Hello everyone!
It’s a pleasure to share an exciting home transformation update that I realized I’ve been keeping under wraps for far too long. In a previous discussion, I hinted at replacing our old, severely dilapidated fence, and it just struck me that I never fully unveiled the spectacular results. Today, I’m thrilled to finally pull back the curtain on this significant project, detailing every step of our journey to a more secure, private, and aesthetically pleasing outdoor space.
A little over two years ago, we initiated detailed plans for a much-needed fence replacement. This wasn’t merely an optional upgrade; it was an absolute necessity. Our existing fence, a relic spanning over four decades, had reached the end of its functional life, offering minimal privacy and almost no security. The thought of transforming this crucial boundary sparked a comprehensive planning phase, culminating in the stunning progress and “after” photos you’re about to see.
(A quick note on the visuals: The following photos illustrate various stages, from the initial construction process to the weathered beauty of the redwood two years post-completion. While I missed capturing immediate “freshly built” photos, the majority of the “after” shots showcase the natural graying process of the redwood, highlighting its enduring charm and how it settles into the landscape over time. You’ll observe a natural transition from vibrant new wood to its more mature, subdued hue.)
Crafting Our Vision: Key Principles for a Lasting Fence
Our fence design phase was guided by several critical objectives, ensuring that the new structure would not only meet immediate needs but also serve our family for decades to come:
- **Enhanced Height for Ultimate Privacy:** We opted for a commanding 7-foot height, a significant upgrade designed to create an impenetrable visual barrier and bolster our sense of seclusion from neighboring properties and the street.
- **Superior Material Choice: Enduring Redwood:** The selection of redwood was a natural fit for our region, renowned for its exceptional durability, natural resistance to rot and insects, and timeless aesthetic appeal. We partnered with Berco Redwood, a trusted local supplier known for their quality materials and expertise.
- **Built to Last: A Legacy of Durability:** Given the age of our previous fence, longevity was paramount. We sought a solution engineered for an exceptionally long lifespan, ensuring this investment would endure well beyond our time in the home.
- **Custom Elements for Distinctive Appeal:** Beyond standard functionality, I envisioned a fence with custom design elements that would integrate seamlessly with our home’s character and future landscaping plans, providing a truly finished and bespoke look.
Reclaiming Our Space: Prioritizing Security and Privacy
A primary driver for this extensive project was the pressing need for improved security and privacy, particularly in areas previously vulnerable to public access. The section separating our backyard from the street, for instance, was merely delineated by a low cluster of bushes. This arrangement offered virtually no barrier, allowing direct entry from the sidewalk into our private outdoor haven.
Here’s a glimpse of the stark reality before:
And the transformative result after the installation of our robust new fence:
The previous lack of proper separation was simply unacceptable. We meticulously cleared away the inadequate bushes and erected a formidable barrier, significantly enhancing the sense of security and containment within our backyard. From inside, the feeling of privacy is immeasurably improved, allowing us to enjoy our outdoor sanctuary without concern for unwanted intrusions.
The Architectural Details: Board-on-Board Design with Custom Finishes
For the main expanse of the fence, I chose a 7-foot tall board-on-board design, complemented by a sophisticated top cap and a protective footplate. This particular style was carefully selected with our long-term vision for the house and landscaping in mind. I wanted a fence that exuded a truly finished and polished aesthetic, serving as a beautiful backdrop for our evolving outdoor space.
While this custom detailing undeniably contributed to the overall cost, the investment was undeniably worthwhile. Given the expansive nature of our yard and the considerable linear footage requiring replacement, a thoughtful and deliberate approach to the fence’s design was crucial. We aimed for a structure that would not only look exceptional upon completion but also gracefully age and integrate into the landscape over many years.
Observe the “before” state of a section of our old fence:
And now, behold the remarkable transformation:
Prior to this renovation, certain sections of our fence were literally on the verge of collapsing, largely due to the invasive ivy creeping in from our neighbor’s yard.
Now, with our robust new fence, we’ve successfully eradicated that unsightly and damaging encroachment!
Furthermore, the superior design and construction of our new fence mean it’s built to withstand the inevitable re-emergence of ivy, should it try to creep back. We remain vigilant, promptly trimming any new growth we spot, ensuring our fence maintains its pristine condition and structural integrity for years to come.
Embracing Customization: Elegant Entry Gates and a Striking Arbor
Another layer of customization we integrated into the design involved the creation of three distinct entry gates. One of these, the main entrance to our backyard from the outside of the house, was envisioned with a grander presence, featuring an elegant arbor meticulously designed in collaboration with our contractor.
