Important Tips To Consider Before Building A Fence
Summer is just around the corner, and you’re ready to take on a new project. Why not install a new fence?
You’re tired of seeing your neighbors each time you relax in your backyard. It’s time to make your yard into a private oasis.
But readers beware: this DIY project isn’t as easy as painting a wall or assembling a cabinet. It takes some careful planning, consideration, and proper execution to get it right.
There are several types of residential fences, including:
- Chain link
- Wood fences
- Vinyl
- Welded metal
- Pool fences
You’ve certainly got a lot of options to choose from, each with pros and cons. Without the right guidance, you may end up with a fence that’s crooked, mismatched, and unstable.
Here’s a handy guide to what you should know before you start hammering away:
Talk to Your Neighbors
Considering the proximity of your neighbor’s house, it’s important to build a fence that won’t offend them. For example, painting each stake an alternating rainbow color might not be the best approach.
Keep in touch with your neighbor when it comes to your construction plans. If they have any reasonable objections, try to work together so that you’re both happy with the results. Your neighbor may even offer to pay for some of the building costs! This is because your fence will benefit their property, too.
Another important consideration is to make sure you don’t go over the boundaries of your property. The property line defines the limits of what is legally yours—build past its limits, and you may wind up with a very angry neighbor. You may need to contact a land surveyor to get an accurate picture of your yard’s limitations.
Consider the Climate
If you live in a cold region, you’ll need to install the fence stakes deeply into the ground. This is to ensure that they’re below the frost line.
But if you’re a California resident, then your fence will be subject to warm temperatures. Wood may not be your best option, since it’s prone to shifting in many climates. It can also rot if you live somewhere rainy.
Be sure to choose a material that can handle the conditions of your region. If not, you’ll be stuck doing more maintenance than you planned for.
Apply for Permits and Adhere to Guidelines
The area that you live in might have regulations about what kinds of fences homeowners can build.
If you are part of a HOA (Homeowners Association), your neighborhood might have rules about what you can and can’t build. Anything that breaks cohesion from other homes would go against the guidelines. You may even have to pay a fine.
In some cities, you’ll require a permit to build a fence. Be sure to do your research and apply for any necessary permits before getting to work.
Identify the Location of Gas Lines
You’ve heard it before, but it’s worth repeating: call before you dig!
Hitting a gas line can disrupt service to your neighborhood and create a dangerous situation.
Most gas companies will come to your property and identify the location of gas lines free of charge. Be sure to contact a local utility company before you start building.
Think about Landscaping
How will a new fence affect the trees, garden, and overall shape of your backyard? This is something to keep in mind before you go ahead with your building plans.
Certain shrubs and bushes may get in the way of your outline. You’ll either need to uproot them or work around them.
Where Will You Put It?
Fencing in your backyard creates a private space for your family to sunbathe, play, and host barbeque parties. However, adding a fence to your front yard can drastically improve the curb appeal of your home.
You may even decide to build two fences. If your budget is a limiting factor, you can use a less expensive material for the backyard, which will be seen less often.
Prepare for the Cost
By building the fence yourself, you can save on installation costs—you’ll just need the time, energy, and experience to do the job right the first time. Otherwise, you might end up paying more to fix it.
Of course, the cost of your project is highly dependent upon the building materials that you choose. A wrought iron fence will drive up the cost substantially, but a chain link one is much more affordable. On average, it costs a few thousand dollars to build a wooden fence.
Before you fall in love with one style of fence, outline a clear budget for yourself.
Identify Its Purpose
Depending on the purpose of your fence, you’ll want to select different building materials.
Are you installing the fence for more privacy? If so, your best bet is a solid material like wood. A chain link fence will allow people to see in through the gaps, so you should steer away from that. Solid materials can also block out noise, which is convenient for those who live in busy areas.
Maybe you’d like a fence to keep your dogs safe. In that case, a chain link fence will do just fine! Just make sure the fence is tall enough that your furry friends can’t jump over it.
Or perhaps your goal is to increase the value of your property. With high-end materials, your backyard will make quite the impression on potential buyers. If you’ve got the budget for it, consider a masonry fence or one made of steel.
Are you planning to build a fence around your newly-installed pool? If so, refer to a swimming pool safety checklist. A fence is an effective way to prevent accidents, especially if you have young children.
Before you put that first stake in the ground, be mindful of the above tips. Making sure that the fence is level, stable, and able to hold up against the elements is no small task.
After reading about all the things you need to know to install a fence properly, you might feel more inclined to contact a fence contractor instead. The question is, how do you find the right person for the job? You need a contractor who’s honest, reliable, and experienced.
At Billy, we can help you find the perfect company to build your fence. Our team is dedicated to finding the professionals you need for any home improvement project.
About Author
Kiara provides comprehensive marketing solutions for busy entrepreneurs. She is always open to sharing her experience and giving advice to local businesses by uncovering all the engaging content that converts viewers into customers. Some of his favourite pieces can be found on Mr. Garbage’s website.
