Privacy is very important, especially if you live in an urban area like Dallas, TX. Of course, no matter where you live, a neighborhood snoop can really put a crunch on how you enjoy your property. It can be very annoying to be out with your family, holding a barbeque, swimming in the famous Texas heat, or just sitting on the porch when suddenly you notice the neighborhood snoop staring into the yard. How rude! Pull the shades, close the blinds, or stay inside, those neighbors aren’t going to stop spying. But wait, what about enjoying your yard? There are ways you can keep those nosy neighbors at bay without getting into an argument. By installing a fence you can be passive and aggressive in a way that is safe for everyone.
Bushes for Privacy
There are different options for the homeowner that wants to preserve their privacy. Some people choose to plant bushes. The problem with bushes is that they can become unruly. While you might be fine with a high line of bushes, your neighbors might not be as happy when the bushes grow too large. Keeping bushes trimmed can be quite a job. Once bushes reach a certain height they become leggy and if one of your problems are wandering animals, such as dogs and cats, they can walk right under the bushes.
Tree Fences
Trees are sometimes advertised in gardening catalogs as a great way to secure your privacy from prying neighbors. Most of the trees in the tree ‘fence’ advertising are fast growing. However, not all areas will support the best growth for these types of trees. In Texas the heat may cause them to be scraggly and weak. What Texan wants a pitiful looking line of trees surrounding their property? This is the home of ‘big, bigger, biggest’ – don’t get stuck with wimpy trees.
Privacy Fencing
Privacy fencing is one of the most attractive ways you can envelop your home in a cocoon of privacy. You’ll avoid critters that are attracted to bushes. Western Red Cedar fencing is the most common and cost effective privacy fence you can have. Cost effective because of the long life this lumber affords to your project, expect well over 20 years You should use steel posts and can even cover the metal posts with cedar to soften the look. Attractive fencing can add beauty and value to your home, which makes such a fence an investment for your future – home equity is one of the most important aspects of property ownership.
As spring rolls around there is always a long list of things that need to be addressed to get taken care of for the new year. House repairs and maintenance, even lawn care. People often forget about the needs of their fence. No matter what the materials are that you choose to use in the fence structure, whether it is automated or manual, there are a few things to do which will extend the life of your investment.
Your first step is to always do a thorough inspection of the entire fence. You need to look for any areas that are compromised, which may include rot, damage, leaning, and weak points. This includes the posts, pickets, wiring, and gate closure or function. Be aware of any places where the screws, wiring, or nails need to be replaced or tightened.
Once you have performed your inspection you will need to make the necessary plans to repair or replace any areas that are no longer stable. Addressing larger sections and posts may require professional assistance to prevent damaging other sections.
If your fence includes brick and mortar you will need to look for any cracks that have developed or any locations where the stone or brick has come loose. Depending upon the size of the crack, you can often fill this in yourself, however, larger problems should be taken care of by a professional.
We do not recommend adjusting or repairing any electrical features, such as lighting affixed to your fence. This might turn into a dangerous exercise and it is easier to have someone with experience take care of this.
When it comes to gates you need to pay close attention. Depending upon the type of gate you have installed, it may require the hinges and/or wheels to be lubricated. This will aid in keeping the gate functioning smoothly and in the case of automated gate systems it can prevent causing damage to the mechanical devices attached to it, which could lead up to substantial costs in the future.
It’s also important to check the pulley system which moves your gate. The wiring should not be frayed in any way.
If you have elected to use a sliding gate you should take the time to assess the area the gate is being drawn across. Surfaces that are paved should be repaired if there are cracks or holes, and dirt locations should be kept as level as possible. An automatic gate will also require you to clear any debris or obstruction along the path which it is being drawn across. You may need to trim trees or bushes to prevent interference with the proper function of the gate.
Your fence plays an important role in the security of your property, it was a considerable and worthwhile investment and providing some basic spring maintenance will keep it beautiful and functional for years to come.
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