Are Privacy Fences Worth the Cost?

Privacy fences are cropping up around homes everywhere.  Homeowners interested in improving the security and value of their homes are installing a privacy fence to keep important stuff in and bad guys out.  While privacy fences are not cheap, most would agree their cost is worth the benefits.

Four Benefits of Privacy Fence Installation

Added security.  When casing houses for easy access to out-of-sight doors and windows, privacy fences present an obstacle most burglars would rather not deal with.  They would have to find a way to either scale the fence, or remove a section of it, and both options would increase their chances of being detected. Privacy fences also prevent someone from pilfering your collection of yard equipment in the backyard and walking off with it.

Keep pets (and kids) in.  Fencing is a must if you are a pet owner, or have small kids, and deciding what type of fence you need depends on a number of factors.  If you have a large dog, it is possible they will be able to jump over shorter picket or chain link fencing.  Larger dogs may also have an easier time burrowing under flexible fencing.  Another concern is the curious fingers of a neighborhood child reaching through a fence to pet Fido, who is having none of it and tries to take off a child’s finger.  If you share these same concerns, consider a privacy fence.  They are taller, more structurally sound, and have no openings for Fido’s snout.

Increased privacy.  As the name suggests, privacy fences improve privacy around your lot.  For more homeowners, that alone is worth the installation costs.  No more kids peeking through the chain link when you’re out sunbathing.  No more neighbor’s dogs chasing you back inside your house.  Like the saying goes, “Good fences make good neighbors.”

Add value to your home.  Privacy fences are one of the few upgrades you can make to the exterior of your home that actually hold some value should you decide to sell.  Other projects are often not worth the added cost.  Privacy fences are aesthetically pleasing, create separation from neighbors and protection from would-be burglars, while providing a safe surrounding for children and pets.