Fences are a popular addition to most homes. Many homeowners appreciate both the privacy and the security that a fence can bring alongside its visual appeal. Choosing a residential fence for your property will yield a number of benefits that you can enjoy and that can, in time, increase the property value of the home itself.
With so many options out there, it can feel tricky trying to determine which type of fence is best for you. There are many different factors to consider when buying a fence: how much will a residential fence cost? Is it easy to customize a residential fence, or am I stuck with a factory-made option? Are fences environmentally friendly? What materials should I choose for my fence?
If you’re asking yourself these questions, this article aims to help you figure it all out. Below, we will offer you a short buying guide on choosing the best fence for your personal needs. We will also answer a few frequently asked questions that will hopefully leave you feeling better prepared to tackle your fencing project.
Types of Residential Fencing
Below are some of the most popular types of residential fencing.
Wooden
Wooden fences are among the most popular types of fences due to their durability and cost effectiveness. They are also easy to customize to your liking through painting, staining and changing of the height of the fence.
Iron
Iron fences tend to have a more dramatic appearance that offer great curb appeal. With an iron fence, your home gets a beautiful aesthetically pleasing border that is also resistant to weathering.
Chain Link
For those who have pets they want to keep in the yard or want to provide a safe place for the kids to play, chain link fences are excellent. They don’t provide as much privacy but they are weather resistant and good at walling in a space.
What to Consider When Choosing a Residential Fence
There are a number of factors that you should keep in mind when thinking about purchasing a new fence. Below, you can see some of the most pressing ones.
Price
Price is usually at the forefront for most people when it is time to actually figure out what type of fence you are interested in for your property and how much you are willing to spend. When choosing a fence, it is best to find one that is within your budget, so you don’t have to stress about that on top of the fence installation. One of the most cost-effective types of fencing is wooden fences, so this may be an option for you to consider if you are building on a budget.
Material
There are a wide variety of materials that you can choose when shopping for a fence. Among the most popular are iron, chain-link and wooden fences. Wooden fences are cost-effective and eco-friendly while offering many customization options. Iron fences tend to be more dramatic and eye-catching from the road and will cost quite a bit more than a wood fence.
Customization
If you’re interested in a fence that you can make totally your own, you can look into wooden fences. Though metal fences have a small chance of customization, there is practically nothing you can’t do with a wooden fence. Trimming the height, staining it the perfect color and adjusting gate size are only a few benefits to a wooden fence.
Durability
The quality of the fence plays into its durability. You will want to check to make sure all of the fence materials are premium quality with the durability and performance you know you can trust. This way, you won’t have to worry about replacing it every few years or so, saving you time and money.
Quality
Naturally, you will want a fence that is going to outlast the test of time. Choosing a material that is high-quality and known to last is important. Iron and other metal fences, tend to be the longest-lasting, though wooden fences can go on just as long if you take care to maintain them.
Privacy and Security
If having a private residence away from peeking eyes is of top concern, then that should be something you pay attention to when selecting your fence as well. It is best to choose a fence that has solid wood or metal instead of a chain-link fence, as these cannot be seen through. You can also choose a fence that reaches a tall height so that no one can see over it easily.
FAQ About Residential Fences:
Below, we will examine a few curiosities people have when choosing a fence.
What should I look for in a residential fencing company?
You should look for a company that has good reviews and has been in the fence business for a while. A company with a good portfolio showing you the various jobs they have already completed may give you peace of mind that the vision you have for your fence is one they can bring to life. You may also want to check their prices and make sure they are both fair and competitive with the other residential fence companies in the area.
Can I replace a residential fence without getting approval from the government?
This depends on your local laws and if you belong to a homeowner’s association or not. It is important to check with the city and county to make sure you do not need a permit to replace your fence. Typically, if you are building a fence of the same material, it may not require a permit.
What are the different materials that a residential fence can be built from?
Residential fences can be built from all manner of materials. Some of the most popular materials include:
- Redwood
- Cedarwood
- Iron
- Various Metals
- Mixed materials such as metal and wood
The type of material you choose for your fence will depend on what you are hoping to get out of your new construction.
How many years should I check and maintain my residential fence?
A fence should be maintained throughout the years. A well-built and well-maintained fence can last you between 15 to 20 years. Be sure to check occasionally for any wobbly posts or boards and replace them. You should also periodically treat a wooden fence to make sure it doesn’t swell or fall victim to termites.
What is the most affordable residential fence option?
Wood is often considered to be the most affordable option for a residential fence.
No matter what reason you have for wanting a fence, it can feel difficult trying to get started on choosing and installing a fence. In this article, we’ve explored a few benefits of having a residential fence as well as offering a buying guide on the things to look out for when shopping around. When you are getting ready to choose your fence, revisit this article to feel better prepared.
