Picking The Right Fence For Your Home

When visualizing life in your dream home, having the beauty and security of a fence is often part of the picture.

Adding a fence on your property is a big home improvement, so understanding your choices and making the right one for your family is important.

What To Know Before You Shop

There are several reasons you might want to install a fence.

• To designate the boundary of your yard
• Privacy
• Safety
• To keep kids or pets contained
• Decorative
• To keep critters out of your garden or yard

You'll also want to consider any homeowner's association rules or local ordinances regarding fencing that apply to your situation. This may include specifications and materials.

Once you consider these factors, you'll better understand what kind of fence you'll need for your home improvement project.

Materials And Uses

• Wood
  Wood is a popular choice because it comes in lots of styles and sizes and can be painted or stained in any color. Cost varies depending on the type of wood and style. Some have separate parts that need to be assembled. Others come in panels for easier installation. It's a great choice for privacy and containing kids and pets.
  
  Wood fences require maintenance. They have to be painted and resealed, and fasteners may have to be replaced. Weather can cause wood fencing to rot or warp, and insects can damage it. Repairs are usually easy, and you can paint or stain replacement parts to match what's already there.
  
  
• Vinyl
  This is also popular, and styles are similar to wood fences. White is the most common color, but a few other colors are available. It requires almost no maintenance. Vinyl won't rot or warp but does get brittle eventually, making it more prone to damage. Repairs are more expensive because the entire panel has to be replaced. It's good for decorative, border, and privacy fences.
  
  
• Chain Link
  This fencing is made of steel and is budget-friendly. It's a good choice for providing a border for your yard or keeping animals out. Although it's sturdy, it can be climbed easier, and some pets may be able to jump over it or dig under it. It doesn't require much maintenance and is made to last a long time. It's not a good choice for privacy. Although inserts and covers are available, they aren't as aesthetically pleasing as other fencing options.  
  
  
• Aluminum, Steel, or Iron
  These are primarily decorative and safety fences. They come in sections for easy installation. Their sturdiness depends on how thick the metal is. They don't offer much in the way of privacy.
  
  
• Composite
  Composite fencing is made from recycled wood and plastic, so it's an eco-friendly choice. It comes in a few basic colors and styles. It's made to look like wood or stone. There's practically no maintenance. Taller heights provide privacy and help keep pets and kids in the yard. Some come in panels, and others have various types of snap-together planks. Color will fade some over time and will be more pronounced in areas with high UV exposure. Because they are made from various recycled materials, some variation in color between planks may be noticeable. They can be very expensive, but you won't be spending money on paint or repairs later.

The right fence is an important home improvement project that can add value and beauty to your property. It can also provide peace of mind for parents and pet owners and make your property a little safer.

• Spring Décor Updates to Brighten Your Home
• Simple Daily Habits to Maintain a Cleaner Home
• Don't Let Winter Win: How to Freeze-Proof Your Garage
• How to Extend the Life of Your Water Heater
• Winterproofing Windows and Doors: A Guide to Keeping the Cold Out
• How to Future-Proof Your Home for Changing Needs
• Home Happiness 101: Small Upgrades That Can Make Every Day Feel Better
• Fall Cleaning Tips For Decluttering Before the Holidays
• How to Create a Cozy Fall Retreat in Your Backyard
• Why Fall is Prime Time for Window Replacement

• Tips for Transitioning Your Closet From Summer to Fall
• Why September Is the Best Month to Paint Your Home's Exterior

• The Best Home Styles for Enjoying Spring Weather
• What to Do the First Week in Your New Home
• What to Know About Using Gifted Funds for a Down Payment
• What to Know About Using Gifted Funds for a Down Payment
• How to Research Crime and Safety
• What Buyers Need to Know About Home Warranties
• Browsing for Homes Online? Follow These Shopping Tips
• How to Look Past Bad Staging
• What Happens If Interest Rates Change After You Buy?
• How to Compare Two Homes You Love

• Post-Holiday Finances: How to Reset Your Budget for Home Buying
• New Year, New Home: How to Set Smart Home-Buying Goals for the Year Ahead

• Packing Tips for Sellers: Preparing for a Spring Move
• What to Store, Donate, or Toss Before Listing
• What Buyers Notice First in Listing Photos
• How Spring Sellers Can Enter The Market With Confidence
• Tax Considerations Home Sellers Should Know About
• The One-Room-at-a-Time Spring Prep Strategy
• What's the Difference Between Listing a Home and Marketing It?
• How to Respond to Buyer Feedback Without Panicking
• Transparency Builds Trust: Why Honesty Sells Homes Faster
• Winter Selling Myths That Shouldn't Keep You From Listing

• The Value of Local Market Knowledge When Selling Your Home
• Selling in Snowy Conditions: Safety, Access, and Presentation Tips