8 Things You Need to Know Before Building a Fence

Before building a fence for your Tauranga home, there are a few things you need to know. This includes understanding the council regulations, choosing the right materials, and deciding on the right height and style for your home. With this guide, you’ll be able to build the perfect fence for your Tauranga home.

Know What You Want

Before you install a fence, ask yourself what your reason is for installing it. A chain-link fence will suffice if your only goal is to confine pets to your property. If you desire additional privacy or to block out noise, however, you will need a taller, solid fence. 

It is likely that your wishes are complex and require more than one function from a fence. In addition to protecting pets, you may also want a fence that enhances the appearance of your home’s exterior. The first step is to decide what you need from a fence so that you can choose one that is right for you.

Face Your Fence the Right Way

When building a boundary fence for privacy, be sure to face the smooth, finished side of the fence toward your neighbour. The side with the rails and posts showing should be on the inside of your property. This is the standard way to build a backyard fence and will make your property look nicer while also showing your neighbour that you care about detail.

Consider Fence Materials

When it comes to choosing the right fence for your home, there are a variety of factors to consider. One of the most important considerations is the type of material you want your fence to be made from. There are a variety of fence materials available on the market, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will take a look at some of the most popular fence materials to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Wooden Fences

Wooden fences are perhaps the most popular type of fence on the market. They offer a classic look that can complement any home, and they are relatively easy to install. Wood fences are also quite strong and can last for many years if they are properly maintained. One of the main disadvantages of wooden fences is that they are susceptible to rot and insect damage. They also require regular staining or painting to maintain their appearance.

Vinyl Fences

Vinyl fences are a popular alternative to wood fences. They are made from a durable plastic material that is resistant to rot, insect damage, and weathering. Vinyl fences are also very easy to clean and require very little maintenance. One of the main disadvantages of vinyl fences is that they can be susceptible to damage from high winds.

Chain Link Fences

Chain link fences are a popular choice for both residential and commercial applications. They are made from a series of metal wires that are woven together to form a strong, durable fence. Chain link fences are available in a variety of heights and can be customized to meet your specific needs. One of the main disadvantages of chain link fences is that they are not very aesthetically pleasing.

Wrought Iron Fences

Wrought iron fences are a popular choice for homes and businesses that want to add a touch of elegance to their property. These fences are made from a series of interlocking metal rods forged together. Wrought iron fences are extremely strong and can last for many years. One of the main disadvantages of wrought iron fences is that they are very expensive.

Aluminium Fences

Aluminium fences are a popular choice for both residential and commercial applications. They are made from a series of interlocking aluminium panels, powder-coated for durability. Aluminium fences are available in a variety of styles and can be customized to meet your specific needs. One of the main disadvantages of aluminium fences is that they are not as strong as other metal fences such as wrought Iron, and therefore, can be damaged.

Glass Fences

Glass fences are a popular choice for homes and businesses that want to add a touch of elegance to their property. These fences are made from a series of tempered glass panels that are held together by a metal frame. Glass fences are available in a variety of styles and can be customized to meet your specific needs. One of the main disadvantages of glass fences is that they are very expensive.

Know How Much It Costs to Build a Fence

The height of your fence will affect the cost. A taller fence will be more expensive than a shorter fence, but it will also provide more privacy and security. The length of the fence is also a factor to consider. A longer fence will obviously cost more than a shorter fence, but it will also take more time and effort to install.

Once you’ve considered all of these factors, you can begin to get an idea of how much it will cost to build a fence. The cost will vary depending on the materials, height, and length of the fence. However, you can get a general idea of the cost by using the following formula:

(Material Cost) + (Installation Cost) + (Permits and Inspections)

Research the Property Line

When you’re ready to build on your land, it’s important to first research the property line. This will ensure that you’re aware of any potential easements or restrictions that could impact your construction project.

Easements are legal rights that allow others to use your land for specific purposes. For example, an electric company may have an easement to run power lines through your property. These easements must be respected when you’re planning your construction project.

Restrictions are limitations placed on your land by local ordinances or covenants. For example, your city may have a restriction that limits the height of fences. Or, your homeowner’s association may have a covenant that requires all houses in the neighbourhood to have a certain style of roof.

It’s important to be aware of both easements and restrictions before you begin your construction project. Otherwise, you could find yourself making costly changes to your plans.

The best way to research the property line is to contact the local planning and zoning office. They will be able to tell you about any easements or restrictions that apply to your land.

Consider existing structures

If you have external buildings like garages, sheds, or a tunnel house, make sure you factor these into your planning so that you don’t get any unexpected surprises.

Hire Professionals

If you’re considering installing a fence, you may be wondering whether to do it yourself or hire a professional. While there are benefits to both, there are also some drawbacks to each option.

Installing a fence yourself can be a cheaper option, as you won’t have to pay for labor costs. However, it can also be more time-consuming and difficult, as you’ll need to measure and cut the materials yourself. Hiring a professional fence builder can be more expensive, but it can also be less hassle and quicker.

If you’re not sure which option is right for you, consider the following:

• The type of fence you want to install: Some fences are easier to install than others. If you’re not experienced in fence installation, it’s probably best to leave complex fence types, such as chain-link or wrought iron, to the professionals.
• The size of your property: A larger property will obviously require more fencing, which can impact the cost.
• Your budget: If money is tight, you may need to DIY your fence to save on costs.
• Your timeline: If you need the fence installed quickly, hiring a professional is probably your best bet.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to hire a professional or DIY your fence installation comes down to your specific situation and needs. If you have any doubts, it’s probably best to consult with a professional fence builder to get their expert opinion.

Be a Good Neighbour

It’s great to be a good neighbour, and one way you can show this is by being mindful when installing a fence. Here are some tips:

• Check with your neighbours before you start any work. It’s always good to be on the same page and make sure everyone is happy with the proposed fence.
• If your fence is going to be close to your neighbours’ property, consider their privacy. For example, you may want to choose a fence material that provides more privacy, such as wood or vinyl.
• Be considerate of your neighbours’ views. If your fence will block their view, try to offset it with landscaping or other features.
• Avoid using offensive or racially-charged symbols or words on your fence. This could create a hostile environment for your neighbours.
• Make sure your fence is built to code and is safe. This is not only for the safety of your neighbours but also for your own liability.

 following these tips will help you be a good neighbour when installing a fence, and will create a more pleasant environment for everyone.

Create Entrances

When installing a fence, it’s important to create entrances that are both functional and visually appealing. Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your fence entrances:

Functionality

Make sure your entrances are wide enough to accommodate whatever will be passing through them – whether that’s people, cars, or lawn equipment.

Aesthetics

Entrances are a great opportunity to add a personal touch to your fence. Consider using different materials or colours for the entrance than the rest of the fence, or adding embellishments like gates or posts.

Safety

If your fence will be enclosing a pool or other potentially dangerous area, be sure to install self-closing gates that latch automatically.

With a little planning, you can create fence entrances that are both practical and stylish.