Beautify Your Outdoor Home with these Types of Fences

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There are various fence designs to choose from. These may vary from the materials used and style. Here are some of the popular fence designs to help beautify your outdoor home. For more types of fences check out these 9 fence types.

Types of Fences: White Picket Fence

This design is very iconic. For some, the white picket fence is a symbol of the ideal middle-class suburban life of a decent family lifestyle. It is not merely tracing a property line but a frame which flowers like roses and other attractive plants may grow. Since it is white, the presence of flowers will highlight once it is full grown. This will definitely bring beauty to the totality of your home. Houzz gives some great tips for choosing the right fence for your home.

Vinyl Fence come in Fence Panels

Other types of fences include vinyl fencing. The vinyl fence portrays simplicity and elegance. With its flexibility in design, a vinyl fence can enhance and reveal your landscape. It is also durable as it is longer lasting than wood. It won’t fade, rot, corrode or rust. You can design the vinyl according to your budget, functionality, and location. Since it is made of plastic, you can count on its high-quality resistance against the sun and any weather condition that may create cracks and breaks.

A Wood Fence can be Painted or Stained

Many homeowners prefer types of fencing that adds rustic charm to their outdoor home. There is nothing like wood for natural warmth and beauty. You can choose from wide varieties of wood types according to your desired fence style. Also, consider the type of wood that is suitable for the climate and weather conditions in your area. For lasting beauty and durability, you should paint or apply waterproof sealer to your wood fence right after the installation. This should be done every three or four years after. If it is left untreated, wood fencing will weather naturally. If your climate has salt water in the air consider brushing waterproofing over your fence periodically to keep the wood from rotting. Here’s some wood style fences to choose from.

Take time to choose which type of fence you want according to your preferences and availability of materials. Whether you choose a fence based the aesthetics of your outdoor home or material, there is a fence perfect for your outdoor home.

For more outdoor home ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

But, before making your final selection on a chosen model, read these five safety-focused suggestions that address children, pets, and the inclusion of professional electricians.

Home Safety: 5 Safety Rules for Automatic Gate Openers

Image via: Harold Leidner Landscape Architects

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Home Safety: 5 Safety Rules for Automatic Gate Openers

Survey the Area

Too often, small pets and children grow interested in automatic gates, resulting in preventable injuries.  Survey the area before operation, especially if your driveway is sloped and visibility limited.  It’s difficult to see small pets or curious children who race toward incoming cars at night or come around sharp bends.

Fix areas around gates with motion sensitive lighting, so drivers see what’s in front and behind them, easily spotting oncoming animals or nearby and excited children.

Make Access Difficult

Children grow curious, playing with gates and remote controls, so hide all hand-held devices and keep codes secret.  If your gate features a keypad, place a cover over it or opt for a rolling versus a fixed code.  Rolling codes continuously change to thwart computer hackers and those who grow privy to fixed codes.

Some integrate gates with alarm systems, so the proper authorities are notified when someone tries to tamper with a cover or types a wrong code.  Let thieves know of the added layer of protection, placing alarm signage on the front lawn of your property.

Image via: A Edwards

Hire an Electrician

Don’t let do-it-yourself ideas turn into should-have-hired scenarios.  Hire a professional electrician for proper installation, opting to get the job done right rather than worry about saving money.  Electricians establish necessary connections, and check they are safe and do not disturb previous resources running to and from the property.

Furthermore, electricians help identify additional needs or needless, vendor-suggested purchases.

Maintenance is Key

Internal components are integral to function but potentially hazardous when neglected.  Ask installers and manufacturers about maintenance and issues involving restrictions or prolonged wear.  For example, extreme snow and ice conditions may freeze components or obstruct rollers gliding along a track.  Knowing how the gate works helps troubleshoot during emergencies.

Discuss options with vendors, and do further research regarding options and unique models, such as maximum weight resistance, battery life, and direction of operation.  For example, gates opening away from the property require additional components.  Read about extended warranties; understand what components are covered; and know how to get parts for repair.

Find information at fencemakers automatic gates about custom-designed models fitted to your property and needs. Depending on model, you may require an external electrical outlet for needed power.  Some gates use solar panels to generate and maintain power.

Image via: Studio 6 Architects

Respect Due Process

Contact local governments and ask about related restrictions, permits, or paperwork.  Your gate purchase may require a visit from a private or government inspector.  Call real estate and insurance agents regarding improving the value of your home or saving money on home insurance due to installation.

