Keeping The Peace When Installing A Fence That Borders Your Neighbor's Yard
You may really want a privacy fence around the backyard, but also may worry about whether your neighbors will feel rejected or otherwise annoyed. Following certain points of etiquette will make fence installation a friendlier action. That's true even if your main goal actually is to put up a barrier between you and the neighbors.
Talk to Them First
Unless your family and your neighbors on each bordering side are on unfriendly terms, it's a good idea to let them know about the upcoming project ahead of time. They won't have to feel surprised when they see the crew show up and start digging holes for posts and placing wood or vinyl panels on those structures. They won't wonder whether they might have done something to cause the initiation of this home improvement project or whether your family doesn't like them.
In addition, they might even appreciate a privacy fence between their residence and yours that they don't have to pay for.
Choose an Appropriate Fence Style
It's best not to have something too unusual installed if the fence will border other residential properties. Sticking with a design and color that blends in well with the neighborhood is friendlier than choosing a bold hue and a style that is too attention-getting. A fence painted turquoise and red may be appealing to the owner, but it probably will be annoying to the neighbors.
Also, municipalities and neighborhoods commonly have zoning regulations that prohibit this sort of thing. You'll need to check zoning restrictions in regard to height and design or ask your fencing contractor to do so.
Be Polite About the Finished Sides
Proper etiquette includes building the fence so the decorative sides face the neighbors. That's the front of the fence. The back faces the owner's yard. This type of construction also makes the fence owner's property look better from the outside.
A fence installation professional also can build structures that are identical on both sides. That may be a preferred option.
Maintenance
Once the fence is finished, you should do any routine maintenance required so it never becomes an eyesore. This is mainly a consideration with wood fencing, as that material is vulnerable to rotting and to being chewed on by insects and rodents. Wood must be stained or painted often enough to prevent decay, and the owners should inspect it regularly to make sure no bugs have moved in and squirrels aren't gnawing on it. Damaged boards should be replaced promptly.
If you've chosen a vinyl fence instead, occasional cleaning of the panels with a garden hose usually is all that's necessary. Sometimes wiping away algae buildup or stubborn dirt with a soft cloth and a bit of dish soap may be advisable.
Contact a company like Holman Fence LLC for more information and assistance.
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