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When thoughtfully planned out a fence can serve many functions and purposes. Fences shape the space we live in, defining it in an organized manner. People have a desire for privacy and seclusion helping us feel safe and protected, building a fence can meet those needs.
When you get ready to build a fence there are several questions you should ask yourself to help determine the goals you want your fence to meet.
1. Do you need to create privacy?
If you do, you will need to choose a fencing material that can meet your privacy requirements. Chain link fencing is generally not the best choice if you are looking for solitude. However, vinyl slats can be woven through your chain link to offer seclusion. Your fence will also need to be over eye level to meet your privacy needs.
2. Does your fence need to shape your yard?
If your yard appears large and undefined, using a fence to create and define special rooms throughout your yard can screen off special areas. Try creating an entertaining area, garden spot, inviting reading or meditation section, etc.
3. Will your fence need to provide security?
Fences do not need to appear like a barricade in order to give you added protection. Even a chain link fence that is covered in slats can deter unwanted entrants. Determine how much actual protection you need your fence to offer and determine if a chain link fence will meet those requirements. Sometimes you can add a padlock, motion sensitive lighting or other security measures to enhance your fences potential security options.
4. Do you need to buffer climate or noise?
Fences can act as a windbreak, break for drifting snow or glaring sun. If climate or noise control is your goal you will want to erected your fence the correct location. The higher the fence and the less you can see through it, the more effective a weather barrier you will create.
5. Will your fence enhance the look of the house?
If aesthetics is your primary concern, a chain link fence may not be the right material for your fence construction. Although not unpleasing to look at, it may not fit the architectural style you are after.
CHAIN LINK FENCING
While chain link fencing may not be the ideal choice for all 5 of the design questions we have discussed, chain link remains a popular fencing choice. Chain link is appropriate for a property that has uneven ground and was originally designed to provide a security option. Chain link is versatile and can be covered with special treatments like inserted slats or vinyl covered fencing. Trailing vines can be planted at the base of a chain link fence to soften the stark look this type of fence can have. Fencing requires virtually no maintenance and is easy for a do-it-yourself homeowner to install.
INSTALLATION
Regardless of which kind of fencing material you choose the installation process is similar with all types. Start your fencing installation by digging footings required to keep your fence framework sturdy. Your local home improvement store will generally give you a installation guide when you purchase your chain link fencing material.
You will need a Power Auger, Clamshell Digger, Bladed Scoop or Digging Bar when you prepare your postholes. Postholes should be dug with the sides slightly undercut and the sides of the hole smooth. The bottom of the post hole is then filled with cement and gravel to set the posts.
You will also need a 2" level to make sure that your poles are plumb before the cement sets up and to check your horizontal fencing as well. A fence stretcher can also be used to keep your chain link material tight.
Don't forget to purchase the gates you will need. Gates are available in many widths and heights. They will not generally come with any hinges, latches, spring closures or locks that you may want. Be aware that they will need to be purchased separately.
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