Consult your lawyer about levels of liability and protection if others are injured because of a gate malfunction or unlawful entry attempt.

Mark Holmes is a father of four with safety always on his mind. When he’s not working on his large estate, he’s writing about ways to keep it safe and secure to share with his online readers.

For more outdoor home ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

Apart from designing your garden to your liking, a large part of the garden is the privacy it can provide. It is much easier to design your perfect garden when it is separated from the surrounding environment. This is done by fencing. Fencing is no longer restricted to wire fences and crude wood panels which are set just so you would know the limits of your property. Nowadays, fencing can be decorative, and made from various different materials which can be designed and picked so they perfectly complement or even enhance your garden space.

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Materials and Design

There are so many designs and materials to choose from, that you can almost do anything that comes to mind. In many cases, there are so many options that people do not even imagine until they see them.

Most of the popular materials include wood, plastic, metal, brick and even less known materials such as bamboo, straw, etc. But when you choose the material, there are endless possibilities of how the final product will look. Combinations of different materials can also provide interesting solutions which can make your garden look even better.

Here are some examples:

• Two toned fencing, complemented by additional elements such as statues or vases
• Themed style fencing – make your fence in the style of medieval castle walls, or something else you find interesting
• Classic picket fence – classic look which can be modified for your garden purposes
• Bamboo fence – natural look for your tropical styled garden
• Brick wall – stylish brick wall, or a combination of brick and wood or bamboo can bring out the perfect look of your garden
• Waterfall wall – incorporate the fence in your garden and make it a part of it
• and many more…

Lighting

Fencing can, besides the material and design, be enhanced by lighting. Carefully planned and installed lights can enrich the ordinary looking fence and bring out points of interest as well as create an intimate atmosphere. There are many different types of garden lights which can be set up on, or near the fencing, which also come in various designs to suite your every mood.

So, stop thinking about fencing just as the means of garden limits and enhance your garden with the perfect fence which brings out the design you wanted and sends the garden visitors to a whole different place.

For years now Safe Site Facilities have been providing temporary fencing solutions to aid those in need of a simple and easy to use fencing system.

For more outdoor living ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

One of my favorite holiday past times during the holiday season is driving through the neighborhoods with beautiful Christmas lights. From the overly imaginative to the tastefully done, the holiday season is a great time to light up your outdoor home.

I was admiring these creative ideas on Southern Living for festive outdoor lighting ideas that aren’t your ordinary 1970’s giant color bulb lighting! While those were festive 40 years ago, see the trend for more subdued lighting that still has a winter wonderland affect!

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Starry Nights Basket

Make hanging baskets sparkle all winter long by lighting them from within. Use coiled vine baskets without liners, and push a 100-bulb string of small pearl lights from inside to out around each basket. Place clear plastic ornaments in the basket as filler. On top, pile a 50-bulb string of small white lights and a string of prelit metal stars to shine above.

Luminous Lanterns

Old-fashioned lantern posts are classic, but this holiday season wrap them in lush garland and glowing globes for an ethereal holiday look.

Dreamy Door

Dress up a boring doorway with a red and green color scheme. A door outlined with garland, glowing lights, and red bows complements the hanging wreath. A grouping of poinsettia plants adds the perfect punch of holiday cheer.

White Magic

Give new dimension and beauty to an exterior building, such as a garden shed or detached garage, by illuminating it with winter white lights. Line the walkway with votives, too, such as these large metal votives specifically designed for outdoor use.

Swags of Light

When creating an outdoor light display, work with the layout of your home, fence, or gate. Light swags work perfectly on the fence shown here, accented by a slender twig tree that sits in front of the tall brick pillar.

Light up your holiday home this season!

For more holiday ideas on Stagetecture, click here.

When it comes time to do some upgrades around the house, you probably have a lot of cosmetic changes in mind.  You may want new cabinets and countertops in the kitchen, some built-in shelves in the living room and office, a whole new master bath with a dual sinks, stone tile, and a Jacuzzi tub, and recycled hardwood floors throughout.  You might even want to repurpose unused storage space in the basement to create a game room or home theater.  But if you haven’t considered installing a security system to protect your newly remodeled home, you may want to reevaluate your plan.  The safety of your house (which is not only your home, but also your biggest asset) should be your first thought when you choose to renovate.

