The backyard can be a peaceful haven, especially during summer weekends. If you have a garden, it gives you the opportunity to reconnect with nature and put your worries aside while reading a book or soaking up the sun.
Making your yard private and secluded gives it even more ambience. There is an array of fences to choose from. The choice depends on your style, the cost, and the amount of privacy you desire.
There are a few things to consider before buying a fence. The first is how much privacy you would like. This will determine the height and style of your fence. Another question is, what type of fence would best complement your home? The fence options include chain link, wrought iron, wood, vinyl, and bamboo with various styles to choose from within each category. Most fences are sold in heights of 3, 4, 5, or 6 feet, in kits or in preassembled sections.
The cost of the fence is another consideration. Installing the fence yourself can save you over 60 percent in costs. Another money-saver is buying online, but be sure to weigh the cost of shipping charges. You can skip the shipping charges by buying online from Lowe's or Home Depot and picking up the order at the store. In addition, there are often online saving incentives.
Fence Options
Chain link: Chain-link fences are very durable and economical but will eventually rust. While these fences are less expensive, they score low on visual aesthetics, and your yard will still remain in open view of neighbors. Most homeowners who consider installing chain-link fences do so to contain a pet or protect property. However, chain-link fences can be upgraded by getting them in a color that blends with the environment.
Wrought Iron: Wrought-iron fences are beautiful but expensive to buy and install. If you already have a wrought-iron fence, but it is rusting, you might consider getting the rusted sections treated. Another aspect to consider with wrought-iron fences is that they require regular and significant maintenance.
If you like the way wrought iron looks, but are short of time and money, you might consider a wrought-iron look-alike made from steel and aluminum. While wrought-iron fences are limited in providing privacy, homeowners can consider planting screening plants and hedges in select locations for privacy.
Wood Paneling: If privacy is important, consider buying wood or vinyl fencing. Both also provide a noise barrier. There are many types of wood available, including cedar, spruce, fir, and pine. Style options include paneling and split rail.
Wood-panel fencing provides the most privacy and is available in either dog-eared or pointed pickets. You can stain or paint your fence to match your landscape. Another popular style is having three-quarters of the fence solid with a lattice on top for decoration and to give a more airy feel.
Vinyl Fencing: Vinyl is a relatively new, maintenance-free type of fencing. It's available in forms similar to both wood-panel and rail fencing. Vinyl fencing isn't subject to rot, fading, or other effects of weather as wood fencing can be. Vinyl is a good choice for an attractive, easily-maintained fence especially if your home has vinyl siding.
Bamboo: Bamboo fencing is a new, hot item on the market. Bamboo is one of the most environmentally sustainable woods on Earth. It is aesthetically pleasing, especially in a garden setting, and can give a backyard an exotic touch. Bamboo fences come in a variety of designs and sizes. Depending on the cost, the style and durability are very similar to other wood options. Pre-built fence screens are another option to consider if you want to enclose just a small area.
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