Fences offer many benefits to homeowners. They improve your home’s appearance, increase your privacy, shield you from the elements, and most importantly, provide much-needed security for you and your family. The right type of fencing can complete your home and give it the protection it deserves.
Whether you’re looking for wood or vinyl fencing, there some things you should know:
1. Know your priorities
There are many types of fences, and each type offers something different. Some provide better security and privacy, while others are merely decorative. You need to know what you want to achieve before building a fence around your home.
If you want to keep people out and your dogs inside your yard, then you’d probably do fine with regular chain-link fencing. But if you value security and privacy, you need to think bigger and taller.
2. Check the direction of the fencing
If you want a tall wood or vinyl fence for your home, then you need to make sure that you’re installing it correctly. A fence has two sides: the smooth side and the internal side. Make sure that the smooth, presentable side is faced outwards. The internal side (the one with the posts and rails) should be oriented toward you. This ensures that people will see the side of the fence that looks nice.
3. Choose a material
Fences are made of many different types of materials, so you need to choose the material based on your requirements. If you want a traditional picket fence, then you should go for wood. But wood can be a bit high-maintenance and tends to rot after a few years. If you want something that lasts for a long time, go for vinyl or steel fencing.
4. Mix and match
You don’t have to use just one type of fencing for your home. You can mix multiple fencing types to minimize costs and maximize the benefits you can get from the material. For instance, you can build a traditional wood picket fence for your front yard and a tall wood privacy fencing for your backyard.
5. Check local laws
Always check with local laws and your homeowner’s association before installing a fence. Some places have ordinances in place that limit what you can and cannot do with residential fencing. Your neighborhood might also be bound to an association rule that dictates your fence’s material, style, and height. In many cases, you need to apply for a building permit first before starting with the construction work.
6. Use plants
You can use plants such as hedges and shrubs as a form of natural fencing for your home. Plant small trees along your property line to provide some visual interest and to demarcate your property. One downside is that you have to invest in regular landscaping to ensure your plants don’t overgrow.
Security and privacy are two of the main reasons why homeowners install fences, but that doesn’t mean that design should take a back seat to practical concerns. These pointers will help you choose the right fencing for your home.
