increased security using a beautiful new fence

Choosing an Aluminum Fence: Questions to Ask Yourself

22 June 2017

Carter Hopkins

If you're looking for an attractive, low-maintenance fencing option for your yard, aluminum is a great choice. This type of fencing rarely requires painting, it won't rust or rot, and it comes in an array of different styles. However, because there are so many different types and styles of aluminum fencing available, you will have to make some decisions before buying a fence. Here are some questions to ask yourself to ensure you arrive at the best fence possible for your needs and preferences.

Are you worried about security, or just looks?

Take a moment to consider why you are getting a fence in the first place. Is your intention just to boost the looks of your property, or are you hoping that the fence keeps passersby off your land? Are you hoping the fence will keep a pet or children from leaving the yard?

If the fence is only for looks, then you can consider a shorter, decorative fence that measures three feet in height or less. Lower fences cost less, and they're easier to install. They also help preserve more of the view across your property, which may be a benefit if you have lovely orchards, mountains, or woods to admire in the background.

If you want the fence to keep a dog or your children in the yard, then it needs to be at least four feet tall. If you have a larger dog, six feet is an even better bet. You'll also need to ensure any design you choose has bars that are close enough together than your dog or kids cannot slip between them.

If your goal is to add security to your property, then you certainly need a fence that's at least six feet tall. Also, be careful to choose designs that don't have any embellishments that a potential intruder could climb on. While a determined individual could bring a ladder and climb over the fence, a lack of footholds does deter most impulsive intrusions.

Do you prefer a traditional or contemporary look?

Aluminum fencing typically offers quite a stately, traditional look. This is especially true if you choose a highly embellished fencing option, such as a design with spade-shaped finials on top. If you want your fence to have a more contemporary look, however, there are a few ways to achieve this.

• Opt for a simpler design. A fence that consists of a top and bottom rung along with numerous straight posts is a good choice.
• Choose a color other than black. A dark green, tan, or white aluminum fence looks a lot more modern.
• Stick with designs that feature angular lines rather than rounded ones.

If you're having trouble finding a fence that matches your home's exterior style, look for a fencing company that offers customized designs. Send them pictures of your home, and they can recommend styles that will coordinate well. 

Would you like the option to hang items on the fence?

Being able to decorate your fence for the various seasons allows you to add more character to your yard. If you want to hang baskets of flowers on the fence, have your fence company add hooks to the posts. This way, the hooks will match your fence. If you were to purchase them and add them after-the-fact, they may not coordinate as well.

What kind of gate do you want?

If you're going to fence in the whole yard, you'll need to include a gate in your design. Do you want a basic, swinging gate that you have to operate by hand? This is often the best choice if you're on a budget or trying to maintain as traditional a look as possible. If you don't want to have to open and close a gate by hand, look for an automated one. It will cost a bit more, but it will save you from having to get in and out of your car each time you leave!

To learn more about your fencing options, contact a business such as Tyson Fence Co.

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