As you know, fences are uniquely American. Since we were a baker’s dozen of colonies, we have been fascinated by fences. They not only serve to keep us safe, but also give our homes and landscapes a touch of class and beauty.

In the going-on 300 years since colonial fences took root, there have been some major advances in fencing materials. In addition to classics such as wood and iron, you now have vinyl and aluminum. Each is more or less an attempt at improving on the other. (more…)

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On a recent stroll, I stumbled upon a beautifully aging picket fence. Elegantly adorned with ivy and tumbling blossoms, the old wood with most of its white paint missing spoke of wistful years gone by. What a perfect picture it made surrounding the lawn of an old Victorian home. Some may feel this particular fence was in bad need of a paint job; I couldn’t have felt more differently. It was perfect, and was the ultimate personification of a vintage fence.

There are many ways you can recreate the vintage feel within your own landscape design, and certain styles of fencing are more conducive to that look. (more…)

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Picket fences are arguably the most versatile of fencing designs. They create definite boundaries around your yard yet are not too prohibitive. They are also relatively easy to build and serve as a beautiful backdrop for landscaping. Picket fences allow for several different styles, patterns, curves, arches, you name it. There is no one way to design a picket fence. It is this room for creativity that makes building a picket fence such a treat.

Picket fences are typically made from wood or vinyl. Wood fences are the more versatile because you can choose and construct your own design. Wood picket fences can also be bought and installed by the panel. There are pre-made board designs you can choose from. The most common are dog-eared, gothic, french gothic, and standard flat-top. You can also cut your own pickets to really personalize your fence. (more…)

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