When it comes to installing a fence around your property, a common question arises: Which way should the fence face? Does it matter if the good side faces you or your neighbor? Should it go on the inside or the outside of the posts?
These are important considerations that can affect the aesthetics, privacy, and even the legal aspects of your fence installation.
Fences aren’t legally required to face a specific way, but it’s customary for the visually appealing side to be on your property’s exterior. This enhances curb appeal and provides privacy, although local rules or homeowner associations may have guidelines.
In this article, we will explore the various aspects of fence orientation and provide you with valuable insights to help you make the right choice.
Before delving into the specifics, it’s essential to understand why the direction of your fence matters. The way your fence faces can affect not only the appearance of your property but also the relationships with your neighbors and potential legal issues.
Who Gets The Good Side Of The Fence: My Neighbor or Me?
The question of which side of the fence should be designated as the “good side” is a common and sometimes contentious topic in property ownership and fence installation.
The “good side” refers to the side of the fence that is more visually appealing and finished, as opposed to the “bad side,” which may appear less attractive.
This decision can have significant implications for both you and your neighbor, and it’s essential to understand the considerations involved.
Factors to Consider
Property Ownership: The first factor to consider is property ownership. Generally, the property owner who installs the fence has the primary say in determining which side faces their property. This is often seen as a matter of property aesthetics and personal preference.
Neighbor Relations: While the decision may be legally in your hands, it’s crucial to maintain good relations with your neighbor. Discussing the fence orientation with your neighbor can lead to a mutually agreeable solution. Being considerate of their preferences can contribute to a positive neighborly relationship.
Local Regulations: Check your local regulations and zoning ordinances. In some areas, there may be specific rules governing fence orientation. These regulations are often put in place to maintain neighborhood aesthetics and uniformity.
Homeowner’s Association Rules: If you live in a community with a homeowner’s association, review their guidelines regarding fences. Homeowner’s associations often have rules about the appearance and orientation of fences to ensure a cohesive look within the community.
Communication Is Key
Ultimately, the decision of who gets the good side of the fence should be reached through open communication with your neighbor. Discuss your intentions, consider their preferences, and explore compromises if necessary.
While the legal responsibility may rest with the property owner installing the fence, fostering a positive and cooperative relationship with your neighbor is invaluable for harmonious living.
Which Way Should Fences Face?
When it comes to installing a fence around your property, one of the fundamental decisions you’ll need to make is determining the orientation of the fence.
This choice revolves around which side of the fence should be designated as the “good side” and which as the “bad side.”
This seemingly simple decision can have a significant impact on the overall aesthetics and functionality of your fence, and it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons carefully.
The Good Side vs. The Bad Side
The Good Side
The “good side” of a fence is the side that is more visually appealing and polished. It’s the side that you and your immediate family or household members will see every day from your property.
Homeowners often prioritize having the good side of the fence facing their own land for several compelling reasons:
Enhanced Curb Appeal: Placing the good side towards your property can significantly enhance your property’s curb appeal.
This side of the fence typically appears more finished and aesthetically pleasing, contributing positively to your property’s overall look.
Sense of Ownership: Having the good side facing your property can create a strong sense of ownership. It symbolizes that your fence is there to define and protect your space, giving you a sense of control and privacy.
Privacy: In addition to aesthetics, the good side also offers enhanced privacy. It acts as a visual barrier, shielding your property from prying eyes and providing a more secluded environment.
The Bad Side
The “bad side” of the fence is the side that faces away from your property, often towards your neighbor’s yard or a public space. While it may not be as aesthetically pleasing as the good side, it’s important to consider the following aspects related to the bad side:
Neighbor Relations: Placing the bad side of the fence facing your neighbor’s property can impact neighborly relations. Some neighbors may view it as less considerate or attractive, potentially leading to disputes or tension.
Aesthetic Considerations: Depending on the materials and design of your fence, the bad side may appear less finished and may not contribute positively to the overall neighborhood aesthetics.
Which Way Should A Feather Edge Fence Face?
Feather Edge Fences
Feather edge fences are a popular choice for homeowners seeking versatility and cost-effectiveness in their fencing solutions. These fences are characterized by overlapping vertical boards that come together to form a sturdy and visually appealing barrier.
Their design allows for flexibility in various landscapes and property types. When considering the orientation of a feather edge fence, here are some important factors to take into account:
Thicker Edge Facing Outwards
When installing a feather edge fence, it is advisable to have the thicker edge of the boards facing outward, towards the exterior of your property. This specific orientation offers several advantages:
Improved Appearance: Placing the thicker edge on the outside enhances the overall appearance of the fence. This side appears more robust and visually appealing, contributing to the aesthetics of your property.
Enhanced Durability: The thicker edge facing outward provides better protection against the elements. It helps shield the fence from rain, wind, and other environmental factors, extending its lifespan and reducing maintenance requirements.
Added Privacy: With the thicker edge facing outward, the fence provides an improved barrier for privacy. It offers a more substantial visual screen, making it more challenging for passersby or neighbors to see into your property.
Inside Or Outside Of Posts?
Fence Placement
The decision of whether to place the fence on the inside or the outside of the posts is another critical consideration during the fence installation process. This choice can influence both the aesthetics and functionality of your fence. Here’s a closer look at the options:
Inside of Posts (Traditional Method)
People traditionally install fences with the fence panels on the inside of the posts. This means that the structural posts are visible from the outside, while they contain the panels within the perimeter formed by the posts.
This approach offers several advantages:
Cleaner Look: Placing the fence on the inside of the posts creates a neater and more finished appearance. The posts serve as a frame for the fence panels, contributing to a polished look.
Security: This method is often perceived as more secure, as it makes it harder for potential intruders to tamper with the fence panels from the outside.
Outside of Posts (Maximizing Yard Space):
Some homeowners opt to position the fence panels on the outside of the posts, maximizing their yard space.
This approach offers benefits such as:
Increased Yard Area: Placing the fence panels on the exterior of the posts can create the illusion of a more spacious yard, as the posts are less visible.
Aesthetic Variation: It can introduce a unique aesthetic, especially if the posts are ornamental or decorative. The fence panels become a prominent feature of the landscape.
Conclusion
The orientation of fences is a multifaceted decision that involves property ownership, neighborly relations, local regulations, and personal preferences.
While there is no strict legal requirement dictating the direction of fences, customary practices lean toward having the more attractive side face your neighbor’s property or facing the outside of the property.
This enhances curb appeal, fosters a sense of ownership, and provides increased privacy. However, it’s important to be aware of local regulations and homeowner’s association guidelines, which may impose specific requirements.
Additionally, the question of who gets the good side of the fence can be a delicate matter. Open communication with your neighbor is crucial to reach a mutually agreeable solution that considers both parties’ preferences.
This approach promotes positive neighborly relations and harmonious living. Furthermore, for specific fence types like feather edge fences, positioning the thicker edge facing outward is recommended for improved appearance, durability, and privacy.
Regarding fence placement inside or outside of posts, both methods have their advantages, and the choice depends on your aesthetic goals and security considerations.