A backyard makeover can give people more space to relax, room for entertaining, or new features to enjoy. No matter what the desired makeover, it begins with a plan. The best option for the project’s ultimate planning and execution is to consult with a professional landscaper.

The other alternative is a software program that enables individuals to choose different features around the specified space to see how they’ll look. Start with a dream landscape and work to narrow down the available choices. Keep the following in mind when planning a backyard makeover.

Budget

Even a small makeover can be expensive and will depend on multiple factors. It’s important for individuals to decide how much they’re willing to invest in the makeover. Always expect the cost to be more than anticipated as the price of materials can fluctuate widely over time.

Purpose

The first step is to ascertain what’s to be accomplished with the makeover. Some want to create a cozy retreat, a place for entertaining, or a kid-friendly environment. Unless individuals are handy or enjoy puttering around the garden, choose low-maintenance options.

Likes and Dislikes

It can be helpful to walk around the area to be rejuvenated. Take stock of what’s liked and disliked, as well as those things that might be salvaged and incorporated into the new design. That may include removing trees, bushes and existing flower beds.

For those that live in locations rich in wildlife, it may be prudent to keep out deer and other unwanted animals with a fence. Individuals may have their heart set on specific plantings, but let reality be a guide. All plants simply don’t grow well in some areas and may need more time and care to survive than individuals have.

Materials

There are dozens of materials with which to create the makeover, from concrete and pavers to synthetic materials. The makeover can include ponds, fountains and waterfalls. Outdoor furnishings will need to be waterproof and depending on the size of the area, will need to be versatile and serve multiple purposes to avoid overcrowding.

Rules

Every neighborhood and community are governed by specific rules as to what’s allowable, what’s not, and will require specific permits for the work. That’s where the services of a professional are beyond compare. They’ll know the prevailing rules and be able to pull the necessary permits.

You may want to replace your fence for any number of reasons. You may simply want to update the appearance or it may not be functional for your current needs. However, there are signs that indicate your fence actually needs to be replaced and the signs are easy to spot, depending upon the material with which its constructed.

Cost

It can be more cost effective to replace an entire fence that’s been installed for several years rather than trying to hold it together any longer. You don’t want to invest any substantial amount of money into a fence that will only last a couple of more years before it must be replaced anyway.

Damage

Chipping, cracking and splitting – or missing boards of wooden fencing – is a sure sign the fence needs to be replaced. It’s an easy matter to replace a single board, but when entire sections are missing boards, it’s unsightly. Non-wooden fencing can experience damage in the form of chipping, cracking and splitting that’s unpleasant to view and comprises the integrity of the structure.

Leaning

A leaning fence is a sign that its lost structural strength. If a single section is leaning, it can often be repaired or replaced. If there’s a generalized leaning along the entire fence, it’s time to be replaced.

Loose & Missing Hardware

Fences use metal fasteners that can encompass nails to screws to hold all the pieces together. Over time, the hardware can rust or loosen due to wind, rain and salt spray. You have a choice of replacing the entire fence or making repairs, depending on the age of the fence. The fence may sustain further damage by trying to repair it.

Rotting

Rot is a common problem in areas of high humidity and rainfall. Florida residents have the additional concerns of hurricanes that result in storm surges and high winds that can exacerbate any existing problems. Signs of rot will appear on fencing where it’s closest to the ground and while preservatives can help, eventually a full-blown case of rot will set in.

Most homeowners know the value of including a gate in their fence installation, but many people overlook the benefits of a lock. They assume that the mere presence of a gate will deter untoward actions. Whether you choose a manually operated or convenient electronic option, every fence gate should have a lock.

1. Safety

Your fence gate provides completion of a solid enclosure where children and pets can play in safety. Without a lock, anyone can enter the property at will by simply pushing open the gate. Children can do the same. Be sure to install locks above the reach of children and pets. Canines have been known to learn how to operate manual locks.

2. Theft Protection

You may have expensive vehicles, outdoor furnishings, lawn equipment and other assets that you’ve worked hard to acquire. Without a gate lock, anyone from your neighbor to a thief can come in and make off with your valuables.

3. Liability

If you’ve never discovered that someone has entered your property to enjoy the amenities, consider yourself lucky. There are an increasing number of people that pay no attention to boundaries. They think nothing of slipping onto your property to use your pool, spa, hot tub, or trampoline. In the course of their marauding, they can injure themselves on toys or tools left in the yard. Depending upon the exact circumstances, your homeowner’s insurance may not cover the costs of any damage or injuries an intruder sustains. You could be liable for the expenses.

