More than 100 years ago, Robert Frost reminded us that whether we liked fences or not, “Good fences make good neighbors.”
People living in Central Florida spend a lot of time outside in their backyards. We barbecue, garden, play, and work. Many of us have swimming pools, outdoor kitchens, or large lanais that help us remain outside to enjoy the lovely Florida weather without being bothered by bugs, our children, or other pests.
Our kids spend more time outside, too. Kiddie pools, sprinklers, slippery slope toys, and net toys like badminton are enjoyed by our kids on typical spring and summer late afternoons and evenings. Of course, adults join in the hilarity, sitting in outdoor chairs with cold drinks or trying to best the kids at their own games.
Many evenings are spent huddled around a fire pit, telling spooky stories and eating gooey chocolate-and-marshmallow confections till kids or adults start dozing off and heading for bed.
And, do our neighbors complain? For the most part, no. They might have a word or two if we play music way too loudly, or our above-ground pool leaks and turns their backyard into a swamp, but we are more tolerant of each other’s privacy. What’s the secret?
“Good fences make good neighbors.”
What kind of fence?
When Robert Frost wrote those words, he and his neighbor were walking the fence line in the spring to replace the stones in the fence. Even though he didn’t see a need for a fence, his neighbor did, and so the stones were gathered and stacked to keep each one happy and make a place where his cows, elves, and children couldn’t stray.
Fencing in Florida tends to be a tall fence, restricting the view of the rest of the neighborhood from our backyards. Some fences need regular maintenance and replacement, and some seem to last forever. We probably won’t use boulders, but we will be seeking some privacy, protection from roaming neighborhood animals, a place where the kids will be safe.
Let’s talk about the materials we can use to build fences.
Wood
Wood fencing generally comes in pre-built panels. There are individual “pickets” available to mend places where a dog or kid has found the nails weakened, usually by pests or weather. Most wood fencing places also sell the posts, rails, gates, and hardware.
Wood fences in Florida will need to be treated to keep out pests and vermin as much as possible. Some wood fences are also varnished or painted to maintain them in one color. Wood that hasn’t been varnished or painted tends to weather a lovely silvery grey color. A neighbor replaced one of the pickets that his dog had poked its nose through, and it took less than two years for the aging process to make it the same color as the rest of the fence.
Chain Link Fencing
We often see chain link fencing around schools and other government buildings, business parks, building sites, and property with vast acreage that must be protected from wandering large animals and tractors. Not many people use it for yard fencing, as it doesn’t provide much privacy unless you line it with specially developed fabric. They are not decorative, but they are durable and very secure.
Again, Florida makes it necessary to treat a chain-link fence to prevent rusting or weathering. But, unfortunately, the summers of hot sun and afternoon rain showers, spring storms, and winter cold snaps can change even the most robust chain link fencing into rusted and unattractive metal barriers.
Metal and Decorative Fencing
This usually is two separate categories, but they are often used together. For example, metal fencing is generally painted and stands up well to the weather. It’s great for privacy or security, but with the benefit of looking nice and seeing what’s coming. It’s often used for safety, around pools, or new sinkholes.
Other metal fencing meant to keep pets and animals from roaming onto other properties also fall into this category. It’s not decorative but easily fades into the landscape, so it’s not very noticeable. It also needs the Florida treatment to keep it looking good.
Vinyl Fencing
Vinyl fencing is durable, easy to install, and very attractive. Unfortunately, it is also the most expensive of the fencing described here. However, it is also some of the most durable fencings, and once installed, it’s easy to maintain.
Vinyl fencing will be available in several colors and styles and can be purchased to “mimic” other types of fencing, such as wood.
If it’s essential to lower the cost, other types of fencing can be used at other parts of the property. You’d get the look and durability near your house and the security in the more remote sections of your property.
Gates
You will probably want gates that match your fencing. Most types of fencing have gates available, sometimes in kits, that are easy to place and install. Installation is not very difficult, so whether you’re putting a gate across your driveway or smaller gates at the side of the house to give your landscape people and visitors access. You can work with your landscape team at Custom Acres to create the most attractive and enhancing fence and gate system possible.
Fence building
Your Custom Acres landscaping gurus can provide an estimate of costs and help with every step of the fence building process. Their services include:
- Designing fences based on your property and needs.
- Building and installing fences.
- Staining or painting fences.
- Repairing and maintaining fences.
A fence can improve the way your property looks and increase curb appeal. In addition, they can help protect your ornamental flower beds and gardens from children and pets and increase the security of your home and property.
After all, that’s what it’s all about, isn’t it?