Fences & Gates

Elevate Your Outdoor Space with Professional Fencing

 

Welcome to Seattle Sustainable Landscapes, where we specialize in building and repairing fences for residential and commercial properties. We pride ourselves on using eco-friendly materials and techniques to create durable and long-lasting fences and gates that blend seamlessly into their surroundings. Our team of experienced professionals has the skills and knowledge to handle any fencing project, big or small. Whether you need a new fence for added privacy, security, or aesthetics, we have the solutions you need. Let us help you enhance the look and functionality of your outdoor space with our sustainable fencing services.

The Role of Fences in Enhancing Your Property

The most common reasons for installing a new fence are:

1. The existing fence is no longer serving its purpose – typically decaying and falling down.
2. Privacy – typically people are looking for a space unencumbered by what is going on in the neighborhood.
3. Containment – typically people are looking to contain pets or children inside the fenced area.
4. Security – typically people are looking to keep people out of the fenced area, there may be valuables to protect, or the property is located in a dangerous part of the city.

Fence Options to Suit Your Style and Requirements

The type of fence is impacted by the reasons for the new fence. For instance, if containment is the only concern, then transparent and short fences are an option. Whereas, if privacy and security are factors then height and obscured materials are essential.

Next, consider the substrate, and the material of the fence. The four most common categories are metal, wood, stone, or a combination.

At Seattle Sustainable Landscapes our favorites are cedar fences either with cedar planks or Hog wire depending on whether or not the homeowner wants privacy.

Cedar Fences: A Popular and Long-Lasting Choice

Cedar is a popular choice for outdoor fencing due to its natural beauty, durability, and resistance to rot and decay. There is a reason roofs have been made from cedar all of these years! There are many different styles of cedar wood fences that can be used to enhance the appearance and functionality of your outdoor space. And they are made from a renewable resource – cedar trees!

Some common styles of cedar wood fences include

1. Solid privacy fence: A solid privacy fence is a tall fence with closely spaced slats or panels that provide complete privacy. This type of fence is often used to enclose a yard or garden or to create a sense of separation between properties.
   • Vertical Picket Fence – this is the more traditional look.
   • Horizontal Picket Fence – more of a modern aesthetic that uses slightly less wood.

2. Picket fence: A picket fence is a shorter fence with spaced slats or pickets that create an open, decorative design. Picket fences are often used to define property lines or to add a decorative touch to a yard.

3. Split rail fence: A split rail fence is a rustic-style fence with spaced horizontal or diagonal rails that are held in place by vertical posts. Split rail fences are often used in rural or natural settings, and are a popular choice for horse properties.

4. Lattice fence: A lattice fence is a decorative fence with an open, criss-cross pattern created by interwoven slats or panels. Lattice fences can be used to add privacy or to create a visual barrier, while still allowing light and air to pass through.

5. Shadow box fence: A shadow box fence is a semi-private fence with spaced slats or panels that are positioned on alternating sides of the fence. This allows air and light to pass through while still providing some privacy. Typically, shadow box fences are often used to define property lines and are selected because they look the same on both sides – there is no ‘pretty’ or ‘ugly’ side of the fence, contrary to most fences styles.

By considering these styles and their specific features, you can choose a cedar wood fence that best fits your needs and preferences.

 

Hog wire Fences: A Practical and Attractive Solution

Hog wire fences, also known as cattle panel fences or livestock panel fences, are traditionally associated with rural or agricultural settings. However, they can also be used in urban and suburban settings as decorative or functional fences.

Hog wire fences are made with a Cedar frame and thick wiring as the paneling (replacing the typical pickets). They can be used to create a modern rustic look and can provide a barrier while still allowing air and light to pass through. They can be used to enclose a yard or garden or to create a sense of separation between properties.

Hog wire fences can be used in urban and suburban settings as a way to contain pets or children, or to create a safe area for outdoor activities. They can be used to enclose a pool or spa or to create a playground or dog run.

When using hog wire fences in urban and suburban settings, it is important to consider local regulations and zoning laws, as well as any homeowners association guidelines that may apply. Some neighborhoods may have specific requirements for fence materials, height, or appearance.

Overall, hog wire fences can be a practical and durable fencing option as long as they are used in a way that is appropriate and compliant with local guidelines.

 

Choosing the Optimal Fence Height for Your Property

The optimal fence height for your property in Seattle will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Some factors to consider when choosing a fence height include the purpose of the fence, the location of the fence, and any local zoning or building regulations. In general, a fence that is at least six feet tall is a good choice for privacy, security, and noise reduction. However, if you are installing a fence in a front yard, you may want to consider a shorter height (typically 40”) if privacy is not the primary goal. For any fence over 6 feet is important to research and understand any relevant laws and regulations before installing a fence on your property in Seattle.

