Annoying Neighbor? 10 Unique Backyard Fencing Options

You have barely unpacked and you are already annoyed with your neighbor. Unlike a bee, if you ignore him, he will probably not go away. The easiest way to establish a little distance between your houses so you can enjoy your outdoor living space is by creating some type of fence. Below are a few options to get you started.

• Privacy – The fence most people will immediately think of when they hear the term “annoying neighbor” is a privacy fence. This wall-like partition may not be the most attractive option, but it is effective at separating properties. These wood fences are generally 6 feet tall. Anything taller than that may not be permitted in your area. Most are made of wood, but they can also be made of vinyl or sheet metal, as well.

• Horizontal – This variation of the privacy fence boasts a look that is a lot more modern. Instead of the wood pieces being installed vertically, they are done in a horizontal position.

• Bamboo – For a truly organic and relaxing feel, build a bamboo fence. This is a sustainable wood source, and despite its affordable price, the material is very durable. It generally comes on a long roll that you fasten to posts or an existing chain link fence.

• Hedges – Creating a fence with hedges will provide you with privacy while also bringing natural beauty to your space. The best shrubs used to create privacy include sand cherry, Cheyenne privet, lilacs, savannah holly, dense yew, sweet olive, wax myrtle, camellia japonica, Japanese yew, and saucer magnolia. If you need a really fast-growing option consider redtwig dogwood, northern bayberry, Nikko blue hydrangea, forsythia, and dwarf pink almond.

• Pallets – These days, it seems as though every time you turn around someone is building something out of pallets. These versatile items are perfect to build a fence with because they are already attached in a fairly secure way. It’s just a matter of getting them into the ground.

• Reed -Similar to bamboo, reed fencing also comes on a roll that you simply flatten out and attach to posts. This provides a nice natural feel to a space and serves as a gorgeous backdrop to a flower garden.

• Mesh Privacy Screen – You can get 50-foot rolls of this fencing for right around $50. It is ideal to attach to an existing chain link or wire fence. These screens filter wind and block about 70 percent of light to keep your outdoor space a little cooler.

• Doors – If you want to add a ton of unique personality to your space consider making a fence of doors. You can go with doors that are exactly the same size and style or mix and match for a funky vibe. You may choose to sand and finish them to look natural or paint them to complement your patio.

• Simulated Rock Fence – Made of durable polyethylene, these fences typically have galvanized steel rails and are available in a variety of colors. Simulated rock fences are generally rust-resistant.

• Retaining Walls – Depending on what your property looks like, a retaining wall may be an option. They can be made of concrete, wood, rock, or boulders. You could even build your property line up to accommodate one.