You love the idea of having picnics or playing catch with your kids in your yard, but you might not love the idea of your neighbors watching your every move. Installing a fence around your property can give you some privacy while increasing the security and safety of your home.
However, there are some possible downsides of adding a fence to consider before giving the project a green light. Here are some of the biggest pros and cons of a backyard privacy fence:
Pro: Enjoy Your Yard in Peace
Even if you get along well with your next-door neighbors, you might not want to see them every time you set foot in your backyard. Adding a wooden or vinyl privacy fence around your property means that the neighbors won't be able to see you as you picnic, relax, or play with your pets or kids.
A privacy fence keeps people from seeing into your yard and blocks noise to and from your yard. If you don't want the neighborhood to hear your conversations or if you don't want to listen to what your neighbors are talking about, your fence can provide a sound buffer. For complete privacy, the fence should have closer spaced pickets and be at least six feet in height.
Con: Can Offend Your Neighbors
Some diplomacy is required if you're going to install a fence around your property. If you install the fence without telling your next-door neighbors first, they might be offended or interpret the fence as your family being standoffish. They might also have concerns about the location of your fence, particularly if they think it's on their side of the property line.
Good communication is a must to avoid potential disputes with the people who live next to or behind you. Some things you can do to keep the peace include:
- Tell your neighbors about the fence before you put it in.
- Make sure the good side of the fence faces your neighbors' properties.
- Confirm the location of your property line before installing the fence.
Pro: Keep Your Kids & Pets Safe
If you have kids or pets, or both, you don't want them running into the street or wandering away from home. You also don't want strangers coming into the yard to talk to or lure away your child or pet. When you put a fence around your property, you create a safe place for children and pets to play.
When you choose your fence, keep in mind your pets’ behaviors. If you have a dog who jumps, you might want to pick a taller fence. If your dog's a digger, install the fence deep enough that they can't burrow under it.
Con: Might Violate Your HOA's Rules
If you live in a community with a homeowner's association (HOA), there might be rules regarding your fence. Some HOAs have regulations concerning fence height, material, and style. You don't want to install a six-foot wood privacy fence only to learn later that the maximum height allowed is five feet, and the fence needs to be vinyl.
Before you put in your fence, review your HOA bylaws and rules. It's also a good idea to check in with your municipality, as it might have rules about fence size and type. Depending on your location, you might also need a permit before you put up a fence.
Pro: Increases Your Property's Security
A fence can make your property more secure, as Zillow points out. A potential trespasser or intruder is more likely to skip over a property with a fence around it, as it makes it more challenging to get in. Your fence can also keep would-be trespassers safe. For example, if you have a pool with a fence around it, neighborhood kids are less likely to get past the fence to go for a swim.
Con: Requires Maintenance
You'll want to take care of your fence to keep it sturdy and looking good for years to come. While most fences are relatively low maintenance, they do require some attention. For example, a wood fence will need to be stained or sealed to protect from the elements, and a vinyl fence may need to be washed every few months to avoid stains.
Pro: Can Boost Your Home's Value
One final reason you might consider installing a privacy fence: it can give your home value a boost. A fence can increase your property's curb appeal and sense of security. Even if you're not planning on selling any time soon, installing a fence today can mean you get a little more for your home should you ever put your property on the market.
If you find that the pros of adding a privacy fence far outweigh the cons, HOA Affordable Fence Builders can help you get the fence you need. We offer a wide range of fence styles and materials and are well-versed in the rules and requirements of HOAs. Contact us for a quote today.