Here’s how the main entry appeared before its dramatic makeover:
Once again, the security and privacy implications were significant. The existing breeze blocks offered inadequate protection and failed to create an inviting entrance. My goal was to substantialy enhance this gateway, transforming it into a more robust and welcoming feature.
And here is the magnificent “after” view:
I am absolutely delighted with the final appearance of the gate and arbor. My vision includes planting a beautiful flowering vine nearby, allowing it to eventually climb and gracefully entwine around the structure, creating a living, fragrant archway. This will add another layer of charm and natural beauty to an already striking feature.
To further personalize this entrance, we even incorporated a strategic center block within the arbor’s trellis section. This thoughtful addition provides a convenient anchor point for hanging decorative elements such as wind chimes, a charming bell, or any other accessory that enhances the welcoming ambiance.
Dual-Purpose Gates: Maximizing Functionality and Convenience
The remaining two entry gates were conceived with an emphasis on dual functionality, strategically placed in an area alongside the garage that was previously underutilized. This forgotten space once housed a gate of sorts, but it had fallen into severe disrepair and offered little practical benefit.
Here’s the before picture of this neglected garage side area:
And here is the after, showcasing a remarkably efficient transformation:
We intelligently repurposed the narrow strip between the garage and the side fence (extending the full depth of the garage) into a dedicated, discreet storage zone for our waste and recycling bins. With multiple bins for yard waste, recycling, and general trash, the unsightly spectacle of them lined up at the end of the driveway was a persistent annoyance. Now, the ability to neatly tuck them away behind a sturdy gate is an ideal solution, greatly enhancing the tidiness and curb appeal of our property.
To further amplify convenience, we installed an identical, extra-wide entry gate towards the backside of the garage, accessible from within the backyard. This thoughtful design serves two pivotal purposes:
1. **Effortless Bin Access from the Yard:** This wider inner gate allows us to retrieve and return our waste bins directly from the yard without the need to traverse through the front gate to the driveway. This feature proves especially invaluable during the fall months, when extensive yard work generates a significant amount of waste. We can seamlessly roll bins in and out of the yard, bypassing the steps and potential awkwardness of the main entry gate.
We anticipate pouring a durable concrete slab in this area in the near future, further solidifying its utility and appearance.
2. **Unrestricted Heavy Equipment Access:** The generous width of these gates ensures that should we, or any future vendors or contractors, ever need to bring in heavy equipment – such as lawnmowers, landscaping machinery, or construction tools – they can be easily rolled or driven directly from the driveway into the yard. This eliminates the challenges of navigating steps or the space constraints presented by the main entry gate, proving immensely practical for large-scale projects or even simply moving a wheelbarrow.
The “Good Neighbor” Advantage: Optimizing Aesthetics
One aspect of our fence build that brought significant satisfaction was avoiding the traditional “good neighbor” fence situation on most sides. We share a boundary with only one neighbor, and they graciously preferred to have the “ugly side” of the fence (the post and rail structure) facing their property, recognizing it would likely be covered by ivy anyway. This allowed us the liberty of having all the flat, finished panels of the fence facing inwards, towards our yard, maximizing our aesthetic enjoyment.
The small section where the bushes once stood, facing the street, was an exception. Here, we deliberately chose to orient the flat side towards the curb. This decision was purely aesthetic, ensuring a more polished and visually appealing presentation from the street. This flexibility in orientation was a major contributing factor in our decision to proceed with this particular board-on-board fence style, allowing us to optimize visual appeal for both our private space and the public view.
The Installation Journey: Professionalism and Patience
What an extensive undertaking! If you’ve stayed with me through this detailed account, I truly appreciate your attention. It was profoundly important to us that every single element of this fence replacement was approached with intentionality and thoughtful consideration during its construction. Equally crucial was securing the services of a highly skilled and efficient professional to execute the project swiftly and to the highest standards.
We embarked on this journey knowing the installation would likely span approximately five days. Coincidentally, that year brought unusually wet weather, leaving the ground saturated even days after the rains had ceased, which presented some minor logistical challenges. Nevertheless, our chosen builder was nothing short of exceptional – highly professional, meticulous, and dedicated. His outstanding work has since led us to recommend him enthusiastically to numerous friends and neighbors.
So, there it is, friends! We couldn’t be more delighted with the outcome of this extensive fence replacement. Our outdoor space has been utterly transformed, offering newfound privacy, security, and beauty. With this significant project behind us, our sights are now firmly set on the next grand home improvement endeavor.