4. Insurance Requirements

You probably have items in your yard with the potential to cause an injury or that would be expensive to replace. Good examples are pools and spas and the chemicals to maintain them, treehouses, ziplines, swing sets, trampolines and even ordinary outdoor grills. Installing a strong gate lock can be a requirement of your homeowner’s policy.

5. Deterrent

A fence will discourage most people from unauthorized entry, but others will assume you’re hiding something valuable. A securely locked fence gate is a powerful deterrent to would-be intruders. Few individuals will want to take the time to scale your fence if they can’t gain entry through the gate.

One of the most common problems for those desiring a fence is underestimating the cost. There are many factors to be considered and the fencing itself is just one aspect. A number of variables will determine the final cost of the project. The following are five elements that every individual should consider before erecting a fence.

Yard Size

A smaller yard will obviously cost more to fence than a large one since it will take less material. It’s a good idea for individuals to measure the area to be fenced before they talk to an installer. They should also know the purpose they want the fence to serve. It’s possible that a smaller area would work equally well for uses such as a play area or dog fence.

Material

The type of material selected for the fence will significantly impact the price. Individuals have a choice of wood and chain link to aluminum and PVC. In Florida, one of the most popular choices is SimTek® due to its environmentally-friendly profile and its ability to withstand hurricane force winds.

Soil Composition

Few people think about their soil in any terms other than their lawn. However, the type of soil in which the fencing will be installed will have a substantial impact on the cost. Sandy soil may require deeper postholes and/or concrete for stability, while loamy ground can require larger posts or footings. Clay is hard and difficult to dig in and silty soil provides stability problems when it gets wet.

Land Slopes

Hills and uneven terrain present special challenges and will require extra work by installers. They may need to bring in heavy equipment to level the ground or otherwise make it more amenable to the installation. That will also entail more labor costs.

Permits

Every municipality has permit requirements that must be met before a fence can be erected and the costs can vary widely. The installer will be able to obtain the permit and its cost will be figured into the cost of the installation.

One of the most common reasons for having a fence installed is for the safety of children and pets. Most people would be surprised at how quickly small toddlers can move when they’re determined to get somewhere. Professional fence installers can erect fencing for pools, the entire property, or just a portion of your yard for a variety of safety concerns.

Chain link is the fencing of choice for containing children and pets, but there are many other styles and materials from which to choose. A professional fence installer can present all the available options and assist you in selecting the fencing that best fits your budget and any prevailing architectural considerations.

Children

Youngsters love to climb and explore. That necessitates fencing that a child can’t climb over and doesn’t provide enough room for them to crawl under. Fences can be equipped with automatically locking gates and other preventative methods to provide an additional level of safety.

Fencing should be tall enough to prevent anyone from reaching over the fence. Chain link fencing can also be equipped with privacy screening or slats. It’s effective but not as aesthetically pleasing to view. Vines, bushes and other plantings can be installed for an eco-friendly privacy option.

There are other types of fencing that emulate the appearance of stone, wood and granite. Materials are available in multiple heights, styles and colors. The fencing offers an alternative that requires little maintenance, will last for years, and is able to withstand hurricane force winds.

Pets

If you get a puppy, there’s no way to know if he/she will be an escape artist that prefers to jump, dig or climb their way out of confinement. Fence professionals can help you determine the height of the fence you’ll need based on the dog’s adult size. Fencing can be designed with automatically locking gates and methods to aid in keeping pets, wildlife and intruders from scaling it.

There are also underground preventative measures that can be incorporated during the installation for pets that dig or are small in size. Even if a dog is small in stature, the fence will need to be tall enough to prevent passersby from reaching into the fence and scooping up your canine companion.

For individuals that want a more regimented approach to their community, a house covered by a home owner’s association (HOA) offers a number of benefits. They can provide amenities, a means of controlling property values, and they may take care of chores such as mowing. An HOA also comes with a variety of rules and regulations.

HOAs are very meticulous about their guidelines and have no problem enforcing them which can result in a hefty fine. It’s critical that individuals know the rules in their community before erecting a fence or making any major changes that have the potential of running afoul of the HOA. Always obtain written HOA approval before initiating any changes.

Fencing

There will be rules governing the height of a fence, the type of materials that are acceptable for use, and even regulations as to if you can install a fence at all. You could face fines for every day that the fence violates HOA rules or you could be forced to move it, alter it, or completely take it down.

Paint

If you’re looking to add a little distinction with a colorful new door or other outwardly visible change – think again. HOAs view violations of conformity, appearance, overall style and aesthetics very seriously.

Holiday Decorations

Another common area in which HOAs regulate the environment is through holiday decorations. An HOA will have guidelines for when holiday decorations can go up, when they must be taken down, and the type of decorations that are allowable. The HOA will determine the hours during which the lights can be operated and sound levels for animated or inflatable decorations.

