In its purest form, a living fence uses hedge plants placed close enough together to form a living barrier. It functions in much the same way as a manufactured fence. However, the concept of a living fence has evolved over the years to include non-traditional hedge plants. Some people are now choosing to use taller growing plants such as bamboo to create privacy and non-traditional flowering varieties.

Living fences have been used around the world for centuries. They marked off property lines, kept out wildlife, and separated crops or animals. Today, living fences have gained in popularity as an eco-friendly option and an alternative to manufactured fencing. They have a variety of advantages besides adding beauty and value to properties.

Less Expensive

A living fence is less expensive than traditional manufactured fencing to install. Individuals can purchase and plant the hedge fence themselves and those that don’t feel confident in their skills can have a landscaping company do the work. The initial expenditure for the plants is the primary expense.

Little Maintenance

The fencing doesn’t require painting, staining, repairs or periodic replacement. When hedge plants are used for a living fence, they will need to be trimmed to control size, shape and to encourage new growth. As long as their moisture and soil requirements are met, the plants will live for many years.

Control the Flow

A living fence is an easy way to control the movements of people and pets on a property. While they won’t deny access to the most determined of people or animals, it will deter the vast majority of domestic animals, wildlife, unwanted visitors, and nosy neighbors.

Edge Habitat

One of the benefits of a living fence is the ecological diversity it supports. They’re an excellent source of shade for multiple types of bird species, along with squirrels. It gives them a place to rest and hide from predators. Some smaller species may even nest in a living fence. If a flowering form of hedge is planted, it can function as a source of food for bees, birds and butterflies.

Noise, Wind and Cooling

Plants are a natural windbreak and helps reduce noise from outside sources. A living fence helps enrich soil retain moisture, resulting in less watering and lower water bills. Plants of any kind contribute to the environment and can help keep properties cooler.

Before calling in the professionals to install a fence, individuals should actually do some measuring on their own. It will help in budgeting for the project and facilitate communications with the fencing professional about what’s wanted. A fencing specialist will still make an on-site visit to view the area to determine if there are any extenuating circumstances such as thin soil, slopes, property curves, obstacles, or utility lines that must be considered.

Property Lines

It’s critical to identify exactly where the property lines are located. Without knowing where property lines are, the fence could inadvertently end up on the neighbor’s property. If that happens, it will need to be moved and a neighbor could even initiate a lawsuit if they want to be unpleasant.

Some municipalities allow fences to be erected on the property line, while others require it to be set a specific distance away from the property line. Let neighbors know about the fence, as they may be partially responsible for its upkeep, depending on local regulations.

Measuring

Measure the perimeter of the property in feet and mark each corner of the property with a stake. Individuals will need someone to help them since the tape measure will need to be taut when measuring. For individuals that decide to install the fence themselves, they’ll need to run a taut string around the perimeter to help ensure the fence line is erected in a straight line. Mark where any gates will go how wide they will be.

Professional Expertise

Fencing panels typically come in 6 or 8-foot panels so it can be helpful to divide the total perimeter footage by the size of the panel. However, there will also be posts to consider and there’s no way of knowing the space they’ll require until the type of fencing is selected. It’s just one of the ways in which the expertise and knowledge of a professional fencer is invaluable.

Gardening enthusiasts often practice their skills and enhance their fence line with plants. It’s an especially popular option where space is at a premium. The trick to this type of fence enhancement is choosing vines and shrubs for vertical gardening that are easily contained. There are numerous options that won’t litter the lawn, requires little care, and emit an enticing aroma.

Clematis

One of the most popular vines is the clematis, known as the “Queen of Climbers.” They’re easy to grow, available in a multitude of colors and color combinations, and have large, showy blossoms. They’re not recommended for growing around children and pets as they’re mildly toxic if ingested.

Morning Glory

Fast growing climbers, they have attractive heart-shaped leaves and a wealth of colors is available. Blooms open in the morning and last for several hours. One variety – moon flower – blossoms at night. They like full sun, but may need some protection from hot afternoon sun in South Florida. They easily self-sow and are highly attractive to bees, butterflies and hummingbirds.

Honeysuckle

The honeysuckle produces fragrant flowers from summer through autumn followed by red berries. The easy-to-grow climber can overwhelm a fence if flowered stems aren’t cut back by a third in late summer. Hummingbirds like them.

