Real-World Project Showcases Camaraderie in Fence Industry

Recap of NAFCA’s Aluminum Install Clinic

Last year, the North American Fence Contractors Association (NAFCA) added a capstone project to their annual Fence Training School. It was to be a real-world application of a fencer’s skill set.

“As the event drew near, we realized Fence Training School was not possible this year, so we shifted gears into the capstone project being a free aluminum installation clinic,” explains Clint Iams, NAFCA executive director. “Fence Training School director, Mart Prost found the perfect project NAFCA with the Florida Medal of Honor.”

Long-time NAFCA member and supporter Barrette Outdoor Living had already donated the material for the project: 650 feet of 4-foot commercial-grade ornamental aluminum. “Sean Russell and Taylor Coley of Barrette were incredibly helpful in working with the site engineer to ensure all materials and gates perfectly fit within the various concrete pillars,” Iams says.

With the help of NAFCA member company, Mr. Fence Academy, and other industry leaders, such as A to Z Fence and Modern Fence Technologies, NAFCA was able to provide installation training on two distinctly different methods of aluminum installation. Both installation methods are no dig. One utilizes the i-post system (courtesy of iFenceLLC) while the other utilizes a donut system (provided by Modern Fence Technologiest) over a driven round galvanized post.

A demonstration of expanding foam to set a few posts was also done; this material was donated by NAFCA member company Royal Adhesives and Sealants, an H.B. Fuller company.

“This site was in no way hospitable,” says Iams. “It was a minefield of buried utilities. And, the 650 feet of fence was broken up into 24-foot sections with concrete pillars to be utilized throughout the site. Each termination required wall mount brackets and concrete tapcons.”

“Despite all this, everywhere you looked, people were working together, sharing tips and tricks, and helping each other learn today’s best industry practices,” he says. “We especially appreciate member companies who support our events and make projects like this possible.”

Member companies are: