Fences are indispensable; almost all homes have them. They offer great security, convenient boundaries, and they keep homes compliant with a range of building regulations. But, like so many parts of a home, they may need to be replaced. Sure, a good aluminium fence can last a lifetime if well cared for.
But a timber fence, for example, may fall victim to rot or deterioration. That means the time may come for a new fence. So do you build your own, or get a professional to help? The choice is yours! But before you make it, here are five things you need to know before you build a fence.
It’s important to choose the right materials
We alluded to it before, but its importance can’t be overstated: materials are everything when building a fence! So how do you choose between the different options? It all boils down to your personal needs. You may have a modern design theme in your home that is only really supported by a glass pool fence. Or perhaps you live on acreage, and timber offers the best value for money.
These are the sorts of things you need to consider when choosing materials. But in our experience, one material stands tall above the rest: aluminium. It doesn’t rust, it looks great, and it’s strong, as well as light. That makes aluminium great for pool fencing, and boundary fencing alike.
Planning: Make sure you know where your property ends
Planning is vital when it comes to fence building. That’s especially so for boundary fences. Every property has its limits, and exceeding them by even a foot or two can create property disputes. If you’re building a boundary fence, we suggest that you ascertain precisely where your property ends, and your neighbours’ begin.
Better still, let them know of your plans. Boundary fencing is one of the most common sources of a property dispute. But more often than not, disputes can be avoided by clear communication. If your neighbour has any concerns about your plans to build a fence, hear them out. It’s always best to see if there’s some middle ground.
Preparation: Different types of fence require different building approaches – here’s why
When it’s time to start the built itself, you need to lay down the groundwork. Different fences require different build styles. For example, a lot of timber post fencing requires deep holes and concrete foundations. Glass pool fencing, on the other hand, requires specialist mounts, tools, and a lot of care! The way you build your fence will directly contribute to its longevity and durability. So before you start the fence build, do some research!
Rules and regulations play a big part in the fence building process – here’s an example
Fences aren’t always a requirement. However, there are circumstances where fencing is necessary under the law. Take pools, for example, all pool areas need to be fenced. Not only that, but they need to be fenced a certain way, to ensure child safety. Balustrades are another example: where there is a drop of one metre or more, secure balustrades are a legal requirement. So before you choose your fencing styles – and certainly before you build it – do some research to ensure that your fence meets the standard!
Building a fence is not always straightforward – if you need help, contact the experts!
As you can see, building fences requires some careful planning and execution. Sometimes, it also requires specialised tools. So if you’re having trouble, or want to know more, get in touch with the fencing experts at FenceCrop.
Give us a call on (07) 3715 5055 or fill out our contact form.