Fencing

Adding a fence to your property is one improvement that will serve dual purposes. While many homeowners look toward fencing for functional purposes, such as security and privacy, others see fencing as a purely aesthetic addition. In either case, a fence is the beginning of your home’s “curb appeal”. When deciding to fence your yard, consider several aspects of your intentions, including the overall aesthetics of the fence, the purpose of adding a fence, the various measurements of a fence, and any rules your community may have in regard to fences.

A fence can serve many purposes: certain types of fencing can create more security to your property, keeping unwanted visitors out. If this is the reason you are considering a fence, be sure to consider effective gate locks as well. However, if your intention is to keep pets or children inside, rather than outside, the fence you choose may not need to be quite as tall or solid. Still other homeowners may long for a fence only to add to the look and feel of their landscaping. In any of these cases, a fencing contractor will guide you in making decisions on material, style and accentuating gates.A fence can be of many types like vinyl fence, iron fence, concrete fence and aluminum fence.

As with any home improvement project, you should start by consulting a professional. When interviewing fencing contractors, have on hand a map of your property, on which the contractor can mark measurements and take notes. If your neighborhood requires pre-approval for any fence, a copy of this map along with the contractor’s markings can be sent along with the application. If you have an extra copy of your property’s boundary survey, which is typically included with your purchase papers, this is an excellent resource. This survey will show easements, and measurements to adjacent properties.

During the interviews with contractors, you will be advised first on the material you wish to use for your fence. Fencing can be made of vinyl, wood, iron, or even brick or concrete. Select the material which would most adequately suit your needs. The next logical decision is the height of your fence: a direct reflection of the purpose of your fence.

Color is also a consideration. Wood can be stained or painted, and at the very least should be weather-proofed. Iron fencing is primarily black, but other powder-coated colors can be found. You contractor will advise you on the long-term maintenance requirements of your fence, which include pressure-washing, routine painting or staining, and preventing mold and mildew.

Once the fence is completed the home should be better positioned within the market to sell. Not only has the “curb appeal” been improved by adding a fence, but a properly installed and well-maintained fence will also add to the overall value of your home.