Definition of a Privacy Fence

Privacy fences can be found in both the residential and commercial sections of our cities and towns. Urban areas where homeowner lots are in close proximity to each other are excellent places for a privacy fence. They can be sections of wood fencing or attractive landscape barriers. But the purpose remains the same and that is to provide privacy and to allow the homeowner or business to create the outdoor space that they require.

Facts

A privacy fence can take many forms, ranging from the simple to the elaborate. They are found in various locations such as residences, businesses and along stretches of highway. They provide not only privacy but also often provide wind breaks and sound barriers. They can be made of concrete, brick, wood, assembled elements of a landscaping such as bushes, plants and evergreens, or a combination of any of the stated elements.

Function

The function of a privacy fence, of course, is to provide privacy. In residential neighborhoods where the lots are small and patios and decks are in close proximity to each other, a privacy fence provides separation from neighbors. This separation allows the owner to enjoy his space without the watchful eyes of others. Privacy fences are also found in business districts where outside areas are designated for public enjoyment such as an outdoor dining area of a restaurant. The function of a privacy fence in this instance is to perhaps keep out any noise from traffic on a nearby street or to create a certain ambiance to the outdoor dining experience.

Types

There are various types of privacy fences that can be constructed. In both the residential and business sectors an owner often will choose to plant bushes that will provide privacy as well as beauty. Red twig or yellow dogwood bushes are an excellent choice for this purpose, as well as honeysuckle bushes. They will grow in height and provide privacy. The red and yellow twig dogwood will provide color during the winter months with their red or yellow twigs as well as white flowers in the spring. Honeysuckle blossoms in the spring and provides a lovely fragrance as well. Evergreens are also another choice and remain a beautiful privacy barrier throughout the four seasons.Another common type of privacy fence is a section of wood fencing that separates and adds privacy. A brick wall is also another option, although in most cases it is cost prohibitive.Privacy fences that are constructed along sections of highway can be berms accompanied by landscaping, which are both a sight and sound barrier. They can also be constructed of sections of formed concrete.

Benefits

There are several benefits to privacy fences. Obviously, they provide privacy, but they also provide homeowners with a space that they can relax in, a space that they can sit quietly and enjoy some solitude after a long day at work. In urban areas they act as a barrier to the busy street, lowering the noise from the traffic and again creating a space of enjoyment and relaxation.Along the highway they act as noise and pollution barriers to the adjacent homes and businesses. They can also add to the beauty of the highway if these barriers or privacy fences are constructed of berms and landscape elements.

Considerations

As a homeowner there are considerations when putting up a privacy fence. You want to make sure that it is tastefully done and that it will not be offensive to your neighbors. And you will want to consider the maintenance factors that are involved in the type of privacy fence that you are going to construct. If you plant bushes or evergreens, remember that they will require water, and in the case of bushes they will need to be trimmed. Also, they will take time to fill in and provide the privacy that you are looking for, whereas a section of wooden fencing will give you instant privacy and will not require much maintenance at all. You might not like looking at a wooden fence, however, so you might end up adding some landscaping elements to soften its appearance. These are all things to consider.