Five Common DIY Mistakes to Avoid When Installing a Cedar Fence at Home
Are you planning to adorn your backyard with the natural charm of a cedar fence? The aromatic smell, beautiful color, and rustic allure of cedar make it a popular choice among homeowners. Especially if you live in the glorious expanses of the Pacific Northwest, a cedar fence can be the perfect addition to your landscape. However, to ensure your cedar fence enhances your beautiful yard, you should be aware of some common installation mistakes.
1. Skipping The Planning Process
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is to dive right into the installation without a solid plan. The Pacific Northwest’s weather patterns and unique terrain elements need to be considered when deciding where and how to install your cedar fence. You’ll also need to determine the height of the fence, the spacing between the cedar posts, and whether you’ll want gates in your fence. Rushing into the project without a comprehensive plan can lead to a lack of balance and symmetry in your fence and diminish your yard's aesthetics.
2. Neglecting Local Regulations and Property Lines
While a cedar fence may be a fantastic way to mark the boundaries of your property, do ensure that it is indeed within your property lines. Erecting a fence on your neighbor's property can lead to legal disputes, costs, and the headache of having to move your fence. Also, always remember to refer to local building codes and regulations before starting the installation. In some areas of the Pacific Northwest, there may be specific requirements or limitations for fencing materials, heights, and styles.
3. Improper Post Installation
The strength and durability of your fence depend largely on how well you install the cedar posts. Two common mistakes are not digging deep enough post holes and not correctly securing the posts with concrete. If the cedar posts aren't adequately anchored, your fence can end up leaning or getting knocked down easily. Aim for a depth of about one-third the length of the post, and make sure to use concrete for maximum sturdiness.
4. Not Taking Proper Measures for Cedar Preservation
One of the reasons cedar fences are highly preferred is their natural resistance to decay and insect damage. However, this doesn't mean that they'll last forever without proper care. To preserve the longevity and beauty of your cedar fence, consider applying a coat of sealant about a week or two after it has been installed. This can protect the wood from harsh weather conditions prevalent in the Pacific Northwest, improving the fence's lifespan.
5. Ignoring The Need for Professional Guidance
You might be an avid DIY enthusiast, and there's nothing wrong with that. But keep in mind that building a cedar fence can be more complicated than it seems. Professional fence contractors have years of experience in dealing with different types of wood, terrain, and weather conditions. Having a professional alongside you will save you a lot of potential installation mistakes and time-consuming corrections.
In conclusion, installing a cedar fence can be a rewarding project to improve the look of your beautiful yard, particularly for homeowners in the awe-inspiring Pacific Northwest. However, to avoid common pitfalls, consider employing careful planning, sticking to local rules, installing posts properly, taking care of your cedar and seeking professional guidance. By doing so, you can ensure your cedar fence stands strong, beautiful, and aromatic for years to come.
Your Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Fence Style for Pet Owners
The life of a pet owner comes with its unique set of challenges – like finding the perfect mix of sturdy and stylish while choosing a fence style for your humble abode. Luckily for you, this ultimate guide is designed to help you make that decision faster and easier. We'll discuss some popular fencing choices like chain link, cedar, vinyl and wrought iron. Ready to dive in? Tail wags and excited purrs are definitely in order!
Chain Link: Affordable and Resilient
When it comes to finding the perfect middle ground between affordability and resilience, the good old chain link is a tried-and-true choice. These fences can withstand a hefty amount of roughhousing from your rambunctious furballs- from the smallest Chihuahuas up to the biggest Bull Mastiffs. Chain link fences also come with an added benefit of keeping your pets in sight, which means you can always keep a watchful eye on your pets while enjoying a piping hot cup of joe!
Cedar: Naturally Elegant and Versatile
Cedar fencing is just like that elegant piece of furniture in your living room. It adds a touch of natural warmth and elegance to your backyard. But it's not just about the looks! Cedar is a great option for pet owners as it's resistant to decay and insects, ensuring longevity. Plus, it comes with added versatility. You can leave your cedar fencing its natural beautiful color or paint it to match the aesthetics of your home - ball is in your park!
Vinyl: Low-Maintenance and Stylish
If you are looking for an option that says "low-maintenance" in all its polyvinyl chloride glory, vinyl fencing is your pick. These fences require very minimal upkeep (think: just a simple wash with water and soap), and they are resistant to rotting, blistering, and chipping. The cherry on this stylish fencing sundae? Vinyl comes in a variety of colors and styles, allowing you to personalize your backyard according to your fur friend's wildest dreams (or yours!).
Wrought Iron: Strength and Aesthetics in One
Last but certainly not least, let's talk about the Rolls Royce of fences: the wrought iron. Perfect for the pet owner with refined tastes, this fence type makes a grand statement while offering superior strength. However, this might not be the best option if you have small pets like Chihuahuas or cats that might sneak through the gaps. But remember, what it lacks in full security, it compensates in sheer aesthetics and durability!
This brings us to the tail end (pun intended!) of our guide to choosing the best fence style for pet owners. It's important to remember what suits you may not completely appeal to another pet owner. After all, every pet and its owner have their unique fence needs and preferences. Whether you prioritize security, aesthetics, or both, remember the choices are plenty. So, take your time, do your research, and choose wisely because we know, your pet's safety and your peace of mind are non-negotiable. Happy Fencing!
