If you like trees and want to add them to your landscape, there are numerous things to consider before actually planting if the tree will be located near a fence. It doesn’t matter whether the fence is yours or your neighbors – the same considerations will apply.

Space

The space you need for planting will definitely be a factor. For younger trees, you’ll need enough room to dig a hole that’s at least twice the size of the root ball. The hole will also need to be deep enough so the tree’s root system will fit entirely within it. If it’s an older tree, to adhere to those conditions you may have to plant it several feet away from the fence.

Mature Attributes

You’ll definitely have to consider the attributes of the tree when it’s mature. Those include height, the width of the crown, and if it has a drooping or weeping growth habit. There may come a time when it interferes with overhead utilities if it has a significant height or damage it might cause to the fence if it doesn’t withstand storms or high winds easily.

Trees that produce blossoms in the spring, fruit in the summer, or drops its leaves in the autumn can result in some very messy, expensive, and time-consuming cleanup. Heavy or sticky fruits can cause injuries and damage homes, fences, and vehicles. Another consideration is the sturdiness of branches. Some trees are more prone to limb breakage than others and can easily destroy a fence.

Roots

Some trees never expose their roots, while others may have shallower roots that grow partly above the surface. It can make mowing difficult and dangerous. Those same roots can destroy foundations, driveways, sidewalks, and brickwork. Roots also have the potential for disrupting underground utilities.

Right of Way

No tree should interfere with the right of way to access a property. If an easement of the property is involved, you may or may not be legally allowed to plant within certain areas.

Function

What you want to accomplish with the tree is important. You may want shade, privacy, or beautification. It’s best to consult with a landscape professional who can guide you on the types of trees available that will serve your needs and won’t be detrimental to any surrounding features.

Chain link fences are a staple as a security option, but they may not fit the aesthetic of a neighborhood or the prevailing architectural style. However, there are ways to dress up a chain-link fence to make it more appealing and enhance privacy. The methods are more affordable than installing a new fence, but they’re not nearly as pretty and don’t afford the same level of privacy.

Slats

One of the easiest solutions is the installation of slats – sometimes called tube slats – specifically designed for chain link fences. They’re offered in a rainbow of colors and a couple of different styles. The slats improve privacy by about 75 percent, but don’t create a solid barrier. Small spaces between the slats will remain.

Plants

Individuals can plant vines and allow them to twine among the spaces in the fence. Flowering vines add beauty, but it will take time for the plants to accomplish their goal. Vines won’t eliminate small areas where people could peer in. The same problem exists when installing bushes and shrubs. The plantings will require time to mature, but they offer better coverage for privacy than vines.

Rolled Bamboo

Rolls of bamboo fencing/screens can be purchased and wired directly to the fence. It’s not particularly pretty, but it will elevate the level of privacy by approximately 85 percent.

Mesh Screen

These have the advantage of being wind and water permeable. They’re not necessarily the most attractive option, but privacy can be improved by 80-96 percent, depending on the density of the mesh. It’s available in different colors.

Wood Panels

There are wood panels that can be attached directly to chain link that will create a beautiful facade and provide privacy. However, permits may be required as it may be classified as an entirely new fence installation by local municipalities.

Canvas Fabric

The least aesthetically pleasing option, some individuals simply wire canvas fabric to their chain link fence. It’s available in multiple colors and will solve the problem of privacy, but it’s far from a pretty solution.

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.

Size really does matter – especially when it comes to the gate on a fence. Most people assume that a gate should simply be as large as the driveway, but there are a myriad of other factors to consider. It may seem like a simple decision, but it’s not. A professional fencing company can help with determining the appropriate size.

The primary problem with gates is that many individuals think a smaller gate provides better privacy or security, only to discover that they can barely get their car through the entryway. That doesn’t even count large mowers, boats, campers, and other types of recreational vehicles.

Common gate sizes range from 10 to 16 feet and custom sizes are available. Ordinarily, a gate should be a few inches wider than the driveway. However, that will need to be altered if a homeowner has a very small driveway or owns a large pickup truck, one with dual wheels, or a wide variety of large equipment, trailers, or RVs.

Smaller gates will cost less and be less expensive to maintain. Single and double gates are available, but a double gate will require additional room to swing open to its widest point.  Gates should always swing inward toward the property rather than outward toward traffic and sidewalks. Sliding gates are also an option and are particularly effective for those with commercial properties or large vehicles.

Even if homeowners don’t currently own an RV, boat or other vehicle, it’s a future consideration for which they should plan. As families change over the years, so do the vehicles they purchase and the recreational options they may choose.

