How to Choose and Install a Fence

If built high and secure enough, a fence keeps your dog(s) in and the wildlife (bears, coyotes, bobcats, deer, etc.) out.

Fences are often viewed as valuable tools for conservation or as a source of wildlife mortality and ecological tragedy. Initiatives to promote more wildlife-friendly fence designs exist, but their implementation must be more cohesive. Contact Fencing Companies Rock Hill SC now!

Fencing serves a variety of purposes, including delineating property boundaries, improving security and privacy, and protecting sensitive areas. However, safety should always be a priority when choosing and installing fencing. The installation process can involve various hazards, including heavy materials and power tools. This is why it’s important to assess the site and mark out any potential hazards before starting work. For example, underground utilities can be found in many places and must be marked to avoid them during construction.

Fences that are properly designed and installed are an effective deterrent against unauthorized intrusions. Rather than simply delineating a boundary, they require significant effort to breach, thus providing an extra layer of security that could prevent the unauthorized entry or alert occupants of a potential threat. The height and structure of a fence is another important factor in determining its security level. A fortress-like structure may provide superior protection, but it may not be ideal for a suburban home or office building.

To increase the effectiveness of a fence, consider adding electronic security systems. These can include Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), Access Control System (ACS), and Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) to enhance the detection, delay, and assessment functions of physical security measures. For more information on this, refer to UFC 4-021-02.

Aside from the benefits provided by electronic security systems, fences can also be improved with various safety features. For instance, a fence can be made more secure by burying the bottom rail or utilizing a system that provides warning signals before correction. This makes it less likely that pets or children will be injured by an accidental collision with the barrier, and also helps them learn their boundaries in a more humane way.

In addition, fences can be improved by peening all exposed hardware to prevent re-assembly and re-use. This is especially useful for installations in corrosive or salt laden environments. Finally, fences should be positioned so that they do not impede emergency vehicle or personnel access to fire hydrants or other fire protection facilities. To further ensure the safety of all those using and maintaining a facility, it is important to have a regular inspection and maintenance schedule in place. This includes reviewing the Material Certifications and Shop Drawings to make sure that the right products have been specified and installed.

Privacy

Privacy measures are among the most sought-after features of fencing, shielding homeowners’ backyards from prying eyes and creating a peaceful sanctuary. A privacy fence allows family members to relax, enjoy outdoor activities or entertain guests without worrying about the possibility of unwanted attention from neighbors or passersby. With a variety of material and design options, Stand Strong Fencing empowers property owners to create their perfect privacy fence to complement the look and feel of their home and landscape.

Choosing the right fence for your property requires consideration of many factors, including cost and maintenance. Understanding the varying cost implications of different materials can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option, allowing you to make the most of your budget. The varying weather conditions and environmental conditions unique to your region also play an important role in your fence’s longevity and maintenance requirements.

For example, wood fencing is a popular choice for its natural charm, but it can be prone to rot and insect infestations. In contrast, a wood privacy fence made with cedar can offer lasting beauty and superior durability. Other fencing materials like vinyl and aluminum can be a good alternative for homeowners who wish to minimize maintenance costs.

In addition to the initial installation cost of a privacy fence, you should consider labor costs as well. Hiring a professional installer from a reputable company such as Stand Strong Fencing ensures a stress-free process while guaranteeing the best possible outcome for your project.

Moreover, the installation team can provide tips and tricks for proper care of your fence to prolong its lifespan and maximize its performance. For instance, wood fences require regular staining and painting to protect the wood from moisture, while vinyl and PVC fences can be simply wiped down with water for easy maintenance.

A properly installed fence provides long-lasting beauty and security for your property, adding to the overall value of your home. However, building a privacy fence can be a complex task that may require special tools and knowledge of the latest safety standards. If you are unsure about your ability to handle such a project, contact the professionals at Stand Strong Fencing for a free quote on your new privacy fence.

Sound Buffer

Sound barriers are an effective way to reduce noise pollution, especially in residential areas. However, they’re not foolproof and will still let in some sounds. Using sound-absorbing materials and choosing the right fence construction and positioning can greatly increase their effectiveness. Additionally, the height of a barrier affects its ability to reduce noise, with taller barriers blocking noise from a greater distance than shorter ones. Additionally, a barrier can only block noise that it stands directly in front of; if it blocks noise from a direction that’s different than the one you want to block, those sounds will still be audible.

Various fence types are available to help reduce noise, including wood and metal. Wood is inherently sound-absorbing, while metal can incorporate noise-dampening materials or use designs that deflect or absorb sounds. A concrete or masonry sound barrier may also be an option, although these are often more expensive than other types and less aesthetically pleasing.

Another common method for reducing noise is to plant trees or hedges, which can act as a natural buffer and reduce the amount of noise that can be heard from nearby streets or buildings. These are usually more effective than traditional fencing, but they can be difficult to maintain and won’t stop all unwanted noise from entering your property.

If you want a more permanent solution, you can invest in a specialist acoustic barrier membrane. These are thin and flexible, allowing them to be attached easily to your existing fence or structure. They’re designed to be more effective than bare foliage, and you can use a special acoustic sealant to ensure that the membrane is as thick as possible.

Other sound-reducing fence options include brick walls, which are typically made from recycled materials and can be very durable. These are often the best choice for high-noise environments, such as near highways or industrial zones. They are extremely effective, but can be costly and require a significant amount of work to build. Additionally, brick walls may not be as aesthetically appealing as other types of fence. You can also build berms, which are large earthen hills that can be built in many different ways to provide effective sound barriers.

Neighbor Relations

If you have a neighbor that has built a fence that encroaches on your property, it’s important to broach the topic in a calm manner and avoid being angry. Explain why you feel the fence encroaches, and invite them to explore options that work for everyone. It’s also important to consult a legal professional who can provide clarity on your property boundaries and local regulations, ensuring you’re in compliance with all rules.

Some jurisdictions have laws regulating shared structures like fences that dictate repair and maintenance responsibilities, so be sure to review these rules. Additionally, if your neighbors have a prior agreement on how to address the situation, it’s a good idea to honor this agreement as a matter of good neighborliness.

It’s also helpful to consider a “good neighbor” fence design, which alternates the rail side and picket side of each fence every 7 feet. This eliminates disagreements between neighbors on which side of the fence looks better and reduces maintenance costs.

Many neighborhoods have covenants in place that regulate fence height and design, so be sure to check these rules before building your fence. This will help ensure that your fence meets all applicable requirements and protects your property value.

Often, disputes over damaged fences stem from miscommunication and misunderstandings. Open and honest communication with your neighbors can help resolve these issues and ensure that you’re both contributing to the upkeep of the fence. If a disagreement does arise, consult a legal professional for guidance on how to approach the issue and come up with an amicable solution that’s in compliance with your local laws.

If you’ve tried communicating with your neighbor but still can’t reach an agreement on how to address the problem, you can file a claim for trespassing. However, this can be costly and time-consuming, so it’s usually best to seek alternative means of resolution before resorting to this option. Contact a legal professional for assistance with this process, including guidance on how to present your case and how to enforce your judgment in court. In some cases, it may be possible to seek a variance from your local bylaws, which would require an appearance before the board of variances to explain why the rule should be relaxed in your situation.