Residential privacy fencing can make a property significantly more enjoyable. Before you install any residential privacy fence panels, though, it's a good idea to know what you'll be up against. Take these five issues into account as you plan your project.

Nuisance Fence Laws

Many folks who install residential privacy fencing do so because they want to see less of their neighbors. However, you should be aware many municipalities have rules limiting how tall a fence can be. This limits what are sometimes known as nuisance or spite fences, structures largely designed to damage the view of a neighbor.

Speak with your local code enforcement officials to learn what the regulations are where you live. They can tell you what the maximum dimensions are. If you need to go over those dimensions, expect to file a variance and explain your requirements to a local board.

Topography

The lay of the land where a fence is can pose challenges, even in seemingly flat areas. A few feet difference in the ground height can leave your fence looking odd or twisted. You should plan your fence to deal with the topography by using residential privacy fence panels to create sections. This makes a big difference in hilly areas because it allows fences to have flat lines at their tops.

Visibility

How much privacy do you want? Some folks will only want to obstruct the view a bit, and they'll usually deploy residential privacy fencing that may have small gaps. Most of the time, this is more than enough because a fraction of an inch will block anyone who isn't standing right next to the fence. However, you might need a tighter arrangement of the residential privacy fence panels if you want to fully block the view.

Materials

Your choice of materials for residential privacy fencing will determine how long the structure will last. Bear in mind that some materials will perform worse in different environments. For example, you can expect metal to perform worse in regions with salt air, such as shorelines. Vinyl has a reputation for doing well in all conditions. Many people favor wood because it looks good and lasts a long time if you maintain it.

Extent

You might install a fence on one part of your property because that's where the most potential viewers are. However, some people will want to install complete fences for aesthetic or practical reasons. Think about the extent you want the fence to reach when you're planning a job.

Contact a company like Professional Fence Company to learn more.