How to Choose Fencing

Fencing is used for a number of different reasons, from security and privacy, to keeping pets at bay, setting boundaries, or keeping out exterior noises. It’s usually security that is the reason most families look at adding a fence and gate as it is often a pretty definite sign that there is private property inside where intruders are not welcome.
1. Some things to keep in mind when installing fencing is how it will affect the views from your
home. You should also think about privacy, especially when your neighbour has a room
that looks directly into your home.

2. You will want to choose a fence that is both aesthetically pleasing and that matches the current style of your home. For example, if you have a modern abode, think about going with a steel or aluminium fence. Traditional homes with a lovely garden always look cosier when they are surrounded by a white picket fence.

3. If you live in a high-traffic area where noise is an issue, you will want fencing that is made from materials that can block the sound effectively. Bricks, cement, and certain types of wood are usually the best selection. If keeping your pets enclosed is what you want, make sure that the fence is tall and has no gaps that an animal can wriggle through.

4. One thing to remember is that you may need to seek council approval before putting up your fence. This is especially true for masonry fences higher than one metre, all two metres or higher fencing, and for fences that are adjacent to road intersections. It’s always a good idea to talk to your local council first if you are unsure of the regulations.

Fencing Material Options

You have plenty of different material options when it comes time to build your fence. Here are just a few that you might consider:

Steel fencing

Don’t let the lightweight feel of steel and aluminium fool you, this is strong fencing. The most common choices in steel/aluminium fencing are Colorbond, large panel fences, louvres, and steel pickets. This type of fencing usually comes powder coated, which again means you will have a number of different colour options at your disposal. One thing to watch out for is any type of scratching on the surface, as this can lead to rust and corrosion. Steel/aluminium fencing goes well with just about every different home style.

Timber fencing

This is one of the more common choices, thanks in large part to its price and durability. Softer woods don’t tend to rot quickly, making them perfect for posts. It’s also a good idea to go with treated timber as that will help prevent rot, termite and insect attacks, and weather damage. You can achieve multiple different looks by applying paint or stain, or simply just leaving the natural look. You can talk to a professional painter to get an idea on colours that match your style, as well as the style of youe timber fence, which might include picket, louvre, panel, and lapped paling.

Brick/cement fencing

More and more modern homes are going with this style of fencing, even though it’s more expensive than timber. It’s certainly a longer lasting option, as long as you ensure that this style of fencing is built on stable ground. You have the choice of using brick, cement, or going with columns that have been combined with either steel or timber. The ability to paint or render this type of fencing means that you have an unlimited colour palette. You can also add colour by simply using different styles of bricks.

PVC fencing

Another fencing option that delivers durability without the need to paint or worry about rust. This, again, may explain why it is a pricier fencing choice.

Bamboo fencing

Perfect for a very unique look, as no two sticks of bamboo are the same. What you will also get is a fence that look truly natural, as well as being incredibly eco-friendly thanks to it being an easily renewable wood source. Bamboo is one of the best materials to use if you want to block out the wind, since it naturally flexes under pressure as opposed to snapping. Another positive is that bamboo is cheaper to install than just about any other wood type.

Glass fencing

There may be nothing more elegant and stylish than glass fencing. You are also ensured that your views will be totally unencumbered. This is a great option for pool areas if expense isn’t an issue.

Vinyl fencing

Probably the easiest to maintain of all the fencing options. You don’t need to do anything with it after installation. You may be surprised with how much the vinyl actually looks like wooden fencing from a distance. If you have little ones, vinyl fences are a great choice as they will not splinter. They are a little pricier than timber fences, but that money is usually made back due to the low maintenance of vinyl.

Fence Types

Temporary Fencing

There are numerous reasons why a permanent fence cannot be built on your property, which makes temporary fencing a good alternative. You can easily install temporary fencing without the need to dig up your property.

Secure Fencing

If security is a bigger issue for you and your family than privacy, you might want to give some thought to installing security fencing. You have a wide selection of materials to choose from, each with their own lists of pros and cons.

Pool Fencing

First and foremost, you will want pool gates and fences to be strong and secure. Most pool fences come in steel, aluminium, or glass. No matter which option you choose, you need to be sure that the Australian Pool Fence Standards, as well as those of your local council, are strictly adhered to. Specifically, your fencing design and installation should comply with Australian Standard 1926-1986. All pool gates need to be manufactured to Australian Standard 2820.

These rules also apply to and boundary fencing that is used as part of your pool fencing. It’s always a good idea to contact your local council first, rather than facing the possibility of fines after it has been installed.

Finding the Right Fence Building Company

There are a few things you need to ask when it comes time to hire a fence installer. The first thing you will want is a few references and some pictures of their previous work. Ask about what type of warranty they offer on their work. When ordering directly from a fencing company, ask if they are able to deliver and install your fencing. If they don’t, ask them to recommend a contractor. Don’t just settle on the first fencing specialist you find, but instead research a few and get quotes from each. It’s important to remember that price isn’t everything, and it’s sometimes worth paying a little more to get a specialist that you have complete faith in.