Guidelines on Different Types of Fences
Fencing serves a number of purposes from decorative to privacy, and there are different types of fences that are designed specifically for these purposes. Doing a bit of research before heading out to purchase fencing will help you to better decide which type you need.
It is entirely possible and feasible that the word “fence” is a derivative of the word “defense”. Now the sight of those people at football games holding up miniature fences who are chanting defense, defense makes a lot more sense! Seriously, fencing was a valuable tool for defending one’s property many years ago, and for safeguarding the safety and the very lives of people. Today, people use fences as a means of keeping things within boundaries as well as keeping other things out.
Centuries ago, the human population was much smaller and the territories they inhabited were widely spaced apart. As civilization grew, people began to cover the earth; leaving less and less available space. Many areas of the United States are now quite crowded, with homes sitting on lots instead of acres. It has become much more important to draw boundaries for property which is owned.
Fences are not only meant for boundary division. They are also used to provide a means of privacy in close knit neighborhoods. It can be uncomfortable and discomfiting to have a backyard barbeque, hang laundry to dry or to simply repose in your backyard when every move you make is visible to the neighbors surrounding your home. Erecting a privacy fence will keep your home life private, providing a feeling a security and solitude. They are also ideal for ensuring the safety of the children that live in the home; effectively corralling them within the boundaries of the fence and allowing them to play without fear of their being endangered.
A picture perfect house to some is a home surrounded by a white picket fence. The appearance of such a home is the epitome of American living to some, and is a vision that is often seen in many cities and rural country sides alike. These fences are designed mainly for their attractiveness, but are also capable of keeping small children and pets safely ensconced in their yard. Decorative or ornamental fencing is popular for framing flower beds, and can be made of wood, rope, chain, vinyl, wrought iron or metal.
Different types of fences with varying purposes mean that they are also constructed of a wide variety of materials. Picturesque New England roadways are familiar locations for old fashioned stone fences; simply medium sized to large boulders stacked upon one another in an attractive, seemingly haphazard manner. These served well to keep cattle in particular areas. One of the most popular elements used in fencing is wood. Constructed of either poles or slats, wood provides a pleasing appearance either in its natural state, stained or painted and can be used for any purpose.
When fencing is used for controlling the territory of livestock, it must be sturdy and effective to maintain the herds. Barbed wire is commonly used for this purpose as it presents a barrier that the livestock learns is painful and therefore is a successful means of holding in the valuable assets. On ranches across the country, miles of wood fencing can be seen bordering the vast property holdings; upon which the homestead can be found as well as horses, sheep and cattle.
Various lifestyles require the need for security, privacy or ornamental boundaries. Fortunately, different types of fences have been designed and are widely available to meet all of these needs.