Adding a fence around your property can provide privacy, security and aesthetic appeal. With so many fencing options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which type of fence is right for your home and garden. This article covers everything you need to know to find the best fence to meet your unique needs and style.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fence
With so many fencing materials and styles to select from, keep the following key factors in mind:
Aesthetics
Match the design to your home’s architecture for cohesion in materials and ornamental accents. Wood offers traditional warmth, vinyl brings clean lines, while wrought iron and stone make dramatic statements. For partially open fences, be thoughtful about view perspectives both from inside and outside. Aesthetics also include choosing colors and finishes harmonizing with the home and landscaping without feeling jarring. With myriad creative options, select fencing that beautifully complements spaces without drawing excessive attention to itself through incongruent designs. At it’s best, fencing feels like an extension of the exterior style.
Privacy Level
Solid barricades with taller heights keep prying eyes out but can feel imposing from the street. Alternately, lower profile fences maintain community friendliness while strategically placed barriers, trellises, trees and shrubs increase privacy gradients more naturally. Smart amenities like muted lighting or segmented privacy panels also limit visibility only where required. Identify primary problem sightlines and tailor screening methods to efficiently boost privacy both functionally and psychologically.
Durability and Longevity
Pressure treated woods properly maintained last 10-15 years. Hearty PVC/composite fences survive 20-30 years. For the longest duration, metal and masonry last 30-40 years yet come at higher costs. Consider environmental factors like solar exposure, precipitation, winds and soil moisture leading to material expansion, corrosion and decay over time.
Cost
Basic chain link and prefab wood are most affordable. Composite, PVC, iron and stone cost far more initially. Compare lifespan when weighing price – a durable upgrade lasting decades saves money long-term.
Zoning Laws and HOA Rules
Here is a list of things to consider related to zoning laws and HOA rules when choosing a fence:
- Fence height limits – Many areas have restrictions on front yard fence heights and setbacks from sidewalks or property lines. Rear and side yards often have higher allowances.
- Required fence materials – Some neighborhoods prohibit certain fencing materials like chain link or may require specific aesthetics.
- Fence finish regulations – governing entities may require certain fence staining or prohibit unfinished wood.
- Gate and opening specifications – Standards often exist for direction of gate swing and latch type/height to contain pets and children.
- Permitting process rules – Fences over a certain height or length may require submitted plans and approved permits before building.
- Privacy fence setback minimums – Preventing a “tunnel effect” from fences too close together is common.
- HOA design guidelines – Planned communities often have detailed specifications for styles and placements.
Popular Types of Fences
Wood Fences
Wood is a classic fencing material that has remained popular for it’s beauty and natural look. Some top wood choices include:
- Cedar
- Redwood
- Pressure-Treated Pine
Key Benefits
Beautiful natural appearance, wide array of styles, material strength and fencing design flexibility.
Considerations
Requires more frequent maintenance and sealing. Vulnerable to weathering and wood-boring insects over time. Higher upfront investment than other materials.
Vinyl Fences
For a low maintenance option, vinyl is rapidly growing in popularity. Advantages include:
- No required painting, staining or sealing
- Resists moisture damage, rotting, termites and other wood-destroying organisms
- Retains color and withstands sun, wind and salt exposure
- Long-lasting PVC or polyethylene materials
- Less prone to cracking, peeling or splintering
Key Benefits
Extremely low maintenance requirements. Never needs paint or stain. Won’t rot, crack or warp. Durable for decades.
Considerations
Higher upfront cost. Plastic-like appearance lacks natural wood grain beauty. Limited color and style choices.
Aluminum Fences
Aluminum fencing combines strength, security and aesthetics with minimal upkeep. Features include:
- Lightweight yet extremely durable
- Resistant to weathering, rusting and corrosion
- Powder coated or anodized for added protection
- Strength of wrought iron with aluminum’s lighter weight
- Bare metal accents or color infused powder coating
Key Benefits
Very strong yet lightweight. Resilient against corrosion and decay. Contemporary, ornamental look.
Considerations
Higher initial price tag. Can conduct electricity if improperly grounded. Some find color options limiting.