Who's Responsible for the Fence? A Guide to Property Rights
It's a question most homeowners in western Washington have asked at some point - "Whose fence is it?" After all, it's not exactly clear-cut. Maybe you've noticed decay or damage to the wooden fence that marks the line dividing your property from your neighbor's, and now you're facing a conundrum. Who will foot the bill for the repairs on that damaged fence? Understanding the responsibilities around fencing maintenance can save you both time and unnecessary conflict. Let's dive into this topic to shed some light on it.
Understanding Local Laws and Ordinances
In the state of Washington, as in most places, if the fence sits directly on the property line, it’s generally considered a “boundary fence”. This means that the responsibility for maintaining or repairing a damaged or rotted fence is typically shared equally by both the adjacent property owners. However, this isn’t always the case and checking with your local municipality or homeowner's association is always a good first step. Local laws or regulations might have special provisions or guidelines detailing whose fence it is.
Checking Property Deeds and Surveys
If you're not entirely sure where your property ends and your neighbor's begins, you might like to review your property deed or survey. These documents should clearly define your property lines and could offer clues about the fence’s ownership. If your deed or survey mentions the fence specifically, you could have your answer. If not, a professional land surveyor could help you determine the exact location of property boundaries.
Evaluating Fence Age and Condition
Is the fence looking old, dilapidated, or even rotted? Sometimes, the state of disrepair can offer a clue about its history. If a portion of the fence was constructed at a different time or its style differs from the rest, it might offer a hint about who built it and who’s responsible for its upkeep. Be sure to inspect the entire length of the fence, making note of any areas that seem particularly damaged or worn out. This step could also give you an idea of what kind of work might be required to fix the wooden fence.
Discussing with Your Neighbor
Remember, communication ultimately is key when dealing with shared property issues. If you’re unsure whose fence it is, striking up a conversation with your neighbor could provide the most straight-forward answer. Any long-time residents might recall when the fence was erected and by whom, possibly settling the matter without any undue fuss. A friendly discussion could also pave the way for a cooperative approach towards the needed repairs.
Consulting a Professional
If all else fails, or you're facing a particularly sticky situation, you might choose to consult a professional. An attorney with expertise in property law could clarify how local regulations might apply to you and guide you on the best course of action.
Remember, disputes over property features like fences aren't uncommon, but they needn't cause a lasting rift. When you know the facts and approach the situation with understanding and patience, you’re well equipped to navigate those tricky questions like "whose fence is it" and "how to fix the wooden fence". While the mystery of who's responsible for the fence may initially seem daunting, a considered, methodical approach should help simplify matters and lead to a fair resolution of the issue.
5 Permanent Boundary Solutions for Your Difficult Neighbor
The necessity of a peaceful coexistence with your neighbors cannot be underestimated. In an ideal world, we would all live in symbiotic harmony with those residing in close proximity to us. However, reality often presents challenges, such as the quintessential difficult neighbor, the "Karen" of the neighborhood. Instances like property disputes or property line and boundary issues can turn an otherwise peaceful life into a state of constant tension. But fret not, as this blog will provide you with five permanent boundary solutions to keep away your difficult neighbor.
Fencing
Arguably one of the most practical and straightforward solutions, installing a fence not only demarcates your property line but also offers you much-needed privacy. Fences come in various materials - metal, vinyl, wood, or chain-link, and their styles range from decorative to purely functional. A well-established fence can deter potential trespassers, including the intrusive Karen who seems to be everywhere she's not supposed to be! The installation costs may vary according to the type of fence you choose, but peace of mind comes well worth the investment.
Land Survey
A land survey can be your saving grace in case of a property dispute. By hiring a professional land surveyor, you'll clearly determine the exact boundary of your property. This comprehensive diagram accurately maps your property line, leaving no room for ambiguity. The Karen next door won't be able to claim even an inch of your land once the property limits are formally placed. Having this detailed layout at your disposal could also be valuable for future reference or if you decide to sell your land.
Formal Agreement
Sometimes, negotiations can solve what fences cannot. If your difficult neighbor is reasonable enough, consider drawing up a formal agreement that clearly states the property boundaries. This approach can prevent unnecessary confrontations and discourages unwanted trespassing. The agreement can be created with the assistance of a lawyer, ensuring its legality and formalizing the boundary understandings. This way, you are creating an atmosphere of mutual respect while safeguarding your rights as a property owner.
Planting a Garden Hedge
Fusing aesthetics with effectiveness, planting a garden hedge along your property line can serve as an organic and green solution. Besides promoting biodiversity and improving air quality, a hedge or line of shrubbery creates a visually pleasing barrier between your property and your difficult neighbor. However, this option requires patience and regular maintenance to achieve optimal results. Nevertheless, the idea of Karen grappling with thorny bushes next time she attempts to snoop around seems rather gratifying!
Legal Recourses
When all else fails, it might be time to consider legal action. No one likes to go down this path, but if your difficult neighbor consistently and deliberately ignores your property line, it's practical to involve law enforcement to ensure your rights are fully protected. Discuss the situation with a property lawyer, who can guide you through the steps needed to remedy the situation. Granted, this could be the most severe route of action, but it is important to stand firm against chronic trespassing and unrelenting property disputes.
In conclusion, having a difficult neighbor like Karen could indeed pose a challenge to your peaceful living environment. However, armed with these boundary solutions, you can uphold your property rights firmly and gracefully. After all, your home is your sanctuary, and under no circumstances should anyone be allowed to disrupt that sanctity. Be sympathetic, yet strong in your resolutions, for harmony is a mutual agreement that must be respected by all. Remember, with a clear property line, good fences, indeed make good neighbors!