The Quick Homeowners Guide to Fencing
This is a writing sample from Scripted writer April Khan
The Quick Homeowners Guide to Fencing
Sunny days are around the corner, and you’re tired of looking at that hideous fence — or worse, the blank space where one should be. You want to buy a fence, but you're not sure which one to choose. Not to worry, we have you covered. In this Quick Homeowners Guide to Fencing, we'll go over everything you need to know to make the right decision.
You May Need Permission
Does your neighborhood have a zoning code for fencing? Before installing a fence or even purchasing one, check twice to make sure you don't need a permit. Cities like New York City have zoning laws outlining how fencing should be constructed. Maximum height, property lines, installation lines, and fence location are just a few items outlined in local zoning laws. If you avoid this critical step, it could cost you thousands, not to mention a violation with the city that could end in a fine or worse — demolition.
The same rule applies if your home is in a historic district or new development; or if you’re part of a neighborhood association or Homeowner's Association. Just because your neighbors built theirs without permission doesn't make it worth the risk. Check, check and check again.
Chat with the Neighbors
Speaking of neighbors. If you plan to install fencing that borders your properties, you'll want to have a neighborly chat about it first. There's an old saying, "Good fencing makes good neighbors." It couldn't be more accurate. Unfortunately, the opposite is also true, which usually ends in litigation. You don’t want that, and neither does your neighbor.
While you have the right to install whatever fence you choose — so long as it's within your city’s zoning and you've obtained any other necessary permissions — talking to your neighbor could save you money. Have them confirm their property line and show them the fence you plan to have installed. Of course, they can't "stop" you from building your fence but telling them upfront could quell any future problems.
Note on property lines: Some blueprints fail to show updated changes to your property. Be sure of where your property line is by contacting a surveyor or having your neighbor confirm with their blueprint. This saves you from building a fence on their property and possibly having to remove it.
Choose the Right Function
Fences that look the same may be very different in function. Therefore, before purchasing your fence, consider the functionality.
- Do you need a privacy fence to protect your goods from the eyes of burglars?
- Would you like a contrasting fence to showcase your home?
- Should your fence contain a trellis or other attachments for gardening?
- Do you need it for security?
Answering these questions will significantly narrow down your choices. Let's look at the four most common fences and their functions.
Decorative Fence
Decorative fences are often used to add a structural element to a home, increase its value, boost curb appeal, or establish property lines. Fences in this grouping have the most variety in height, texture, and material.
Safety Fence
If you have an outdoor dog or live in an area with uninvited four-legged visitors, this may be the fence for you. Safety fences are synonymously known as chain link fences, and they're made of galvanized steel. There are other choices for safety fences, but steel chain link fences are the most common. If you don't want a silver fence, use special paint to coat it in a color more complimentary to your home.
Security Fence
Like a safety fence, security fences are designed to keep intruders out, but these fences are best for keeping out humans. These fences are pretty tall — usually over 6 Feet — making them hard to scale. Add pickets and face them outward, making them even harder to climb.
Privacy Fence
Privacy fences are your traditional tightly spaced, solid fences. This kind of fence is best to prevent people from seeing into your yard. The color options are endless, so if you want to boost curb appeal and protect your home, this is the way to go.
Choose the Right Material
When it comes to material, the choice is up to you. Most fences are made of wood, faux wood (composite or vinyl), chain link/wire, and wrought iron (aluminum and iron).
- Wrought iron: Today's wrought iron fences are made from aluminum and iron. They're chunky, spiky, and coated to prevent rust. They come with a 20-year or more warranty, making them excellent for most homeowners.
- Chainlink/wire: These are the most cost-effective fences. They come in silver, black, or green — but can be customized to your liking. Manufacturers typically offer 12 to 15-year warranties on this type of fence.
- Faux Wood: Faux wood is constructed of straight vinyl or a composite mix. It looks like wood, assembles like wood, and to the untrained eye, it is wood. These fences don’t need painting since they’re sold prefabricated. Warranties are usually 20 years.
- Wood: Wood fences are crafted from several distinct kinds of wood. Redwood, cedar, birch, oak — the choice is up to you. Warranties on wood fences are much less than metal or synthetic fences, usually averaging 0 to 15 years.
Summary
As you can see, the choices for fencing are endless — but the final choice is up to you. As long as you obtain permission (if needed), talk to your neighbors, and consider functionality, you’ll be on your way to installing an enclosure that you’ll be proud to look at for years to come.
Which fence do you plan to install? Let us know in the comment section, we’d love to hear from you!
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