Choosing the right fence for your property is key to achieving the perfect blend of aesthetics, functionality, and durability. The right fence not only adds to the overall look of your home but it also stands the test of time. Read on and delve into the various factors that play a role in making an informed decision about your fence. We explore the durability of different materials, cost considerations, how to match your fence with your architectural style, the role of security, the importance of privacy, and the impact of local regulations. By the end of this guide, you’ll be well-equipped to choose the perfect fence for your property, ensuring it meets all your requirements and expectations.
Aesthetics: vertical or horizontal slats
The direction that slats face impacts the overall look and feel of a fence. Horizontal slat fences are popular for smaller projects such as the home or for hiding services. Vertical fences are more popular for commercial projects. They give a more dominating feel to projects whilst horizontal fences are more subdued. Everyone has a personal preference and individual aesthetic tastes. It’s best to let this guide you when choosing vertical or horizontal slats in a fence.
Durability
The durability of any fence is dependent on its material. The performance of any material will vary in different weather conditions and environments. Traditional timber slat fencing requires maintenance to avoid rotting, twisting and splitting. Aluminium slats are a long-term alternative to timber slat fencing. There are minimal maintenance requirements and no chance of rotting, twisting or splitting.
Cost
You then have to weigh in on costs. The initial cost of aluminium slat fencing is higher as it requires powder-coated paint. However, installation is quick and the long-term maintenance isn’t demanding. With timber slat fencing, the initial cost is smaller however the installation is longer and long-term maintenance is more labour-intensive and resource-intensive, buying materials such as paints.
Architectural Style
Your property’s architectural style will likely influence your decision between vertical and horizontal slats. Also, if your property is traditional or modern. For those seeking a traditional timber fence appearance, keep in mind that powder-coated steel is available in a wood-grain finish. This achieves a traditional look with innovative aluminium slat designs.
Security
When choosing a fence with security in mind, there are two key factors to consider: height and visibility. The visibility through the slats will affect how much people walking or driving by can see into your property. It’s important to strike a balance between ensuring security and avoiding the feeling of being enclosed within high, fortress-like walls and hiding your home entirely.
Privacy
The orientation of slats affects the level of privacy provided by a fence. The gap between the slats, whether vertical or horizontal slats, will determine how much you can see through the structure and the airflow that runs through it. Nail the spacing and you can achieve maximum privacy, with enough room for airflow. Our ToughGuard Priva Slat is designed with a unique 6-degree bevelled slat. This results in complete privacy whilst still maintaining airflow.
Local Regulations
There are local regulations to consider when building a fence. Fences may require a building permit, a planning permit or both. Fence material, height, and location will determine this. Different councils have different height regulations so it’s best to check with them or a fencing expert before choosing a fence for your property. Local regulations will likely influence your design.
Choose the right fence
Selecting the right fence for your property involves careful consideration of multiple factors beyond whether you’d like vertical or horizontal slats. You want to ensure that your fence meets your aesthetic preferences, functional needs, and long-term durability requirements. By understanding how elements such as slat orientation, materials, cost, style, security, and local regulations influence your fence, you can make an informed choice to improve the look and value of your home. Talk to our experienced team about choosing the right fence for you.
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