Wrought Iron Fences
For an elegant, dramatic accent, wrought iron is unrivaled. Characteristics include:
- Timeless ornamental beauty unmatched by other materials
- Can be crafted into intricate designs
- Used for accent focal points or perimeter enclosures
- Durable and weather-resistant metallic construction
Key Benefits
Unique visual appeal and custom styles create an impressive statement. Longevity and resilient performance. Provides security with style.
Considerations
Very heavy material requires professional installation. Can rust if untreated metal is exposed to moisture. Higher price point than other fences.
Composite Fencing
Composite blends synthetic and reclaimed wood fibers into durable, low maintenance panels. Benefits include:
- Realistic wood appearance without drawbacks of real timber
- Resists moisture, rotting, bugs, splitting and warping
- No staining required but can be painted
- Contains recycled plastic and/or wood byproducts
Key Benefits
Looks like wood but without the maintenance. Durable, moisture-proof and insect resistant construction. Eco-friendly manufacturing.
Considerations
Pricing can be nearly double traditional wood. Limited color options. Difficult for do-it-yourself installations.
Bamboo Fencing
For an eco-friendly choice that resembles traditional wood, bamboo is a great solution. Advantages include:
- Beautiful natural-wood look but grows much faster than trees
- Dense compressed fibers resist cracking and splitting
- No deforestation required like timber fencing
- Typically chemical-free and biodegradable
Key Benefits
Sustainable and very durable. Gorgeous appearance similar to exotic hardwoods. Stores carbon dioxide so improves air quality.
Considerations
Relatively higher cost. Imported materials increase environmental impact. Can warp or become brittle in extreme cold climates.
Chain Link Fences
Chain link remains popular for security and pet containment due to it’s see-through metallic mesh design:
- Creates a perimeter boundary without fully blocking views
- Galvanization and vinyl coatings prevent corrosion
- Lightweight flexible panels easy to DIY install
- Mesh “weave” deters climbing intruders
Key Benefits
Heavy duty containment and protection. Excellent security barrier. Budget-friendly price point for large areas.
Considerations
Visually unappealing. Can snag clothing or cut bare skin that contacts sharp wire ends. Requires maintenance to limit rust.
Picket Fences
Picket fences feature distinctive vertical board or dowel posts. Elements include:
- Often associated with classic Americana home and garden style
- Allows air flow and partial views through while delineating property lines
- Archways, gates and decorative posts create character
- Painted white most frequently but comes in array of color finishes
Key Benefits
Timeless nostalgic styling suits many home architecture styles. Partial visibility maintains welcoming curb appeal.
Considerations
Not as private or secure as solid fences. Must be properly pressure treated and sealed to resist rotting in outdoor settings.
Stone and Brick Walls
For sophisticated old-world charm, stone and brick walls impart premium ambiance and value. Details include:
- Natural quarried stone and clay bricks offer unmatched durability
- Increased resale value for homes featuring permanent masonry landscaping
- Drainage and weep holes prevent moisture retention behind walls
- Coping tops protect from water infiltration and decorative caps add finials
Key Benefits
Beautiful hand-crafted architecture carries premium status. Highest resale value boost for properties. Extremely durable for generations.
Considerations
Hefty upfront investment for materials and professional masonry work. Severe frost upheaval can gradually displace stones and bricks.