Ivy

There’s an ivy to accommodate any preference and there are very few places where ivy won’t thrive. Be sure and choose the climbing variety and not the creeping type. Keeping it contained is a simple matter of cutting it back.

Hydrangeas

These bushes can grow up to 15 ft. in height and have a stylish appearance with clusters of pom-pom type blossoms. They like moist and well-drained soil. Colors encompass hues of pink and red to blue, lavender, white and green. Acidic soils are best for blue varieties, alkaline soils for pinks and reds.

There’s no “right” fence height, but it’s important that you know why you’re installing a fence. Most people install a fence for safety, security or privacy. Others want to establish a boundary between their property and their neighbor. No matter the reason for the fence, there are some mitigating circumstances that can curtail the height of the fence you want.

Anyone that’s governed by a homeowner’s association (HOA) will need to check with the organization first. HOAs have very strict rules about the height, type and materials for fencing, if it’s allowed at all. The second obstacle could be local governmental regulations that limit the height of a fence and how it must be erected. For instance, stockade fencing must be installed with the “pretty” side out.

Boundaries

Fencing for boundary lines can range from 3 to 6 feet in height. Some homeowners choose to have a 3-ft. fence in front with a 6-ft. fence for the back of the property for added privacy. In many locales, your neighbor may have to approve the fence and its height prior to installation.

Privacy

If privacy is your primary goal, you’ll need a fence of at least 6-ft. in height. That height is sufficient to prevent passing strangers and nosy neighbors from peering in. For the ultimate in privacy, fences are available in heights of 7-8 ft. However, obtaining approval for a fence that tall may prove difficult.

Unwanted Intruders

A 6-ft. fence is typically tall enough to discourage most forms of wildlife. The exception to that would be deer that are capable of jumping an 8-ft. fence. Keeping humans out of your yard is a little more difficult. A 6-ft. fence will usually discourage a casual intruder, while a motivated burglar may not be so easily deterred even by an 8-ft. fence. For those instances, spikes and similar embellishments can be added to the top.

Kids and Pets

Anyone with children or pets know how quickly they can go over or under a barrier. Never underestimate a youngster’s ability to climb and crawl. To keep young children in, a 4-ft. fence will suffice, but to prevent contact with passersby, choose a 6-ft. fence. This is also true for canines – they can jump over, crawl under, slip between pickets, and even crawl up the fence if they can get a toe-hold. Make sure a self-locking secure gate is included in the design and specially designed barriers for small dogs and puppies.

Pools and Gardens

A 4-ft. fence is typically sufficient for gardens to keep out rabbits and other wildlife and regulations usually stipulate a 4-ft. fence for pools. Other safety measures will be mandated for pool fences and height from the ground.

You may be proud of your new fence, but your neighbor may not share your enthusiasm. The fence you install may have ramifications for the neighbor(s) yards. A significant portion of the population display emotions ranging from puzzlement and indignation to outright anger over a fence. To head off potential disputes, you should observe proper fence etiquette.

Inform Your Neighbor

It’s just a common courtesy to have a friendly conversation with any neighbors that could be impacted and let them know what you want to do. Depending on local regulations, they may be financially responsible for a portion of the upkeep. If you have a homeowner’s association (HOA), never erect a fence unless you get approval in writing first.

Boundaries

Before erecting any type of fence, it’s critical that you know exactly where your property line is located. Impinging on your neighbor’s property by as little as an inch can mean you have to take down the fence and relocate it. It may be convenient to rely on the property’s plat map but to be absolutely positive of your boundaries, hire a surveyor that will place physical markers on the lines.

In or Out

Bear in mind that standard procedure is to install a fence with the finished or “pretty” side facing outward. If you want to view the same beauty of the fence on the inside as the rest of the world sees, consider a double-sided fence.

Maintenance

Few things are as distasteful to look at as a fence that’s fallen into disrepair. Fences that are sagging, leaning, have fallen prey to insects, or needs painting or staining is unpleasant and lowers home values. If you don’t have time to perform the proper maintenance, there are a variety of fencing material options that are almost completely maintenance-free and will even withstand hurricane force winds.

