Backyard Fences

It used to be that most every suburban, and many urban households, had a backyard fence. They were used to delineate property lines and served as meeting space for an occasion chat. Fences are still fairly common but not all homes have them. If you are debating about whether or not it would be a good idea, here are a few things to consider.

Aesthetics

The fence can create a finishing touch to the hardscape. There are many different types to choose from and you will have lots of options depending on the architectural style of your home and personal taste. Materials vary from wood, iron, wire, and stone. They can also be configured into different shapes and spaces. You may think about the traditional picket or privacy fence, but check out split rail or lattice.

Privacy

You wander out in your jammies on a nice morning, cup of coffee in hand to sit and enjoy the fresh air and sights and sounds of the day, when you look over and see your neighbor staring back at you. That can be a little disconcerting. You can still have your oasis, just behind a fence. When you think about it, the opposite is also true. You are sitting on your patio and you glance over to see your middle-aged neighbor lolling around in a less-than-attractive outfit. That can stay with you all day!

Pets

With a defined area, Fido can easily roam freely through the entire yard, which allows him or her the exercise and play time without dealing with a leash. It also means that it will keep your pooch off the road and avoid the risk of being hit by a car, stolen, or picked up by animal control. Even in urban areas there are feral animals that can potentially expose your furry friend to diseases.

Children

For the parent, a fenced area means you can comfortably allow your children to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about them wandering off or getting lost. You still need to keep a careful watch for accidents or squabbles. For the child it teaches them parameters and helps them understand, even at an early age, about guidelines and rules. It also means it is less likely that someone will be able to entice the child away from the safety of your home.

Noise Abatement

If you live on a busy street or have boisterous neighbors, a fence can help muffle the extraneous noise and make your backyard area more enjoyable.

Prevent Intrusion

Fences can become an impediment to unwanted visitors. It will block recreational items from plain sight. That means a child won’t just decide to take a swing on your set without invitation or supervision. Most municipalities require that any swimming areas be properly fenced for safety.

When you install your fence, don’t think it needs to be industrial looking. Plant shrubbery and hedges to conceal its presence. For wooden fences, paint a mural or hang appropriate outdoor artwork to spruce things up. Create a vertical garden by installing pots suspended from the fence walls.