Saturday, July 30, 2011

Fence Design - Fashion vs. Function

By Bob Bilda


Depending on who you talk to, the word fence can invoke very different images. A farmer might picture a barbed wire fence marking the boundaries of his fields and pastures, while a suburban housewife might describe a white picket or tasteful wooden privacy fence. The possibilities are endless, and manufacturers today have ensured that there are options available to meet practically any need or design aspiration.

If you are making the decision to install a fence on your property, give careful consideration to what you hope to accomplish with the fence in question. Is it intended merely to mark property lines, or prevent the entry of outsiders into your yard? Perhaps your goal is aimed more toward landscaping and increasing curb appeal rather than discouraging unwanted visitors. No matter the reason behind the installation, there are products available to accomplish the task.

For instance, homeowners living in neighborhoods that are closed built, or those living in tight quarters in the city may desire both security and privacy. In these instances, a tall privacy fence, complete with a gate that can be locked and secured, can be the best solution to meet both needs. These fences are manufactured in a variety of styles and colors - from simple natural wood planks, to gleaming white boards with ornamental scrolling across the top. Depending on the desired level of privacy (along with city or county guidelines), these fences are available in various heights. Homeowners can install a shoulder-high fence that invites conversation and openness with neighbors, or a six- or eight-foot fence to keep out prying eyes.

If your intentions fall more to the decorative, consider a durable but attractive PVC fence. These are produced in a multitude of styles to compliment any yard or garden, and are very easy to install and maintain. PVC fencing has a variety of uses (which can include privacy fences), and can be ideal for a homeowner who wants to promote an open feeling in his yard or garden while keeping his boundaries marked, without sacrificing appearance. Fences such as these can be found most often in front yards, allowing a clear view of landscaping and manicured yards , while providing a marked barrier to keep passers-by on the sidewalk. These fence panels can also be used within a garden to highlight special areas or mark a change in plant life.

When function overrides that desire for fashion, such as storage areas and commercial spaces, chain link can be the most useful. Chain link fences are durable, easily securable, and generally are very affordable in addition to being versatile. While this style of fencing is less popular in residential areas, it can still be useful build outdoor spaces for animals, or provide additional security for machinery like lawnmowers if a garage or storage shed isn't available. Even if a chain-link fence is used to mark a residential property, it's steel structure can easily be hidden with proper landscaping and decoration.




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