It is common to have a fence in the backyard. The fact remains, though, that front yard fences are not as common as backyard ones. Perhaps you are considering adding a fence to your front yard as a security measure, to enhance curb appeal, or simply as a means of keeping your kids or pets safe. When it comes to adding a fence to your front yard, here are some things to consider.
Would it be possible to put a fence in the front yard?
It is certainly possible to fence your front yard. This can, however, be a more complicated process. Do your neighbors have a homeowners association? In that case, you may have to obtain approval or follow their guidelines for fencing your property.
Several cities ban front yard fencing or limit what materials can be used, where they can be placed, if they can be front-facing, pass-throughs or lawn mowers can be used, or even the height of the fence. Furthermore, you will need to determine whether a building permit is required for your fence project. The information you need can be found through an online search or by calling your local city hall or neighborhood association.
Is a survey necessary before putting up a fence?
Before you start a fencing project, you need to determine the location of the fence. Make sure you have your property surveyed so that you can build your fence accurately and not partially on your neighbor’s land. In property surveys, surveyors establish the boundaries and rights of the way of a property. It may be possible to retrieve your property survey from the records office of your county if you’ve lost it.
It is important to have a property survey done before building a fence so that you can protect your investment and prevent having to tear it down because it encroaches on a neighbor’s or public property.
When it comes to fences in front yards, how tall must they be?
Have you noticed any fences in the front yards of other houses on your street? If so, what height are these fences? If not, do you have an HOA that prohibits fencing in front yards? It is a good idea to follow neighborhood trends when deciding on the style and the size of your front yard fence. Some cities will have additional restrictions regarding the height and location of front yard fences, as well as a 2 to 8-inch setback from sidewalks and property lines.
If you decide to install a fence for any reason, you’ll want to ensure that it adds value to your home rather than detracts. Regardless of whether or not there are specific restrictions or guidelines for fencing installation, you may find it helpful to consider the overall appearance of homes in the area.
What can I do to make my front yard more private?
You should carefully select the fencing materials for your front yard if you want to create a more private space. The visual appeal of picket and wrought iron fences are undeniable, but they tend not to offer the same level of privacy and height as wood fences do. It is common for traditional white picket fences to stand no higher than 3 feet tall.
Chain link fences with added slats for privacy and style are another option for a more private fence. When you choose a fence with gaps between each slat, you may also want to plant bushes, trees, and other shrubs on the inside of the fence to reduce visibility from the street.
What materials should I use for my front yard fence?
Fencing is available in a variety of materials for a variety of price points and climates. When it comes to climates with higher rainfall, vinyl is the most suitable material, since wood is more susceptible to water damage. White picket fences are now more often made from vinyl/PVC than wood. The most durable fences are wood, PVC, and metal (aluminum, steel, or chain-link) in very cold climates. Fences that we once thought were made of wrought iron are usually made of aluminum and powder-coated to give them a colorful finish. However, these do require more maintenance than other materials, so keep that in mind.
The versatility and popularity of natural wood make it an excellent material for front yard fences. It can be customized and finished to fit almost any home style. Even if you choose a metal fence, you can still add style and variety with wooden, stone, or brick columns and posts. It is important that you choose a fencing company that can help you choose materials that suit your climate, budget, and home style.
Is a front fence worth the money?
By installing a front yard fence, you can improve your property value and increase your curb appeal. For optimum results, you should carefully select materials and styles that complement and accent your home. You can narrow down your ideal fence aesthetic by viewing what other homeowners have done in your neighborhood and researching trends online.
If I want to install a fence, when is the best time to do so?
Climate plays a big role in the installation. The frosty ground can make installation harder in cold climates. As long as you are not worried about snow and ice, winter can be an ideal time for installing fencing so that it is ready by spring. Keep this in mind when planning your project timeline. Spring is the busiest and most popular time for fence installation.
Is there anything I should know before I put up a fence?
You should consider a few additional topics before you begin a fencing project, in addition to following regulations and choosing your design and materials:
Value
The landscaping on your property accounts for around 15% of its value. This can mean that adding new fencing to your home can be a great investment for its value. Nevertheless, you should also take into account your other reasons for fencing. To ensure a practical and beautiful outcome, you should find a good balance between your budget and intended use.
Being a good neighbor
Taking neighborly fencing etiquette into account is also important. Once you have inspected your land survey and checked the fence laws in your area, have a discussion with your neighbors. If you plan to build a fence, tell them as well, since it may change the appearance of their property.
Gates
You should plan gate entrances too when installing a fence. Gate entrances on fences should typically be at least two, with at least one of them being slightly wider so that bulky equipment can pass through. Pedestrians can easily pass through the front-facing gate with a 3-foot wide opening. However, if you intend to use a side gate for items such as trash bins, lawnmowers, and other equipment, you should choose one that has a wider entrance. An entrance gate with a width of 4 feet is large enough to allow equipment to easily pass through, but be sure to note what equipment you have and how much clearance it will require.
What is the process of installing a front yard fence?
In order to ensure a beautiful, safe fence installation, it is best to leave it to the professionals. In addition, you should hire a fence professional if your project involves an automatic driveway gate, stone or brick elements, or anything else more complex than a simple fence panel. Buckhead Fence Company is bonded and insured, so if you hire them, you can be confident of getting quality services.
The backyard is not the only place where fences are needed. You can enhance the aesthetics of your home and make better use of your space with a variety of front yard fencing options.