A-1 Fence Company
Other metal finished products
Company Overview
A-1 Fence Company, established in 1953, serves as a prominent design/build fencing contractor in Southern California. The company specializes in perimeter security solutions, completing over a thousand installations annually for a diverse clientele including private, commercial, industrial, and government sectors. Their services range from emergency repairs to extensive security projects, emphasizing a professional and experienced approach to meet various security requirements.
History and Evolution
Founded by Leonard Scofield in 1953, A-1 Fence Company began its operations from a small base in Santa Ana, quickly developing a loyal customer base among local commercial and industrial clients. By the late 1980s, the company had expanded its reach, becoming a regional contractor across the Greater Los Angeles and Orange County areas. Following Leonard’s retirement in 1987, Norm Shepherd assumed leadership, broadening the product line and enhancing business management. In 1990, Jim Sypitkowski joined the team, contributing engineering and marketing expertise, which led to further market expansion and a solidified reputation through strategic acquisitions.
Products and Services
A-1 Fence Company offers a comprehensive array of fencing and gate solutions. Their fencing systems include chain link, known for its strength and affordability, with options such as galvanized or vinyl coatings, barbed wire, razor ribbon, and anti-climb/anti-cut features. Ornamental iron fences are also provided, available in various styles and material thicknesses (e.g., 1 ½″ and 2″ rails, ¾″ or 1″ pickets, 2″ or greater posts), with custom fabrication capabilities. Additional fencing options encompass temporary fences, wood fences, vinyl fences, louvered fences for visual screening and air circulation, and trash enclosures.
For gates and automation, the company designs and installs pedestrian swing gates, double swing gates for larger vehicles, rolling gates, and sliding gates. They also specialize in heavy-duty, anti-ram, and crash-deterrent gates, as well as panic gates for emergency exits. Advanced gate operators and high-tech access control systems are integrated, featuring options like telephone entry systems, keypads, vehicle scanners, and video systems. Furthermore, A-1 Fence Company fabricates custom handrails and guardrails for enhanced safety in various environments.
Target Markets and Applications
The company's expertise extends across numerous sectors. They provide perimeter security for private buildings, warehouses, shopping centers, retail stores, and parking lots. Industrial applications include manufacturing plants, major oil companies, chemical storage areas, power and utility plants, mining facilities, and treatment plants. High-security institutions such as prisons, jails, hospitals, airports, bus/train terminals, and landfills also rely on their services. Government clients include federal installations (U.S. Navy, Army, Air Force, Marine Corps, ports, military bases) and state, county, and local agencies, including Cal Trans, state universities, and police/fire stations.
Key Differentiators and Affiliations
A-1 Fence Company differentiates itself through its design-build process, offering flexibility in meeting challenging construction requirements. They emphasize affordability, utilizing state-of-the-art fencing software to provide budget-sensitive options. Safety is paramount, with certified crews undergoing periodic training. Reliability is ensured by their central location across Orange, Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties, facilitating prompt service and on-time project completion. Emergency services are also available. The company holds California licenses (C-13, C-23, C-29, C-61/D28), is certified as a Small Business by the State of California, and is registered for Public Works. They are proud members of industry organizations such as the American Fence Association (AFA), American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), and ASIS, with active participation in the Southern California Chapter of the AFA and support for Special Olympics.
