Landscape Gardeners in Cornwall
When looking for a new home, everyone has their list of criteria: bigger kitchen with granite counter tops, certain number of bathrooms and bedrooms, carpet or not, and so on. However, does anyone really consider residential fences and gates? With the incredible amount of fence styles available to us nowadays, a new homeowner should be well informed about residential fences and gates before even buying a home. For example, did you know that a good quality timber fence will not only improve the appeal of the home but also offers a return of investment around 65%? The return of investment depends on the type of fence, but just having a fence or gate is always better than not.
However, even if you have bought a home and it didn't have the fence you wanted, never fear, Mid Cornwall Landscaping can still build you one. Between the 60,000 + UK fencing services, it's no wonder that the UK fence industry brings in about £1 billion per year. People have really come to understand the benefits of having a fence. Here are a few things you should know before you begin building your fence or gate:
Know Why You Want a Fence
Having residential fences and gates is always a good idea, but knowing exactly why you want one will help you choose the type of fence that will best benefit you. For example, the type of fence that will simply keep the dog in the garden is a different type than one that will block out sound or, when living here in Cornwall, a fence that will let wind through.
Think About Fence Maintenance
While a picket fence fits the Cornish dream, wood fences require a lot more maintenance than other fences, because they can potentially warp or rot. If you are okay with the upkeep of a certain type of fence, then go for it! But be realistic about how often you are going to maintain your fence before deciding. If in doubt about the longevity of your chosen fence contact your Cornish Landscaper, we've been there ourselves and the guys at Mid Cornwall Landscaping will always provide expert landscaping advice.
Consider the Cost
Some fences are much cheaper than others and if you mix different types, it could be even less expensive. While having the same type of fence all the way around the front and back garden looks clean and organized, it may not be very beneficial to your wallet. Maybe think about breaking this up with some hedging or having the cheaper basic fencing in the rear garden with the more ornate fencing in the front garden. Again when considering gates to secure your property, think about its functionality. If your taste leans towards the less traditional and you want more of a contemporary or designer fencing style, like horizontal slatted Venetian panels or Woven fencing, it’s good to know you can complete your modern garden design with a matching wooden garden gate.
When Gardening in Cornwall - Acknowledge your Neighbours
If you live in close quarters, make sure that you are being considerate to them and their properties. For example, building an eight foot wall might block their view, but they probably would be fine with another type. Talk to them and see what they would be okay with before settling on an option. More importantly, make sure you are aware of your land and or property boundaries, legal property lines have a tendency to surprise the owners of both properties. You never know, with the right approach a friendly conversation with your neighbor may result in splitting the cost and the labour when installing a new fence.
Do the Research
If you've found this article, I'm sure you are doing the research, but it has to be said; too many people just jump right in and then regret their decision because they weren't properly informed. Check out building regulations, rules and codes of practice that you should familiarise yourself with before embarking on the installation of your new fence or speak to a professional if in doubt. Remember, calling us for advice is free 01726 884040
Consider the Climate
Different types of material react differently depending on the climate of the area. Wood swells and shrinks depending on the weather, types of metal can rust more easily than others, and so on. You'll want the type of fence that is durable to the Cornish climate, weather and temperature. Over the past few years here in Cornwall, we have seen our clients lean more towards horizontal slatted fencing or hit and miss fencing as opposed to feather edge or close boarded, thus allowing for wind to pass through and limit fence damage.
Think Outside the Box
Cornwall fencing does not have to be just have wood, aluminum, brick or other material. Greenery like shrubs and bushes can make a great barrier to your Garden. However, this goes back to point number one: consider why you are getting a fence. Shrubs will not keep the dog in. But if all you need is a barrier to your land, a shrub fence looks absolutely stunning.
DIY or professional fence installation
There is a lot more that goes into installing a fence than meets the eye. Ask yourself, will you really save money building your own fence in the long run. You might be thinking about the magical personal touch you could bring to your garden with a DIY fence project. However, you might also be considering DIY as an option because you’re thinking about the cold hard cash. Building your own fence may save you some money, but you will pay in blood, sweat and tears. When you hire a contractor for fence installation, you are not just paying for the materials, you are also paying for the labor. When you opt for DIY installation, your only cost is materials, but you will be paying with your own labor! If you’re building a fence from scratch, this could be quite a lot of labor. New DIYers frequently underestimate the amount of time a project will take them and the tools they will need, so you have to consider the trade-off. In theory, maybe the project only takes a week, but chances are you may encounter some unexpected challenges along the way. Your time is valuable and may be more profitable if spent on your own non-fencing work. The less experienced you are with carpentry, digging 600mm - 800mm holes, and other tasks involved in building a fence, the harder it will be to build your fence quickly.
Mid Cornwall Landscaping are there to help you with all your garden and landscaping needs for the coming year, offering advice, design and even a full planting and construction service. Why not give the team a call and get your project off the ground?
01726 884040 or email us info@mc-landscaping.co.uk