When considering the possibility of installing a brand-new fence around your property, it is always a good idea to consider how it will affect your neighbors. Once you decide on the best course of action, Sarasota fence company, H&Y Fence is here to help guide you through the process from start to finish. In this article, we’ll discuss a few aspects of fence etiquette that you should consider before you start planning the installation of your new fence.
Good Communication is Key!
One of the most important aspects of fence etiquette is keeping the lines of communication with your neighbors open! Being part of a community means that you should always consider the impact that changes to your property may have on your neighbors. Although you are not necessarily required to give them every detail, it is a respectful thing to discuss your general plans with those who will be affected. Doing this avoids the potential for surprises and conflict down the road.
Know Your Property Lines
Another important consideration is to be certain of where your boundary lines are around your property. Regardless of whether you think you know where your property starts and ends, you owe it to yourself and your neighbors to double-check. If you are unsure about where your property lines are, most counties now offer online maps, which makes it easy to locate your property border. Hiring a qualified land surveyor to stake out your property boundary before installation is another step to consider, but could be a little cost prohibitive.
Know Your Community Regulations
An important piece of information that you should know prior to starting your new fence project is the rules and regulations that are in place in your specific community. If you belong to a homeowner’s association (HOA), it is pretty likely that they have certain fence regulations concerning fence height, materials, and even color.
If you don’t live in an HOA, there will still be some type of codes and zoning laws that will influence what type of fence you choose to install. This is especially true if your house is on a corner lot since a tall fence in the front yard might interfere with the view of traffic approaching the intersection. Your Sarasota fence company may be familiar with local legislation, but it is your responsibility as the homeowner to ensure that your new fence falls within the local regulations.
Maintaining Your Fence
Fence maintenance is another important part of good fence etiquette. Like other parts of your home, a fence requires regular maintenance in order to be kept safe and attractive. Depending on the material of your fence, it can have an impact on the maintenance requirements. Some materials, like wood, need more regular cleaning and resealing. Alternatively, a fence made of vinyl or metal will require far less maintenance. Remember that as the fence owner, you are responsible to clean and maintain both sides. If your fence begins to age or starts to lean, it’s up to you to have it repaired or replaced.
Consider a Good Neighbor Fence
The last fence tip we’ll discuss is the placement of your fence. Depending on the type of fence you plan to build, one side might be more attractive than the other. It’s common practice to face the finished side of the fence, also known as the “good” side, toward the street and your neighbor’s yard. However, if you choose to install a neighbor-friendly Florida residential fence that has an identical look on both sides, such as an aluminum or vinyl fence, and also certain wood styles, then this is an issue you won’t need to worry about. Let the fence experts at H&Y Fence show you the many options of fencing we have that look great from either side.
A Variety of Styles From Your Sarasota Fence Company
When deciding which fence types will meet your home and family’s needs, as well as keep you in good standing with your neighbors, H&Y Fence offers a variety of residential fence options to choose from, including wood fencing, chain link fence, vinyl fence, and aluminum fencing. Additionally, H&Y Fence offers a variety of DIY options if you decide you want to install the fence yourself.
Ready To Start Your Florida Residential Fence Project with a Reputable Sarasota Fence Company?
Sarasota fence company, H&Y Fence, is ready to help you from the planning of your fence to its installation. We’re here to make sure you don’t run into any issues along the way and bring quick resolutions if you do! Try our instant quote tool and receive an immediate preliminary quote. Contact us with any questions or call us at (941) 379-3444 and talk to our friendly, knowledgeable staff! Learn about the H&Y Fence difference today!
