You may want to add a new fence to your property to protect your lawn or keep the kids and dogs contained. It’s important to plan for a new fence before you make this addition to your yard. Here are some ways that you can prepare to build a fence.
1. Check Local Restrictions to Plan for a New Fence
The first step in planning for a new fence is to learn about fencing restrictions and requirements in your area and HOA. You’ll most likely need a building permit, and some cities have other specifications. These requirements may specify height, location, style, and materials. If you’re hiring a contractor, they can complete this step for you and work it into the total cost. If you belong to a homeowners association, they may also have certain guidelines, such as distance from sidewalks or property lines.
2. Talk to Your Neighbors
Talk to your neighbors when you plan for a new fence. You have every right to build a fence on your own property, but it’s a nice gesture to let your neighbors know about construction in your yard. Your neighbor may even want to help with the cost if they’ve been wanting a fence to mark their property. If any questions arise about property lines, a licensed surveyor can make the determination.
3. Determine the Purpose for Your Fence
Although your fence will likely serve more than one purpose, focus on the main reason when you plan for a new fence. Your fence can keep the dog in and provide a boundary for the garden at the same time. Because keeping the dog in is your first priority, this should determine the height and strength of the fence. When you know the main purpose for your fencing, you can plan for ways for the fence to serve multiple purposes.
4. Select Fencing Materials
The purpose of your fence will help you determine which materials to use. To add privacy to your property, choose a tall wooden fence. A chain-link fence is a good choice to keep children and pets safe. Vinyl picket fencing or an ornamental fence is a decorative option that will enhance your home and garden. Wood rail fences are charming around country lawns and gardens but don’t provide much protection. Your budget will also help determine which materials you choose. Ornate wrought iron will cost more than wood but will require less maintenance. It will be more costly to keep up a wood fence.
5. Sketch Out a Plan for Your Fence
A contractor will complete this step for you, but if you’re going to install the fence yourself, draw a plan. Study the details of your property to determine where water connections and buried electrical lines are located. Since they might not be visible, call 811 before digging holes for posts. Factor in the location of trees, the garage, and any other structures on your property. You’ll also need to plan for access points. Where will people likely be passing through? How wide should the gate be? Will you want to drive a vehicle inside the fence? These questions will help you decide on access points for your fence.
Cabal Inspection Service provides home inspection services to the Southeast Florida area. Contact us to schedule an appointment.