Fencing Contractors

The happiness and satisfaction you have in your new fence will depend largely on the experience, reliability and professionalism of your contractor. Compare installers and choose with care.

Faced with the extensive variety of colors available with modern fencing, many individuals throw up their hands in frustration – after all, it’s just fencing. However, the color of fencing is just as important as the type and style of fencing that’s chosen. When fencing is installed, it’s one of the first things that others will notice and they’ll form an opinion about the property, residents, and even the neighborhood based on its appearance.

Fencing is an extension of the home and while it needs to be complementary, it doesn’t necessarily have to be the same color. It’s a way to showcase your style, but the goal is to achieve a balanced appearance, while remaining within the parameters and reasons for installing the barrier.

It’s also a good idea to consider the colors of the plantings, lawn furniture, decks and other aspects of the yard when working toward a balanced perspective. Don’t forget to consult with the homeowner’s association (HOA) if there is one. There are typically stringent guidelines concerning fencing.

Make a Statement

For homes in shades of black, brown or grey, a contrasting color that adds a touch of color can be used to create a dramatic statement. Conversely, for homes with unique exteriors that demand attention on their own, a fence in white, neutral or subtle colors will complement the landscape without detracting from the colorful statement that is the house.

Shades of blue and gray siding can easily be paired with a white fence for preference. Homes that feature a textured exterior such as brick, stucco or stone look stunning when highlighted by a bronze or natural aluminum fence. If the home has shutters or trim of a specific color, matching the fence colors to those features is an easy way to bring together all of those elements and create an accent point.

Old or New

Take the age of the home into consideration when choosing fencing. Many of the modern colors and styles may not go well with a structure built in the 1950s. There are dozens of color selections that will complement newly constructed homes and those that are relatively new. It can be helpful for individuals to take a photo of their home to their fencing specialist.

Individuals seeking to enhance the beauty of their home through the use of fencing have several choices, each with its own set of advantages. There are several things to consider when selecting fencing material. Homeowners will need to decide, beginning with much they want to spend on their fence and the type of material they prefer. It’s always best to consult with a fencing professional before making any definitive decisions.

Aluminum

Available in multiple styles, colors and designs, aluminum fencing brings an elegant and sophisticated look to any property. It’s equally stylish around homes, commercial properties, city parks, schools, and industrial complexes. It’s versatile, won’t rust, and can be topped with spikes for an extra layer of security. Aluminum is low maintenance and it’s a standout in the beauty category with all the stateliness of wrought iron.

PVC

The material is offered in an extensive range of sizes, colors, styles and patterns from which to choose. PVC enhances the beauty of properties, can be installed with a variety of decorative tops, and retains its beauty against UV rays and all types of weather. It also withstands severe winds, is relatively maintenance-free, and won’t rot, peel, chip or splinter. It’s unattractive to insect pests.

SimTek®

Through a special manufacturing technique, SimTek® fencing can be made to emulate the appearance and texture of wood and high-end stone. It’s tough enough to withstand hurricane-strength winds and won’t degrade under UV rays, ocean surf or biologicals such as algae. It’s not attractive to insect pests and is an excellent sound buffer.

Wood

Fencing made of different types of wood are available and the cost will partly depend on the type of wood that’s selected. It’s offered in multiple styles that can enhance the value and beauty of homes while providing an additional level of safety. However, it does have some disadvantages. It may need to be painted or stained and it can fall prey to termites and other insects.

Fences are wonderful constructions that provide privacy, security, buffer outside noises, and beautify properties. They can look great for many years, but they’re also prone to some common problems of which people may not be aware until they occur. The following are the top 5 most common fence problems individuals may experience.

Sagging and Leaning

Many fencing materials are susceptible to sagging and leaning, particularly if it was a DIY installation. Fences that are erected in locations subject to high winds are at an increased risk of problems. Poor drainage and other soil conditions can rot and weaken fence posts, making them unable to support the weight of the fence.

Mold and Mildew

Both situations result in unsightly stains that ruin the appearance. Depending upon the material used, it can eventually lead to the degradation of the posts and fence.

Insects

There are multiple types of insect pests that will attack wood fencing. Their boring and breeding habits leave the wood vulnerable to the elements and rot. When they tire of the fence, they may move on to houses and outbuildings.

