by Duane Craig

Created on: March 31, 2010

Fences are used to keep things in, keep things out, define a boundary, or make things private. Take your time when deciding what kind of fencing to use. For animal control electric fences shock the potential intruder, or escapee, and for some people they are not an option whether for humane reasons, electricity not being readily available, or because they are not allowed to be used in the location. Consider also what fence will give you the privacy you want, what you want to keep out or in, and what's necessary for establishing your boundaries. 

Invisible Fence

Fences that form a perimeter around an area to keep a pet within are called invisible, electronic or radio fences. Some have underground wires that go around the perimeter of the area to be fenced. There are also wireless types available. The pet wears a transmitting collar and when it nears the boundary the collar will beep first. Then if it continues the collar will give a mild shock or spray some citronella. 

The main benefit of this system is that once the boundaries are learned by the animal the stake and flags may be removed and the fence is invisible. Some dogs are diggers while others are climbers and will dig their way under or jump over conventional fencing. The invisible fence is a good solution for those problems.

Wood Fencing

You can buy wood panel fence in many heights, styles and wood species. Installation difficulty varies depending on the size of the fence being installed. Consider whether you're up to cementing posts in the ground and then fastening heavy panels to them when you think about doing the installation yourself.  

Vinyl Fencing

Vinyl fencing comes in options similar to wood fencing. One great advantage of vinyl is that it requires less maintenance. You will need to occasionally clean it with soapy water. Install this fencing in a similar way as wood fencing. Vinyl fencing comes in picket styles, privacy styles and ornamental styles. There is a wide selection of colors also so you can match your home's existing siding. Standard heights range from 3 feet to 8 feet. The solid panels will be most difficult to install yourself.

Wood Lattice Fencing

Wood lattice is readily available in 2-foot by 8-foot panels and in 4-foot by 8-foot panels. It provides some privacy while still affording an open feeling and this might be especially important for small patios, gazebos and other tight areas where you want some privacy. One unique advantage to lattice is that it provides a perfect trellis for climbing plants. Lattice will allow air flow through the patio and that might be important for patios that tend to get too much sun. Do-it-yourselfers will find the lattice is light and easy to hang on posts. 

Ornamental Aluminum

Consider ornamental aluminum around patios where privacy is not a big concern. These are very decorative fences that resemble wrought iron designs. Typical colors are black, white, bronze and green. you can get this in 6-foot long sections and in heights ranging from 3 feet to 8 feet. There are also matching gates, and posts with decorative tops. Aluminum fencing doesn't require maintenance. For a nighttime glow you can get post caps that are solar-powered lights. 

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