What to Know Prior To You Building a Fence

Whether you're installing a new fence or upgrading your current one, there are plenty of things to keep in mind. Whether you're looking to improve your home's curb appeal, increase privacy, protect your property from the elements, or simply want a way to keep out unwanted visitors, you'll need to plan carefully.

First, think about your goals for the fence: Do you need a taller structure that will keep your children and pets out or do you need something that's more decorative? If you're aiming for a decorative fence, then pick your material and design accordingly. If you're getting a fence for security, then go with a sturdy and durable option such as chain link or metal.

While planning things you need to prepare for building your fence, you might wanna consider hiring a gutter cleaning service such as Gutter Cleaning Louisville KY, this is to make sure that your gutters are flowing properly and no overflow that will cause flood in the future and destroy your fence. 

If you're a DIYer, then you may be tempted to save money by building the fence yourself. But before you begin a project like this, be sure to do your research on materials and installation costs. In addition, make sure to consider long-term maintenance plans.

You should also ask about the rules and regulations in your neighborhood or city. Many neighborhoods require that fences are built according to local building codes. This can save you a lot of time and trouble down the road.

If your property line is unclear, it's a good idea to hire a Land Surveyor before you start any construction. Having a clear understanding of the boundaries can help prevent neighborly disputes.

The most important thing to remember when building a fence is that you don't want it to encroach on your neighbor's property. This can cause a whole host of issues, from boundary disputes to easements to municipal claims. It's best to deal with these problems before you build your fence, so you can avoid future headaches.

Your fence should be within your property lines if possible, but even if it is not, you should still get a copy of your deed. This will allow you to figure out where your fence will be if it runs along your property's perimeter, or where it will impede on your neighbor's property and its easements.

Contact your utility company to find out where any underground pipes or wires might be located before you begin digging. This can prevent you from hitting a gas or power line, which can be disastrous for your entire family.

Wood is a popular choice for fencing, but it can be expensive and require significant upkeep. Depending on your needs, you might want to invest in a different type of material, such as metal or bamboo. This can be especially helpful if you live in an area that experiences cold weather frequently.

Another consideration is the material's longevity: Wood can warp and rot over time, while metal, bamboo, and other types of fences are able to withstand harsh weather. For example, aluminum will withstand more rain than wood and won't splinter or fall apart.