As you are thinking about and planning your new or replacement residential fence, there are a lot of things to consider.
As you are thinking about and planning your new or replacement residential fence, there are a lot of things to consider. How high should it be? Which material should you choose? What are other design considerations? Read on for tips to pick just the right fence to meet your needs.
Consider Function First
The function of the fence is going to help determine its height and material. Where are you installing the fence – around the backyard, the front yard, or both? Next, what do you want the fence to do – keep people from seeing in, keep children and pets from running out, or something else? The three primary functions of a fence are landscape appeal (in both the front and the backyards), security, and privacy. If the fence is going around your front yard for curb appeal, a nice, short picket fence could be perfect. If it is a backyard fence to keep in your husky, it will have to be very tall and strong. If you’re going for privacy, a solid fence is necessary.
Decide on Height
Fences added to landscapes for aesthetics are usually between 1 and 3 feet tall. Fences that are built for security or privacy are often 5 to 6 feet tall. When you are deciding on fence height, check your local codes, since many cities forbid fences higher than 6 feet. You should check with your HOA, if you have one, to make sure that you are meeting their rules and requirements with your plans.
Choose a Material
Most residential fences are made out of wood, metal, vinyl, or occasionally brick. Wood can be painted or stained to match almost any aesthetic and usually lasts between 15 and 20 years. Wood is a versatile material that can provide visual appeal and security options but does require maintenance. Metal fences are typically made from aluminum, steel, or wrought iron. All of the metal options are durable, dependable, and great for security. Metal fencing also requires very little maintenance and comes in a variety of styles. Vinyl fencing, like, wood, can be decorative (like pickets) or for security (stable). Vinyl will last a long time but doesn’t come in as many color options. Finally, Brick is the most expensive fencing option, but it is also the strongest and provides the additional benefit of some soundproofing.
Hercules Fence is Here to Help
No matter what type of fence you have decided on, Hercules Fences has the expertise and equipment to construct your dream fence. Our experienced team can help meet your fencing needs, whether they are residential or commercial, for the right price. We proudly serve Albemarle County, Amelia, Ashland, Augusta, Buckingham, Caroline, Charles City, Charlottesville, Chester County, Chesterfield County, Colonial Heights, Cumberland County Dinwiddle County, Fluvanna County, and Fort Lee, Virginia, VA. Give us a call at 804-752-7992 or visit us online. To see examples of our work and keep in touch, don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, LinkedIn, Flickr, and Pinterest.
