If you’re in the market for a new fence, you have many options. A good fencing system will add a measure of privacy, provide an extra barrier against the elements and even increase your home’s value. It can also help deter strangers and keep your kids, spouse and pets safely in their own yard.
The right fence for your property is a personal choice that’s influenced by several factors, including design, material and terrain. Whether you want to do the work yourself or hire a contractor, it’s important to consider your goals and your budget before embarking on a project that may be time-consuming and difficult to complete.
Choosing Your Fence Materials
A wood fence is the most common type, but if you’re looking to save money https://siouxcityfenceinstall.com, you can opt for a less expensive alternative that’s made of wrought iron or composite materials. You can also find a variety of styles that blend into your landscape without disrupting the view from your front porch.
Regardless of your choice, you’ll need to plan the layout of your fence. It’s a good idea to consult your property survey, which will establish your property boundaries and rights of way. This document will give you an idea of how much space you’ll need for the fence and any gates you’ll be installing.
When designing your fence, make sure to account for any incline or decline in the ground on your property. This will ensure your fence is stable and evenly distributed across the yard.
Installing your Fence
Before digging a hole for the fence posts, you need to make sure the surface is level and free of obstructions such as roots or rocks. This is especially important for wooden fences, which often are heavier and harder to dig than other types of fences.
Use a post-hole digger to create a hole that’s deep enough for the fence post you’re using. Most communities have their own guidelines for depth, but a general rule of thumb is to dig your holes about half the length of the post and about three times as wide.
After your holes are dug, fill them with gravel. Then, mix a small batch of concrete and use it to fill the spaces between the gravel and soil. You can add water to the mix to speed up the setting process.
Check Your Property Lines
Before you start the fence installation process, make sure to consult your property survey and neighborhood association rules. The latter will have regulations that affect fence height, color and materials. In addition, most neighborhoods enforce zoning laws that control the appearance of fences.
Get a Permit Before You Build
Most municipalities and local homeowners’ associations require a building permit for all new construction. The cost of a permit is typically minimal and can be easily obtained at your town’s building and planning office.
Once you’ve secured the permit, your fence project is safe and legal. Be sure to follow all of your local and HOA regulations, as well as any covenants that might have been included in your neighborhood’s documents.