Pets and People

The breed, size and number of pets allowed will be strictly enforced, while some HOAs ban pets of any kind. There will also be restrictions in place as to the number of people that can occupy a home and the length of time that someone can stay for an extended visit.

Other Guidelines

HOAs typically have rules about where trash receptacles can be stored, their placement when it’s time for trash pick-up, how long they can be left in sight, and recycling. If you live in an HOA, there will be regulations about where you can park vehicles and a pass may need to be requested for visitors. Don’t forget to keep up the HOAs maintenance standards on your home and fence.

Installing a fence at your new home isn’t rude and it doesn’t mean you’re antisocial. It does give you a sense of safety and security, especially if you have children, pets, or elders living in the home. A fence is effective for preventing access to the property by unwanted people and animals.

It typically takes four months for people to feel comfortable in a new house and begin to consider it home. Part of the reason for that is unfamiliarity with the neighborhood and those living around you. It’s important that you take steps to make the inside environment as welcoming as possible with familiar belongings before taking on the task of erecting a fence.

Safety

Your home is the place where you can relax and feel safe in your environment. Fencing provides safety for children and allows them to play without worrying about them wandering into the street, onto unsafe terrain, or the yards of other people. The same is true for protecting the family dog.

Security

A fence can provide peace of mind knowing loved ones, pets and valuable possessions are protected by a barrier to entry. It’s also an important security measure if you’re a senior. The elderly are often the target of scams and break-ins, even in the quietest of communities.

Gardening Options

There are many ways to garden, from raised beds to vertical options. Fencing can provide the backdrop and support to indulge an interest in vertical growing of fruits and vegetables to flowering vines.

Protection Against the Elements

Florida lies in the path of any number of tropical storms and hurricanes each year. There are fencing materials available that are highly attractive, require almost no maintenance, and can withstand hurricane-force winds. They’re able to provide a disruption in winds that can cause property damage. Fencing materials that resist heat and are non-combustible are also available to protect your new home.

Erecting a fence on your property is more complicated than you may anticipate. There are legal regulations that must be adhered to and permits that will be required. However, the process of installing a fence all begins with knowing the exact location of your property lines.

Installing a fence without knowing where your property lines are can result in legal action by adjacent land owners. Without that knowledge, you can easily find yourself responsible for removing and relocating your freshly erected fence. It can also affect your ability to insure your home.

Check Your Deed

The deed to your property will have a legal description of your property and its boundaries. Older deeds may not include the information and will refer you to an older document. However, older documents may reference landmarks or other features that don’t exist any longer.

Plat Map

A plat map is a document that defines property lines and includes data about structures, elevations, and bodies of water. A plat map may be included as part of your deed and if not, you can view it at the city or county assessor’s office or online in some locales.

Perform a Survey

One of the easiest ways to determine exactly where your property lines are is to have a new survey performed. It’s a very precise measurement that identifies where all existing boundaries are located. The cost of a survey will vary among companies licensed to do the task.

Stakes and Markers

When a survey of your property was made, the survey company will have left a wooden stake or metal marker to mark the boundaries. If that marker is still available, you can tell where your property lines lie. The markers may be flush with the ground or sticking up several inches above the ground.

Installing a fence is more difficult than most people anticipate. Many begin a fence installation as a DIY project, only to discover that it’s turned into a multi-weekend project that feels overwhelming. The importance of hiring a fence professional can’t be overstated for speed, accuracy, and quality.

Expertise and Experience

A fencing professional will have performed numerous installations under a variety of conditions and in multiple types of landscapes. A professional will ensure that the fence is straight, level, and doesn’t encroach on the neighbor’s property line.

Tools

It requires more than a shovel or a posthole digger to erect a fence. There are specialized tools involved that a professional fence contractor uses regularly and with which they’re familiar that will ensure the job progresses faster.

Rules and Regulations

Each municipality has its own guidelines with which fences must comply and state mandates may also come into play. A fence professional will be cognizant of all the prevailing laws and will be able to obtain the obligatory permits required.

The Right Fence

A professional will be able to help clients choose the best fence for their needs. They’ll be able to introduce individuals to the different types of materials available that will achieve the intended goals and that will also provide an appealing aesthetic.

Quality

Hiring a fence professional will ensure that clients receive high-quality workmanship and quality fencing. As professionals, they’ll be licensed, certified, and if any problems arise they will make the needed changes or alterations at no additional charge.

Cost Savings

Last but not least is the savings that hiring a professional provides. They already have access to the needed tools, saving clients the cost of renting them or buying items that will only be used once. Their expertise and experience will prevent problems and costly mistakes. It also means clients will avoid the potential for expensive legal issues.

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.