Choosing the Right Fence for Your Property

With a wide variety of styles and materials for fencing available, choosing the right fence for your property can be a challenge for homeowners who have no idea what to consider in building a fence and how one fence differs from the other. Let’s take a closer look at the key points to consider for your fencing plans.

1. Privacy vs. decorative fencing

Privacy Fencing

Homeowners who prioritize security and seclusion choose to install privacy fences in their outdoor space. They typically range from 6 to 8 feet tall, offering a high level of privacy from neighbors and passers-by. They also keep children and pets safely within your yard. They help reduce noise from barking dogs and traffic. They are usually constructed as solid panels made of wood, vinyl or composite, blocking the view from outside. As they can be made from different materials, every fence offers a unique blend of beauty and security for homeowners who want an aesthetic upgrade of their property while achieving peace of mind.

Decorative Fencing

Decorative fences primarily enhance your property’s curb appeal. With different styles and materials to choose from, they add character to your home. Unlike privacy fences, they are generally shorter, ranging from 3 to 5 feet so as not to obstruct your home’s view. Their aesthetic qualities highlight your home’s visual appeal. Some of the most popular materials are wood, aluminum, lattice, and wrought iron. With a wide range of materials, decorative fences are versatile in their designs with customizable options. Your decorative fencing should essentially complement your home’s landscaping features, creating a beautiful backdrop for your garden.

2. How different materials perform over time

Choosing the best fencing material for your outdoor space is an essential key in its longevity.

a. Wood

Wood is a popular fencing material which offers a natural classic beauty. Some of the popular and durable options for wooden fence are cedar, redwood, or oak. They can last 10-15 years, especially pressure-treated wood. However, wooden fences require regular upkeep such as re-painting or re-staining to preserve its condition and avoid damage.

b. Vinyl

Unlike wood, vinyl fences require lesser maintenance as they are more durable and moisture-resistant. They can last 20-30 years with proper maintenance. Its lifespan varies depending on your area’s climate as extreme temperatures can eventually make a vinyl fence brittle.

c. Composite

Composite materials are eco-friendly options for a fence, combining hardwood fibers and recycled plastics. They are installed as a solid surface without gaps, offering an excellent level of privacy to homeowners. With proper care, composite fencing can last 25-30 years. They are durable and resistant to moisture, rot and harmful insects.

d. Metal

Metal such as aluminum, steel, or wrought iron are the most strong and durable material for fences. Although metal fences can be less private as they are usually widely spaced, they offer a high level of protection and security to homeowners. Metal fences can last from 20 to 50 years. With right installation and care, they preserve its structural integrity for many years to come even in harsh weather conditions.

3. Style choices that complement your home’s architecture

To achieve a cohesive exterior appearance according to Architectural Digest, the fence you choose should complement your home’s style. “Look for cues in other exterior carpentry that might guide the detailing, like railings, shutters, and decking,” recommends Jordan Clough, associate principal at Richardson & Associates Landscape Architecture in Washington, DC. As fences are highly customizable, you can adapt your home architecture with these common fence styles:

a. Picket fences

Picket fencing is popular to American homes as an outdoor feature that defines property lines while adding character to your home. You can add a unique design element to your picket fence such as arched, staggered or capped designs. Picket fences enhance your home’s curb appeal by adding a functional barrier without obstructing views, offering a welcoming ambience to your property.

Fig. 1. Picket fence repainted by Modern Handymen & Remodel in Nashville, TN

b. Lattice fences

The crisscross pattern of a lattice fence can add a decorative touch to any garden or yard. They are usually used as garden screens or as support for climbing plants and flowers. Since this fence type does not provide much privacy, homeowners use climbing plants to add a sense of privacy and beautifully accent the style while minimizing the space in between.

Fig. 2. A privacy fence accented with lattice fencing on top in Nashville, TN

c. Horizontal slat fences

Horizontal slat fence is popular in modern home designs as it offers a clean and linear look which complements minimalist and contemporary aesthetics. Homeowners can customize the spacing and width between slats to create privacy or semi-private settings that suit your preference.

d. Split rail fences

Split rail fences are popular in larger rural areas with scenic views, a timeless addition to its beautiful outdoor space. This fence is one of the oldest types of fencing in America, beautifully framing rustic and country-style homes. They are durable and easy to install— using basic carpentry skills to put the components together.

e. Privacy fences

Privacy fences are popular in modern and contemporary homes. They have versatile designs which can be customized to suit your private lifestyle. Their high and closely spaced boards or solid panels provide sound barriers, enhance privacy, and secure your space.

Fig. 3. Fence replacement by Modern Handymen & Remodel in Franklin, TN

4. HOA and city code considerations

In most cities like Tennessee, building a fence requires permit application and approval from the local city or your specific Homeowners Association (HOA). This is to check in your site plan if your fence complies with the height restrictions, setback rules, and location. Here are some you should consider before building your fence:

• While HOAs have different fence restrictions, some HOAs are strictly monitoring even the material and color of your fences for a neat and uniform look in the neighborhood.

• Common height restrictions allow 3 to 4 feet front fences while side and back fences can be as high as 6 to 8 feet. This is usually not to cover the facade of your beautiful home.

• There are also rules per local city or HOA for allowable property line setbacks and its distance from common areas such as sidewalks, streets and neighboring properties.

• Always double-check the exact coordinates of your fence vs. the property line.

Setting these codes, measures and restrictions are essential in preserving a beautiful neighborhood and eliminate the risk of having to move your fence after installation.

5. Long-term costs of upkeep

The upfront costs of fences depend on the materials used. Similarly, the long-term cost of its upkeep also varies. A rough estimate suggests that minor fixes cost $300-$800 while more extensive repairs can cost between $800-$4,000. However, if the repair cost exceeds 30-40% of its replacement value, experts recommend building a new fence as it is a more cost-effective option. Repeated repairs over the entire lifespan of your fence can cost you a lot rather than its single replacement. Regular monitoring of your fence for early warning signs of damages can cost you less in terms of time and money for the upkeep.

With the expert guidance of professionals like Modern Handymen & Remodel, homeowners can confidently choose the right fence for their privacy, security, and style. Modern Handymen & Remodel offers expert recommendations, top-quality materials, and professional installation across Tennessee. We’ll help you choose the perfect fit for your property. Talk to our fencing experts today! Call us at 615-200-8071 and let’s get your dream fence started!