A fence can enhance your home’s curb appeal, provide security, increase privacy, and offer protection from the elements. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before you begin building your new fence. Will you do the project yourself or hire an expert? Do you want a decorative fence, or are you looking for something simple to mark the boundary of your property?
Here are a few tips for planning, designing, and building a fence for your home
1. Know What You Want
You likely have a number of reasons – you want to protect your pets, but you also want to add a decorative element to the exterior of your home. Whatever the purpose, a fence can work in many ways, but the first step is to decide what you’re looking for.
2. Face The Fence The Right Way
If you’re building a fence for privacy, the standard way is to have the smooth, finished side facing the neighbors or the street. The side with the exposed rails and posts should face inward. This way, not only will your property look better, but your neighbors will appreciate the details. 3. Consider fence materials
Wood fences may require occasional staining or sealing and can warp or rot over time. Instead, consider a low-maintenance material such as vinyl that offers the look of wood without the effort. Other low-maintenance options include aluminum, steel, wrought iron and bamboo.
3. Mixed-use Fence Types
If budget is an issue, mix different types of materials when building a fence. For example, you can place a wooden picket fence in the front of the house, attaching it to a chain-link fence in the back. This combination of fencing will save you installation costs, but it will also reduce the amount of fencing that might require repainting. On the other hand, mixing fence materials and styles also adds interest to the landscape.
4. Do Your Research
Learn about municipal building codes, covenants that dictate the look, height and material of fences. City and neighborhood ordinances may specify that the most attractive side of a fence faces the public. The setback should generally be placed between 2 and 8 inches behind curbs and property lines, although some municipalities require a 12-inch setback. Also find out if building fencing requires a building permit.
5. Think Green
Landscaping can be used to protect your home from weather and views and to mark property lines. Layer plants to form pockets where others can’t see your home or other part of the yard. Choose trees and shrubs that will thrive in your area and are evergreen so they’re attractive year-round. Most will need plenty of sun, so keep your yard’s light in mind when landscaping your fence.