How Tall Should My Fence Be?

Posted on June 23rd, 2020

When installing a fence, there are a variety of factors you need to consider from the type of material you choose to where you want to put your fence. One major factor in your fence installation is determining how tall you want your fence to be.

The height of your fence will be determined by the style of your fence, the purpose your fence will serve, and your local regulations. Your taste and your needs will also play an important role in how high you decide to have the fence built.

Choosing the Right Style

The right fence for your property should do more than just blend in; it should enhance the look and curb appeal of your home. You may choose to add a stoic look to your home with a dark wooden fence or a more colonial look with a white vinyl picket fence.

The material of your fence and the color both play a role in designing your fence, but height is also important to the style. For example, a high wooden fence may seem more private, whereas the same wooden fence at a lower height may create a more inviting atmosphere. In general, higher fences are more imposing, and shorter fences present a more inviting, friendly style.

What is the Purpose of Your Fence?

If you are installing a fence, it is likely that you have a purpose in mind. You may want to protect your property from trespassers or protect your garden from rabbits, deer, and other animals. Fences can also serve to keep children and pets safe, add beauty to your proper or provide a definitive boundary to your land.

By clearly defining the purpose of your fence, you will have a better idea of how high to build the fence. Recommendations for fence height based on different purposes include:

• Property boundary – To set a clear boundary for your property, a 3 foot to 6-foot fence is adequate
• Privacy fence – To provide you and your family with privacy while relaxing outside, you will want to build your fence at least 6 feet high
• Keeping out animals/trespassers – Most animals and casual trespassers will be deterred by a 6-foot fence. Animals such as white-tailed deer can jump a 6-foot fence, and more determined burglars can scale an 8-foot fence. Consider adding pointed edges to the top of your fence to deter criminals.
• Keeping in pets/children – To keep children and pets safe on your property, a 4-foot is enough for most dog breeds, but a 4 to 6- foot fence is typically best for both dogs and children. Larger dog breeds may require a 6-foot fence to keep them from getting loose.

Ready to Get Started? We Can Help!

At Fence by Maintenance, we offer professional fence installation service to Pittsburgh homeowners. We have the high0quality materials, tools, and skills needed to meet all of your fencing needs. Contact us today to start your fencing project!