Protection or Decoration? The Various Uses of Fencing in New Albany and Dublin OH Areas
One of the biggest considerations homeowners make with their properties is what type of fencing to install. Most commonly, fencing is installed along property lines; some fences are used within properties to designate different spaces for different uses. Some fences are installed for protection: keeping kids safe, dogs inside, or intruders out, and some are intended for purely aesthetic appeal. Here’s how to answer the question: Protection or Decoration? The various uses of fencing in New Albany and Dublin, OH areas.
While many fences are simply chosen as physical barriers to run the length of the property line, some fences are incorporated well within the property. A fence could be an attractive way to define an entry area and offer a warm welcome along an entry walkway. Or, it could be used to enclose a pool, vegetable garden, or children’s play area.
Materials
In all of these cases, the choice of materials, as well as the design of the fence, will determine whether the fence is purely functional, purely decorative, or a combination of both.
The ideas of protection and decoration can be combined in encircling a garden bed with a combination of materials such as rustic wood post-and-rail fencing with chicken wire to keep out smaller critters.
Size
A fence that runs the length of the property can, in some cases, be made of the same materials as a small section of fence intended for decorative purposes. Just be careful which materials you choose, as not all are suitable for purely decorative use.
A charming picket fence can define a property, or, a small section of a picket fence could be used to highlight a flower bed or an entryway; this classic fence style can be both beautiful and functional either as an individual section or as a full fence.
By contrast, an aluminum fence with a wrought-iron look can offer both security and beauty around a pool but typically offers too stark of a presence to be used purely for decorative purposes.
Aesthetics and Privacy
A uniform row of privacy fence panels adds to your backyard privacy, but it can contribute to a boxed-in feeling, so it’s important to break the monotony a little.
One way to achieve this is by installing masonry support pillars between each fence section. These pillars can match other vertical elements in the landscape, such as an outdoor fireplace or retaining wall. These pillars can even incorporate tasteful lighting to illuminate the perimeter of the property.
Wood choices and the way a fence is painted or stained make a big difference in the appearance of a fence. Light-colored fences contrast with the darker shades of surrounding plant life. Dark-colored fences do a much better job of blending in with the scenery.
However, if many of the homes nearby have light-colored fencing, then it’s a good idea to complement instead of contrast.
Alternating vinyl or wood panels with slightly different orientations (such as alternating 45-degree angles) is one way to make a fence more interesting and helps to make the visual barrier of a privacy fence feel less imposing.
Artful Additions
As vertical structures, fences present the potential for adding a little personality and detail. For example, adding hung flower planters to the inside or outside softens the look and adds a pop of cheerful color. For bird lovers, fences can be fantastic places to locate birdhouses or feeders.
Fences can even be disguised with plant life to appear a little more natural and welcoming. Climbing vines are a great way to help fences blend in with the surrounding environment.
Related: INCORPORATING FUNCTIONAL FENCING INTO A NATURALISTIC LANDSCAPE DESIGN IN POWELL OH