The white picket fence has definitely seen some changes in the last decade, and we’re here for it. Changes to the material used, the design, the height, the functionality and also the look and feel of the mailbox and house numbers.

Why is this important? It can keep some of our most prized possessions from wandering off (children and pets!), it can act as a privacy screen and security measure, and it also enhances the aesthetics of the facade of the house and front garden landscaping.

Let's explore those further:

1. It increases the usability of your land

Recently we have been seeing more and more people utilise the front yards of their properties with pools, trampolines, astroturf, chickens, rabbits, you name it! A front fence done right, can almost double your outdoor space if you have a small back garden.

2. It increases the privacy and security

Depending on the height and the material of your front fence, you can dramatically increase the privacy and security of your property. Materials like brick, tall pickets, steel sheeting and batten timber fencing all help in both areas. But of course all materials have their pros and cons. Brick can become unstable after a long time if not correctly installed, limited options to customise mailboxes, which can become infested with spiders and other bugs. Picket fencing requires regular re-painting. Steel sheeting is expensive to install. And batten timber fencing can require maintenance, such as regular oiling of the timber and is expensive to install.

3. Increase the street appeal

One thing to make sure you consider is if the fence suits the style of the home. You rarely see a modular front fence with an older home, as it often clashes and doesn’t compliment. On the other hand, if you have an art deco home, a wrought iron fence goes extremely well. A Californian bungalow suits a picket fence, and a Hamptons style home could be well suited to a hedge fence. Natural fences, like anything, have pros and cons. The nature of a green fence gives a visual texture to the foliage and creates different levels of light and colour from foliage or flowers. Plants are also great for the environment because they generate clean, fresh oxygen and store carbon. A hedge will change with the seasons, providing a lovely layer of foliage as well as a backdrop for a garden or lawn. However, if you can barely keep your indoor plant alive, or you don't even have time to mow your nature strip, stick to the non alive front fence or make sure you have enough in the budget for a monthly gardener.

Don't forget to check with your local council as to any planning regulations before you jump on pinterest and start creating your collection of front fence pics. Rules change from council to council and often are determined by overlays you may have on the property. Councils may have an opinion on the material you use and the height of the fence.. Some properties may not even be allowed to erect a front fence!! Its very important you check this out before wasting time and money!!

We hope this has been an interesting read on a part of the home that is often left behind, even though it’s right in front!

Don't Overlook The Front Fence!