Is a Fence Worth It?
July 1, 2024
Fences serve many purposes, such as containing pets, providing privacy, protecting gardens, and more. A fence can complement a home, or it can take away from the beauty of a property depending on the finished product. Take some time to think through the advantages and disadvantages of constructing a fence before you place one on your property.
Fence-Related Factors
There are several factors to consider before building a fence, such as property lines, neighborhood- or HOA-related restrictions, materials, what attracts buyers, and the local climate, among others. Start by confirming your property lines, which can be found on your home’s plat – a map of your plot of land and its boundaries. If you are unable to locate your plat, contact the office of the county assessor or a land surveyor to receive the correct measurements.
Next, confirm your neighborhood does not have any fencing restrictions before deciding on building materials and the height of the fence, and whether you will need to receive permits from the city or county. It is best to choose a material that will work well in the local climate, as certain materials are more sensitive to rain, wind, and snow than others.
- Wood: Moderately priced and ideal for privacy, but not ideal for extreme climates.
- Vinyl: Low maintenance and versatile, but more expensive than wood.
- Aluminum: Low maintenance, versatile, and less expensive than wrought iron, but more expensive than wood and provides less privacy.
- Wrought iron: Timeless and durable, but susceptible to rust, provides less privacy, and the most expensive option out of the four.
Pros of Installing a Fence
Installing a fence offers many potential benefits. Even if some of the pros do not directly apply to you, they can still be selling points whenever you decide to list the home. Advantages of building a fence include:
- Privacy: Enjoy a space that is all your own and out of plain sight.
- Boundaries: Let your pets outside without having to worry about watching them and keep unwanted animals out of your yard and garden.
- Safety: Prevent trespassers from putting themselves in danger if you have a pool and give yourself greater peace of mind when your children are out in the yard.
- Noise reduction: If you live on or near a busy street, a fence can help reduce the sounds of traffic and other annoyances.
- Design appeal: Put the finishing touches on a well landscaped yard.
Cons of Installing a Fence
A fence can be the final piece in the construction of a perfect home for some and it can be a hassle for others. Installing a fence can have a few downsides depending on your outlook and situation. A few disadvantages include:
- Maintenance: Wood fences often need to be cleaned, stained, sealed, or painted; vinyl fences need to be cleaned; and wrought iron fences are susceptible to rust.
- Boundary line confusion: Installing a fence can cause tension with neighbors, especially if they believe you have crossed boundary lines or if they do not like the style of the fence.
- Cost: Fencing can be a significant investment depending on the size of the yard and the maintenance costs associated with the materials.
- Mowing and trimming difficulties: Lawns are easier to maintain when there are fewer obstructions, such as trees, bushes, fencing, and other objects.
- Complications: Receiving permission from a neighborhood association and permits from the city or county can be barriers to building a fence, as well as physical objects such as rocks, trees, bushes, etc.
How to Find the Right Person to Install a Fence
It is best to hire a professional to install a fence, unless you have the time, ability, and experience needed to take on a complex DIY job. A professional can build a stable and visually appealing structure and help you maximize the curb appeal a fence provides.
Perform the necessary research before choosing a fencing professional. Start by asking friends, family, coworkers, neighbors, your real estate agent, and anyone else you trust for recommendations. Once you have a few potential candidates, read through their online reviews, and see if they offer free estimates. Invite a few different installers to your home to provide an estimate and find out how their previous experience applies to your fencing needs.