Last Updated on October 8, 2022 by Real Men Sow
A fence installed in your backyard is more than just a piece of wood. A fence can enhance a home’s appearance, increase privacy, provide additional security, a garden boundary and allow pets to run free. This applies to backyard fence installation as well. Homeowners must make difficult decisions about everything from the type and size of the fence to the cost.
What are the Reasons Why You Want a Fence?
The most common reasons for backyard fence installation, such as privacy, security, and pet protection, it is a smart idea to think about your reasons before you start digging into the installation process. You’ve probably done some research to find out that fences can be expensive.
Budget Talks
How Much Can You Invest in It?
Budget is key to home improvement projects. It’s important to establish a budget before you start to plan for the next fence. This detail will help you decide on other aspects of your project:
Type of Fence
You can choose from vinyl, wood, vinyl, chain link, or wrought iron. Each option has its pros and cons that should be considered when choosing a fence. A wrought iron fence with pickets placed 4 inches apart will not be effective if your goal is to make your yard more private. A fence that is 3 feet high may not be strong enough to stop a dog from jumping it or escaping.
Fence Maintenance
The upkeep of your fence is one of the most important factors in backyard fence installation. Wood fences can rot and split in warm climates. Vinyl fences will need to be maintained. However, homeowners living in cooler climates will choose metal or wood fences that are able to withstand extremely cold temperatures. You should not only keep the fence in good condition but also know how often it will need to be cleaned and painted/stained to keep it looking great.
Will You Hire a Professional?
If you plan to install your backyard fence yourself, this is the last thing you need to know. It can be difficult, tedious, and back-breaking work to install a fence. Many homeowners don’t feel comfortable doing it themselves. A professional fence company can help you with all of the above points, as well as show you the various types of fencing and make sure the fence is placed on your property.
Agreements and Laws
Zoning Requirements or Homeowner’s Association (HOA), Requirements
This is not something you should worry about if your home is in the country. However, if you live in an area with an HOA, be aware. You may find that your HOA’s CC&Rs will predetermine the type, size, and color of fences you choose. Some communities won’t allow privacy fences made of wood, while others will insist on iron for the aesthetic appeal of your backyard. Do your research before making any purchase for your backyard fence installation. Before you start, you may need to submit a formal request to your HOA.
Know the Location of your Property Line
While researching the restrictions in your area regarding fence types and their limitations is an important part of backyard fence installation research, it is not the only thing you should know. It is essential to know where your property line begins and ends before you begin any fence project. Reviewing a copy of your property’s survey is the best way to do this. You can call your local property records office to see if your survey is still available. In the worst case, you will have to pay for a new survey.
Talk to your Neighbors
Although there aren’t any rules that require you to inform your neighbors about a backyard fencing installation, it is a good practice. You may find that your neighbor is also interested in a fence. This could allow you to split the cost and save both you and your neighbor money.
Aesthetics and Practicality
Landscaping Plan
Before you start your backyard fence installation, it’s important to plan around existing landscaping. This could include the removal of trees, hedges, and plants. Many homeowners choose to add new landscaping to their yard while they are already doing some landscaping.
Entrance and Exit
You should have at least one gated exit/entrance to your backyard fence. They are usually located near the fence, but they could also be placed along the property line. Gates allow you to easily access your backyard from outside of your home. This is useful if you need to bring the lawnmower around to trim the grass. The number and type you choose can have an impact on your final cost.
