12 Fence Planning And Design Tips You Should Know Before And Not After You Get Started Building
Building a fence seems straightforward, but many potential pitfalls can turn your DIY project into a nightmare. This article outlines 12 crucial planning and design tips gleaned from years of professional fence building experience to help you avoid common mistakes and ensure a smooth, successful fence installation.
1. Property Lines: Don't assume you know where your property line lies! A simple plot plan can provide a general idea, but if there's any uncertainty, hire a surveyor to mark the exact boundaries. Building even slightly over your property line can lead to disputes with neighbors and potentially costly legal issues.
2. Underground Utilities: Before you start digging post holes, contact your local utility companies or "dig alert" service to mark the location of underground lines. Hitting a water or gas line can cause serious damage and delays. Be aware that markings may not be 100% accurate, so hand dig near marked areas to avoid accidental strikes.
3. Building Permits: While many areas don't require permits for standard 6-foot fences, exceeding height restrictions or local regulations can lead to fines and forced removal. Always check with your local building department to determine if your project needs a permit.
4. Terrain Challenges: Uneven ground can complicate fence building. Consider whether you'll follow the terrain's contours, fill in low spots, or regrade the area for a level fence line. Each option has implications for the fence's appearance and potential gaps at the bottom.
5. Privacy Considerations: If privacy is a primary goal, plan your fence design accordingly. Factor in the type of wood, spacing between boards, and potential shrinkage over time. Explore different fence styles to achieve the desired level of privacy.
6. Lumber Selection: Don't just choose the cheapest wood! Consider the long-term durability and appearance of your fence. Pressure-treated lumber for posts and rails and higher-quality wood for pickets can prevent premature rotting and discoloration.
7. Future Appearance: Visualize how your fence will look in 5 or 10 years. Wood fades and weathers over time. Factor in potential maintenance needs and choose materials that will age gracefully or be prepared to stain or paint regularly.
8. Pet Interference: If you have pets, secure them during construction to prevent disruptions and potential escapes. Excited dogs or curious cats can hinder progress and even damage freshly installed fencing.
9. Unexpected Costs: Anticipate potential hidden costs like additional materials for leveling, grading, or dealing with obstacles like trees or shrubs. Be prepared for potential labor costs if you need help with challenging aspects of the project.
10. Obstacles: Identify any trees, plants, or structures that might interfere with fence construction. Address these obstacles before you begin building. This may involve trimming branches, relocating plants, or even negotiating with neighbors if the obstacle is on their property.
11. Neighborly Disputes: Open communication with your neighbors is crucial. Discuss your plans, address any concerns, and ensure everyone agrees on the property line and fence design. This can prevent misunderstandings and potential conflicts down the road.
12. Payment Agreements: If you're sharing the cost of the fence with a neighbor, establish a clear payment agreement beforehand. Determine how expenses will be divided and when payments are due to avoid awkwardness and potential disagreements later.
By addressing these 12 critical planning points before you even pick up a hammer, you'll be well on your way to building a beautiful, functional, and long-lasting fence that enhances your property and provides years of enjoyment.
