Since humans first began living in groups there have been barriers such as walls and fences. This may have started out as protection against wild animals or other hostile elements. Today the purpose of fences is is many faceted and ranges from privacy to architecture.
|
| From those early days of mankind, where bunches of stacked thorns were used to keep away wild animals, fences have progressed to a wide variety of materials. Nowadays fences are mostly constructed from wood, vinyl, chain-link steel and cement blocks, depending on the neighborhood or need. For example, a suburban home in Arizona will have a different fence design than a suburban home in New Jersey due to architecture, terrain and need. Wood does not rot as quickly in a desert environment whereas vinyl may crack and fade. So the environment plays a part in what type of fence is needed. Of course this does not include commercial fencing where the major need is almost always security. |
| The type of neighborhood may have covenants that require a certain type of fence or, in some areas, no fence at all.For example, in some areas the homes are required to have no fencing in the front yard and wood fences of a determined height in the back yard. As well, there are city bylaws which may require that fences be built within a certain distance of the surveyed property line. |
| Types of Fencing
|
Wood Panel Fences:
This is the most commonly-built fence for privacy and looks. Its utility in setting boundaries and allowing a safe area for children and pets makes it popular. The fence panels usually come in 8' sections and are about 4' to 6' tall.The tops can be squared, dog-eared or pointed. Wood fences are usually constructed with pressure-treated spruce or pine but red and white cedar is also a good choice for a low-maintenance option |
| Vinyl Fences:
The main draw to vinyl is that it will not weather or be subject to insects as most untreated wood. Except in extreme heat vinyl is relatively maintenance-free and can be bought in a variety of colors. It also is easy to assemble. |
| Wrought-Iron:
For centuries wrought-iron has been the choice for security and beauty. The fence can be made in almost any design imaginable and there are wrought-iron fences over two-hundred years old.The drawback, of course, is that iron has to be maintained by regular painting. This depends upon the finish of the original fence and if its basic treatment was properly prepared. |
| Chain Link:
For an economical and quick way to enclose an area chain link fencing is a good choice. It comes in 25' to 100' rolls which can be 4' to 6' in height. The natural, galvanized finish is preferable to some homeowners but a wide variety of colored-vinyl coating is also available.For privacy, vinyl slats can be inserted between the links. This is an ideal choice for a play area and for keeping pets. |
| Cement Block:
Block walls are usually built in areas where privacy and security are a necessity. The units are generally 8” x 8” x 16” in size and will not rust, warp or attract mold or insects. This wall is also fire resistant (a great fire break against brush fires) and has great sound-dampening qualities.As well, the old “gray block” has been usurped by a variety of designs and colors that can turn a “grudge wall” into a feature wall that can be the envy of the neighborhood. |
| Building a Fence in Newark |
The City of Newark requires a permit for the building of any fence over 4 feet high. As well, the City of Newark does not provide the disposal of construction materials. Such disposal of non-domestic refuse must be arranged with a licensed waste disposal company.
Building Permits Office
920 Broad St # B13
Newark, NJ 07102
(973) 733-3957 |