How to choose a fence?
Have you decided to fence your house, garden, plot, construction site or festival? There is a very large selection of fences on the market. What questions should you consider before choosing, what to pay attention to and how to choose the right fence for you?
Trying to make the choice easier, our experts have created FENCE TV GUIDE. It contains current questions about the privacy of fences, adaptability to the environment, price, operation, installation features, durability and other important factors. The Guide presents all the main types of fences, useful information about preparing for fencing, construction and other relevant issues. Even more useful things about choosing fences can be found on zabor-modern.ru in the video reports Closed type fences, Open type fences, Metal profile fence, Gates, wickets, selected by our experts.
The main criteria for building a fence
In an effort to understand which fence will meet your expectations, we recommend answering these questions.
Closed or open?
A closed fence will look like a wall, it will have narrow through gaps, it will perfectly protect the privacy of the territory, but it cannot always be built: only in permitted places. The closed fence can be a metal horizontal profile - you can adjust the closedness of the fence by choosing different profile widths, Aluzinc picket fence, aluminum, plastic or wood, concrete blocks, gabions. You can also regulate privacy at segmental fences using fence tape. Open fences limit the territory, protect against break-ins, but do not preserve privacy. Open ones are made of metal profiles, decorative ones with ornaments, segmental ones, and mesh ones.
High or low?
The height of the fence is an individual choice. Deciding whether to build a high or low fence depends on your needs for personal privacy, security, and installation permits. Please note that fences higher than 2 meters require a separate permit.
Long lasting or temporary?
If you need to fence off an area temporarily, a mobile fence or a cheap, easy-to-install mesh fence is perfect for you. The largest part of the cost of a roll mesh fence is concreting the posts, but you can reduce this by using special drive-in posts and renting a manual drive-in device. Those who want a durable solution are better off choosing fences made from metal horizontal profiles, wood, plastic, blocks, and metal vertical profiles.
How difficult is installation?
Of course, the degree of installation complexity should not be the main factor when choosing a fence, but still this question also needs to be answered. It is more difficult to install fences made of blocks, gabions (stone fences), and also combined from different elements. The simplest installation consists of concreting metal posts and attaching fence segments using the parts included in the kit. A prefabricated foundation allows you to avoid complex and expensive concrete work.
What are your care needs?
If you don’t want to spend time on maintaining the fence, choose Aluzinc picket fence, aluminum, galvanized metal fence - it is durable and does not need updating. A wooden fence will last 10 years without any changes, after which it will have to be impregnated and painted. Those who value naturalness should pay attention to fences made of thermally treated wood; it looks not only attractive, but also durable.
Protecting or limiting the territory?
Privacy will be maintained by a fence made of horizontal or vertical metal, wooden or plastic boards. There are also fences where you can see the street from the inside, but the territory of the site is not visible from the outside (such as blinds). Those living in a less secure area should choose a taller fence that will provide protection. But a mesh fence, a low decorative fence, will only limit the territory, but will provide less protection.
ALUZINC picket fence: horizontal and vertical
For home or other areas?
If you choose a fence for a private home, you can combine it with the architectural style of the building (wooden, forged, metal profiles, concrete or other fences). For fencing commercial, industrial or other areas, fences made of mesh, segments, and high metal fences made of profiles are suitable.
Suitable for your home?
A metal vertical fence made of profiles or decorative fences with ornaments will suit a classic-style house. Wooden fences surrounded by greenery, as well as gabions, look beautiful. For modern modern architecture, fences made of horizontal metal profiles, aluminum profiles, milled sheets, plastic fences, and various modern wide posts are suitable. When choosing the color of the fence, we recommend combining it with the frame of the house’s windows, doors, garage doors, and roof.
Suitable for your neighbors?
When installing a fence, it is important not to disturb your neighbors or reduce their lighting of the area. It is fashionable to choose a more expensive and decorative front part of the fence. You can isolate yourself from your neighbors using a light-transmitting mesh or a segmented fence, or simply get permission from your neighbors. When choosing a fence, you will have to look more carefully at the environment. If you are in an ethnographic area, cultural heritage area, national park or similar area, you will need to consult with local architects and obtain permission from them to install a fence.
What's the value for money?
The prices of different types of fences are not the same, so if you have a limited amount of money, you should not build gabions or choose the most expensive aluminum fence. It is better to choose a high-quality fence segment, a wooden fence or another cheaper fence. In any case, a fence is a durable purchase and the calling card of the facade of the house. Although there are many cheap fakes on the market, in accordance with the saying “the miser pays twice,” we do not recommend saving, especially when buying a segment or mesh fence made in Asia or painted at a local factory without a certificate.
Those wishing to calculate future expenses are encouraged to use a convenient online . " With its help, not only the cost of posts and segments of the required fence is calculated, but also the fastening elements for gates and posts, the foundation and other components.
Find out the price of the fence now! »
Types of metal products for combination with gates
Forged gates make an excellent combination with small-sized products and structures with significant dimensions. An important criterion for creating a harmonious combination is a single style in which two or more products must be made. To achieve this, clients purchase ready-made models, but it is often necessary to submit a request for the production of an individual item. To obtain more detailed information about the product you are interested in, we recommend that you follow the links located later in the article.
Gates with built-in wicket and other options
The most popular combination is a combination of a forged gate and a gate. The products combine elegance and beauty, strength and reliability , give the landscape individuality and completeness, and demonstrate the refined taste and well-being of the home owners/company owners. Customers are provided with a wide range of products. Highlight:
- transparent and solid products;
Forged gates with a wicket, made in black, look good against the light background of the house. Photo Arabesque
- sliding and swing gates with wickets;
Forged sliding gates with a wicket and fence. Timergrad Photos
- gates with built-in wicket;
Forged gates with a built-in wicket. Photo by TNV Kovka
- gates of arched, rectangular and non-standard shapes.
Forged single-leaf sliding gates with a laconic design. Photo Deroy
Fence: concrete, corrugated sheet, polycarbonate, iron and more
Wrought iron gate and fence are a combination of products that provide security for residential and commercial properties. Reliable and durable products give the building inaccessibility, attract attention, and do not leave anyone indifferent. A wrought-iron gate with a fence adds value to the site and is the calling card of the owners of the house.
Gate, wicket and fence with grapes, vines and leaves. Photo Iron Age
Forged products are organically combined both with objects made of similar materials and with objects made of other materials. Thus, a forged gate looks great with a fence made of wood, brick or other stone, concrete, polycarbonate, or corrugated sheet . The choice should be made based on financial capabilities and design objectives.
Wrought iron fence, partially finished with brown corrugated board, as well as a gate. Work by Evgeny Gavrilov
Canopy and canopy
Forged canopies and canopies are an ideal solution for decorating the entrance area of almost any building, regardless of the number of floors, cladding method, purpose and other criteria.
The gate with forging and corrugated sheets is complemented by a visor. Photo Arabesque
The complete set of a forged gate and a canopy (or canopy) allows you to stylistically connect the house and the landscape , giving the architecture of the building and the site a bright design. The products form a single compositional ensemble, which makes the design harmonious and attractive. The forged visor is also placed directly above the gate.
Fences, fencing
There are several types of forged fences : lawn, staircase, balcony, porch, veranda or terrace. Products of any kind are an excellent addition to a forged gate. Clients have the opportunity to arrange their home and surrounding area using the entire range of fencing.
Forged stair railings and fences. Photo Metalist
As a result, the customer acquires an ensemble of a number of products that provide space decoration and perform several practical functions at once.
Lattices
Gates and window bars perform a similar function - they prevent intruders from entering private, commercial property: the site and the house.
Forged products also have an original design and are a symbol of reliability and prestige . Graceful forged patterns give the exterior of the building and the surrounding area individuality and support the overall style.
Flower girls
Forged flower beds located on the street have a wide variety of shapes:
- window products resemble small balconies;
Forged flower girl with monogram. Photo ArtMetal
- wall items are placed on special brackets;
Flower girl near the window. Photo Forged World
- floor stands and flowerpots;
Forged flowerpot. Photo Forged World
- non-standard stands reminiscent of art objects.
Functional forged gates are perfectly complemented by beautifully designed flower beds, which are used to complement the garden and landscaping certain parts of the local area.
Doors
Forged doors and gates represent the “face” of any home . The products are distinguished by their exquisite and stylish design, beauty and reliability. This solution is suitable for clients who prefer both practical and decorative solutions .
Arched wrought iron entrance door. Kuznitsa Photos
To create a harmonious combination, it is recommended to choose objects of a similar shape; for example, arched doors and gates are an interesting and effective option.
Balconies
Forged balconies serve as an excellent addition to the façade of a building ; they give the building a presentable and finished look , combining functionality and aesthetics. Customers are provided with products of various shapes and purposes.
French wrought iron balcony. All forging
French balconies serve as an elegant decoration of the architecture of the house. Outdoor structures of standard types serve as an excellent place to relax. The combination of a forged gate and a balcony gives the space around the house a touch of aristocracy and demonstrates the unique taste of the owners.
Stairs
Stairs located on the street have several varieties : to the porch, veranda or terrace, to the second floor (an emergency entrance to the house), to the balcony. Such structures perform a practical function and also act as a striking element for the facade.
Wrought iron staircase in black. Photo Thor
It is advisable to complement interesting architectural solutions in the form of a forged staircase or several instances of structures with a metal gate. This arrangement option helps to combine the house and landscape details into a single ensemble .
Gazebos
It is most logical to design a gazebo located in the local area in the same style as the gate. Thus, the area near the house acquires individuality . The gazebo is a great place to relax and communicate with relatives. The owners and guests, while in the gazebo, have the opportunity to enjoy a well-thought-out landscape design.
Wrought iron gazebo with glass roof. Photo Integral
Arches and pergolas
Forged products are located outdoors, most often in the garden, and are used for orderly vertical gardening ; arches are suitable for small areas. Items that most often have an arched shape go well with a gate that has a similar configuration.
Forged arched arch. Photo Arabesque
In addition, a small arch can be placed above the gate. Thus, the entrance area acquires even greater originality and completeness.
Forged pergola. Photo City of Masters
Swing
Manufacturers offer various types of forged swings : mobile and stationary; children's, two-, three- and four-seater, with a canopy. Regardless of the type of product, they are used for landscaping the local area .
In a family with a child, they perform for games and entertainment. The combination of a forged swing and a gate makes the yard unique. In addition, the products are perfectly combined with other design elements and living plantings.
Bridges
There are forged bridges that perform practical and decorative functions, as well as products that act as an element for decoration. The combination of a gate and a bridge gives the landscape a unique feature. The products do not lose their relevance and popularity, therefore they are used for the improvement of private properties and public places: gardens, parks, public gardens , etc.
Braziers
The grill is a product that combines elegance and versatility ; fire and openwork patterns of forged metal create magical beauty. The barbecue occupies almost the central place in a dacha, in a country house.
Wrought iron barbecue with roof. UfaKovka Photos
It is advisable to arrange a recreation area with a barbecue near the entrance to the site. Thus, a forged gate and a barbecue are an interesting combination, distinguished by practicality and luxury.
Mailboxes
A wrought iron mailbox and gate are a popular product combination . Often the box is located directly on the gate. A small metal object organically complements the style in which the gate is made.
, similar elements for decoration are most often used . For example, both products are complemented with leaves and twigs or bunches and vines of grapes; there are many decoration options.
Address signs
Address signs are a mandatory element of building facades; often small objects are located on a fence, gate or gate. Forged signs have a bright, attention-grabbing design. The gate and the metal sign combine harmoniously, creating an elegant and practical combination that demonstrates the unique taste of the home owners.
The forged address sign for the house is decorated with leaves. Photo Arabesque
Signs
Wrought iron signs often complement commercial buildings . Bright and original hanging products serve as a kind of information sign .
Forged sign with curls. Photo Vyatka forging
A sign provides passers-by with basic information about a company or establishment, thereby forming a first impression. A forged sign in combination with a gate demonstrates the success of the enterprise and its financial well-being.
Reference. The section “Photos of forged gates (how to send a photo)” contains various combinations of products. You can watch some of them in the video below.
Types of fences
Get to know the types of fences on the market: we will discuss their installation complexity , maintenance, protection, structure and other important factors.
Fence made of metal horizontal profiles
Installation. Segments of metal horizontal profiles are mounted to metal or concrete pillars. Fence segments are attached to metal posts with self-tapping screws, and to concrete posts - with screws with nylon plugs or anchors.
Care and operating time. Modern fences made of galvanized metal profiles are durable and do not require additional maintenance. Horizontal metal fences allow you to adjust your privacy by choosing profiles of different sizes. They are suitable for any area if you want the fence to not completely block the view or cast a large shadow, but at the same time create more privacy.
Safety. A fence is easier to climb over, but is more enclosed than a clear mesh fence.
Structure. Segments of horizontal metal profiles are manufactured by hot-dip galvanizing, followed by powder coating in a factory chamber with a product certificate. The segments of this fence can be made to any size. The same technology can be used to produce gates and wickets (with all fasteners).
Where will it fit? A horizontal fence will suit an architectural building in the Art Nouveau style.
Price. Compared with the general assortment, the price of a fence made from horizontal profiles is higher than mesh and vertical profiles, but lower than from modern metal profiles.
Fence blocks
Installation. Quick fence installation. There is no need to cut parts of blocks or fill gaps. You can wall up pillars, walls, bases, other fence structures, or the entire fence.
Care and operating time. Stone and concrete blocks are a durable product that will last for a couple of decades. It does not require special care, but in the first year light spots may appear on the concrete blocks. This is “expulsion” - a natural coating that comes out of concrete. It can be cleaned with a special salt solution or other means. After a couple of years, the spots no longer appear. Impregnation will help protect against plaque by brightening the color of the block and covering it with a polymer film.
Transparency. Fence blocks can completely enclose an area, but more often they are used as a partial fence structure. Therefore, in general, the transparency of the fence depends on other elements.
Safety. Concrete blocks are a very durable material, and how the fence will protect the area depends on the overall design.
Structure. The blocks are made of concrete, from a pressed mass of stones, granite pebbles, they have the appearance of a natural split or a flat surface, it depends on the type of blocks. Fence blocks are pigmented, you can choose any color from the available models.
Where will it fit ? This type of fence will suit any building. Fence blocks look beautiful with various designs: metal profiles, decorative segments, wooden fences.
Price. Due to expensive production technologies, fence blocks are more expensive than other fence elements. Fence blocks are most often not used to fill the entire fence line, but only to thin out and secure fence structures. Often blocks are used only on the façade or at gates and gates.
Aluzinc picket fence: horizontal and vertical
Installation. Metal fence segments are mounted to metal or concrete posts. During installation, special fastening elements are used, such as self-tapping screws (for metal poles) or screws with nylon plugs, metal anchors (for concrete poles). The fence can be mounted either on a base/foundation (using posts with anchor plates) or without it (concreting only the posts or using a prefabricated fence foundation).
Care and operating time. ALUZINC, an alloy coated metal, is better protected from corrosion and will last longer. If the house is located next to the street, the fence will need to be washed occasionally to maintain its ideal appearance.
Transparency. The metal boards have small gaps, so the outside of the fence will be almost opaque and provide privacy. Metal boards can be single or double filled, which allows you to adjust the degree of closure. Depending on the placement of the boards, some fences may be completely opaque from the outside and easily transparent from the yard. ( BLINDS " )
Safety. The structure is strong and can be high, so metal fences perfectly protect the area.
Structure. Aluzinc picket fence » sizes according to customer's order. Depending on the type of fence, it is made of metal of different thicknesses, the composition of which is resistant to corrosion due to the fact that it contains zinc, aluminum and silicon. The segments are powder-coated after hot-dip galvanizing. Colors are selected according to RAL code.
Where will it fit? Most suitable for modern architecture. Suitable for both residential buildings and commercial or industrial enterprises.
Price. The price of a metal fence is average in comparison with other types.
Aluminum fences
Installation. Aluminum fences can be mounted on a foundation, but not necessarily. Most often attached to concrete or aluminum posts. You can use a prefabricated foundation.
Care and operating time . This is the most durable fencing method. The fence does not require additional care.
Transparency. Depending on the selected aluminum profiles, the width of the slots may vary, they can also be vertical and horizontal.
Safety. An aluminum fence is strong, and if you raise it to a foundation, it will be tall.
Structure. Wide selection of design types and colors. Creating a stylish exterior, you can choose aluminum profiles with combined colored boards or wood imitation.
Where will it fit? For a stylish modern house, for fencing urban architecture.
Price. Aluminum is not a cheap metal, but its durability, strength, and versatility make it a good investment despite the higher-than-average price of the fence.
Modern fences
Installation. Depending on the model, it can be mounted on or without a foundation. Modern milled fences are attached to metal or concrete posts.
Care and operating time. Like other metal fences, they can be washed and cleaned occasionally, but they do not require much maintenance.
Transparency. Milled sheets can be made with wide slots (an openwork pattern imitating metal profiles), but can also be almost opaque.
Safety. Fence panels can perfectly protect the site from those who want to enter the territory. Metal fences are durable and can be high (optional).
Structure. Buyers of the fence themselves can participate in the creation of the “painting” and order it taking into account their wishes both for the design and for the color and design.
Where will it fit? For fencing areas whose owners strive for individuality and modern style. The fence will suit modern houses both in the city and outside the city.
Price . Due to the fact that the fences are made according to an individual project, taking into account the client’s wishes , the price is average or slightly higher, and depends on the design features.
Fences made of metal profiles
Installation. Fences made of metal profiles are mounted on metal or concrete posts. Fence segments are attached to metal posts with self-tapping screws, and to concrete posts with nylon plugs or metal anchors.
Care and operating time. A fence or decorative fence made from galvanized metal profiles is durable and does not require special care. Primed fences are considered weaker in protection and have a shorter lifespan.
Transparency. Both decorative fences with ornaments and simple metal fences have large gaps. Therefore, they are perfect where it is necessary that the fence does not block the view and does not provide a large shadow. If you want more privacy, you can plant bushes and flower beds near the fence - they fit perfectly with such classic fences.
Safety . Due to the large gaps, small animals (cats, rodents, etc.) can easily crawl through the fence. The fence can be of the desired height, but due to the sharp ends of the profiles, it is more difficult for a person to climb over it.
Structure. The fence from vertical profiles is made by hot-dip galvanizing, followed by powder coating in a chamber of a certified plant. Wrought iron fences are made of cast iron using ancient technologies. The segments of this fence can be made to any size. Gates and wickets (with all fastening elements) can also be manufactured using the same technology. Forged type fence segments are coated with black primer or after primer they are painted with powder paint.
As analogues to primed models, we offer decorative DUPLEX models. They have extremely high corrosion resistance due to their double coating. In addition to standard metal processing procedures, a special Oxsilan coating is used, which forms a polymer layer on the metal surface. It is this layer that creates exceptionally reliable protection and visual appeal. This type of fence is of weaker construction, but durable.
Where will it fit? Fences made of metal profiles are suitable for all classical types of architectural objects, including historical areas and those with cultural heritage. Forged metal fences are also called decorative; they are perfect not only for fencing classic residential buildings, but also for fencing a flower bed, garden, park or cemetery exterior.
Price. Compared with the general range of prices, the price of fences with vertical metal profiles and decorative fences is average.
Wooden, thermowood
Installation. Like metal ones, wooden ones (made of thermowood) are mounted on metal or concrete pillars. Segments with vertical boards are mounted using special nylon fastening elements, horizontal boards or panels such as blinds are fastened using a metal corner.
Care and operating time. Heat-treated wooden fences are resistant to rot, mildew, and environmental influences, so they are more durable than impregnated wooden fences. If necessary, after 10 years you can renew the fence by additionally impregnating it with special oil.
Transparency. Wooden fences can be of different types with larger or smaller gaps between the boards. Fences such as blinds are closed from the street, but partially transparent from the side of the site.
Safety. Wooden boards are quite durable.
Structure. Wooden fences are made in a modern way - Finnish pine boards are heat-treated and coated with REMMERS oil to protect against UV rays. This processing technology ensures resistance to environmental influences. For assembly, only galvanized and painted metal profiles are used.
Where will it fit? Wooden fences look beautiful in dachas, surrounded by nature, and fit the classic type of new and old houses and wooden buildings. Often such fences are allowed to be installed in national parks and areas with cultural heritage.
Price. The price of wooden fences is low compared to others. This is a good solution for home and garden.
Fences made of WPC plastic
Installation. Installation is as simple as for installing metal segments. It is possible, but not necessary, to install a foundation, mount it to concrete or stone pillars using self-tapping screws or screws with nylon plugs, or metal anchors.
Care and operating time. Fences made of WPC plastic do not require additional maintenance, because the plastic does not rust, does not rot, and the paint does not peel off. Like other fences, they can be washed and cleaned occasionally.
Transparency. WPC fence segments can be vertical or horizontal, as well as the spaces between the profiles. Depending on the segment of the fence, the gaps can be large or small.
Safety. Plastic and composite are not as durable as metal.
Structure . Composite fences imitate the texture of wood and can be of different colors, so they look visually attractive. Fence segments are made from WPC composite and retain their color as they are resistant to UV rays, humidity and the environment.
Where will it fit? Due to their visual similarity to wood or metal profiles, plastic and WPC fences are perfect for most modern and classic architectural buildings.
Price . The price of plastic and composite fences is not high compared to other fences.
Gabions - stone fences
Installation. of Gabions - stone fences is complex, it consists of several stages. First of all, the pillars are concreted into the middle of the gabion structure, the foundation is prepared, the gabion box is assembled, the profiles are stabilized, and filled with stones.
Care and operating time. Metal structures are galvanized, durable and resistant to the environment. The stones with which the gabions are filled are also durable and do not require maintenance.
Transparency. Gabions filled with stones are not transparent, but most often they make up only part of the fence. Openings in the fence depend on the additional structure of the fence.
Safety. A stone wall, of course, is strong and protects the site, but most often it is not the main part of the fence, so the protection of the fence depends more on the choice of the overall design.
Structure. Gabions consist of a fence made of wire and metal profiles, the inside is filled with stones or other crushed stone, and in the center of the structure there is one or more concrete pillars.
Where will it fit ? Use as parts of a fence or as components of a yard exterior. Looks beautiful with 2D fence segments, vertical profiles, plantations. Suitable for homes where you want originality, a modern combination of nature and technology.
Price. These fence elements are the most expensive class, but when combined with other types of fences, the price can be average.
Panel fences 2D, 3D
Installation . Mounted on metal poles. Complete with special mounting and fastening parts. Often used with precast foundations.
Care and operating time. This is a durable fencing solution. The original product (if the panels are made in Europe and painted at a certified factory) does not require maintenance.
Transparency. 2D, 3D panel fences have very large gaps, so they are suitable where a closed fence is not needed.
Safety. Such a fence does not preserve privacy, but it is difficult to climb over, especially if high segments are installed. Special segmented tapes can correct the privacy problem.
Structure. The wire is made of durable metal and is powder-coated, which guarantees protection against corrosion. The fence wire is connected by spot welding. 3D models have curved convexities and are manufactured in 4 mm or 5 mm thickness. 2D and 2DS models are made of double horizontal and thicker wire; they have no bends because they are reinforced.
Where will it fit? Wide range of uses. Panel fences are suitable for residential areas, as well as commercial and industrial areas, for educational institutions and other areas.
Price. Up-panel fences have the lowest price.
Mesh fencing
Installation. Mesh fencing is most often used with concreted metal posts, with wires for tension, and with other installation elements. They are divided into wicker and welded fences. Welded fences can be installed without a tension system. Concrete structures can also be replaced with pillars driven into the ground.
Care and operating time. A chain link fence is made of durable metal, and with properly concreted posts it should last a long time. Still, we recommend that you occasionally inspect the fences so that the environment does not cause harm. Damaged posts or bent mesh can be replaced with new ones - fence mesh is an inexpensive product.
Transparency. Due to large gaps, the fence may not be visible from afar.
Safety. A chain-link fence does not maintain privacy, but it does demarcate the area and prevent easy access. Fence strips can solve privacy problems.
