How do you create security, privacy, style and add plenty of dollars to the resale value of your home in a weekend? Try building a new fence. It won't take a lot of time and money to build a fantastic new fence if you're willing to try some creative fencing solutions.

New developments in fencing mean there are products available that don't need painting, won't rust and can be installed in a few hours. Panel fences, such as the ones used around swimming pools, can also be used in other areas of the yard. They come in a variety of colours and there's sure to be a style to suit your home.

Plastic is another innovation in fences. Panels are made using PVC, just like that used in pipes and plumbing fittings. The plastic panels are coloured and never need painting. They are lightweight and can be installed very easily by D.I.Y. home renovators.

Style hasn't been neglected either. Polvin plastic fencing can be bought in gorgeous white picket fences. Smart fences create beautiful fenced screens that look like horizontal timber slat fences. There are even fake rendered walls that don't require a bricklayer to install them. That means you can create a streamlined look between your home and garden.

These are a few pointers to consider when installing your own fence:

Buy Panels
Buying fencing panels will save you a lot of work at the installation stage. What used to take weeks with timber slats or bricks now takes hours with a few panels.

String Line
Use pegs or stakes to mark out your fence line. Run a piece of string tightly between the pegs and use this as a guideline in the construction of your fence.

Dig Holes
The string line becomes a guide as you dig the holes for your fence posts. Use the dimensions of your fence panels to calculate the intervals for your holes.

Use Rapid Set Concrete
Drop your posts in the holes and cement them in position using rapid set concrete. Use a spirit level to ensure your posts are straight. Allow the cement to set overnight before moving on to the next stage.

Install Fence Panels
It will depend on your fencing choice how the panels attach to the posts. Generally, the panels will screw on, however the new generation of plastic fencing products clip or slide into mounting brackets instead.

Your shiny new fence will look fantastic for years and you'll be filled with the smug satisfaction that you did it yourself. Now, sit back and enjoy the privacy, security and beauty that a new fence provides. It is the finishing touch to your first impression.

Learn more about this author, Anna Harris.
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