But what if you don’t have the first idea about the type of security you might need?  In truth, there are many options at varying levels of cost and effectiveness.  But before you choose, there are a few things you’ll need to consider.  First, you should assess the area you live in.  Is the crime rate on the rise or is you house in a fairly respectable area (or even a gated community)?  Do you have anything in your home that people might want to break in and steal (precious gems, notable art, etc.)?  Are you particularly worried about the safety of your family and you’re looking for peace of mind?  The answers to these questions could help you determine the type of security you’re looking for.

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Lower cost security options

Of course, it would also help if you knew what your options were.  You probably already have locks on your doors, but an easy step that many homeowners take is to install a deadbolt.  Locks on the windows couldn’t hurt, either.  And if you don’t have a peep-hole in your front door you should probably see about getting one installed.  Another inexpensive fix that should discourage home invaders is a security lighting system.  You simply install motion sensor lights around the perimeter of your house that come on whenever movement is detected within a certain range.  You can even get solar-powered versions of these lights.

Heavy-duty security options

However, you may want something a little more heavy-duty.  You could start by installing tall fencing with a locked gate.  This will give you some privacy as well as safety (and it’s a good idea if you have a pool that you’d like to keep neighborhood kids out of).  This can be a fairly pricy undertaking, though, and it may not effectively keep intruders out.  You might also consider surveillance cameras, but these are also quite expensive and require monitoring by an actual person (your security guard?).  Okay, so cameras, guards, and electric fences are out of the question for most people.  This is where an alarm system comes in, and most are affordable, effective, and easy to install.

Whether you choose Brinks, Honeywell, or ADT alarms, you’ll get a system that will warn your family of a break-in as well as alerting the authorities to your distress.  For the money, this could be the best option to ensure that your expensive new upgrades (not to mention your loved ones) are as safe and secure as possible.

For more home safety tips on Stagetecture, click here.

Relaxing in a home pool may as well be the exclamation mark on the description of “American Dream.” A pool in your back yard — or even just a community pool in your neighborhood or apartment complex —  can be like having your own little oasis right in your own home.

But if you don’t take necessary safety measures to keep it safe and protect your family, your swimming pool can become a source of stress and danger. In fact, the Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that drowning is the No. 1 cause of death for children under 5, and accidental drowning among kids is on the rise. Most of these drownings are in home pools, when children were out of sight for less than five minutes and under the care of one or both parents.

As the summer continues to heat up, consider these tips on how to keep your family safe in the swimming pool:

1. Install a fence around your pool

A good fence should be at least 4 feet tall, with a locking, self-closing, self-latching gate. This kind of a gate will prevent accidents due to people forgetting to close the gate. Make sure the latch is higher than a child’s reach, too. The fence should go around all sides of the pool.
Tip: Make sure you cut any overhanging trees and stash chairs, ladders and tables that children could climb on to go over the gate.

2. Consider installing a security system to secure the pool when not in use

Look for surface or underwater alarms that go off when they sense disturbances in the water.

3. Hire a certified pool inspector

…to check your pool to make sure it’s compliant with government and industry regulations. The inspector will check water quality, drain covers and recommend any necessary safety devices specific for your pool. Pool chemicals can be dangerous, so make sure you store them out of reach. Make sure you always clean up spills and don’t mix chemicals.

4. Be cognizant of grates and drain covers.

Make sure they’re secured and in good condition, and teach your family and friends to stay away from them. The suction from drains can catch hair, or even body parts.

5.  Learn infant and child CPR

Sign up for CPR classes at your local YMCA or hospital.

6. Be attentive while swimming

* Always supervise swimming and stay nearby. Don’t get distracted by your cell phone or book.

* Set basic safety rules and follow them.
* Keep life preservers, rescue devices and a first aid kit nearby.
* Remember, inflatable toys and floaties aren’t life-saving devices. Check all flotation devices if you’re unsure. Look for U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets.
* Keep a phone nearby, in case you need to make an emergency call.
* When you’re done swimming, take all toys out.
* Teach your kids to swim as young as 3 years old. Even so, remember that you can’t “drown-proof” anyone.

This article is a guest post by Mary Hunt who runs a website about inflatable pool slides. She believes that pool safety is something that should not be underestimated.

For more outdoor living ideas on Stagetecture, click here.