Install a fence yourself: the criteria to take into account
Exposure
Sun exposure doesn’t matter for your fence , unless it’s PVC.PVC tends to yellow the plastic, which is not very aesthetic. If you live in a very sunny area, choose a more stable material for your south-facing fences , such as concrete or aluminum.
Prevailing winds
Pleasure fences , around a terrace or a swimming pool, are less resistant to strong winds than others. So think about their orientation according to the prevailing winds in your region, their wind resistance and their attachment to the ground. There’s nothing worse than a wood panel falling on your grill from a simple squall.
Soil type
The type of soil in your land will determine the depth of the holes to be dug for the support posts. If you have clay soil, no need to plant them too deeply, they will hold quite easily. In contrast, sandy soil will be much looser and will require very deep holes to keep the fence secure .
In any case, don’t forget to dig holes wider than the posts, to pour concrete around. This will only improve the stability of the whole. Do not hesitate to get advice from craftsmen if you do not know exactly how to do it.
Maintain your fence
The maintenance of your garden fence depends on the material used. Solid wood, for example, will need a fresh coat of paint, stain and varnish at least once a year to maintain its shine. Wrought iron requires annual stripping and a coat of anti-rust paint.
PVC and composite wood do not require any special maintenance. However, you can clean them regularly with soapy water to keep their shine and prevent the development of moss or lichen. Also remember to check the strength of the fixings to the ground and between the boards, especially after a storm or strong winds.
Finally, a concrete fence requires absolutely no maintenance to guarantee its solidity. The only action to be taken will be to remove the moss that may grow there by spraying the appropriate product on it, leaving it to act, then brushing. For concrete panels, you can also use a pressure washer, which is faster and just as effective.