Aluminum Fence Glossary
Section or Panel: This is the actual fencing that is suspended
between the posts. It consists of the pickets and channels which are screwed together.
Stringers, Rails,
or Channels: The horizontal
bars of the fence. The stringers, rails, or channels increase the stability of the
fence sections. Generally speaking, the more rails per section, the greater the
stability of the fence.
Pickets or Balusters: The vertical members of the fence.
Post: A vertical member usually installed
every six to eight feet. Most posts are cemented in to the ground. The fence sections
are attached to the posts.
Line Post: This post is found within a "line of
fencing". Line posts have holes punched on opposite sides of the post.
Corner Post: This post is used on a corner where
your fence makes a 90 degree turn. Holes are punched on adjacent sides.
End Post: This type of post is used where the
line of fencing stops. Holes are punched on one side.
Gate Post: This post is punched like an end post,
but has twice the thickness to support the hinges and latching forces of the gate.
Wall Mount: A bracket used to attach the fence panels
to a blank post, a house, or to brick columns.
Swivel Mount: A bracket used to achieve any angle
other than 90 degrees.
Deck Mount or Welded
Plate: This type of hardware
is attached to the bottom of a post
and is used in situations where a posts must be mounted onto an existing concrete
pad or to a wall.
Gravity Latch: A standard non-lockable latch, not suitable
for pool applications.
Magna Latch: A child safety pool latch that is key
lockable. Meets all relevant Barrier Codes for pool and child safety.
Locinox Latch: A decorative latch that is key lockable.
Self-Closing Hinges: Spring hinges that are standard on most
aluminum fences. This type of hardware allows the gate to self-close behind you.
Self-closing hardware is required on all fence systems which must meet pool codes.
Adornments: Decorative accessories used to customize
fencing and gates.
Finials: A type of adornment used to customize
the top of a picket.
Scrolls: A decorative accessory placed between
pickets used to "dress up" fence sections or gates.
Rings: Decorative accessories which may be
added to the space between the two top horizontal rails of the fence or gate.
Post Caps: A cap which is added to enclose the
top of a post. Standard four sided flat caps and decorative ball caps are available.
Grades: Divisions of strength for aluminum fencing.
Higher grades are made with larger and thicker profiles.
Rack or Rake: The ability for a fence panel to adjust
to a slope. Fence panels are available to accommodate a 30" drop over a 6' span.
U-Frame Gate: An upgrade to a standard gate that has
a welded frame in the shape of a "U". This results in a much stronger construction
and is recommended for high traffic areas.
Cut Sections: Fence panels that need to be cut to
a fit in a desired space.
BOCA, ICBO, SBCCI: Various organizations which formally
consolidated into a single 50,000 + member organization called the ICC (International
Code Council).
This organization provides world class service to members and customers and is dedicated
to public safety through development of building safety and fire prevention codes.
Feel free to visit the ICC site for up to date information and services. www.iccsafe.org.
BOCA (Building Officials
and Code Administrators International Inc.) National Building Code: A nonprofit agency which has members
that span the building community to enforce codes. This organization has developed
strict guidelines for safety of outdoor, indoor, private, and public pool, hot tub,
and spa settings. They have set the standard for model codes in the aforementioned
areas. Refer to section 421.10 for enclosures for private swimming pools, spas,
and hot tubs. www.bocai.org.