Is a Slatted Fence Right for Your Home?
Which type of fence to put around your home is an important decision; as well as providing privacy and marking the boundary, it will have an enormous effect on the look (and the value) of your home. Many people are now opting for a slatted fence, which utilises horizontal panels placed a small distance apart from each other. Is this the right choice for you?
Pros
A slatted fence can provide extra privacy for your home. If the slats are fitted close together, it can be very difficult for anyone to see through, allowing you to relax in your garden without worrying about who might be watching. This may be an especially important consideration if you have a pool in your garden or do a lot of sunbathing.
This kind of fence is also safer for children and animals. Pets can often get through gaps that appear far too small for them, and children can get their hands or heads stuck in some fence openings. A slatted fence should be solid enough that there is no chance of either escape or injury.
It is also worth bearing in mind that slatted fences are usually easy to repair. Instead of having to take out an entire section of fence, the individual slats can be replaced easily. It is a good idea to inspect the fence on a regular basis and replace the slats in good time; once a year should be often enough.
Cons
On the negative side, you may want to consider whether your garden will still receive enough light with such a fence. If the slats are not too close together, they can provide an airy place for plants, but you need to be sure they are not blocking the light.
You should also bear in mind that if the slats are close enough together that no one can see in, you will have equal difficulty seeing out. If you want to know what's going on just outside your property, a slatted fence may not be the answer.
You may also want to consider whether this kind of fencing really suits the look of your home. It may appear too modern for more traditional homes; also, a horizontal slatted fence can make your house appear shorter, just like horizontal stripes on clothing.
Provided the look and positioning are right, slatted fences can provide a modern and attractive boundary for your house and garden.