A fence is a great way to add value to your home; it also helps you protect your property and keep kids and pets safe. To help the process go smoothly, use these tips to plan for a new fence.
1. Sketch Out a Plan for a New Fence
Before you do anything else, figure out where your fence will go. To start, make a scale drawing of your property including your house, sidewalk, driveway, and any outbuildings. Then, draw a line where you want the fence. It might run around your entire property, for example, or it might just close off the backyard.
There’s no need to get too detailed at this point — your goal is just to figure out a basic plan for a new fence. Refer to your property deed for the property lines so you’re not planning your fence in a neighbor’s yard. This will give you an idea of how long the fence will be, which makes it easier to estimate costs. Later, you can refine the plan or ask your contractor to come up with a final drawing.
2. Look Into Fencing Regulations
Once you have a general idea of what you want, it’s time to check with what kind of fence you are allowed to have. Depending on where you live, you might need to follow local regulations, HOA rules, or even neighborhood association rules. To find out about city or township regulations, check with your local building commission. Look out for any regulations on the plan for a new fence, including:
- Distance of the fence from your property line
- Height of the fence
- Fence style and materials
- Building permits
3. Plan Entrances to Your Fence
Now that you know what your fence will look like, it’s time to figure out how you’ll get in and out. In most cases, this depends on your yard layout. You might want an exit to the back alley or one on the side of the house. Before you select a gate width, consider what you might need to get through it. Riding lawn mowers and vehicles require considerably larger gates, which could also affect the design and plan for a new fence.
4. Select Materials and Style
One of the most fun parts of planning a fence is selecting the style, type, and materials. You might want a tall fence for privacy, for example, or a classic white picket fence for aesthetics. As you consider the options, think about a fence design that will:
- Coordinate with your home’s exterior
- Fit in with the style of the neighborhood
- Meet HOA rules
- Fit your maintenance preferences
- Hold up to your climate
5. Talk To Your Neighbors
As you complete your plan for a new fence, remember that the process affects your neighbors, too. To keep the peace in the neighborhood, it’s a good idea to talk to the people in the homes around you. Let them know what you’re planning to do and give them an idea of your schedule. That way, you can execute your plan for a new fence without making things awkward with your neighbors.
A fence can be a complicated project. With a little planning, you can avoid roadblocks and build a fence that’s both effective and adds value to your home.
Roesner Real Estate Inspections provides home inspection services to West Houston and the surrounding area. Contact us to book an appointment.