How to Choose a Fence
Many families decide to add a fence to add value and security to their property, but have no idea how to begin the process, or which fence is right for them.
The first thing you need to do when selecting a fence is to think about the purpose that it will ultimately serve. If you require privacy, want a safe space for your children to play, or if you want to add a decorative border to your garden; there are fences that will satisfy every homeowner's need and taste.
Fences can be used to keep children and pets in, while keeping predators out. Wood panel fences serve this purpose well because they are fairly tall, and you can get styles that have no sizable gaps between panels, where small kids and animals can escape.
Wood panel fencing is also the best option for providing privacy, and can be stained or painted to suit your landscape decor.
Vinyl fencing on the other hand offers less privacy, but it is essentially maintenance free. Available in a variety of colors and styles, vinyl is a an excellent choice for families who don't want to have to worry about costly maintenance work. Vinyl stands up well to the elements and to general wear and tear.
You should definitely install a fence if you have a swimming pool or some other potentially hazardous feature on your property. You need to protect your own children and pets, as well as keep others out as well. In many areas it is a legal requirement to fence off a pool, but is also your moral responsibility.
Decorative fencing comes in many styles. Polymer fencing is a low-maintenance option that has the same attractive look as iron, but is less expensive and has a much longer life. These types don't offer much privacy, but can offer some protection from trespassers and stray dogs.
Post-and-rail fences can give your yard a charming rustic feel, but have gaps that are too large to keep dogs and children from sneaking in between the railings. These fences are great for decorative borders in your garden, or if you have larger livestock that you need to contain. These also offer little in the way of privacy, so again, be clear with what your needs are before you start building.
Chain link fencing is the most economical option for protecting your yard, but they can look unsightly. Fortunately, these fences are now available with vinyl coatings that you can get in a few different colors. This can take away the utilitarian feel of the fences, and blend it in with your landscaping. While chain link offers no privacy and has little decorative appeal, this type of fence is great if you are looking to contain pets and kids, particularly if they like to play baseball or soccer in the yard.
Before choosing your fence, look at how your family uses the yard. Do you have special plants that you want to protect from roaming animals? Do you want a private area to sunbathe? Looking at your lifestyle needs as well as your budget constraints will lead you to the fence of your dreams. And if you select your fence carefully, it can add a great deal of value to your home, as well as give you peace of mind.
Legal Issues and Fence Building
So you've decided that you need a fence, and even know what type of fence to want to build. Now you must consider the other issues involved, such as knowing where your property lines are, what building restrictions are in place, as well as the feelings of your neighbor. You need to take all of these things into account before you put nail to post, or you could have a costly disaster on your hands.
Something that you need to do before you start building is to have an updated land survey on hand. Already existing fences may or may not lie right along the property line, so don't use them as a guide. Be sure of where your property ends and your neighbor's begins.
Once you've located the boundaries, decide with your neighbor if you want it to sit on the property line. This would mean that both of you own the fence, and would be jointly responsible for building costs, maintenance, and repairs. You would also need to agree on the type of fence you choose. Negotiating a joint fencing project can be a tricky venture, as your neighbor may not want a fence in the first place, or want something wholly unsuitable for your needs. Or they may want the cheapest, most unattractive fence on the market. Be patient and polish off your negotiation skills. And be sure to handle discussions like an adult. You don't want the building of a fence to come between you!
If you prefer to be more in control of your fencing options, you may decide to install the fence just a few inches away from the property line, thereby making it solely your responsibility. You must take care of all repairs yourself, but you also have autonomy over the design and materials used.
Even if you decide to own the fence outright, it is a good idea to take into consideration your neighbors' needs in terms of view and privacy. You don't want to block out all of their incoming sunlight, and in fact, you may have to remove or alter the fence if its presence affects your neighbor's quality of life. While they can't make you tear down a fence simply because it's not to their tastes, having good neighborly relations means listening to their concerns.
You also want to assess your true needs for installing a fence. Make sure that your reasons are valid, like keeping neighborhood animals off your yard, or to have a little privacy in your backyard. The reason that this is important is because there is something called a "spite fence," where a fence is put up that serves no other purpose than to irritate your neighbors. This can take the form of an ugly fence, or one that is high and imposing. If your neighbor feels that this is the case with your fence, and they can prove that you installed it with malicious intent, they may have legal standing to sue you to have it removed.
Another critical step is to obtain the necessary permits before putting up your fence. Some communities have ordnances in place which limit the size and style of fencing materials you can use. Know your local restrictions before you buy! If you don't, you may end up with a giant headache and sizable expenses.
Adding a fence to your property can add definition, beauty, and safety. But there are issues involved that must be considered and dealt with before you build. First and foremost, talk to your neighbors and get their input. Compromising a little now can save you a lot of grief later.
