Fences are useful for keeping pets and children safe in yards, defining property lines and providing privacy and security, but the process of designing and installing one is often complicated. It’s a good idea to consult homeowners or neighborhood associations about covenants that dictate fence height, design and material, and check with local government building code officials for codes and permits that might apply to a fencing project.
The cost of materials can account for up to half of the total expense of a new fence, so choosing a less expensive material or constructing a smaller fence may reduce your costs significantly. Many types of fences are available for residential use, from wood and vinyl to metal and chain link. It’s also possible to create a simple, attractive garden fence with shrubbery or plants, such as a row of giant arborvitae trees on a country property or boxwood hedges in an urban setting.
A fence can accentuate a home’s landscape, and a well-designed one will add curb appeal. When building a fence, it’s important to take the environment into consideration, including weather conditions. A wood fence is not a good option in wet climates, because the damp ground and moisture cause it to rot more quickly. Metal and chain link fences are more durable against rain and humidity.
If a fence will be built near a street, sidewalk or other public area, it’s important to check for utility cables with a cable avoidance tool before digging holes or installing metal post supports. A contractor can rent such a device to locate and mark the location of any cables, pipes or other infrastructure that must be avoided during fence construction.
When planning a fence, consider how tall you want it to be, where the posts will go and whether you need a gate. It’s also a good idea to run string along the fence line from corner to corner before beginning construction, so the posts will be set in a straight line.
After a fence is constructed, it’s a good idea to treat the wooden parts with wood preservative. A copper naphthenate treatment or similar product protects the wood from rot and moisture and helps to keep the fence looking fresh for longer.
While some fencing projects are easily doable as a DIY project, it’s generally advisable to hire a professional to install a complex or long-distance fence. Hiring a contractor can save you time, frustration and money, as the project will be handled much more efficiently than trying to do it yourself. Besides, rocky or challenging terrain can require special digging equipment and skill that the average DIYer doesn’t have. One poorly placed rock or tree root can sabotage an entire fence installation project. That’s why it’s usually worth the extra expense to pay for a pro.