Until our next update…
Hello everyone!
It’s a pleasure to share an exciting home transformation update that I realized I’ve been keeping under wraps for far too long. In a previous discussion, I hinted at replacing our old, severely dilapidated fence, and it just struck me that I never fully unveiled the spectacular results. Today, I’m thrilled to finally pull back the curtain on this significant project, detailing every step of our journey to a more secure, private, and aesthetically pleasing outdoor space.
A little over two years ago, we initiated detailed plans for a much-needed fence replacement. This wasn’t merely an optional upgrade; it was an absolute necessity. Our existing fence, a relic spanning over four decades, had reached the end of its functional life, offering minimal privacy and almost no security. The thought of transforming this crucial boundary sparked a comprehensive planning phase, culminating in the stunning progress and “after” photos you’re about to see.
(A quick note on the visuals: The following photos illustrate various stages, from the initial construction process to the weathered beauty of the redwood two years post-completion. While I missed capturing immediate “freshly built” photos, the majority of the “after” shots showcase the natural graying process of the redwood, highlighting its enduring charm and how it settles into the landscape over time. You’ll observe a natural transition from vibrant new wood to its more mature, subdued hue.)
Crafting Our Vision: Key Principles for a Lasting Fence
Our fence design phase was guided by several critical objectives, ensuring that the new structure would not only meet immediate needs but also serve our family for decades to come:
- **Enhanced Height for Ultimate Privacy:** We opted for a commanding 7-foot height, a significant upgrade designed to create an impenetrable visual barrier and bolster our sense of seclusion from neighboring properties and the street.
- **Superior Material Choice: Enduring Redwood:** The selection of redwood was a natural fit for our region, renowned for its exceptional durability, natural resistance to rot and insects, and timeless aesthetic appeal. We partnered with Berco Redwood, a trusted local supplier known for their quality materials and expertise.
- **Built to Last: A Legacy of Durability:** Given the age of our previous fence, longevity was paramount. We sought a solution engineered for an exceptionally long lifespan, ensuring this investment would endure well beyond our time in the home.
- **Custom Elements for Distinctive Appeal:** Beyond standard functionality, I envisioned a fence with custom design elements that would integrate seamlessly with our home’s character and future landscaping plans, providing a truly finished and bespoke look.
Reclaiming Our Space: Prioritizing Security and Privacy
A primary driver for this extensive project was the pressing need for improved security and privacy, particularly in areas previously vulnerable to public access. The section separating our backyard from the street, for instance, was merely delineated by a low cluster of bushes. This arrangement offered virtually no barrier, allowing direct entry from the sidewalk into our private outdoor haven.
Here’s a glimpse of the stark reality before:
And the transformative result after the installation of our robust new fence:
The previous lack of proper separation was simply unacceptable. We meticulously cleared away the inadequate bushes and erected a formidable barrier, significantly enhancing the sense of security and containment within our backyard. From inside, the feeling of privacy is immeasurably improved, allowing us to enjoy our outdoor sanctuary without concern for unwanted intrusions.
The Architectural Details: Board-on-Board Design with Custom Finishes
For the main expanse of the fence, I chose a 7-foot tall board-on-board design, complemented by a sophisticated top cap and a protective footplate. This particular style was carefully selected with our long-term vision for the house and landscaping in mind. I wanted a fence that exuded a truly finished and polished aesthetic, serving as a beautiful backdrop for our evolving outdoor space.
While this custom detailing undeniably contributed to the overall cost, the investment was undeniably worthwhile. Given the expansive nature of our yard and the considerable linear footage requiring replacement, a thoughtful and deliberate approach to the fence’s design was crucial. We aimed for a structure that would not only look exceptional upon completion but also gracefully age and integrate into the landscape over many years.
Observe the “before” state of a section of our old fence:
And now, behold the remarkable transformation:
Prior to this renovation, certain sections of our fence were literally on the verge of collapsing, largely due to the invasive ivy creeping in from our neighbor’s yard.
Now, with our robust new fence, we’ve successfully eradicated that unsightly and damaging encroachment!
Furthermore, the superior design and construction of our new fence mean it’s built to withstand the inevitable re-emergence of ivy, should it try to creep back. We remain vigilant, promptly trimming any new growth we spot, ensuring our fence maintains its pristine condition and structural integrity for years to come.
Embracing Customization: Elegant Entry Gates and a Striking Arbor
Another layer of customization we integrated into the design involved the creation of three distinct entry gates. One of these, the main entrance to our backyard from the outside of the house, was envisioned with a grander presence, featuring an elegant arbor meticulously designed in collaboration with our contractor.
