When the time comes to install your new fence, one of the first things you want to do before you start planning is to advise your neighbors of your intentions. Taking into account how your new fence will affect your neighbors will help ensure the experience is a positive one for both you and the people that share a property line with you. Keep reading for some tips on fence etiquette from Pensacola, FL fence company, High Steele Fencing, and get advice on how to keep the peace with those that live around you.
Open Communication is Key
The first and most important tip is to keep the lines of communication with your neighbors open! As part of a neighborhood community, it is always important to consider the impact that changes to your property may have on those who live in close proximity to you. You’re not required to notify them. However, it’s a simple courtesy to discuss your plans with those who will be affected. This allows you to avoid any surprises or potential disputes in the future. Who knows, you might find that they may be willing to share the cost of the project!
Know Your Property Lines
Another important piece of information for you to be sure of while in the planning stages for your new fence is to know the location of your property’s boundary lines. Even if you’re certain of where your property ends, you should still double-check to avoid having to reinstall part of your fence at a later date. It is relatively easy to find this information by contacting your local county or city office. Most counties offer online maps that you may use to locate your property lines. Hiring a qualified land surveyor to stake out your property boundary before installation is another step to consider, although there will be a cost associated with this.
Know Your Regulations
The next step in fence etiquette is to know your neighborhood rules and local zoning laws. If you belong to a homeowner’s association (HOA), you can guarantee they have certain fence regulations in regard to fence height, materials, and even color in your neighborhood, so read the fine print to make sure you are in compliance! If you don’t live in an HOA, there will still be local zoning laws that may influence the construction of your new fence. Your fence contractor may be familiar with local rules and regulations, but it is not their obligation to ensure that your new fence complies with every municipal ordinance or HOA rule.
Maintenance Needs
Fence maintenance is another major component of fence etiquette. Like any other part of your home, a fence requires regular upkeep in order to remain safe and attractive. Different materials have different levels of maintenance requirements. Some materials, like wood, need more regular cleaning and resealing. A Pensacola privacy fence made of vinyl or an aluminum fence, on the other hand, will require far less maintenance. Be mindful that it’s also your responsibility 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 etiquette tip we’ll talk about is the position or placement of your fence. Depending on the type of fence you plan to build, one side may appear more attractive than the other. It’s common practice and considerate 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 install a neighbor-friendly fence that has an identical look on both sides, such as a Pensacola privacy fence in vinyl, a wood fence in specific styles like “board-on-board,” an aluminum fence, or even a chain link fence with added privacy slats, then you both get to enjoy the most attractive side! Let the pros at High Steele Fencing show you the many options of fencing we have that look great from either side.
Only the Best Pensacola, FL Fence Company Offers ActiveYards
When deciding which fence types will meet your home and family’s needs, as well as keep you in good standing with your neighbors, High Steele Fencing offers a variety of residential fence options to choose from, including wood fencing, chain link fence, vinyl, and aluminum fencing. If you are looking for a Pensacola privacy fence, then either wood or vinyl is your best choice, however if you’re looking for a more open option, then aluminum or chain link will work well.
High Steele Fencing is proud to be an ActiveYards dealer. ActiveYards is the premier name in quality fencing solutions. ActiveYards delivers top-of-the-line aluminum fence and vinyl fence options that are superior in quality to others on the market. ActiveYards fences bring style, elegance, and security to your home by using the latest in cutting-edge fence technology and they protect your fencing investment with a limited lifetime warranty.
Are You Ready to Get Started With a Top Rated Pensacola, FL Fence Company?
High Steele Fencing is here to help you with your new fence project, from the design to the installation. You can count on us to help you decide which type and style best meets your needs. Take time to browse our gallery and read the testimonials to see why High Steele is a favorite Pensacola, FL fence company. Please call us at (850) 889-4059 or contact us online with any questions or concerns regarding your fence installation process. If you would like to get a preliminary quote, use our convenient, quick instant quote feature! We look forward to getting your new fence project underway soon!