Something else for homeowners to consider is any restrictions on height, width or style. Homeowners associations often enact restrictions. Communities may have their own guidelines. That’s why it’s a good idea to hire a professional fencing company rather than attempting a DIY project. The company will be cognizant of local regulations, be able to obtain all the required permits, and help clients select the right size gate for their fencing needs.

The vast majority of people decide to have a fence erected without much thought as to how the fence opening will be secured. A myriad of fencing options are available, along with complementary gates and locks to ensure security and safety. Custom systems can also be designed.

Gates can be equipped with locks that must be physically manipulated that include deadbolts and padlocks, knobs, and lever handles, along with cylinder locks operated with a key. A variety of electronic systems are also available that can be operated with smartphones or from the comfort of a vehicle. Gate locks also encompass electronic models that incorporate a keycard or require a specific code.

Specialized gates and locks can be created for any installation that matches the fencing to which it’s attached. The type of fencing that’s selected will depend on multiple factors. You may desire privacy or security, while others may want to enhance their property value, mute sounds coming from the street, or protect and confine children and pets.

Fencing is available in wood, aluminum, PVC, chain link, and SimTek® materials, each with its own unique features. PVC is available in more than 30 distinct and unique decorative styles that won’t crack, peel, chip, or splinter.

Aluminum fencing is offered in multiple colors and styles. It’s an elegant solution that’s also durable. It can be extremely effective for deterring intruders whether they’re human or wildlife and provides safety for children and pets. Chain link fencing is equally applicable for the same reasons, though not as fashionable in appearance.

Wood fencing can be customized in numerous ways. It’s offered in shadowbox, board-on-board, and stockade styles. All panels are custom created from high-quality, pressure-treated wood and surpasses the South Florida Hurricane Building Code.

SimTek® fencing has become a standard in hurricane-prone Florida. The fencing can withstand hurricane-force winds of up to 110 mph, along with 130 mph gusts. It’s low-maintenance and impact resistant. A proprietary molding process enables it to emulate the appearance of wood grains and granite.

Fencing is a safety precaution and it will also be a beautification project for your home that increases its value. There’s a myriad of factors to consider when installing a fence that will make the difference between being a happy homeowner or one experiencing buyer’s remorse.

Why Do You Want One?

The reason you want a fence can impact the type of fencing you choose. People typically install a fence for safety, security, privacy, to minimize road noise, conceal unattractive features, or establish boundaries.

Cost

Some barriers are more expensive than others. Others are relatively inexpensive and can be installed quickly. Certain types can be more expensive, but are far more durable, available in multiple colors, and can even withstand hurricane force winds.

Maintenance

Depending on the type of fencing, it may require regular inspections, painting or staining. Others only need to be rinsed off with a hose. You need to know how much time you realistically have to spend on maintenance duties, or if you want a minimal maintenance set-it-and-forget-it solution.

Climate Concerns

There’s a wealth of options available for fencing and some react differently to ordinary and extremes in climate conditions. Homeowners can choose wood and metal or revolutionary new materials that can be recycled at the end of their considerable lifespan.

Contractors

Choose your contractor carefully and don’t be afraid to ask for references from former clients. They should be cognizant of local rules and regulations governing fencing in the community and be able to obtain any required permits. Homeowners should expect a professional to answer the phone, not a recording.

Always obtain a written estimate, ensure the materials and work are under warranty, and don’t hire a contractor that pressures you to make immediate decisions or pay in cash. The contractor should be willing to provide information and make recommendations, but the ultimate decision is yours.

For many years, a home with white picket fence came to symbolize achievement of the American Dream. The image was first used in the 1940s and was immortalized in TV and film as the perfect accompaniment to wealth and success. Part of its popularity was psychological, representing safety and stability in response to the ravages of World War II.

Once considered a status symbol, the prevailing attitude toward the barrier has undergone a change and it’s now often viewed as a stylized version of perfection that doesn’t exist with somewhat creepy connotations. However, the innocent picket fence of Americana has darker origins.

Before coming to colonial America, the pickets of the fence – the upright “sticks” – were logs that were sharpened to a point and inserted into the ground. They were used to repel ground attacks and shield archers. They were known by the French word piquet. Pickets were one of the earliest defenses used in ancient times to protect against marauding tribes.

Early colonists also used pickets to frame their land and protect against encroachment by Native American tribes, bandits, and eventually troops sent by the King of England to quell the colonists’ rebellion. They were further used to defend against opposing troops during the Spanish-American War and the country’s Civil War.

White paint was cheap and to dress up the fences, early Americans began painting them white or using a mixture of lime and water to color them and act as a wood preservative. The white picket fence began to lose ground to chain link fencing in the 1950s as the Cold War arrived, but enjoyed a resurgence of popularity in the 1980s.

