5 Things To Consider When Building a New Fence

The start of summer is just around the corner and we’re all itching to spend long days outside with our closest friends and family. As neighborhoods develop throughout the state of Maryland, it can start to feel like your neighbor’s property is uncomfortably too close — especially in these times of social distancing! A new fence, however, can help you create a much-needed private outdoor space that becomes an extension of your home.

Home improvement projects, especially changes to your backyard, may seem like a huge undertaking, but with experienced installation crews, a variety of materials, and custom designs that fit within any budget, building a fence can be a quick and efficient process. Below, you’ll find five key points to consider when planning your new, private outdoor “room”:

YOUR NEIGHBORS AND YOUR NEIGHBOR’S PROPERTY

Nobody likes surprises, so a nice “heads up” will go a long way. Reach out to your neighbors to discuss your fencing plans and be sure to have information about your property lines handy. If you have an HOA, you’ll also want to make sure you follow all rules and regulations. Estimating your property lines can lead to future disputes with current or future neighbors. Additionally, don’t assume that your lot is perfectly square or rectangular, as properties have uneven or unusual shapes shapes. Fence installation companies, such as Fence & Deck Connection, will use your plot plan to identify your property lines and mark them with wooden stakes and string. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when dealing with property lines!

THE FENCE HEIGHT

Before purchasing your fencing materials, you’ll need to determine the perfect height that will give you a sense of privacy and security. You’ll first need to check with your local zoning laws regarding construction. Likewise, if you live in a neighborhood with an HOA, that can dictate the style and height with very little wiggle room. Depending on the slope of your yard and those of your neighbors, you may discover you may actually need to revise your envisioned height. Project Consultants are extremely knowledgeable and can help you determine the necessary height for ideal privacy. You may want to consider, however, varying the design to enable differing views — a fence too high might make you feel boxed in and shut off from your neighborhood!

FENCING MATERIALS

Your new fence should reflect your home’s personality, so the material its comprised of is one of the most crucial (and exciting) decisions you’ll make during the installation process. It’s important to understand exactly what type of materials your fence will require for not only budgetary purposes, but for care and maintenance as well. Different fencing materials require particular maintenance needs. Fence & Deck Connection offers a variety of materials to choose from that fit within any budget — wood, aluminum, vinyl, chain link and pool code fencing.

Wood fencing never goes out of style and matures with age. However, it does require occasional maintenance including staining or sealing, as it can rot over time and is susceptible to weather and termites. Vinyl fencing, on the other hand, is a lower maintenance material because it does not peel, fade, warp, rot or chip. It’s also one of the more cost-effective options. All materials have their advantages and disadvantages which can be discussed with our fencing experts!

CONSIDER GATES AND MULTIPLE ENTRANCES

Trust us — it’s one of the most overlooked aspects of designing a new fence. When planning out gate entrances, it’s wise to include at least two for pedestrians and equipment. A 3 or 4-foot wide gate will be perfect for passerbys, but difficult for newly delivered backyard furniture and accessories, or moving yard equipment such as a lawnmower, wheelbarrow, or trash bins to and from the front and back yards. We recommend at least a 4-foot gate to accommodate this need.

KNOWLEDGE & EXPERTISE

Choosing a trusted fence installation company is key to a beautiful outdoor space that will last for years. Always check Google, Yelp, and social media sites such as Facebook to see what others are saying about their past experiences with local companies.

If you’re looking for an effortless, stress-free approach, you can trust that you’re in good hands with Fence & Deck Connection. For nearly 30 years, our impeccable track record has earned us several local and national awards, ZERO complaints with the Maryland Home Improvement Commission, an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, and thousands of 5-star reviews from satisfied customers.

DIY projects are more popular than ever, especially during the last few months of the coronavirus pandemic. If you’d like to tackle your fencing project on your own, Fence & Deck Connection stocks a variety of fencing materials for your needs — you can pick your material up from our Millersville location, or we can deliver right to your driveway. 

There are numerous reasons to have a fence installed (or rebuilt) along your property line. Fence & Deck Connection is proud to provide Marylanders with a secure outdoor space that serves as a private area to relax, use as recreation, or entertain friends and family. If you’ve been “on the fence” about moving forward with your plans, May is the perfect time to schedule your installation. Check out our “Locals Helping Locals” May Relief special and give us a call for a free project estimate!