Fencing in Your Yard
A well-designed and well-constructed fence can be one of the most valuable features of a home. It can offer safety and security, convenience and practicality. It can provide a sense of intimacy or a gentle separation of two areas, or it can accentuate an open space. Many homeowners do not realize how simple it can be to fence in a yard. The addition of a fence can be a relatively easy, relatively inexpensive upgrade to a home that can make an enormous difference both aesthetically and functionally.
Before embarking upon any fencing project, it is critical that you first consult local zoning and code regulations. Whether you are replacing an old, existing fence, or installing a brand new one, many cities and neighborhoods have stringent requirements for any construction project that should be adhered to. Moreover, as a fence frequently defines the borders of a property, it is important that you understand exactly where your legal property borders are located so that you do not inadvertently encroach upon a neighbor’s space. Do not assume that if you are replacing an old fence, a new fence can be constructed in the same location and the same way, as older homes may contain fences that are no longer compliant with current codes.
Once you have determined the legal requirements for your fence, the second step is design. In designing the best fence for a yard, the most important consideration is its function. Do you want a fence that will offer privacy? If so, a tall fence of solid materials may be ideal. Would you prefer to retain an open feeling or preserve a view beyond the fence? Iron and even clear fences are very popular among homeowners seeking a physical barrier that retains the view beyond it. It is also desirable to construct a fence that blends with the architecture of the house, and it is critical to design gates that will permit user-friendly access between spaces, but only when appropriate.
Once you have decided what you are looking for in a fence, the final step is getting it built! Construction of many types of fences is a relatively straightforward task that can be enjoyable for many do-it-yourselfers. Moreover, building one’s own fence can save a homeowner thousands of dollars versus hiring a contractor to do it. On the other hand, many people prefer to hire a professional to ensure the highest possible quality of work, to save time and energy, or because they lack the necessary tools. At the very least, a do-it-yourselfer will require a tape measure, a level, a saw, a post-hole digger, and a hammer or a screwdriver. A power saw and a nail gun or a power drill will dramatically facilitate the job.
Finally, if you want to build a fence yourself but you lack the skill or equipment to proceed from scratch, it is possible to find modular fencing sections of wood, metal, or other materials. These sections can be purchased as individual units, arranged and assembled to generate a custom fence ideal for the space. Different types of fencing modules also offer gates that readily connect to the fence sections. They are generally adaptable for use in soil or over concrete or other materials. They can be an attractive option for homeowners wanting to complete the task themselves while doing the job in the simplest way possible.