Choice Features Based on Fencing Purpose
Animal and Pet Containment
- Chain link with mesh size small enough to contain the animals
- Wood privacy with partially buried bottom and protective railings to prevent chewing and digging under
- Road mesh wire as a sub-layer across the bottom of split rail to inhibit digging without blocking views
- Electrified wires offset from fencing to dissuade touching from either side
Child Safety
- Self-closing spring hinges automatically close entry gates after every use to prevent unattended open access by kids
- Picket with close set spacing between pickets no more than 3” apart vertically
- Latched perimeter gates out of small children’s reach to inhibit wandering
- Vertical rung designs without footholds for climbing
Noise Reduction
- Solid concrete, brick or stone walls that physically block and absorb noise
- Overlapping horizontal wood that diffuses and traps sounds waves rather than passing them directly through open pickets
- Green noise barrier trees whose leaves baffle and scatter noises beyond fencelines
- Acrylic sheeting that can be mounted to fence panels to create more impervious sound barriers
Security and Privacy
- Tall solid wood fences augmented with thorny barriers along vulnerable perimeter areas
- Masonry concrete with inset decorative metal accents to increase deterrence
- Connecting arbors or overhead lattice between sections that eliminate peeping gaps while allowing airflow
- Lofty finishes or inward/downward tapering tops to inhibit climbing over
- Video monitoring integrated with wifi smart fencing
DIY Installation vs Professional
Complexity
- True horizontal, vertical and site slope alignment
- Post hole depth requirements based on climate frost levels
- Difficult terrain or access issues complicate amateur projects
- Heavy equipment maneuvering not feasible for homeowners
Unique Design Elements
- Secondary containment fencing around existing pools
- Perimeter security monitoring and access control systems
- Large ornamental archways and custom gates
- Adding masonry or stonework pillars
Physical Challenges
- Transporting and working with extremely heavy materials requiring machinery
- Properties with expansive perimeter scope exceeding sensible DIY scale
Liability Risks
- Improper structural integrity leading to collapses and injuries
- Encroaching on underground utility lines during digging
- Violating permit, easement or property setback terms
7 Tips for Getting the Most Value from Your Fence Investment
| Seek Multiple Quotes | With varying company sizes and overhead expenses, never assume one bid defines the going rate. Gather at least three quotes from reputable local contractors. |
| Ask About Longevity | The years of expected useful lifespan before replacement needs vary dramatically between materials. This helps determine true value for the investment. |
| Choose Multi-Purpose Styles | Select fence aesthetics, components and attributes meeting several objectives like privacy, Child containment and accent lighting. |
| Evaluate Future Plans | Consider forthcoming property additions like pools or sheds that could impact fence placement or access gate locations. |
| Consider DIY segments | Completing basic span sections yourself while hiring pros to handle corners, gates and tricky structural connections gets best results. |
| Use Strategic Plantings | Place noise-buffering shrubs along loud borders or visibility screening vegetation along see-through picket runs to boost privacy naturally over time. |
| Account For Maintenance | Avoid surprises by understanding the regular cleaning, sealing, stain refreshing or repair costs expected based on materials, usage levels and environmental factors. |
Best to Choose and Avoid When Selecting a Fence Color
Colors to Choose:
- White or off-white – A classic and clean color that fits with many home styles. White PVC vinyl is also a popular fence color choice.
- Neutral earth tones – Shades of brown, gray and tan are versatile and coordinate well with stone/brick homes.
- Greens and blues – Provide a nice accent color. Greens complement gardens and blues work well with water features.
- Stained natural wood colors – Allow the natural grain to show for a warm and rustic look. Stains protect and enhance the wood while showing it’s inherent beauty.
Colors to Avoid:
- Bright primary colors – These can be overpowering and don’t blend into landscapes very well. Exceptions could be as an accent color on fence posts or lattice.
- Blacks or dark colors – Can make spaces feel smaller or more confined and will fade severely in the sunlight over the years.
- Bright whites – Have a harsh glare and quickly show dirt and damage unless pristinely maintained. Select an off-white with a hint of cream or gray instead.
- Unfinished wood – Leaves you open to warping, checking and undesirable weathered graying over time. Proper treatment is important for aesthetics and longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better wood or vinyl fencing?
Wood has a classic natural look but requires far more maintenance. Vinyl stands up better against weathering but offers fewer aesthetic variations. Weigh visual appeal against maintenance tradeoffs to decide which material looks and functions best long-term in your specific backyard.
What height fence requires a permit?
Fence height allowances needing permit approval differ by municipality. Typical thresholds span 6’-8’. Check local zoning codes for specifications based on property type, location within community and aesthetic considerations unique to your city.
How close can a fence be to a property line?
Standard residential fence placement runs along the actual property survey line, with posts and framing inside your yard. Commercial, highway and other applications have expanded setback minimums. Easements for utilities also dictate gap requirements in certain rare cases.
How do I choose gates and hardware?
Gate materials should match fence finishes. Self-closing hinges are critical for pool areas. Keyed deadbolts or touchpads help secure side yard access gates. Driveway gates span wider openings requiring heavy duty brace hinges and drop rods to prevent sagging and allow vehicle clearance.
Conclusion
Selecting the ideal fence involves weighing aesthetic preferences, privacy needs, security concerns, intended purpose, installation complexity, maintenance expectations and long term costs. Fortunately this guide’s detailed fence material comparisons, style considerations and practical tips equip you to tailor the perfect design unique to your home or garden’s requirements.
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