Structure. The mesh slots may not be the same size. The network is made of durable galvanized wire or other alloy. Depending on the type of fence, it can be equipped with other parts.
Where will it fit? Depending on the type, such a fence may be suitable for a residential area, sports fields, or other large areas. Also suitable for areas where the view or panorama cannot be blocked
Price. Mesh is the cheapest type of fencing.
Fence parts and mobile fences
When installing fences, you can combine various concrete, wooden, fence posts, fence strips, foundations . For open-air events, construction sites, and festivals, you can use temporary fencing and purchase mobile fences that can be quickly assembled and dismantled, which perfectly delimit the territory and protect from strangers.
Before choosing a fence
Site preparation
Before choosing a fence, you need to clear the area and consider the following decisions:
Level the terrain on which you will install the fence as best as possible . Then the fence will not be a “staircase”, it will look smooth and aesthetically pleasing, and it will be easier to install it.
Decide about the place of greenery and trees in relation to the fence. Consider where the bushes and trees will grow, how this will affect the appearance of the fence and its functionality.
Assess the general appearance of the facade of the house and the site, which will be, for example, after 4 years. This will help you choose a fence that will fulfill your needs not only now, but also in the future.
Plan investments in the façade and other site features.
Decide on the foundation (concrete base or prefabricated foundation).
Choose the optimal gate system (sliding, folding, swing).
Construction permit
Installing a fence is the same responsible and regulating work as a house construction project. Therefore, before choosing a fence, you need to remember to find out the requirements and obtain official permits. Their necessity is associated with some properties of the fence:
Fence height. The height will help determine which group the fence belongs to.
Design characteristics. If the fence has a foundation, a small number of cracks, or supporting walls, additional permission from neighbors will be required.
Characteristics of the site. Depending on whether the fence is being installed in a city, in a national park, in a cultural heritage area, in a village, near a road, a water source, etc., additional requirements may have to be followed.
The position of the fence in relation to the site. It is very important whether the fence is built on the border of the site or inside its territory, whether it emphasizes the boundaries of the territory, etc.
The impact of the fence on neighbors. Even if you don't need a permit for a fence, it's always a good idea to ask your neighbors if a fence would interfere with their lighting and overall aesthetics. When building a very high fence near the property line, you will need written construction permission.
Permission is not needed if:
— The height of the fence is 1 – 2 meters.
— The fence does not extend beyond the border of the territory.
- When the shadow from the fence falls on the territory of neighbors in the northern direction and when the cracks in the fence occupy no more than 50% of the entire area (including pillars and the basement part). For example, a fence mesh, segmented or made of metal profiles, provides a large area of cracks, but for wooden or metal panels additional permits may be required - there is less transparent area.
— When the shadow from the fence falls on neighbors in the east or west direction and the cracks occupy no more than 25% of the area.
— When the shadow of the fence falls on the neighbors to the south.
— When the site where the fence is installed is not associated with cultural heritage, national park, forest and other places.
If you are in doubt about what type of fence to choose, want to get advice or have questions, we are waiting for your call or letter.
Depending on the material used
The material from which the gate is made decides a lot. In addition to the fact that the material must be suitable for the fence, it must also meet the parameters of mechanical strength and resistance to external environmental factors.
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Wooden gates
An original double-leaf gate with a canopy
If the area is enclosed by a wooden picket fence, it is unlikely that you should choose any other material other than wood. The tree will also look appropriate on a fence made of natural stone or brick. Wood combines beautifully with bulk fences in a welded mesh - pergon and gabion.
The wood panel is often decorated with carved or forged elements. This gives the tree an expensive and original look.
This natural material has enough advantages to consider it as an option for a gate:
Advantages
- One of the inexpensive and accessible materials;
- No complex tools required for installation;
- Ease of processing;
- You can assemble a wooden gate in a short time;
- Lightweight material that does not put stress on posts and hinges;
- Environmental friendliness and safety;
- Natural and aesthetic appearance.
Flaws
- Durability - 3–7 years, depending on the type of wood and care;
Construction and design of a wooden gate
- Instability to moisture and biological destruction;
- Fire hazard, the material burns well;
- Not a reliable enough barrier for intruders to penetrate.
Variants of wooden gates are easy to implement; even a person without professional skills can cope with this task. For work you will need the following materials:
- Support pillars. Most often, a wooden beam or rounded log with a cross-section of approximately 100 x 100 mm is used. The pillars are buried to a third of their height and concreted.
- For the frame, timber 40 x 40 mm is used. A Z-shaped structure is knocked down from it, which will become the basis for the plank sheet.
- Picket fences or slats are suitable as cladding, which can be filled with a solid sheet or left with gaps.
- The fittings require hinges, awnings, a lock and a deadbolt. Finished loops are selected depending on the massiveness of the resulting wicket. The higher and heavier the gate, the more durable and massive the hinges and canopies are needed.
- The wood must be treated with antiseptics to increase its service life and protect against microorganisms.
