Fences Make Great Neighbors…Usually

Beautiful fencing can be a great asset when it comes to curb appeal and home value. It also has the benefit of adding definition to your yard and garden.

You’ve heard the saying, “Great fences make great neighbors.” But what happens when they don’t? After all, you aren't the only one who has to live with the fence after it's built - the rest of the neighborhood, particularly the folks next door to you, will likewise experience the benefits and negatives of your choice.

Recently, new residents in Edgemont installed fencing along the borderline of their property. Unfortunately, they were unaware of the town’s requirements and when a neighbor complained, they were required to remove and re-install the fence.

“She banged on my door one day and told me how ugly it was and that I should take it down,” said Edgemont’s new resident, who preferred to remain anonymous. “It’s a white fence instead of the usual natural wood color, and my neighbor’s told me how much they hated it, and how they preferred the way the property was open before.”

Something special seems to happen when a neighbor decides to erect a fence. The big question seems to be, “what if it’s on my land?” Often, it helps for new residents to have a survey completed of their property, along with stakes to show where the property boundaries are.

Here are some ways to keep the peace when you are thinking about putting up a fence:

1. PLAN CAREFULLY. There's nothing worse than an ongoing neighborhood feud begun by a fence built on the wrong side of a property line, so know exactly where your lines are drawn. Check plot plans to identify the corners of your lot and work within them. Diffuse any suspected ill intent by talking to your neighbors about your fence-building plans before you begin construction.

2. MAKE IT LEGAL. Not all fencing endeavors require permits, but it's worth checking with local officials to confirm any building parameters. Local ordinances may have strict guidelines for fence height, material selection, picket spacing, post hole footings, and minimum setback distance from the sidewalk or street.

3. MATERIAL MAINTENANCE. Fencing is available in range of materials, including natural and pressure-treated woods, composites, vinyl and metal. In addition to the look you like, consider the upkeep required by your fencing selection. Natural wood comes with the biggest ongoing demands, requiring repainting or refinishing every few years.

4. GOOD SIDE OUT. In addition to coordinating with and enhancing your home, the style of fencing you choose should look great from both sides. Stockade fencing has only one finished side. If that is the kind of fence you choose, remember that most building codes require you to have the GOOD side out.

5. FINISH FIRST. For optimum coverage and protection, make sure to apply finish to fencing elements before they're assembled. Avoid applying a clear topcoat such as shellac or a polyurethane varnish. It won't have a chance against the elements, and will eventually blister to the point that you'll have to sand all surfaces down and start over with a whole new finish.

6. REINFORCE GATES. Gates take most of the wear-and-tear of the fence, so make sure yours is securely built and reinforced with diagonal cross bracing to prevent sagging. Also, add a spring hinge to help the gate swing shut even when the kids leave it open. 

7. DON'T DRAG. One common installation mistake is to allow the bottom rail of a fence to hover too close to the ground. This encourages rapid deterioration due to rot and insect infestations. Make sure your railing sits 4 to 6 inches above ground level to provide more-than-adequate clearance for nearby grass and proper airflow. The fence will settle after installation, so keeping it up from the start is the best way to make sure it doesn't become bait for bugs.

8. SPACE IT OUT. Spacing between fence posts will depend on the type of fence, the terrain on which you're building it and its general purpose, but the typical range is 6 to 8 feet between posts.

9. SET POSTS PROPERLY. Many folks assume that setting posts in concrete is the best and strongest way to go, but that method can lead to improper settling, damage and drainage issues. Most fences will get a better footing if post holes are lined with well-tamped gray gravel: the pressure of the gravel against the dirt is much stronger than a concrete pour and keeps posts straight as the natural drainage works its magic.

10. CAP IT OFF. Top off all post heads with a slant, rounded surface or metal cap to promote water runoff and prevent rot. The neighbors will also compliment you on this fabulous fence finishing point!