The fencing also began to obtain a creepy connotation in response to several films that portrayed them as part of a regimented lifestyle that demanded the masses conform. For many, the white picket fence remains a symbol of those that prefer to live in a “perfect” world, blind to the realities of life.

The white picket fence is a simple barrier, but its impact on the U.S. was huge. It continues to be popular fencing option for keeping children and pets safely within their own yards. It’s typically lower than other types of fencing, thereby encouraging neighborly interaction and conversation. Love it or hate it, the white picket fence has become indelibly imprinted on the psyche as a uniquely American icon.

Creating a pet proof backyard entails more than just ensuring a pet can’t get out. It must also incorporate elements to keep roaming pets out, along with the wide variety of wildlife that could potentially enter. There’s also a multitude of factors that most people don’t consider, but are essential for keeping a dog safe from harm.

Chemicals

Canines should be kept away from lawns and plants that have been treated with fertilizers, insecticides and pesticides. Even the residue can result in a toxic response and fertilizers can burn the pads on a pet’s feet.

Clean the Premises

Damp, dark and debris-filled areas are prime real estate for fleas, mosquitoes and other pests. It’s a good idea to regularly clean doghouses and wash blankets or beds dogs use. Sweeping decks, porches and patios will help keep down pests. Don’t forget to address outdoor structures and storage sheds, along with the undersides of porches and decks.

Fencing

The enclosure will require a fencing option that the canine can’t climb, jump over, or dig under. From raccoons and deer to coyotes and the potential for an occasional panther, the barrier must also prevent wild or stray animals from squeezing through slats or panels, depending upon the style of fence that’s selected. Inspect the fence regularly for weak spots.

Another area where fencing will be critical is the pool. An estimated 5,000 canines die each year from pool-related accidents. Dogs don’t intuitively know how to get out of a pool. There are no guarantees, even with dogs that have undergone training to recognize steps and they may be unable to climb a ladder.

Mow Often

Fleas, ticks and other parasites live in grass and the longer the grass, the bigger the risk that they’ll hitch a ride on your pet and eventually into the house.

Plants

Dogs like to dig, chew, and roll around in greenery. Some types of flowers and bushes are poisonous to dogs, such as amaryllis, azaleas, daffodils, and tulips. It’s best to consult with a veterinarian on poisonous plants. Owners should be prepared to remove existing plants that are toxic and use extreme caution when installing new plantings.

Trash and Recycling

Dogs are naturally curious. They’ll delve into trash cans and recycling containers not understanding the potential for danger such as chocolate or chicken bones. Don’t store trash, recycling containers, antifreeze, cleaning supplies or any type of chemicals where pets can reach them. Antifreeze is deadly to pets.

Water and Shade

Hydration and a shady spot to rest are as important to dogs as it is to their human companions. Fresh, clean water should be available at all times and there should be enough shade plants that enable dogs to get out of direct sun at any time of the day as the sun moves across the sky. Dogs experience dehydration and heat sickness just as their human counterparts and can even die without appropriate shade.

People planning a pool in Florida often forget one of the most important items required by law – a pool fence. Florida law requires every pool owner to install a barrier at least 48 inches in height for any pool that’s 24 inches or more in depth. It can’t have any gaps, openings or other entrances that a curious or unattended child could climb over, crawl under, or push through.

The pool fence must be installed in such a way to ensure it surrounds and blocks off the entire pool and it can’t have any protrusions or indentations that a child could use as a handhold. Pool fence laws apply to in-ground pools and above-ground pools. There are a number of associated laws that govern night swimming, pools and decks and similar situations, many of which new pool owners aren’t aware of until they’ve already contracted for the pool to be installed.

When selecting a pool fence, there are multiple options from which to choose. Many people automatically think of chain link fence because it’s cost effective, can be installed quickly, and is the option of choice for location near lakes and waterways. It’s a good choice and also comes with a bottom cable to prevent unwanted wildlife and pets from entering.

SimTek is another choice that provides beauty, safety, and stylishness. It’s extremely durable and easy to maintain, is available in textures that mimic wood and stone, and provides exceptional sound absorption. It’s also eco-friendly. PVC fencing is another option that is long-lasting, resistant to hurricane winds, highly decorative, and has a lifetime warranty.

For a luxury look that combines elegance with functionality, aluminum fences are an aesthetically pleasing alternative to chain link that’s available in multiple colors and styles. It’s a great way to meet pool protection laws. The rails and gates can be customized for complete safety. Wood stockade fencing is also available.

A pool is a wonderful way to cool off and a focal point for entertaining. It’s also essential that pool owners be in compliance with laws for the safety of small children that don’t understand the danger.