What is the purpose of your fence?

A safe haven for children?

A fence is a great addition to help supervise the outdoor activities of your children. Limiting access to busy streets, or hazards from a nearby lake or pool can help provide piece of mind. Of course, no fence is a substitute for adult supervision. Building codes for pool fencing provide good insight into issues to consider regarding any fence specifically designed with small children in mind. For example, the BOCA Code for pool fencing requires that a 4″ sphere cannot slip between the pickets of a fence ensuring that the opening does not permit a small child’s head to slip through, which could possibly trap their head or create a risk of strangulation. Also, horizontal surfaces that would provide a step for a child to climb the fence must be considered. For a chain-link fence, that means a standard 2″ square opening in the diamond is not acceptable in pool areas and a 1-1/4″ opening is required which is small enough that a foot cannot be easily inserted. For an iron, wood or vinyl fence the spacing between at least two of the horizontal members must be at least 45″. Gate latching mechanisms should be automatic and the operating knob or lever should be at minimum 54″ above ground level.

Pet or animal containment?

Many fencing projects are associated with keeping pets in or other animals out. Recently, products have been introduced that control animal behavior without a physical barrier. Typically, these are collars that give your pet an electric shock when it approaches the zone created by a radio signal from a buried wire. These products are really not fences; they are animal training devices. If training “Fido” to stay in the yard is your sole objective, these may be a good solution. Remember, however, that these devices do not keep “Spike” down the street from entering your yard, and they may prevent your animal from escaping if “Spike” poses a threat. The size and characteristics of your animal must be carefully considered when selecting a fence. An ornamental iron fence may do a great job of keeping a large dog confined, but with nearly 4″ between pickets it will do little to keep your small breed in the yard. Aggressive animals have been known to breach even quality fences and breed is not necessarily an indicator of how your animal will submit to being confined. Make sure you evaluate your animal’s behavior carefully when selecting the type or quality of product.