 

Choosing the Right Wood Gate for Your Fences: Factors to Consider and Popular Styles

When installing a wood gate to your fence, there are several factors that homeowners should consider to ensure the longevity and functionality of the gate. First and foremost, it’s important to choose a high-quality wood that is resistant to rot and decay, such as cedar or redwood. These types of wood are also naturally resistant to insects and pests, making them a great option for outdoor use. Additionally, homeowners should consider the design of the gate and how it will function with their existing fence. For example, a double-swinging gate will require more space than a single-swinging gate. Another important consideration is the hardware and hardware installation, a good quality hardware will help to keep the gate secure and ensure a smooth operation. Furthermore, proper staining or sealing the wood can help protect it from the elements and prolong its life. By taking these factors into account, homeowners can ensure that their wood gate will be a functional and beautiful addition to their fence for many years to come.

When it comes to wood gates, there are a variety of styles that are popular among homeowners. Some popular styles include:

1. The classic wooden farm gate: This style of gate is often made of wood such as cedar or redwood and can feature either a single or double swing. It is a perfect choice for a rustic or country-style home.
2. The arched wooden gate: This style of gate features a curved top and can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any property.
3. The wooden privacy gate: This style of gate is typically solid wood and is often used to provide privacy and security for a property.
4. The wooden picket gate: This style of gate is characterized by its evenly spaced wooden pickets and is often used as an accent to a picket fence.
5. The wooden lattice gate: This style of gate is characterized by its open lattice design and is a great option for homeowners looking for a gate that provides privacy while also allowing light and air to pass through.

Overall, the style of the gate will depend on the homeowner’s personal preference, the design of the existing fence and the purpose the gate will serve.

 

DIY fence installation vs hiring a professional: which is right for you?

Installing a cedar fence can be a rewarding DIY project, but it is important to carefully plan and prepare to ensure that the job is done correctly. Here are some steps to follow and potential pitfalls to avoid when installing a cedar fence:

1. Choose the right materials: Select cedar boards that are appropriate for the intended use and the conditions of your site. Consider factors such as the height and style of the fence, the type of soil, and the type of interaction the fence will receive.
2. Measure and mark the fence line: Measure and mark the location of the fence using stakes and string. Make sure to take into account any slopes or other changes in grade.
3. Install the posts: Begin by installing the corner and end posts first, using a post-hole digger to create holes that are at least 24 inches deep. Set the posts in the holes and fill them with concrete, making sure the posts are plumb and level.
4. Consider the gates: typically there is a need for a gate to enter from outside of the fence. Often finding a gate kit is your best bet.
5. Attach the rails: Once the posts are in place, attach the horizontal rails to the posts using galvanized nails or screws. Make sure the rails are level and evenly spaced.
6. Install the cedar boards: Begin installing the cedar boards at one end of the fence, working your way toward the other end. Use galvanized nails or screws to attach the boards to the rails, making sure the boards are evenly spaced and level.
7. Finish the fence: Once all of the cedar boards are in place, finish the fence by trimming any excess material and adding any desired trim or decorative elements.

 

Potential pitfalls to avoid when installing a cedar fence include:

• Not preparing the site properly: A stable and level base is essential for a successful cedar fence. Make sure to excavate and compact the soil as needed to provide a solid foundation for the fence.

• Not installing the posts correctly: Properly setting the posts is crucial for the stability and longevity of the fence. Make sure to use concrete to secure the posts and ensure that they are plumb and level.

• Not attaching the cedar boards securely: Use galvanized nails or screws to attach the cedar boards to the rails, and make sure the boards are evenly spaced and level.

• Not installing the fence at the proper height above the ground level: nothing should be in contact with the fence. If soil or anything is stored next to the fence it can’t dry and decay will be rapidly accelerated

• Not including a cap rail: if there is no cap rail included the fence will decay more quickly as water will sit directly on the fence with open pores of the pickets. Including a pressure-treated cedar 2”x 6” cap will prevent this and the fence will last significantly longer. It also looks better!

By following these steps and avoiding potential pitfalls, you can install a cedar fence yourself with confidence and achieve a professional-looking result.

Poorly installed fences decay more quickly and there is an increased risk of fences not being straight, level and plumb. With that being said, most prefer to avoid the hassle and contact people like Seattle Sustainable Landscapes to ensure their fence will last for decades to come!

 

 

Reach out to let us know how we can help!