5 Things to Consider When Adding a Fence to Your Property

If ho-hum was a fence it would be a plain old chain-link one. Am I right? Especially now, we have SO many options that settling for a basic chain link shouldn’t even be an option (other than price)! When we decided to install a new fence on our property, I knew I wanted a high-quality product that was as aesthetically pleasing as it is functional. From choosing the material to finding an installer there was a lot to learn. Here are my top 5 things to consider when adding a fence.

1. Choose a quality fence product

We opted for Key-Link. They offer a variety of looks and options, accessories, a Fence Builder tool on their website for the planning process, and most importantly a lifetime warranty (yes please!). Even though fences may look similar they may not be the same grade of product and you may think you are getting a great deal when in reality you are getting an inferior product that you will end up replacing much sooner than you anticipate. Don’t be swayed by price alone.

2. Choose a qualified installer

When searching for the right company there are a few things you want to consider before choosing who will do the fence install. First, you should confirm the installer is licensed and insured. Generally, the fence installer is a licensed general contractor. Be sure to research the company’s local reviews and ratings, along with the company’s photo gallery of their most recent installs. Be sure they work with the fencing material you plan on using and it’s most important to get a written estimate before beginning the project. Also inquire about their fence warranties and quality guarantees since your new fence is going to last for years to come. I recommend getting at least 3 price quotes for an apples-to-apples product and then making your decision. We used a local company Eby Exteriors that ticked all those boxes and were great to work with!

3. City/County/HOA conditions

You may know exactly what you want your fence to look like, but your city/county/HOA may have a few things to say about it. You will want to check to see if they have any specifications around heights, materials, colors, setbacks, easement access, etc. Especially if you have moved recently double check to see what is allowed. As what may have been acceptable in your previous home may not be in your new one. Do you have a pool or want to install one? Make sure you understand the codes related to pools and safety and make sure your installer/contractor is aware of your intentions. The last thing you want is your new fence to go up and then to come back and tell you that you must take it all down so always double check before a single piece is installed.

4. Maintenance Considerations

Some things to consider when selecting your ideal fence materials are how hands on you want it to be— especially with how to relate to the environment. A bright white vinyl fence may offer privacy and is lower maintenance than say a wood fence, but in more humid climates will need regular pressure washing. If you are right on the coast you may need to take rust into account. Think about the amount of time you spend on yard maintenance and then add in quarterly (if not more) fence upkeep, is that too much extra work or is that something you can easily maintain? Just a few things to consider when selecting your fencing.

5. Aesthetics

When selecting your product, definitely consider the overall look of your entire house. A modern house with a white picket fence is going to look a little out of place. Drive around your neighborhood and see what other homeowners have done and see which you are drawn to, and which are a definite no. Then consider do you want a privacy fence or is a wrought iron fence with a gate calling your name. Maybe you want something that looks more like wood but without the maintenance? What about pickets, flush top, midrail, lighting, incorporating stone pillars? Don’t forget the gates! How will you and or workers access your yard? All important components to consider when choosing the overall look of your fence enclosure.

With the right game plan in place, choosing a fencing material and installer can be an easy house project that can enhance the look and safety of your home.