Do-It-Yourself - How to Build Perfect Fences - Volume 1
First of all, welcome to FEN 101, otherwise known as How to Build a Fence. You are about to explore the wonderful world of fence building. This how to guide will provide you with a step by step framework for creating a fence. We will look to explore everything from the initial thoughts of building a fence to the end product and maintenance. Whether you are a novice or expert fence builder you are almost guaranteed to learn or familiarize yourself with something you may not have known previously about fence building. For purposes of this book we will explore primarily how to build residential fences. Anything beyond residential fences (commercial and industrial) requires the same basic methods as residential fences but are subjected to various government rules and regulations. Well, good luck with the project and happy fence building.
The first question you should ask yourself before you go through with building a fence is, “Do I really need a fence?” To answer this question thoroughly you will have to consider a number of things.
The first and foremost reason you may need to build a fence is to meet local government (city, town, state) rules and regulations. Many local governments require that certain types of commercial industries fence in their businesses. In addition, pool and pet owners are often required to fence in the area around their pool or animal. If this is the case then it's a given, you are in definite need of a fence in order to meet these rules and regulations. Trying to evade the government and violate local laws will only lead to troubles and liabilities down the road. Taking proactive measures to prevent and secure your parcel from potential liabilities is a wise investment that will most likely save your trouble in the long run.
On the other hand, if it is not required by the local government your next question should be can I afford it? Although it may not be required by law to have a fence for the given parcel, your desire to enclose it may be a matter of aesthetics. When this is the case you simply need to recognize financial concerns. If you can afford it and have discussed the idea with your family then by all means you should go for it. However, if you find yourself in financial trouble and don't really have any real need for the fence other than to beautify your parcel then you may want to reconsider building a fence.
