A fence separates a property from adjoining lots and also provides privacy and safety at the front of the home.
But a fence doesn’t need to make your place look like a prison, and can actually add value.
Timber, metal and brick are the most common building materials for fences, but natural barriers such as hedges are also effective. The style of your fence should match the look of your home and be in line with other properties in the street.
Although front fences less than 900mm high usually don’t require approval, check with your local council before erecting a fence to avoid unnecessary hassle.
1. Picket
Made from timber palings with shaped tops, picket fences look good painted or stained and work well with traditional homes. Repainting is required every five years.
2. Metal
These fences are easy to erect, low maintenance and very secure. Steel panels are ideal for shared boundaries and aluminium or wrought iron balustrading is ideal out front.
Steel panels are ideal for shared boundaries and aluminium or wrought iron balustrading is ideal out front
3. Timber
Made from treated pine or hardwood palings, these fences are affordable and long lasting. Traditionally left to weather, they can be capped with flat board for a neat finish.
Timber fences can be capped with flat board for a neat finish
4. Lattice
Topping a fence with lattice helps provide privacy without completely blocking the view. This technique works best with timber but can also be used above steel panel fences.
Topping a fence with lattice helps provide privacy without completely blocking the view
5. Brick
The most sturdy choice, brick fences last decades but are more expensive than other options and may require a professional builder. Paint the brick or render for a clean look.
Brick fences last decades but are more expensive than other options
6. Hedge
While they can be high maintenance, hedges are visually pleasing and provide a natural border. Tall hedges offer privacy but may take several years to grow.
Hedges are high maintenance but visually pleasing