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Wicket made of corrugated sheets
Corrugated sheeting is a very practical material that is often used for the construction of fences, gates and gates. If the fence is built from corrugated sheets, there will probably be enough material left from which a suitable gate can be made. Metal profiles have their advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages
- Durability and corrosion resistance. The corrugated sheet is made of steel sheet coated with a layer of zinc and protective polymers;
- Sheet hardness. Rectangular waves on the material are additional stiffening ribs;
- Easy installation. A lightweight and solid sheet is attached very quickly with self-tapping screws; it will take more time to assemble the frame;
- Aesthetic appearance and richness of colors;
- Affordable price. Corrugated sheeting has a fairly affordable price;
- Easy to use. The gate does not require painting or special care;
- Environmental friendliness and fire safety.
Flaws
- Insufficient strength. Under mechanical stress, dents easily form, especially on thinner types of sheet;
- If the galvanized layer is damaged, corrosion begins. When exposed to water, metal deteriorates at fastening points and cuts;
- Somewhat rustic in appearance.
Special Moments
- Corrugated sheeting will last a long time if you use a single sheet without seams. At the joints, if they do work out, a hermetically sealed connection is required. This will prevent water from getting into the cracks and causing the steel to rust.
- It is better to use self-tapping screws for fastening to the frame. Welding for a thin sheet of corrugated sheeting is undesirable; when heated, the polymer-galvanized coating is damaged. Because of this, it is difficult to decorate a gate made of metal profiles with forged parts that need to be welded.
- For the frame, the ideal option would be profiled pipes with a cross section of 60 x 30 mm. The frame is connected by welding.
- Fastening the metal profile sheet to the frame must be reliable, since the profiled sheet has a large windage.
- Pillars for corrugated sheets can be made of metal, brick, stone or concrete.
Ready-made frame for a gate made of corrugated sheets.
In general, a gate made of corrugated sheets in combination with the same fence and the roof of the house looks very dignified and presentable. Return to contents
Metal gate
A simple and affordable option. You can handle the simple design of a metal entrance gate with your own hands. If desired, the metal is combined with forged parts, which can be manufactured or purchased ready-made and welded to the gate. The main disadvantage of metal is its tendency to corrosion.
Although this can be easily solved with the help of special protective primers. Among the advantages can be noted:
- Affordable price;
- High mechanical strength;
- Durability with appropriate anti-corrosion treatment;
- Simple design;
Diagram and appearance of a metal gate
- The ability to design a smooth metal sheet at your discretion;
- Large selection of sheets in steel thickness.
Tip: When choosing a metal for a gate, you should give preference to sheets with a high carbon content: they are more resistant to corrosion.
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Forged gates
Some examples of forged gates are real works of art and are valued accordingly. Of course, you are unlikely to see a beautiful entrance gate and hand-forged gate against the backdrop of a dilapidated country house; both the house and the fence must match this material.
Advantages of forged metal
- Spectacular appearance and uniqueness of handmade work;
- Reliability and durability. Forged metal is very durable and will last for decades;
- Compatibility with any materials. Forging looks equally good with wood, stone, metal or polycarbonate;
- Environmental friendliness;
- Easy care. The material does not require special care; sometimes the paint needs to be renewed and the hinges need to be lubricated.
Design and pattern
of a forged gate There are few disadvantages of forged gates, the main ones being the high price and considerable weight of the structure.
Also, not everyone can be satisfied with the openwork of forged gates, although this problem can be solved by using polycarbonate or metal sheets as a base. The choice of gates for home and garden is quite large. Everyone will be able to choose the best option based on the degree of complexity, reliability, external characteristics and price.
How to choose a gate?
Choose a street gate here! »
Although gates are an integral element of the fence, it is still rare for anyone to accurately foresee all possible design and budget options in advance. It is good when there is time to make changes while a site improvement plan is being prepared. There are times when everything has already been done (a lawn has been planted, flower beds have been laid, paths have been laid, lighting has been installed) and, unfortunately, it is simply impossible to install the planned gate. In order not to find yourself in such a situation, we will try to familiarize you with the main details when choosing a gate.
The first stage when choosing gates and wickets
Let's start with something simple: determine what width of passage will suit you. Do not make the gate narrower than 3.0m. Only in exceptional cases. The easiest way to determine the width is “in everyday life”. In the place chosen for the gate, simply drive in stakes and try to drive in. If the race is difficult and you don’t feel confident, then widen the gate by at least a meter.
You should enter the yard easily and without unnecessary worries. Don’t forget that you will be driving every day, so plan a gate that won’t cause fear (for example: not fitting in or driving into the gate itself in winter when it’s frozen). Also, if guests arrive, their attempts to enter may be unsuccessful.
Don't plan for a very wide gate either! For wider gates, reinforced metal profiles for the frame structure and stronger fittings are often used. And this can hit your wallet. We recommend choosing gates from 3.5m to 5.5m wide.
Stage two: where does the gate open?
