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Fencing

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Choosing your Fence

Fences are necessary for security, privacy, keeping pets in, helping to eliminate noise or wind, and defining boundaries but the type of fence you get will depend on your needs. Security is a major issue for many families, and a fence and/or gate is the first and most visible step towards deterring intruders. Consider whether the fence will block your views, what interaction you want with your neighbours, what your privacy issues are (for example, if your neighbour’s kitchen looks into your bathroom), and the type of pet you own. 

Ensure that the fence is visually appealing and that it fits in with the style of your home.  For example, modern-style homes look great with sleek steel or aluminium fences.  More traditional homes with cottage-style gardens are perfectly complemented by the wooden picket fence.

If noise is a concern at your home, you will want a material that is capable of blocking it out.  Heavier materials are best for this purpose, so think along the lines of brick, cement or even closely joined wood.  To keep pets in, ensure that the fence is taller and has no gaps in it.

Finally, remember that masonry fences over one metre high and all fences over two metres high will generally require approval from your local council.  Fences adjacent to road intersections will also require approval.  If in doubt, always check with your council first to save any potential hassle down the track.

Fencing Materials

There are many different materials that can be used in fencing.  Common materials that you might choose from include:

• Timber – is a very common fencing material due to its affordability and durability.  Use softwoods for fence posts as they are more resistant to rot.  The timber can also be treated against rot, insects, termites, and the elements so it will last longer.  The timber fence can be treated, painted, stained, or left natural depending on the look that you wish to achieve.  Fence styles include picket, louvre, panel, and lapped paling.
  
• Bamboo – bamboo fencing is a unique form of fencing as each stick of bamboo is different to the next. This provides an extremely natural, organic look to the fence.  Bamboo is also very eco-friendly as it is one of the most renewable of wood sources.  Unlike other types of wood, bamboo stands up very well to wind, as it has evolved to flex under pressure rather than break.  Bamboo is also cheaper to install than other wood types.
  
• Brick/cement – this is a very popular option for modern homes and, although it is a little more expensive than timber, it will last a lot longer if it is correctly built.  Brick and cement fences need to be built on stable footings.  These types of fences can be either solid brick or cement, or columns that have been combined with another material such as timber or steel.  The colour options are almost limitless as these fences can be painted or rendered and there is also a wide choice just within the standard brick colours.
  
• Steel/aluminium – these materials are lightweight and strong.  Common varieties of steel/aluminium fencing include steel pickets, Colorbond, tubular steel fences, large panel fences, or louvres. Steel/aluminium fencing is available in a wide range of colours, as it is generally powder coated.  Ensure that the finish is not scratched or damaged; however, otherwise rust or corrosion may set in.  Steel/aluminium fencing is very versatile as it can be made to suit any style of home.
  
• Vinyl – vinyl or PVC fencing is very low maintenance – once installed it will never need to be painted or stained again.  From a distance, the vinyl fence looks like a standard wooden fence.  These fences were designed as an alternative to the wooden fence and there is no splintering, making them a great choice for families with children.  Vinyl fences do cost more than wooden fences initially, but the costs are recouped through the fact that they don’t require maintenance.

Pool Fencing

Pool fencing and gates need to be strong and secure. Generally, fencing and gates are made from steel, aluminium or glass. Whatever fence you choose, you should ensure that it complies with the Australian Pool Fence Standards and also your local council regulations, as council regulations will vary from place to place. Fencing should meet Australian Standard 1926-1986 for design and installation and pool gates should be manufactured to Australian Standard 2820. If your boundary fence serves as part of your pool fencing, this fence also needs to meet council regulations. Contact your council before installing any pool fence for you may face fines if the fence is deemed to be unsafe.

Selecting a Fence Builders and Erectors

When choosing a specialist to install your fence, there are a few things to ask for. Firstly, ask to see previous jobs that they have completed or for references. Ask if they will provide a warranty for the fence. If you are ordering your fence from a fencing company, ask if they provide a delivery and installation service. If they don’t, do they have contractors that will do this? Finally, get several quotes before selecting your specialist. Remember that the cheapest quote isn’t necessarily the best – you need to feel comfortable with your specialist, and have confidence in their ability.