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Originally Posted On: https://mkwservices.ca/building-a-fence-heres-everything-you-need-to-know/
Building a Fence? Here’s Everything You Need to Know
You might want to build a fence for many reasons, from enhancing your privacy to protecting your pets and children. Whether you’re creating a perimeter around your pool or enclosing your yard to keep out prying eyes, there are some things you should consider before you begin breaking ground.
In this blog, MKW Services’s fence specialists tell you everything you need to know about creating a new fence, including the benefits of selecting different fencing material options, how to make the most of your fence design, what the construction process looks like, and which zoning rules and permits might apply to your project.
We also share best practices for maintaining your new fence and ensuring its longevity. After you read this, you’ll be all set to start your project.
What Makes Installing a Fence a Great Investment?
Are you ready to transform your property into a secure and beautiful haven? Investing in a fence will yield significant benefits, including boosting your quality of life and increasing your home’s value.
Your new fence will provide a security barrier, deterring unwanted visitors and creating a safe space for relaxation and play. It’ll grant you privacy to relax and unwind in your secluded yard, free from noise and uninvited attention. A well-designed fencing system also adds beauty to your landscaping, boosting curb appeal and bringing a return on your investment should you decide to sell your property.
Understanding Local Zoning Laws and Permits Required for Fence Construction
When you plan to put up a fence, it’s important to understand and comply with local zoning laws and permit requirements. These regulations ensure fences are constructed safely, aesthetically, and in harmony with the community’s standards.
Fence Zoning Laws
Fences in different municipalities or townships must be below certain heights, depending on whether they’re in your front, side, or back yard. We suggest contacting your municipal government to find out if there are any restrictions in your area.
You should also be aware of any zoning laws that apply to material selection. Fencing systems can be made from wood, vinyl, metal, and other common materials. Your fence design should also be safe and pleasing to the eye, with no obstruction to visibility at intersections and driveways.
Are Fence Permits Required for Your Project?
You’ll need a permit to begin building a fence. Your permit application should include detailed fence design plans showing your proposed fence’s location, height, and materials. You should also include a property survey and any agreements with neighbours if you’re building your fence on a shared property line.
Planning Your Fence Design: Where to Start
The best way to create a fence design that complements your property is to begin by defining your goals. Consider what you want your fence to achieve. Is privacy your top priority? Are you concerned about keeping your dog contained in a particular area?
Understanding your goals will guide your design choices. You should also think about functionality. Be sure to plan for gates and access points where needed, and consider the size of gates carefully to allow easy passage for things like lawnmowers, trash cans, or pool equipment.
Local regulations also come into play when planning a fencing project. Follow height and material restrictions to avoid unnecessary delays or fines. Once you’ve considered your goals, functionality, and local regulations, you can explore fence styles, materials, and costs to create a beautiful and practical design for your property.
How Do You Choose the Best Fencing Materials?
Think about the overall aesthetic of your home and yard. Do you prefer a classic or modern design? Are you looking for a low-maintenance option like composite that will outlast many other fencing material types, or is a pressure-treated wooden fence the right choice for your yard?
Consider the pros and cons of each material. Wood offers a natural beauty but requires staining and sealing. Vinyl is durable and low maintenance, but some find the look less appealing. Metal fencing provides a sleek, modern look and excellent strength but can be susceptible to rust in some climates.
Once you weigh each option’s aesthetics, maintenance requirements, and cost, you’ll be well on your way to choosing the perfect fencing material for your property.
What Does the Fence Building Process Look Like?
The fence-building process includes planning and design, permitting and preparation, fence post installation, railing and panel installation, and adding finishing touches like stain or sealant. Ground preparation can begin once you’ve finalized your fence design and have approved permits in hand. In this stage, it’s important to “call before you dig” to ensure any excavation work is clear of underground utilities like power and sewage infrastructure.
Once the posthole excavation is complete, it’s time to set the posts. They must be plumb (perfectly vertical) and level. Crushed gravel is often used for drainage at the bottom of the hole before a concrete mix is poured on top to hold the post in place. Temporary braces will hold your new posts upright while the concrete sets and cures. Expect curing time to take between 24 and 48 hours.
After the concrete cures, your fence posts will be strong enough to support panels, gates, and rails. Once all pieces are in place, finishing touches like post caps, stains, and sealants are applied to complete the job.
How Do You Maintain Your New Fence to Promote Longevity?
Did you know cleaning your fence regularly is a great way to extend its lifespan? The recommended cleaning frequency depends on the material. A seasonal cleaning with a hose and mild soap solution should suffice for vinyl or metal fences. Wooden fences might require more frequent cleaning, especially in humid climates, to remove dirt, mildew, or cobwebs.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that can damage your fencing material. Use a soft brush or sponge with a mild soap solution, and rinse your fence thoroughly with clean water to remove any soap residue.
You should also trim trees and shrubs away from your fence to prevent them from growing into it and causing damage. Overgrown vegetation can also trap moisture against your fence, accelerating wear and tear.
Regularly inspect your fence for any signs of damage, including rotting wood, broken pickets, rust (for metal fences), or loose posts. Address any minor damage as soon as possible to prevent it from becoming a bigger problem later. If heavy snowfall or ice accumulation puts stress on your fence in winter, remove snow buildup to prevent bending or collapse.
Personalize Your Yard With a Custom Fence Installation
Now that you know more about how to create a successful custom fence installation plan, choose the right fencing materials, and upkeep your fencing system to maximize its value, you’re ready to start your next project. Are you looking for a fence contractor to guide you to a picture-perfect installation? MKW Services is here to help.
Contact our team at (905) 716-5635 for the answers to all your questions about fence design, installation, repairs, and maintenance.
