We’ve all heard of the dream of a house in the suburbs with a picket fence. A fence provides a wide range of benefits to your home including privacy, security and added curb appeal. For families with small children or anyone with a dog, a fence provides a barrier to keep your most vulnerable loved ones within your property and away from roads or from just wandering off.
A lot more thought goes into a quality fence design than you may initially think. There are considerations like whether this is purely decorative or if it has a high-priority function (for example, keeping the dogs in your yard). In this article, we’re taking a look at fence ideas and designs for new homes, the most popular designs on the market and the pros and cons of each.
Fence Design Ideas
Wood Fences
The classic material for suburban and rural homes, a wooden fence is an iconic look for front yard fencing. Whether you decide to go with the picket fence or want something with horizontal planks, wood fences provide a classic look to your home.
Pros:
- Relatively easy to install
- Classic and Versatile Option
- An affordable option that is also readily available.
- Timber aesthetics have a timeless quality.
- There are a wide range of different Types of Wood and Finishes
Cons:
- Vulnerable to rot, termites and water damage. Make sure the timber you use is pressure-treated to help combat these issues.
Vinyl Fences
Vinyl fences have risen in popularity as an affordable fencing option for homeowners on a budget. It can mimic the look of a timber fence (though it won’t fool people on close inspection), and it actually has a few advantages over other timber when it comes to maintenance and installation.
Pros:
- Low Maintenance and Longevity: Vinyl requires very little upkeep.
- Easy-to-clean fencing option
- Variety of Styles and Colours to suit the homeowner’s style.
- Safety benefits such as no splinter and very low chance of mould.
- Easier to install
Cons:
- Can fade over time
- Fewer options when it comes to repairs
- Is vulnerable to extreme temperatures which in Queensland can be an issue.
- Lacks the natural look of timber
Metal Fences
One of the most sturdy and structurally sound designs on the market, a metal fence offers a durable and stylish look to your home.
Pros:
- Durable, long-lasting material that can handle high impact.
- Ornamental and Decorative Options
- Can add a luxurious feel to your home.
Cons:
- Expensive material
- Requires a lot of upkeep to maintain rust resistance.
Options include:
- Chicken Wire: A more affordable option that works well functionally, but lacks the style and curb appeal of other options.
- Corrugated metal fences
- Wrought Iron
Concrete Fence
When it comes to tough materials, concrete is one of the first that people think of. Though concrete comes across as a purely functional material more than an aesthetic one, it can actually be used in a stylish way.
Pros:
- Very durable.
- Advancements in design and technology mean concrete fences don’t have to have the traditional grey concrete look.
- Very little maintenance required.
Cons:
- Cost more upfront to install (though you will save on upkeep).
- A permanent option. If you think you might want to change in the future, go with a different material.
Popular Fence Designs
Picket Fence
The classic suburban look, the white picket fence design remains popular due to its charming and traditional feel. Great for a front fence that creates a welcoming curb appeal, a picket fence keeps children and pets inside without blocking the view. It can be a nice design feature for a garden fence or as part of a landscaping design.
Pros:
- Durable: When well-made, a picket fence is an endurable option
- Customisable: The picket fence design is surprisingly versatile including colour, size of planks, gates, and whether you want to deviate from the traditional style.
- Provides a level of security without sacrificing your view or style.
- Relatively inexpensive, especially compared to metal fences or other fencing options.
- Easy to install: If you’re handy with the DIY projects, this is a fence design you could potentially put together yourself.
Cons:
- Requires a lot of maintenance: To keep that idyllic look, you’ll have to stay on top of your upkeep.
- Doesn’t provide privacy
- Larger dogs, cats and cunning pets will all be able to get past a picket fence. If your pet is an escape artist, you may want to consider another option.
Privacy Fences
A privacy fence is any fence design that provides extra privacy to your home. Privacy screening allows you some peace and quiet for you and your family.
We recommend:
- Solid Panels for the most privacy
- Lattice or Slatted Designs for Partial Privacy
Pros:
- Provides you and your family privacy. Whether you have noisy neighbours or just want your own secluded oasis, a privacy fence will help.
- Helps keep your kids and pets safe and reduces their chances of escaping.
- Increases the security of your property.
- This could potentially increase the value of your property.
Cons
- Could offend your neighbours. Be sure to talk to your neighbours about installing the fence and make sure you’re 100% on where your property line is before you start the installation.
- Requires a lot of maintenance.
- Could potentially violate your local council guidelines or the covenant of your estate,
Ornamental Iron Fences
Pros:
- Elegant and Timeless
- Adding Curb Appeal and Value to the Home
- Incredibly durable
Cons:
- Expensive, both in terms of materials and labour costs.
- Difficult to install: Even if you consider yourself handy around the house, an iron fence is going to be beyond those who aren’t professional. This means added labour costs for you as well.
- Potential for rust, which means constant maintenance for you.
Retaining wall
While not strictly a fence, a retaining wall can serve a similar role, both functionally and aesthetically. A great option for sloping blocks or uneven terrains.
Eco-Friendly Fence Design Ideas
Bamboo Fences
Bamboo fences have a distinct look that provides a natural aesthetic to your home. They’re a popular choice for those looking to have an eco-friendly fencing option.
Pros:
- A bamboo fence is a sustainable and renewable Material
- Natural Aesthetics with Minimal Environmental Impact
Cons:
- Can be pricey
- Rots easily if not maintained
- Requires a lot of maintenance.
Key Considerations for Your New Fence Design New Home Builders
Budgeting for Fence Installation
There are a few considerations you’ll need to take on board when weighing up the costs of your new fence including:
- Material costs
- The landscape you’re building on
- The space you’re looking to cover
- What design you’re hoping to build?
- Understanding Costs for Materials and Labor
- Balancing Budget with Desired Fence Features
Local Regulations and Permits
Like any renovation for your new home, it’s worth checking Zoning Laws and HOA Restrictions before building your new fence. You’ll also need to check with your local council about obtaining any necessary fencing permits.
Maintenance and Care
General Tips for Longevity
- Regularly inspect your fence for any signs of wear and tear. We recommend walking the perimeter of your property at least once a month or after any major storm or weather event. Assessing the condition on your fence is key in determining what steps (if any) you need to take next.
- Clean your fence, even if it is a good spray with the house. If you decide to use a pressure washer, make sure the pressure is at the appropriate strength. Too strong a stream can actually do more harm than good.
- Understand your fence material and its maintenance needs. Whether you use timber
- Keep debris away from fences, as any fallen branches, leaves or dirt can cause harm to your fence if left too long
- Fix any issues sooner rather than later. Problems like rot, rust, unstraight posts, broken hinges on gates and others will only get worse if you leave them.
Fence Design frequently asked questions
What is the best fence for a house?
The best fence design for your home will depend on what you’re hoping to achieve. If privacy is your main concern, you’ll be after something like a privacy fence. However, if your fence is purely an aesthetical concern, a picket fence might be more up your alley.
What is the cheapest type of boundary fence?
PVC fencing is probably the cheapest option in most places. However, this can depend on where you are. Remember though, the cheapest doesn’t mean the most efficient long-term.
What is the easiest fence to put up?
Vinyl fences of often considered one of the easiest options to install as they don’t require as much digging or professional knowledge.
Fence ideas for your new home
A fence is so much more than simply a way to border your property. From providing safety to children and pets to adding an aesthetic touch to your home.
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