The selected gate width may also influence the choice of gate type. Gates are divided into three types: sliding, bi-leaf and folding . Why might the width of the gate affect the choice of gate type? When choosing a gate model, you need to consider where it will open. The design of sliding gates “walks” in the inner side of the yard. The total length of the sliding gate structure can be calculated by multiplying the length of the gate by 1.5. Using this formula, determine the maximum required distance at the gate that should not be built on. It is possible to design the gate a little shorter, but this reduces the strength and stability of the gate. When choosing double-leaf gates , do not forget that there should be enough space in the yard for them to open. Sliding gates are more practical than swing gates, but more expensive, as is their installation. Instead of space in the yard, you will lose ~20cm of width along the fence. Of course, you can open swing gates towards the street, but this may create inconvenience. Firstly, the street should be wide enough so that, after opening the gate, you can easily turn into the yard. Another important thing is safety. We must be sure that there is no one outside the gate and that it is not dangerous to open the gate.
The optimal solution is folding gates. The gate does not have a counterweight or long leaves. This allows you to install the gate anywhere, park the car closer to the entrance, without losing the usable area of the territory. All automatic swing gate drives are suitable for folding gates, and their folding when closing looks attractive. In terms of price, these gates are the most expensive of the three types, but the possibilities of their use pay for themselves quickly.
Stage three: gate
The next step is to think about the location of the future gate . You don’t need to think so much about the width of the gates; their standard width is 1.0 m. Unless it will be an auxiliary gate through which you sometimes want to bring in garden equipment, etc. We do not recommend making gates wider than 1.2 m from the front part of the fence. In this case, they become inconvenient and impractical for daily use. If you choose swing gates, there are no problems. You can place the gate on any side.
But, if there is no longer room for a gate, then the only option is to make gates with asymmetrical leaves. Then one gate leaf will be used as a wicket. In this case, the second door increases and inside the yard you will need more free space, which cannot be filled with things. If you choose sliding gates, keep in mind that the gate next to the gate can only be on one side. On the other hand, a gate cannot be placed, since there will be a counterweight - a gate extension. Depending on how long the gate is and how long its counterweight is, you can install one segment of the fence and then install the gate. In this case, the counterweight of the gate will not cover the adjacent gate. But this is not the only way out. If the gate is sliding, then there is no need to install a gate at all.
Nowadays there are many automatic gate systems with the ability to program the gate function. Then, by pressing one of the remote control buttons, you can open the gate only 1.0 meters. Always carrying a remote control with you will also seem inconvenient, but there is a way out. At the gate you can install an additional device that controls the entrance (code, magnetic, touch lock). Then you won’t have to be afraid that you or your children will lose the remote control and won’t enter the yard. Well, if you nevertheless decide to install a gate and plan to install an intercom near it, do not forget that the gate must also be specially prepared for this: it must have an electromagnetic lock.
Types of forging
In blacksmithing there are two main types of forging:
- A hot technique that involves high-temperature processing of metal. Hot forging requires not only special tools, but also a stove for heating the metal blank. Subsequently, with the help of a hammer and anvil, decorative elements are obtained from it.
With the hot forging method, it is necessary to heat the metal to a state of plasticity and softness: the temperature of the metal must be higher than the crystallization temperature. - Cold, in which the iron takes the required shape without heating and with the participation of various tools. The cold method allows you to obtain fence parts by torsion, bending, pressing, and welding. Such production can be organized at home. Having purchased the necessary tools and created a drawing, everyone can make a forged fence on their own.
The peculiarity of cold forging is the use of special standard blanks, which are processed and take the shape of the future product.
As for the fences themselves, they are forged in different ways, depending on the needs and financial capabilities of the customer.
Security fences
The designs are budget products. Their forged parts are fastened by welding or attachment to screw connections. The fence itself is not forged as such, it imitates it, and gets an attractive appearance due to stamping. Therefore, the price of protective fences is low.
Models are purchased section by section. The owner installs each part between two supports made of different materials. When finished, such fences are called forged wooden or forged brick structures.
In recent years, it has become fashionable to decorate polycarbonate spans with forging elements. The translucent texture of the material sets off the patterns on the panels well. In general, the forged polycarbonate structure fully performs a protective function and closes the yard from unwanted views.
Decorative wrought iron fences
Blacksmiths make these products according to special projects. Decorative wrought iron fencing for a private home differs from security fences by the presence of complex twisted elements. To connect massive structures, craftsmen have to use bookmarks and clamps. If the customer does not object, the worker applies welding. The cost of a forged decorative fence depends on the skill of the manufacturer and the complexity of the work.
Combined fences
A common type of wrought iron fences are combined fences. The ease of their manufacture is achieved by working using standard templates. Blanks reduce order fulfillment time. Decorative elements for combined structures are combined into a complete product using bending, soldering, twisting, welding, rivets and clamps.
If the owner of a private house needs a small wrought iron fence, ordering it from a blacksmith will not be profitable. The costs are justified only when a master makes a dimensional fence with large patterns. Therefore, it makes sense to learn how to forge fences with your own hands.