Installing Fence To Add Value For Your Home

No matter what size your property might be, a fence is a beautiful and functional addition that boosts your curb appeal and keeps your family safe.

These days, fences can be crafted from a wide variety of materials. From the comforting American ideal of white picket to elegant and decorative wrought iron reminiscent of a country estate, a fence not only delineates your property line but also showcases your personal style.

Whether you’re ready to sell your home or looking forward to many comfortable years there, to add a fence or not can be quite the conundrum. There are many different factors to consider when making this decision. Here are a few key questions you should ask yourself before adding fencing to your property:

• Why do you need or want a fence?
• What’s your budget?
• What material should you use?
• How high should it be?
• Who should install it?

Wading through research about all of the options can seem like an overwhelming task, but never fear! Here are some tips and ideas to help you determine how a gorgeous new fence can add value to your home and make your life easier. 

The first query to address is whether you need fencing. Do you live in a bustling city or a rural paradise? If your home is in a city setting, a fence can add a high level of security. Sturdy fencing with locking gates, motion sensors, and video surveillance will definitely help keep your family and your property protected.

Are you a pet parent? If you’ve got beloved furry family members, a fence can be a real blessing, allowing you to take them out for fresh air and exercise without the stress of dealing with vehicular traffic. Many prospective home buyers have dogs and are seeking a new home with an already fenced-in yard so they can have a secure, worry-free place to enjoy outdoor time with their pets. 

Families with chickens, livestock, or abundant fruit & vegetable gardens should invest in fencing to keep their animals safely in and critters like foxes, raccoons, rabbits, and other garden nibblers out.

If you have children, they’ll love having a fun and convenient outdoor playground right at home, and you’ll be assured of their safety. The popular real estate blog Homes points out that a fence is a huge benefit to buyers with families and adds invaluable "peace of mind."

For those who have swimming pools, a fence will ensure that those who don’t belong there are kept away. Some home insurance policies require fencing if you have an above-ground or inground pool.

Your privacy is immensely important and always a huge consideration with any property. A solid fence will discourage looky-loos and nosy neighbors while letting you entertain and relax in style without prying eyes. 

Some neighborhoods with homeowners associations may have restrictions on certain types of fences, so you should check with your HOA before deciding what kind of fencing you will need. 

The next question to tackle is “what does your budget look like for adding a fence?” If you’re selling your home, you may need to make upgrades to other areas, like bathrooms and kitchens, which won’t leave a lot of money for putting up a fence.

Most fencing material is priced per foot. If you would like to add in a gate, you’ll need to factor that cost in as well. While it might be tempting to turn your fence into a DIY project, it's often best to speak to fence installation pros in your area to gather estimates. Something to keep in mind is that professionally installed fences usually come with a guarantee or warranty, which can save you money and hassle down the road.

While it might not be the top priority in your home renovation budget, investing in a fence is totally worth it - it will give you invaluable privacy, add plenty of curb appeal, and keep your kids and pets safely enclosed.

The next challenge is which fencing option could be the perfect fit for your needs and budget:

• Chain Link - The most budget-friendly choice, chain link is extremely long-lasting and can also be painted or decorated to increase its visual appeal.
• Wood - Available in a large variety of materials and styles, this is an extremely versatile selection that is sure to suit your needs. 
• Aluminum - These fences can be crafted in a wide array of colors and styles and add luxury and security.
• Vinyl - This extremely durable option is easy to clean, won’t rust, and offers a great deal of privacy for you and your household.

Depending on your neighborhood, any of the above might work for your property. Be sure to research property lines and speak with your adjoining neighbors before making a final decision. 

Another important element of your fence is how high it should be. Many cities and communities have ordinances that limit the height of fencing in certain areas. 

You may prefer to install what the experts at HGTV call a “good neighbor fence.” These are waist- or chest-high fences that mark your property lines but still allow you to have a chat and socialize with the nice people who live next to you. The traditional and decorative white picket fence is the perfect example of this style. It’s also ideal for families with smaller pets.

For fences installed for privacy and security purposes, you’ll want one that is between six and eight feet tall, depending on the rules of your municipality. 

The final consideration to mull over is whether or not to install your new fence yourself or hire an experienced local company to do it for you. 

While doing the DIY thing can help save money, keep in mind that fence installation is a large project that will require patience, perseverance, and plenty of heavy lifting. If you’re a homeowner who’s skilled with taking measurements and working with power tools, you might look forward to spending time and energy on a worthwhile endeavor like building an impressive new property fence.

If you decide a professional installation is your best choice, then it pays to do your research. In nearly every area of the country, you can find websites and online forums that provide reviews and recommendations on fence installation experts in your area. Look for companies that offer:

• A free evaluation and estimate
• References from former customers
• A wide range of high-quality materials
• Efficient and expert installations

Word of mouth and personal referrals are also fabulous ways to find a trustworthy builder, so consult with your friends and neighbors about their experiences. 

If you're considering installing fencing on your property, rest assured that it brings a great deal of value to your home by increasing the visual appeal, as well as adding security and privacy for you and your family. Also, would you truly put a price on ensuring your family's well-being?