Fence Options in Connecticut

Published by: Karen Zabel
Published on: 2010-01-10 15:26:13

Fence installation for your Connecticut home and yard does more than clearly define your property lines. Chosen carefully, fencing can add drama and character to your home in Connecticut, enhancing your home’s style or adding a new element that can change the overall character of your property. Fencing can also accentuate specific areas of your yard, highlighting garden features and creating outdoor “rooms” that can expand your living space and essentially add square footage to your home’s footprint. Fencing can also offer protection by separating pools and pets from curious children, and protecting precious flower and vegetable gardens from the sharp blades of the lawnmower.

Chain link
One of the least expensive fencing options, and one of the most durable, is chain link fencing. With its heavy metal, crisscrossing links and protruding rough upper edge, chain link fencing also offers an added level of protection, and is an ideal option where extra security is warranted. Its durability also makes it an ideal choice for yards where large dogs and other pets might damage other fencing materials by chewing or scratching.

Because of its relative low cost, chain link fencing is often used in commercial and business applications, as well as around schoolyards, public pools and playgrounds and other government properties. Chain link fencing is available in an uncoated metal finish and with vinyl coating, which is available in several colors. Some chain link fencing is sold with vinyl strips woven through the links to afford additional privacy. Because of its industrial appearance, chain link fencing is usually best reserved for the back property lines of homes, where it is not easily visible from the street, or for pet or pool enclosures.

Wood
Since the days of the pioneers, wooden fencing has dotted the American landscape. Offered in a wide variety of styles, from Victorian picket to rustic split rail, wooden fencing is a versatile option that can enhance a home’s appearance, or redefine a new style. Reminiscent of western vistas and country homes, split rail fencing is a perfect option for homeowners looking to define their property’s boundaries. Offering a more open profile than many fences, split rail fencing is not an ideal solution where privacy is desired. Wooden picket fencing is available in 4-foot and 6-foot heights, and the style is often defined by decorative cuts along the top edge of the pickets. Popular styles include Gothic, stockade and dog-ear. Some fences incorporate lattice panels to add a decorative element.

Wooden fences require continual maintenance to prevent insect infestation and water damage. Using fencing made from pressure-treated lumber can eliminate some of the maintenance chores, as can wood that resists moisture and insect damage. Homeowners can avoid the need for repainting by using a stain to add color to their wooden fence, or choosing a wood like cedar, that ages to a pleasing shade of gray.

Vinyl
Vinyl fencing is one of the most versatile fencing options, and also one of the most expensive. Owing to the wide variety of styles, many of which mimic more traditional wooden styles, and its ease of maintenance and long life, vinyl fencing is becoming more and more popular among homeowners who want an easy-care fencing option. Vinyl fencing is available in different colors, including the most popular shades of white, gray, tan, forest green and many wood tones. Some vinyl fencing can fade over time, so look for one that incorporates UV protection during the manufacturing process. Maintaining vinyl fences is simple: simply wash with water and a mild detergent as needed to keep the finish looking great.

Today’s fencing options offer more variety than ever before, and for any Connecticut homeowner planning on adding a fence to their property, it’s worthwhile to take some time to consider the different materials and styles of fencing, and how their use can influence the style and character of your home and property.

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