Fences have many functions

Press, 9 April 1987, Page 14

Fences have many functions

Protection of property, security for children especially around swimming and spa pools, and privacy are all prime considerations in the design and renovation of any home and section. The character and individuality of homes today deserve a better setting than the drab informality of conventional fences — often designed in a style to conform to neighbourhood tradition. Many homeowners today, however, recognise the wide scope in design and styles now available with theme variation. It is important to remember that a fence should be useful and add attractiveness without dominating the scene. Whatever its function it should complement both home and garden and draw them together for over-all harmony in landscape design. To produce an over-all effect, the materials must be attractive and durable to protect your investment. Timber has proven

itself as a versatile material in helping to solve this problem. Readily available, comparatively cheap, durable and easy to maintain, timber naturally blends into any setting and with any home. Consider the following guide to timber fence designs.

Typical frame: 100 xlOOmm posts set in concrete. Maximum 2400 centres, 100 x 50mm top and bottom rails. Boards (vertical): 75 to 200 mm wide, 15 to 25mm thick can be used in different patterns and combinations. Generally the boards are rough-sawn and stained.

Louvre (vertical): Boards are angled to exclude the view but allow light and air to pass. Must be sturdily constructed. Woven boards: Flexible boards are installed in a basket-weave pattern. This design is not suitable around swimming pools as the horizontal strips form an easy ladder for children to climb.

Plywood: Exterior grade should be used. Picket: Should relate to house design. Horizontal rail: Complementary for rustic settings where a solid barrier is not required. Again horizontal structure is not suitable around swimming pools.

A local merchant will be able to help with choosing species suitable for projects, and the preservation requirements. Radiata pine is often used with the posts, to be in ground contact, treated to commodity specification H 4. Railings and palings (vertical boards), should be treated to H 3.

Before building, check with the local authority to

see whether a building permit is required. Fences around swimming pools are compulsory in most areas.

Normally the cost of a boundary fence is shared between the adjoining property owners. Usual procedure is to give the neighbour written information on the type and cost of the proposed fence for a formal agreement.

If a fence is built without their consent, all construction and maintenance costs are the .responsibility of the builder and the fence must be on the builder’s property.

In the interest of friendly relations it is advised to adopt the former approach.