A fence is any wall or barrier that encloses space, defines property boundaries, restricts ingress to or egress from the surrounding area, or provides security. It may be made of wood, masonry, rails, or wire.
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Fencing has long been used for various practical and symbolic purposes in many cultures worldwide. From thick walls that encircled ancient cities to modern picket fences that delineate a suburban yard, fences have been important for both safety and status for centuries. From a practical standpoint, they have allowed humans to protect their homes, livestock, and other valuables while maintaining privacy. In addition, fences have been imbued with various traditional and symbolic cultural values that remain relevant today.
Historically, fences were constructed using a wide variety of materials and styles to serve a multitude of purposes. In early societies, for example, fencing was used as a symbol of wealth and status and those who could afford to build fences were often perceived as being more wealthy than those who did not. This practice continues to this day, as evidenced by the use of wood and stone fences to separate properties.
With the development of the rapier, fencing became more of a sport than an art form as fencers were less concerned with whether or not their actions were legal and more interested in displaying their ability to execute various elegant moves. Duels with rapiers also became a popular method for resolving disputes such as insults or conflicts in love.
In the non-electric era, scoring was done by referees who would look for red marks on the points of the weapons. These marks were easily seen against the white uniform of the fencer and helped to avoid cheating, such as by hiding the tip of a weapon under a sleeve or leg leather. This method of scoring was eventually replaced by electrical systems that connect the two fencers to a box that sends a signal when a valid touch is made.
These systems have improved the way that fencing is contested by providing a more accurate method of scoring and eliminating the need for fencers to cover their weapons with dye, soot, or coloured chalk to make them easier to see. This innovation also eliminates the need for a dry jury to determine whether or not a valid touch has been made. This is especially useful in sabre and foil, where the target area is confined to the torso and requires precise placement of the blade.
Installation
Fence installation is a project that can easily turn into an expensive endeavor if the work isn’t done properly. For this reason, it’s usually best to hire a professional installation company, especially for projects involving metal or chain link fencing. Depending on the type of fence and the terrain, the installation process can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
Before construction begins, it’s important to stake out the property line. This is done by driving stakes into the ground and running string between them to mark the boundary of the yard. In addition, it’s always a good idea to check for any underground utility lines before beginning any digging projects. Hitting a gas or power line can be dangerous and costly.
Once the property line is marked, digging post holes is next on the list. These need to be dug deep enough to provide stability once the posts are set in concrete. Generally speaking, the hole should be about as deep as one-third to one-half of the fence’s height. A post-hole digger can make this job much easier than a shovel, and some even come with a tool designed to dig post holes for fences.
After the holes are dug, they should be sunk in gravel to help prevent them from shifting in the future. Once the posts are in place, the next step is to install the fence panels or pickets. It’s important to make sure that all panel seams are tight and smooth to avoid any gaps that could let in rain or insects.
If the fence is to be painted or stained, this is typically done at a later date. Staining is an optional part of the fence building process, and it helps to protect the wood and keep it looking great.
Decorative elements can also be added to a fence to create a more unique and personalized look. Things like wrought iron gates, top rail bands or a single swing gate can add some extra flair to a new fence. In addition, planting trees or shrubs can demarcate the property and provide privacy while limiting access to the yard.
Materials
Fencing provides homeowners with security and privacy while adding aesthetic appeal to the exterior of their property. There are several different materials from which to choose when building a fence, each of which offers its own unique advantages and benefits. Some of the most popular fencing materials include wood, vinyl, metal, and wrought iron. Choosing the right material for your home and lifestyle will ensure your fence is durable, long-lasting, and beautiful.
Timber fencing is an extremely popular choice for homes throughout Australia due to its versatility and affordability. Often made from treated pine, it has a natural wood aesthetic and complements a variety of home styles. It is also highly durable and can withstand the harsh Australian weather conditions, including high winds. It is recommended to seal timber fences regularly to ensure a longer lifespan and protect it from moisture damage.
Metal fencing is a great option for homeowners that want to maintain their privacy without the high cost and maintenance of traditional wooden fences. It is available in a variety of colours and designs, making it easy to find the perfect match for your home. Metal is also low-maintenance, requiring only occasional washing to keep it clean. It is recommended to use a galvanised steel or aluminium mix to prevent rust and corrosion.
Decorative items like post caps and finials can be added to any type of fence. These items help to protect the tops of the posts and add a finishing touch to the overall design of the fence. They are available in a variety of colours and styles to suit your taste and can help deter animals from climbing over the fence. Fence posts are usually secured in the ground with concrete, so it is important to use a pre-mixed concrete mix and follow the manufacturer’s instructions on mixing and set time.
A good quality wooden fence will last a lifetime and can increase the value of your home. Treated woods, such as cedar and redwood, have a stronger resistance to rot and insects than raw softwoods. However, this does come at a higher initial investment.
Uses
Fencing is an effective means to protect a property and deter trespassers. It also helps to define boundaries, and may be used with security cameras and other technology to provide perimeter protection. In addition, fencing can be used to protect livestock and crops from predators. It can also be used to block unauthorized viewing of sensitive areas, activities, or properties.
Fences can prevent unwanted visitors from entering a private yard or garden. This can be a great benefit if you live in an urban area where many people trample or litter, or on a busy road where children and pets can wander into the roadway without your knowledge. If you have a large orchard, a fence can help you keep strays and vandals out of your fruit.
A fence can also be used to enclose an outdoor area for use as a garden, pool, patio, or lawn. Fences can be built to a specific height or length, or made to include gates that can be locked for added security. They can be made from wood, metal, or vinyl. They can be designed with decorative accents such as finials or rail caps. They can even be made with unique features such as a pergola or a swing seat.
Besides enhancing the aesthetics of your yard, a fence can increase the value of your home. It can provide privacy, add to the curb appeal of your house, and make it easier for potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space. It can also keep pets and children from wandering into dangerous or crowded areas, such as a busy street or a pool.
A fence is a middleman between thieves and the eventual buyers of stolen goods who may not be aware of the theft. A fence often attempts to disguise the stolen nature of the items by removing, altering, or replacing serial numbers and by transporting them out of town in order to avoid the suspicion of local police departments and pawnshop owners.
Fences are important for farmers because they allow them to control the movement of animals and weeds on their land. They can also provide shade to livestock, which lowers energy costs and reduces feed costs. A fence can also be an excellent way to keep pests, such as snails, off of your plants.