February 14th, 2020What you should consider before you install a fence on your property

If you have explored your neighbourhood, you’ve most likely come across some houses with beautifully fenced yards. Did it prompt some ideas for your own yard? Is there a particular style you like?

Before you begin digging holes for fence posts, be sure to get your property ready. Clean up your property, figure out what your ideal fence is, and find a fencing company that can build, install, and provide maintenance tips and services for you. 

Planning your fencing project

Now, one of the most imperative stages of installing a new fence onto your property is simply planning. Figure out where your fence will go, what it needs to accomplish, the material you require, and take into account any future plans you and your family may have for the property.

Do you want more security and privacy? Greater protection for children, pets, and/or livestock? An aesthetically pleasing private backyard? No matter what reason you have for wanting a fence, different types of fences have varying strengths and weaknesses that you will need to take into account.

Which material is best for you?

Wood fences can be one of the most aesthetically pleasing, private, and effective fences out there, but they require more maintenance than the alternatives. While it may not be as appealing as wood, vinyl requires the least amount of maintenance and has many styles to choose from so you can find the one that suits your style best.

Chain link and iron fences are perfect for high durability requirements and require minimal maintenance. Whereas chain link is effective for commercial or residential enclosures, iron fences offer residential homes with an aesthetically pleasing and secure option.

This is a great place to start when determining the best type of fence for your property and lifestyle. For example, if you plan on expanding or adjusting farm land for livestock or agriculture, be sure to pick the right farm fence that will keep your animals or crops safe.  

At A & G Fencing, we offer plenty of different styles of fencing for residential, agricultural, or commercial properties in both urban and rural areas. Whether you need a wood, vinyl, chain link, or iron fence, we will work with you to create a custom design that suits your property perfectly.

Are you ready to install a fence?

You’ve laid out your reasons for wanting a fence, cleaned your yard, and figured out what material you would like, now what? Take a peek outside, what season is it?

You may be thinking to yourself that winter would be too difficult to work in and that you will have to wait a few more months. Luckily for you, that’s not true.

Installing a fence during the winter actually has a few benefits that you may not have considered. Since many people believe that winter is a poor time to install or repair a fence, it’s the slow season for many fencing companies. This means you can have professionals working on your fencing project much sooner and often the cost of labour will be lower, saving you some money. 

Another upside is that plants are dormant and won’t get in the way, keeping your landscaping in wonderful condition. By completing your fencing project in the winter, you can enjoy your yard all summer long without missing a day.  

Fencing rules and regulations

Now you know that you can accomplish a fencing project year-round, but what rules and regulations do you need to follow?

In British Columbia, fencing falls under provincial law as well as strata and municipal bylaws. Under provincial law, fences are typically allowed to be 1.2 metres high in the front yard and 1.8 metres high in the back unless municipal or strata bylaws state otherwise.

According to provincial law, fences are not mandatory for every property, although one exception is swimming pools. If you have a pool on your property, it is required to be enclosed by a fence. This is for the safety of your property as well as others. 

When you begin the planning stage of your fence, keep in mind that it must be constructed within your property lines. If you want to build a shared fence with your neighbour, be sure to discuss it with them and have an agreement in writing. Legally, neighbours are treated as equal partners and are liable for completing their share of the fencing project in this situation. 

For more information or any inquiries on how to begin the installation process for a fence in the Fraser Valley region, don’t hesitate to contact us today and let us know how we can help you improve your property.