Adding a fence to your home or business can be a significant investment, one that you should not consider lightly. Your options are countless, both in price and design, so it's wise to consider the following points before you begin.

First what is the primary purpose your fence?  Will it keep out deer, provide security, satisfy municipal codes, retain children or pets, enclose pools or tennis courts, beautify your property, screen an unsightly view, prevent industrial theft and employee loss, reduce noise, provide privacy, and so on. Some fences work better in certain applications than others. With careful planning and professional guidance, your fence can provide any number of the above benefits.

Along with the purpose of your proposed fence, you should consider the architectural style of your home or business. Is the look contemporary, Victorian, or traditional - formal, informal or rustic? Certain fence types blend better with a specific environment than others. For instance, even though a chain link fence will provide excellent security, it will not look as good framing a grand colonial home as an ornamental metal or New England picket might. On the other hand, you may love the look of traditional post and rail fence, but if your purpose is to screen an unsightly view, an 8-foot board-on-board fence will be better suited. Your fence should unify your landscape and house design, as well as accomplish your purpose.

The topography of your land will also determine, in part, the type of fence that will work best. If your ground is sloping, most of the picket and panel-type sections can be "racked" to follow the slope. Some decorative panels, however, must be "stepped" to follow the contour. Post and rail fence can generally be adapted well to rough and hilly terrain. It is important to visualize how your chosen fence will look on your particular terrain.

As important as purpose and aesthetics are when selecting a fence, your budget also carries considerable weight. Most likely, you want your fence to last for many years. Even if you sell your home within a short period of time, a well-planned fence is an investment that will pay off when you do sell your house. So, it's important to shop VALUE, not price. The least expensive fence may not be the bargain it initially seemed if it rots within several years or "leans" due to improper installation. The type and quality of material used will dictate price. Although wood fences can be constructed with less expensive types and grades of lumber, quality #2 or better cedar or pressure treated southern yellow pine, purchased from a reliable company, will last the longest. Aluminum offers some advantages over more expensive wrought iron in ornamental fences. Chain link material comes in galvanized steel vinyl-coated, all in several gauges and at different prices. PVC material, although initially more expensive, can be a cost-effective alternative when its unique, maintenance-free properties are considered.

Unless you have some fencing experience, it will be hard to determine what fence is best without first doing some "homework." Visit an established, reputable fence company. Look at the displays, gather information, and talk to the company's professionals. They will be able to assist you in planning the fence to suit not only your needs, but also your budget.