We all think of the space inside our garden wall or fence as our empire and of course it is, but the way we demarcate our empire from the rest of the world sends out an important message. So, what’s it to be, a fence or a wall?
Decisions, decisions
Very often, it comes down to cost. In general, fences are cheaper to install than walls are to build. However, walls last longer and make you feel more secure; they really section off your garden.
Then again, fences offer a lot more variety – you can use lots of different woods, different designs, like slatted or close-board, or even a post and chain version if you’re after a bit of old-world sophistication (you probably need the appropriate Georgian house to really get away with this, though). If you have a Victorian era house you might find a wrought iron fence a great choice, but if you have an older country cottage then you can go full-traditional and erect a white picket fence – yes, really.
Consistency is key
You must make sure that your fence fits in with the look and colour scheme of the outside of your house. If you have a redbrick house, try to use the same type and colour of brick, as well as the same sort of bonding; it’s actually fairly easy to find reclaimed bricks. If your house has made of stone, you should try to source the same sort of stone for your wall.
Ask about planning permission
Before you finalise any plans for your fence or wall, you need to contact your planning office for advice. If your boundary structure is more than a metre in height and you’re beside a large road then you’ll need planning permission. While you’re at the design stage, you should also think about incorporating a bike or bin shelter in your plans. Although if you do decide to do this, make the bin storage bigger than you think you’ll need as you never know what dimensions the new recycling bins from the council will be…
