Gaston Fence is a structure that encloses a yard or other area, like the fencing that keeps your dog confined. Fencing is also a sport that involves combat with sword-like weapons.
Before beginning construction, consult a property survey to ensure that the fence will be built on the correct property line. Then, locate and mark utility lines.
Fences can be a significant barrier between one’s private life and the prying eyes of neighbors or passersby. Whether the fence is made of boards, masonry, rails, or panels, it serves to delineate property lines, separate open space, restrict ingress and egress to property, and provide security. It can also serve as a visual and/or sound screen. There are many definitions of privacy, but in its simplest form, privacy involves shielding personal matters from the public or unwanted scrutiny. This could be something as simple as a custom privacy setting on social media or an email service, but it can also extend to things like the fences surrounding homes and businesses.
If you own a fence that crosses over your neighbor’s property line, it is important to be aware of who is responsible for the upkeep and repair of the fence. The biggest determining factor here is where exactly the fence sits on the boundary line between your property and your neighbour’s. If the fence is three feet inside your property, it is your responsibility to maintain and repair the fence, even if it touches your neighbour’s land. If it is only a foot or two into your neighbour’s land, you will need to consult with them before making any repairs.
In the context of crime, a fence is a criminal middleman who buys stolen goods and then resells them at a profit. They are able to do so because they typically pay thieves low prices for the stolen goods, and they can also disguise the nature of the goods by removing or altering serial numbers. Because of this, fencing plays a critical role in many criminal enterprises. If caught, fences may face serious criminal charges.
Security
A fence is a wall or barrier built for the purpose of enclosing space, restricting access to and/or egress from property, providing security, protecting property, or acting as a visual or acoustic screen. It is a physical structure and can be made of wood, wire, stone, bricks, masonry, or concrete. In addition, fences may be used to protect or enhance public areas such as parks and private yards.
A security fence is an effective first line of defense against criminal activity, preventing burglary, vandalism, and other unwanted activities by acting as a physical barrier that prevents unauthorized entry or exit to or from a property. In combination with other security measures, a fence acts as a strong deterrent and provides peace of mind for homeowners and businesses alike.
Besides being a formidable physical barrier, security fences can be enhanced with features like alarms and sensors that will alert homeowners or business owners when they detect an attempted breach. This proactive detection system buys precious time, giving the property owner the chance to assess the situation and take additional precautionary measures or notify authorities.
Security fences can also be fitted with cameras, making it possible to monitor the area inside and around your premises at all times. Especially when placed strategically, visible cameras act as a powerful deterrent and will discourage criminals from even thinking about entering your property. In combination with motion sensors, camera systems can serve as an early warning system for any suspicious behavior and will trigger loud alarms if an attempt is made to scale the fence or break through its other protective layers.
Fencing is not just about swords and backyard boundaries, it’s a major aspect of criminal activity in modern society. Fencing refers to the process by which criminals resell stolen goods, typically for a profit. These fences can be individuals or businesses, ranging from local drug dealers and gangs to petty thieves and organized crime syndicates. Those who run inns, teahouses, or brothels often function as fences by harboring criminals and receiving stolen goods to sell them.
Aesthetics
A fence is more than a simple boundary marker; it contributes significantly to the overall aesthetics of your property and, by extension, the community. A well-chosen fence accentuates your home’s architectural style and even boosts its curb appeal. Striking the right balance between aesthetics and functionality is vital to ensuring that your fence meets your functional needs while complementing your unique style.
Wooden fences provide a natural, classic look that complements various landscaping and architectural styles. Cedar and redwood stand out as premier choices for wooden fences due to their inherent resistance to insects and harsh weather conditions. Their rich color variations and distinctive grain patterns add to the visual appeal of these fences.
Metal fences offer a contemporary, sophisticated appearance that blends seamlessly with a range of outdoor landscapes. Aluminum and wrought iron are popular metal fence materials, offering clean lines and a robust structure. Vinyl fences are another modern option, with their sleek aesthetic and low maintenance requirements. They’re also available in a variety of colors and can mimic the look of traditional wood or metal fencing without the associated upkeep challenges.
Aesthetics also play an important role in determining the value of a property. A high-quality wood fence, for example, can increase the resale value of your home. In addition, it’s easy to customize the aesthetic of a wood fence with paint or stain to complement your home’s exterior.
In communities with homeowners associations (HOA), balancing functionality and aesthetics becomes an even more complex issue. HOA regulations often dictate fence construction and design, requiring that homes adhere to specific guidelines to maintain a cohesive community aesthetic. At Eastcoast Fence, we work closely with clients to develop a fencing solution that meets HOA guidelines while still providing privacy and security. We also offer tips for navigating the approval process and creating a functional fence that’s visually appealing. Keeping your fence in good shape helps to enhance its aesthetics and prolong its lifespan. Regular cleaning with a mixture of soap and water will remove dirt, mildew, and other debris. Inspecting your fence for signs of termite infestation and repairing any damage will ensure that it’s as attractive as possible.
Maintenance
When it comes to owning a fence, the key to longevity is regular maintenance. By regularly inspecting a wood or chain link fence and acting on any minor issues promptly, you can prolong the life of your investment. Whether you need to replace a loose picket, re-secure a chain link or resand a wooden board, these minor repairs can be made with relative ease and cost.
Regular cleaning of a wood fence will also help to prolong its lifespan. The use of a pressure washer can effectively blast away dirt build-up, pool / lawn chemicals residue, mold or mildew. This will also remove any moss growth and allow a fresh layer of wood to be exposed once the fence has been rinsed.
If you don’t have a pressure washer, a bucket of water and a brush will work just as well. Just remember to keep the wand at least 8-10 inches away from the wood as too much pressure can splinter the wood.
Once your fence has been washed and sanded, it is a good idea to apply some sort of protective treatment. This can be a clear preservative, semi-transparent stain or even a solid-colour paint. There are plenty of options out there, so the best one for your fence will depend on the look you are going for and your climate conditions.
A good way to test a spray-on product is by applying it to a small area of the fence. This will help you gauge how much pressure to use without causing any damage to the surface of your fence.
It is also a good idea to point sprinklers and any other water sources away from your fence, as too much moisture can cause rot, fading or greying of the wood. Keeping them as far away from the fence as possible will extend its lifespan.
If your wooden fence has any splits or cracks, they can easily be repaired by gluing them together and leaving them to dry for 24 hours before removing the tape. For more extensive damage, you may want to consider replacing the panel if it is compromised by rot or insect damage.