Choosing the right fence for your home can be a bit of a headache, can’t it? With so many styles, materials, and factors to consider, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry – at Dino Decking, we know everything there is to know about fences, and we’re here to walk you through the process.
So, whether you’re looking to boost your privacy, enhance your home’s security, or simply add a decorative touch to your garden, here are our top 7 tips for choosing the right fence with confidence.
Assess Your Needs and Goals
Before you start browsing fence designs, you’ll want to first take a step back and think about what you really want from your fence. Are you looking to create a private oasis in your backyard, or are you more concerned about keeping your pets safely contained? Perhaps you’re aiming to boost your home’s curb appeal, or maybe you simply want to make your garden safer as your little ones grow up and want to run around outdoors.
Whatever your reasons, clearly defining your goals will help narrow down your options and make the selection process much smoother.
Evaluate Different Fence Styles
Once you’ve pinpointed your needs, it’s time to explore the various fence styles available. From eco-friendly composite fencing that exude charm to modern horizontal slat designs that offer a contemporary feel, there’s a fence style out there to suit every taste and home aesthetic.
And if you’re feeling a bit lost, you might find our guide on types of fencing helpful; we break down the pros and cons of pretty much all the most common fencing options on offer in the UK, so you’ll have a solid foundation to make an informed decision.
Choose Suitable Materials
One thing we should make clear from the outset; the material that you choose for your fence will make all the difference when it comes to durability, maintenance, and your fence’s overall appearance. For example, traditional options like wood offer a natural look but require regular upkeep, while metal fences provide strength and security but may not offer as much privacy. Vinyl fencing is low-maintenance but might not have the same aesthetic appeal as other materials.
At Dino Decking, we specialise in composite fencing; it’s a modern solution that combines the best of both worlds – the natural look of wood with the durability and low maintenance of synthetic materials. Take a quick look at our best selling composite fence panels in the UK – you can even order a free sample to try them out for yourself.
Consider Maintenance Requirements
Let’s be honest, no one wants to spend their weekends constantly maintaining their fence. This is why it’s important to consider the long-term maintenance requirements of different fencing materials. For example, wood fences, while beautiful, often require regular staining or painting to maintain their appearance and protect against rot and insect damage. On the other hand, materials like vinyl and composite require minimal maintenance – usually just an occasional wash to keep them looking fresh.
Determine Legal and Council Requirements
Before you get too excited about your fence plans, remember to check your local council requirements! In the UK, you can usually install a fence around your property up to 2 ft in height, but you may need to obtain planning permission if you think yours might exceed this.
Set a Realistic Budget
As with any home improvement project, it’s important to set a realistic budget for your fencing. Remember to factor in not just the initial cost of materials and installation, but also long-term maintenance expenses. While some materials like composite might have a higher upfront cost, they could save you money in the long run due to their durability and low maintenance requirements.
It’s also worth considering the potential impact on your property value – a well-chosen fence can be a great investment.
Get a Sample from Us
Here at Dino Decking, we specialise in composite fencing, and we abide by the old adage of seeing is believing. This is why we offer samples of our fencing materials; with a sample, you can see and feel the quality of the material, check how it looks against your home’s exterior, and compare different colour options. It’s a great way to ensure you’re making the right choice before committing to a full fence installation.
The Bottom Line
While planning a new fence can be a stressful and sometimes overwhelming process, it doesn’t have to be. In considering your needs, exploring different styles and materials, and keeping practical factors like maintenance and local regulario in mind, you can find a fencing solution that not only meets your needs but also enhances the beauty and value of your home.