2 preparatory steps to take before building a new fence on your property
If you intend to construct a new fence on your property, here are some preparatory steps you should take before you start building this feature.
1. Inspect any fencing timber you intend to use before you buy it
When the time comes to purchase the timber for this project, you should visit the DIY shops where this wood is sold and inspect the fencing timber in person before purchasing it. Alternatively, you should order a few samples of several different types of fencing timber from an online retailer. The reason for this is as follows; the best way to assess the quality of a particular type of timber is to hold it in your hands so that you can see (and feel) its true condition.
Inspecting the wood before you order the quantity you need to build your fence will ensure that you end up buying the most robust timber available. When examining the wood in the DIY shops or the samples you ordered online, there are several things you should look for.
First and foremost, the wood should be neither pliable nor soft; top-quality fencing timber won't yield very easily when pressure is applied to it and will not develop indentations if a sharp object (such as your fingernail, for example) is momentarily pressed against it. Secondly, the wood should not feature any surface cracks; these cracks can indicate that the wood is structurally weak, which could, in turn, mean that it might break if any force is applied to it.
2. Ensure that the fence you intend to build will not create problems between you and your neighbours
If you have next-door neighbours, then it is important to check that the fence you plan to build will not cause problems for them before you start constructing it. For example, if you plan to build a tall, six-foot fence along the boundary line between you and your neighbour's property, then you should try to determine if the height of this structure will have a negative impact on their outdoor space. For example, if the fence will shroud their garden in darkness, then this might lead to their flowers and shrubs dying (due to the lack of sunlight) and make their outdoor space look dark and feel cold.
Checking for these type of potential issues and making adjustments to your building plans at this point will ensure that you don't find yourself in a situation where your neighbours are demanding that you tear down your newly-constructed fence.
