Whenever building a new fence, it’s always a good idea to consider the impact it may have on your neighbors. Practicing proper fence etiquette will help ensure the experience is a positive one for you both. In this article, we’ll discuss a few aspects of fence etiquette that you should consider before beginning construction on your new fence, as well as the many options you’ll have available when using JDH Decks & Fences, an expert Georgia fence company, to install your new fence! Keep reading for some tips to help you practice proper fence etiquette.
Communication is Key
The first and most important tip in proper fence etiquette is to keep the lines of communication with your neighbors open! As part of a neighborhood community, it is always important to consider the impact that changes to your property may have on your neighbors. Although you are not required to notify them, it is a simple courtesy to discuss your plans with those who will be affected. This allows you to avoid any surprises or potential disputes in the future. You might be pleasantly surprised to find out they may be willing to share the cost of the project!
Respect Property Lines
Another important rule of appropriate fence etiquette is to make certain that your new fence is built inside your property limits. Even if you’re certain of where your property ends, you owe it to yourself and your neighbors to double-check. If you are unsure about where your property begins and ends, you should contact your local county recorder or assessor’s office. Most counties now offer online maps that you may use to locate your property border. Hiring a qualified land surveyor to stake out your property boundary before installation is another step to consider.
Know the Rules
The next fence etiquette tip is to be familiar with your neighborhood rules and local zoning laws. If you belong to a homeowner’s association (HOA), you can guarantee they have certain fence regulations, so read the fine print. Fence height, materials, and even color in your area may have been determined before you even moved in.
If you don’t live in an HOA, there are surely some local zoning laws that may influence the construction of your new fence. This is especially true if your house is on a corner lot since a tall fence in the front yard might interfere with the view of traffic approaching the intersection. Although your fence contractor may be familiar with local legislation, it is not their obligation to ensure that your new fence complies with every municipal ordinance or HOA rule.
Maintenance
Fence maintenance is another core component of fence etiquette. Like any other part of your home, a fence requires regular upkeep in order to remain safe and attractive. Different materials can have an impact on maintenance requirements. Some materials, like wood, need more regular cleaning and re-sealing. A fence made of vinyl or metal, on the other hand, will require far less maintenance. Don’t forget – it’s also your responsibility to clean and maintain both sides. If your fence begins to age or starts to lean, it’s up to you to have it repaired or replaced.
Consider a Good Neighbor Fence
The last fence etiquette tip we’ll discuss is the position or placement of your fence. Depending on the type of fence you plan to build, one side may appear more appealing than the other. It’s common practice to face the finished side of the fence, also known as the “good” side, toward the street and your neighbor’s yard. However, you might consider installing a neighbor-friendly fence that has an identical look on both sides like a Georgia aluminum or vinyl fence. Let the pros at JDH fence show you the many options of fencing we have that look great from either side.
Georgia Fence Company Offering ActiveYards
When deciding which fence types will meet your home and family’s needs, as well as keep you in good standing with your neighbors, JDH Decks & Fences, Inc offers a variety of residential fence options to choose from including, wood fencing, chain link fence, vinyl, and aluminum fencing.
JDH is also proud to be an ActiveYards dealer, the premier name in quality fencing solutions. ActiveYards delivers top-of-the-line Georgia aluminum fence and vinyl fence options that are superior in quality to others on the market. ActiveYards fences bring style, elegance, and security to your home by using the latest in cutting-edge fence technology and they protect your fencing investment with a limited lifetime warranty.
A Georgia aluminum fence offers durability and elegance while maintaining an open, visible appearance. Vinyl fencing is another Savannah, GA favorite, and comes in a variety of choices that can be styled in an open design, as well as privacy options.
Ready to start your fence project with a reputable Georgia Fence Company?
You can count on a reliable Georgia fence company like JDH Decks & Fences, Inc. to help you with your fence project. We’re here to help to make sure you don’t run into any issues along the way. Please reach out with any questions to talk to our fence professionals, or you can also call us at (912) 748-1907 or contact us online for fast, friendly service!
