5 things to know before building a fence

August 13, 2015 - 1 min read

Thinking about adding a fence to your existing property? Perhaps you’re building a new home and need some advice? The type of fence and how it is built can have a major influence on the overall look and feel of your property. Not only can fences increase your property’s curb appeal, but they provide security and can increase your personal privacy. With a number of both functional and aesthetic considerations to take into account, it’s important to properly plan before you begin construction. We’ve got a few tips to use as a guide when planning your next fence build.

Know what you want

The first thing you need to do when planning your fence build is to establish its functional purpose. The type of fence you need will vary depending on whether it’s used to keep the cattle in, block noise, give you more privacy or just enhance the overall look of your property. Decide what you’re looking for, then start thinking about the other variables.


Choose the right building materials

While a white picket fence might give you the cottage feel you’re after, the wooden materials will often warp, rot and need repainting after a while. Opt for building materials that will last and require little maintenance. Materials like vinyl, steel and aluminium are easy-to-maintain options, but consult with your local fencing expert before finalising your decision.


Know your limits

There are a number of permits and council regulations you need to abide by during the construction of your new fence. These regulations pertain to property lines, height, material used and more. Contact the council for more information on what you can and can’t do.


Consider your entrance points

Make sure that your new fence has at least two entrance points and that these can accommodate for large or bulky items. There’s nothing more frustrating than building a new fence only to find out that your truck or ride-on lawnmower doesn’t fit through.


Style it

Now that you’ve looked after all the boring (but important) stuff, it’s time to have a bit of fun with your fence. You can decorate it with custom posts or finials, paint it in contemporary colours or put in surrounding garden beds with beautiful plants and flowers.