Boards, Pickets and Panels

Wind, insects, falling limbs, and failing hardware are all problems that can result in the loss of fence boards, pickets and panels.

Property Lines, Laws and Neighbors

Those three ingredients can cause more problems with fencing than all the others combined. It’s essential that individuals know exactly where their property lines are before any fence installation can commence. There are numerous rules, regulations and laws that will apply to fences ranging from heights, materials and styles depending where an individual is located. Permits will need to be obtained prior to installation.

It’s always a good idea to let neighbors know a fence will be going up. They may have a laundry list of concerns, complaints and objections since they may be responsible for a portion of its upkeep.

Hire a Professional

The top 5 problems with fencing are all reason to hire a professional fence installer. They can’t prevent disputes with neighbors, but they can help with selecting the best fencing for the client’s needs, will be cognizant of local fence regulations, and can obtain needed permits. A fencing expert can even assist individuals in determining where their property line lies and is experienced in installations in all types of soils.

Homeowners insurance will typically cover the cost of a damaged fence, but it will depend largely on how the damage was caused. Fence damage may fall under the “other structures” coverage of the policy and may be limited to damage that occurs as a result of vandalism or storms. It’s essential that individuals understand their policies and what it covers.

There may also be monetary limits attached to the amount of coverage provided in the form of percentages. Flood damage is typically excluded from standard coverage policies. Damage resulting from earthquakes is also excluded, even though Florida is tied with North Dakota for the fewest number of earthquakes. An earthquake is Florida is rare, but they have occurred.

Sinkholes are a very real concern for Florida residents and companies are required to offer catastrophic ground cover collapse. However, the coverage is only available as an add-on to an existing policy and individuals will incur additional costs for the coverage.

Fences can be exposed to a variety of damaging conditions and situations. While many of those may inflict damage that mars the cosmetic appearance of the fence, they won’t be covered by homeowners insurance. Fences can be struck by debris from lawn mowers, children driving “ride-on” vehicles, and landscaping mishaps – those aren’t covered. Fences afflicted with mold, fungi, insects, and normal wear and tear aren’t covered, either.

While a car crashing into a fence doesn’t happen very often, if one does damage a fence the homeowner’s policy should cover it. Individuals will also have the option of filing a claim against the driver’s auto insurance, assuming that the driver has an auto owner’s policy.

Trees and limbs falling on a fence from the policy holder’s yard are covered expenses. The insurance company can choose not to cover the damage if it decides the tree or limb fell due to negligence or lack of appropriate maintenance on the part of the homeowner.

If the damage occurs due to a neighbor’s tree, the insurance company may hold the neighbor responsible for the entire cost. The company may also choose to split the cost 50-50 between the homeowner and the neighbor, with homeowners paying the deductible.

Fences can beautify properties from the outside, but you may also want something to dress up and decorate your fence from the inside. There are dozens of creative ways to spruce up a fence that are equally applicable for solid or chain link fences. They can be utilized on the interior to brighten your view or used on the exterior to bring joy to those passing by.

Unique Planters

Planters are one of the most obvious. Additional interest comes from the creativeness of the planters themselves. Consider sections of old rain gutters, “pocket planters” for herbs made of burlap, or old tires. Canning jars and fancy bottles, old boots, wooden pallets, and even PVC pipe can be recycled and fashioned into cost-effective fence planters.

Add Lights

Battery and solar powered lights are an elegant and economical solution that doesn’t require any wiring. Individual lights are an excellent way to create ambiance or a fairy-like appearance while adding an extra level of safety within the environment. If light strings are used, they can be arranged in patterns, to spell out words, or artfully draped to beautify the fence landscape.

Artistic Design

If you have artistic skills – or know someone who does – you can paint or stencil a larger than life flower garden on your fence, a full-fledged mural to please the kids, or anything else you want. One of the most appealing aspects is that a desired design can be created in full color, a single hue, or with glow-in-the-dark paint for a one-of-a-kind look.

Colorful Cups

Specifically designed for chain link fences, the colorful plastic pieces are called “put-in-cups” and insert easily into the fence spaces. They can be utilized to create designs, spell out messages for schools, churches, birthdays, or anything else the imagination can devise.