Home Fencing | 3 Considerations Before Preparing To Install A Fence In Your Yard

Posted on: 13 July 2016

Home fencing has the ability to bring both aesthetic and functional value to your home. If you're planning to build fencing in your back or front yard, then you need to take several factors into consideration before you make any final decisions.  

Establish Your Functional Needs From The Fence

Before you install fencing around your home, establish your specific functional needs. For instance, is the fencing strictly utilitarian where you want to keep your kids from going out? Or do you want to add privacy to your backyard with something taller and more solid? If you're simply looking to keep your kids inside, then mid-size picket fences may be ideal. But if you're looking to create more privacy, then you may want to install solid wood or stone fences, which are both functional and decorative. Your first step is to establish your own personal needs from the fence before you make a final decision.  

Do Research About Local Fencing Laws In Your Area

There are several laws for fencing in Australia. Find out from your local council about any fencing laws that you need to follow in your area with respect to height, colour, size and material. Many local councils have their own rules regarding fences, so make sure you do enough research to avoid any expensive fines later. For example, the Dividing Fences Act of 1991 governs all requirements about the construction of NSW boundary fences. If you live in the area, you will need to abide by the rules to avoid non-compliance fines. You'll need to find out details about how far back fences need to be placed from property lines and sidewalks. You may even need a building permit in some instances.

Consider Your Commitment To Maintenance Before Finalising The Material

Before you finalise the fencing material, consider your own commitment to maintenance. White picket fences are classic choices, but wood fences require periodic sealing because weathering can warp the material over time. Fencing materials like wrought iron, aluminium, steel, chain-link, bamboo, vinyl and high-grade PVC may be more suited to homeowners looking for low maintenance solutions. Keep in mind that chain links and some aluminium fences may not be as visually appealing as you like in your home. If you don't mind the added maintenance, then wood is certainly a classic choice and adds tremendous curb appeal to your home.

Follow these considerations closely before you decide to install fencing in your back or front yard.

 

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