The image of a house with a white picket fence has long been a symbol that brings to mind comfort and security. Today, homeowners may choose from a variety of fencing materials to create the perfect look for their home. The type of fence you choose can also impact the maintenance it requires along with the level of privacy it provides. Taking a look at the many benefits that fences have for the yard helps you move forward with this essential home improvement project.

Establish Clear Boundary Lines

The most obvious benefit of having a fence is that it provides a clear understanding of where your property lines exist. During a brand-new fence installation, you might need to work with your contractor and the home’s builder to identify the true property lines. Depending upon your home’s location, you might also need to work with neighbors to identify the correct place for a shared fence. Once you’ve put the fence in, everyone will know exactly where their property begins and ends.

Protect Your Children and Pets

Fences help to keep unwanted people and animals out of your yard. A solid fence style can also ensure that your pets and children stay in the yard. If you have a small dog, then you’ll want to look for a fence style that has small or no spaces between the slats. While young children may still need supervision when playing outdoors, it’ll be easier to keep them safe when a fence provides clear boundaries for them to play within. Families with swimming pools in the backyard can also opt to surround the water with a strong fence that is difficult for children and pets to climb or go under. In many communities, swimming pool fences are required by law.

Heighten Your Home’s Security

Most criminals prefer not to have to hop over a tall fence or risk getting stuck behind a gate. Adding a fence also makes it easier to hide outdoor items that might be attractive to potential thieves. Putting a boundary around your yard makes it harder for thieves to haul barbecue grills, expensive outdoor theater and sound systems and other valuable items out of your yard. Plus, people are less likely to invade your property when they can’t see valuables in the first place.

Dampen Street Sounds

With many neighborhoods continuing to grow, you might find that the street that borders your house is busier than ever. If you find that street noise keeps you up at night, then adding a fence around the yard can help block out some of the sounds. This is also effective if your house borders a school or park where people often engage in loud activities such as sporting events. Make sure to let your fence installer know if you hope to decrease noise around your home. They’ll guide you to materials such as heavy wood that can help with dampening outdoor noises.

Improve the Curb Appeal

There’s a reason why the image of a white picket fence around a house feels so good. Fences add a touch of beauty to your property, especially when you choose the right type. Many metal fences can be shaped to include designs such as monograms that enhance the visual appeal of your property. A solid fence can also prevent people from seeing unsightly workshops or other spaces that are necessary but could detract from the aesthetics of the outdoor space. If you choose a fence that matches your neighbors’, then you can also create a cohesive look throughout the neighborhood that enhances the entire community’s visual appeal.

Provide Privacy for Outdoor Activities

Builders are placing homes closer to each other every day. While it’s nice to be able to wave to your neighbor, it may also be preferable to enjoy being outside without feeling like you are under a microscope. You can choose to put up a fence around just your backyard to create more privacy for outdoor entertaining. People who have homes facing busy streets or walking trails also tend to prefer to have fences in place that give them a sense of privacy. Split rail fences are an option that can still create a feeling of openness while providing more privacy than leaving the space completely open.

As you explore your fencing options, keep in mind that all of the benefits that one provides often result in higher property values. Knowing that your home is safe, secure and aesthetically pleasing helps people want to live near or buy your house in the future. Once the fence is installed, remember to check it regularly for routine maintenance needs that lengthen its life span and increase your enjoyment.

Written by Taylor McKnight, Author for Summit Fence