Making sure that you know exactly where your aluminum fences should be installed helps ensure your project will go smoothly. Here are some tips to keep in mind!
We all know that selecting the right type of fencing for your property is important, but did you also know that the placement of your fence or gate can make or break the final outcome of your project?
Innocently violating property laws or Homeowner Association rulings can result in the entire removal of your new fence, and considerations towards its placement can impact not only on the visual results of your installation, but also, depending on the fences’ material, can affect the longevity of the project. In this article we’ll be exploring some of the decisions you may need to make to yield the best results for your property.
Your Material of Choice
As you’ve chosen to install an
aluminum fence, it’s clear you’ve done your research as to the most hardy, all-purpose option on the market. The anti-corrosive properties of aluminum mean it is ideal for securing your poolside, allowing you let the kids play worry free, as unlike iron or steel, it will not rust. Aluminum is also easy to clean, so it’s perfect for placing in areas exposed to the elements, as any grime or grit carried by strong winds or inclement weather is easily washed away.
Finally, as it is metal, if you’re yard is host to a plethora of different fauna, it won’t become damaged or even infested by the local insect population, something you may risk with wood or stone walling.
If you are reading this, and have chosen fencing other than aluminum, then taking the above considerations on board
before installation will help you to avoid your material of choices’ unique pitfalls.
Mind those Wires and Pipes!
As with any project that requires digging more than a foot into the ground, making sure you undertake research into what’s laying under your lawn can save you all kinds of stress further down the line.
No one wants to suddenly discover a new fountain in their yard after hitting a water pipe, or becoming your neighbors’ public enemy no.1 by putting your shovel through electrical cabling, after all!
If your home is a new build, or you even developed the property yourself, you should find the information you need regarding underground pipes and cabling on the properties plans.
No need to worry if this isn’t the case however, as you can call a service like 811 to find out just what you might be digging into, and areas you may need to avoid when placing your fence posts.
Once you’re sure there’s no danger below ground, make sure to dig your fence posts as deeply into the earth as possible, as this will help ensure your fences’ longevity.
Property Laws and your Homeowner’s Association
Frustratingly for some, one of the largest factors that will impact on how you install your aluminum fencing will be bureaucratic. If you want your fence to stand for more than a few weeks, it’s best to be clued up on the
property laws for your state and area.
For example, in regards to the height allowance of your fence, most states stipulate that in front yards, artificial fencing may not exceed 4 ft in height, whereas in your backyard, this is extended to 6 ft.
If your property is old, or situated in a preservation area, you may have extra requirements, such as fencing that is contemporary in appearance to the house, or fencing that is installed at a distance from certain trees or constructions, that may be protected, so as not to damage their roots or foundations when inserting fence posts.
If your home is in a newer residential area then you may need to gain permission from the Homeowners Association (HOA). Your specific
HOA may have their own guidelines for fence installation – particularly if the project is visible from the curb. You may need to select from a specific set of designs or styles that compliment either the property, or other fencing in the area.
“If you Fail to Plan, you Plan to Fail!”
As Benjamin Franklin so wisely said, without taking the time for proper planning, failure becomes increasingly more likely. When it comes to something as large as a fencing project, it’s best to take a deep breath and think things through.
Taking time to consider your specific type of fencing,
measuring your property correctly, and making sure you know what lies beneath your turf are some simple considerations you can make which can make all the difference in the outcome of your project.
However, even the best laid plans can fall victim to regulation violation, and could face subsequent removal. No one wants to see their hard work dismantled, so it really is best to do your research, not only for the sake of your morale, but your wallet too.
