....

How to find and hire an employee....

FINDING GOOD EMPLOYEES (using your cell phone)

The Story long ignored by US media: the overwhelming success of Israel's border fence

Update: Golden State Fence, Guilty or an unfair poster child?

1st annual web design awards for fence companies

Golden State Fence changes name to "Fence Works" in attempt to rebuild reputaion....

Mel Kay defends Golden State Fence reputation and history....

Technorati invites Fence Wizard Blog to domain.....

Unique and Unusual Fence Gifts and Apparel

You were kind of hoping that this stuff did not exist..........Well - it does. Consider this the complete list of ridiculous gifts for the Fence Man or Fence Woman that has everything.

Fence Industry Wildcard: "DOGS".

Ten BooksTo Improve Your Fence Company

Principia announces results of Fence Market Study...

CBS attempts to put fence installers out of business...

Opinion piece: What fence is for.

The Do It Yourself Fence Builder Reference Guide

The Fence Wizard Book Club; Putting Oprah in her place. To check out everything new in the world of Fence visit the Industries Best News and Link Page.

Fence Books: Ornamental Iron

Ornamental Iron Books and Reference

ASTM Fence Spec and Standards BOOKS.

Fencing Calculators and Conversion Tools

Fence Manufacturers and Associations - LINK LIST

Fence Books: Ornamental Iron

Ornamental Iron Books and Reference

Fence Project Leads, Architect Resources

Fence Contractor Software and Design Systems

Software ideas to improve your fence company

Fence Industry Discussion Pages - Links

Fence Tools For Sales, Limited Pricing

Ameristar announces warranty upgrade on Iron Products...

Queensboro Shirt Offer to all Contractors

Employees showing up shirtless to work? Problem Solved. Queensboro Shirt Company is offering one of the best apparel deals in America. Who offers a 10year warranty on a shirt? Queensboro.

Invisible Fence, Wireless Dog Training Devices

Fence builders enemy: Wireless Dog Training Devices....

Border Fence Talk... The real issue.

Videos: Fence Plowing, Bloopers, and other Electric Moments

The Rainy Day Link List - When you have nothing better to do....

Fence Company Directory and Link Sheet

A new indoor fence solution from Supply Rack.

New growth product that can generate sales now!

Fencing Calculators and Project Estimators!

How to find qualified contractors for your residential project.....

Sign the Fence Wizard Guestbook and Leave us a Link to Your Website!

The Few, The Proud, The Guestbook Signers.

Fence Wizard Year In Review: 2007 Article Index

Did you miss one of the Fence Wizard's Original Articles? Fear not, Here is the complete Index List - Thank you to our sponsors for making 2007 a Great Year. Lets pray that we start 2008 smarter and more connected. Cheers.

Blog Archive

Fathead Posters. Not Fence, but still cool.

FOUND: The motherload link for international fence product wholesale

FENCE WIZARD MAD. Online fence companies that suck!

A Fence Company Guide to: Labor Law

Construction Labor Law, Links, Blogs, and Key Information

Top Ten Reasons To Install A Fence!

Top Ten Reasons to install a Fence.

Top Ten Reasons To Install A Fence!

Top Ten Reasons to install a Fence.