Tips for Building a “Neighborly” Fence

Tips for Building a Neighborly Fence

Building a Custom Fence is an easy way to improve the home’s value and curb appeal while giving the yard an entirely new look. As great as fences are, though, the homeowner isn’t the only one who has to live with them when they’re built. Neighbors will also experience the pros and cons of one’s fencing choices. Here, customers will learn how to build fences and preserve their neighborly relationships.

Plan Them Carefully

There’s nothing more frustrating than a neighborhood dispute that starts when a fence is built on the other side of the property line. To ensure that the fence is built within the lines, look at a plot plan before calling a Fence Company. Defuse any potentially volatile situations by talking to the neighbors about the fence before construction begins.

Be Legal

Not every Wood Fence requires a permit, but it’s wise to check with a local official to confirm any parameters. Local ordinances often set forth strict rules on material selection, fence height, post footings, and setbacks from the street or sidewalk.

Put the Best Face Forward

Along with enhancing and coordinating with the home, the fencing style a homeowner chooses should look good from either side, match the intended use, and maximize the lot lines. Board-on-board fencing looks good from both sides, but stockade-type fencing has a single finished side. If a homeowner chooses such a Vinyl Fence, building codes typically require the good side to face outward.

Finish the Fence First

For optimal ease, coverage, and protection apply a finish to fencing components before assembly. Such steps should also be taken before working with professional installers.

Reinforce the Gate

A gate takes most of the wear and tear imposed on the fence, and it’s important to ensure its security and reinforcement. Furthermore, to make the gate stay shut even when it’s left open, install a spring hinge that helps it swing closed.

Don’t Drag the Fence

A common installation mistake is permitting the bottom rail to get too close to the ground. With wood fences, this causes premature deterioration due to insect infestations and rot. An installer will make sure the railing sits at least four inches above the ground to provide sufficient airflow.

Properly Space the Fence

The spacing between Aluminum Fence posts depends on factors such as the terrain on which the fence is built, as well as its purpose, but the average range is six or eight feet between the posts. A local Fencing Company will space posts for maximum aesthetics and longevity.

Set the Posts Properly

Many homeowners assume that setting fence posts in cement is the strongest and best method, but it may lead to drainage issues, damage, and improper settling. Most fences get better footings if the post holes are first lined with compacted gray gravel. The pressure the gravel puts on the soil is stronger than that of a cement pour, and it keeps posts straight as drainage continues.

Cap the Posts

Finish a fencing project with a rounded, metal, or slanted cap to prevent rot and promote runoff. The neighborhood will surely approve of such a great finishing touch.

Fences are often built to improve a property’s looks, but when homeowners go about it in the wrong way, neighborhood troubles may occur. By following these tips, customers will get the fencing they want while keeping the neighbors happy.

We’d love to help you with your fence installation. As a premier fence company in Grand Rapids, MI, we’ve been installing fences in West Michigan since 2013 and our team has a combined 75 years of experience in both commercial and residential fence installation. Give Us A Call for your free estimate today!