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There are many reasons to invest in yard fencing. It can potentially enhance the look of your home, help your kids and pets stay safe, provide privacy, and increase the value of your property. But not all fences are created equally. Depending on why you want a fence, and how willing you are to keep up with maintenance you may want to choose one type of material over another.
Deciding What You Need in a Fence
One way to start the decision-making process is to make a list of pros and cons, and when you are considering putting up a fence in your yard, this logic certainly applies. Some people only need a simple picket fence around their yard that will look nice and reinforce boundaries for their kids. Those who plan to have dogs running around the yard may need something more sturdy that dogs aren’t going to be able to dig under and escape.You also want to consider the size of your dog and whether they are prone to jumping. Those with smaller dogs can often get away with a shorter fence than those with larger breeds.
Some people have a yard fence just because they want to clarify the boundary of their yard.
Perhaps they want to discourage people and pets outside their household from cutting through their lawn. Others like to use their fence for a higher level of privacy, and may want a taller, sturdy fence that will allow them to be in their yard without being witnessed by their neighbors. In some neighborhoods, however, too much emphasis on privacy may cause neighbors to be suspicious, or may even make potential buyers nervous, so these factors should be weighed as well.
Deciding Between Yard Fencing Materials
The main types of fencing materials available are wood, vinyl, wrought iron, aluminum, chain link, or picket fences in wood or vinyl. Wood fencing has been around for a long time, and can be stained or painted to enhance its look, and it can offer a seamless transition with the deck. Many like the idea of natural materials, but it does make the fence more prone to pests and you’ll have to pay close attention in order to keep it maintained.
Vinyl fencing is easier to maintain, but color options are often limited to white and other neutral colors. It is a good option for covering a lot of ground, and although it is initially more expensive than wood, its durability is more reliable.
Wrought iron fences are common with Colonial style homes and run either as three foot high fences or six foot high fences. There is potential for these fences to rust, so this needs to be watched if this type of fence is chosen. Aluminum fencing is similar, and doesn’t rust but may not have the strength of wrought iron, but may have more flexibility.
Chain link fences are strong and are popular for sports courts or with those who want to put up a quick affordable fence. Not much privacy is provided, but it can leave the yard with an open and inviting feel, while still keeping the kids’ soccer ball from rolling into the street.
Picket fences are an integral part of the old school dream home, and are normally available in wood or vinyl materials. These are often shorter fences that don’t offer a lot of privacy, but can be aesthetically pleasing.
While DIY is all the rage, at the end of the day not everyone has the skills and tools to get every job done right on their own. Working with a qualified contractor can help assure that you don’t miss any important steps, like getting the proper permits and permissions from your city or Home Owners Association.
At Angi, (formerly Angie’s List) we can help get you matched with a fencing contractor that can install your new fence. To get started with the best referrals for your contracting needs, contact Angi today.
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