Gates and fences are an amazing way to mark the perimeter of your property while keeping curious neighbors and nosy strangers at a distance. Plus, an imposing gate and a solid fence are effective security measures that increase the overall safety of your home.
Not to mention that, if you live in a busy area, a well-placed fence can help reduce the noise and give you some peace and privacy!
So, if you’ve decided it’s time to choose and install fences and gates around your property, here are a few tips to guide you:
Plan Your Fence & Gate
The fence doesn’t just serve as a burglar deterrent – it also has to integrate well with the property by being visually pleasing. After all, it’s something that will be around your house for several years.
Also, you must check for utility lines that go under the property. So, before you start digging, check with the local utility companies to make sure you won’t hit a phone line or a gas pipe. And while you’re at it, check with the local authorities to see if you need any permits for building a fence. Most areas have a series of fence building laws depending on the type of fence, materials used, and so on.
Once you get all the planning and administrative tasks out of the way, it’s time to think about the type of fence you want. If it’s for security purposes, you need a tall fence (at least 8 feet high) that doesn’t have places to grip. Also, a lockable gate is a must!
Security Measures Around the Property Line
A fence and gate are indeed imposing, but anyone determined enough can climb over them. Luckily, you can use perimeter detection systems to keep an eye on what happens at the edge of your property (regardless of size).
These systems operate with sensors and detect any disturbances happening around the fenced perimeter. If there’s an event, the system can be trained to alarm the owner or the authorities. The sensors can also trigger an alarm, get the lights going, or other deterring measures.
Is There Room for Some Green?
Many people don’t like the idea of installing a huge fence around the property because it’s like a literal wall between you and the neighbors. Also, depending on the material used, it may limit your view of the street or other areas.
This is where plants and trees come into play. For instance, there are lots of thorny bushes that grow thick enough to deter anyone from going through. And they look good and may even gift you with some cool-looking flowers.
Trees are also a great option, but you need to be patient since they need years to grow.
Install an Access Control System
If you don’t like the idea of going to the gate every time someone wants to visit, you should think about installing a gate with remote control systems. This way, you can check who calls at the gate using a video camera with a microphone, and if you decide to let them in, you can open the gate from inside the house.
Wrap Up
Installing a fence and gate can be a fun DIY system, but if you want something more advanced, you will need assistance (especially for installing sensors and access control systems). However, this is a project that will bring peace of mind, privacy, and extra security.
Plus, a good-looking fence increases the value of the house, which is a nice touch if you decide to sell sometime in the future. Not to mention that it will also improve the overall aspect of your yard, which will make morning coffee or tea a more pleasurable experience.