Here’s how the main entry appeared before its dramatic makeover:
Once again, the security and privacy implications were significant. The existing breeze blocks offered inadequate protection and failed to create an inviting entrance. My goal was to substantialy enhance this gateway, transforming it into a more robust and welcoming feature.
And here is the magnificent “after” view:
I am absolutely delighted with the final appearance of the gate and arbor. My vision includes planting a beautiful flowering vine nearby, allowing it to eventually climb and gracefully entwine around the structure, creating a living, fragrant archway. This will add another layer of charm and natural beauty to an already striking feature.
To further personalize this entrance, we even incorporated a strategic center block within the arbor’s trellis section. This thoughtful addition provides a convenient anchor point for hanging decorative elements such as wind chimes, a charming bell, or any other accessory that enhances the welcoming ambiance.
Dual-Purpose Gates: Maximizing Functionality and Convenience
The remaining two entry gates were conceived with an emphasis on dual functionality, strategically placed in an area alongside the garage that was previously underutilized. This forgotten space once housed a gate of sorts, but it had fallen into severe disrepair and offered little practical benefit.
Here’s the before picture of this neglected garage side area:
And here is the after, showcasing a remarkably efficient transformation:
We intelligently repurposed the narrow strip between the garage and the side fence (extending the full depth of the garage) into a dedicated, discreet storage zone for our waste and recycling bins. With multiple bins for yard waste, recycling, and general trash, the unsightly spectacle of them lined up at the end of the driveway was a persistent annoyance. Now, the ability to neatly tuck them away behind a sturdy gate is an ideal solution, greatly enhancing the tidiness and curb appeal of our property.
To further amplify convenience, we installed an identical, extra-wide entry gate towards the backside of the garage, accessible from within the backyard. This thoughtful design serves two pivotal purposes:
1. **Effortless Bin Access from the Yard:** This wider inner gate allows us to retrieve and return our waste bins directly from the yard without the need to traverse through the front gate to the driveway. This feature proves especially invaluable during the fall months, when extensive yard work generates a significant amount of waste. We can seamlessly roll bins in and out of the yard, bypassing the steps and potential awkwardness of the main entry gate.
We anticipate pouring a durable concrete slab in this area in the near future, further solidifying its utility and appearance.
2. **Unrestricted Heavy Equipment Access:** The generous width of these gates ensures that should we, or any future vendors or contractors, ever need to bring in heavy equipment – such as lawnmowers, landscaping machinery, or construction tools – they can be easily rolled or driven directly from the driveway into the yard. This eliminates the challenges of navigating steps or the space constraints presented by the main entry gate, proving immensely practical for large-scale projects or even simply moving a wheelbarrow.
The “Good Neighbor” Advantage: Optimizing Aesthetics
One aspect of our fence build that brought significant satisfaction was avoiding the traditional “good neighbor” fence situation on most sides. We share a boundary with only one neighbor, and they graciously preferred to have the “ugly side” of the fence (the post and rail structure) facing their property, recognizing it would likely be covered by ivy anyway. This allowed us the liberty of having all the flat, finished panels of the fence facing inwards, towards our yard, maximizing our aesthetic enjoyment.
The small section where the bushes once stood, facing the street, was an exception. Here, we deliberately chose to orient the flat side towards the curb. This decision was purely aesthetic, ensuring a more polished and visually appealing presentation from the street. This flexibility in orientation was a major contributing factor in our decision to proceed with this particular board-on-board fence style, allowing us to optimize visual appeal for both our private space and the public view.
The Installation Journey: Professionalism and Patience
What an extensive undertaking! If you’ve stayed with me through this detailed account, I truly appreciate your attention. It was profoundly important to us that every single element of this fence replacement was approached with intentionality and thoughtful consideration during its construction. Equally crucial was securing the services of a highly skilled and efficient professional to execute the project swiftly and to the highest standards.
We embarked on this journey knowing the installation would likely span approximately five days. Coincidentally, that year brought unusually wet weather, leaving the ground saturated even days after the rains had ceased, which presented some minor logistical challenges. Nevertheless, our chosen builder was nothing short of exceptional – highly professional, meticulous, and dedicated. His outstanding work has since led us to recommend him enthusiastically to numerous friends and neighbors.
So, there it is, friends! We couldn’t be more delighted with the outcome of this extensive fence replacement. Our outdoor space has been utterly transformed, offering newfound privacy, security, and beauty. With this significant project behind us, our sights are now firmly set on the next grand home improvement endeavor.
Until our next update…