Fences Enhance Property’s Natural Beauty (NAPSA)—If you’re on the fence about whether to add a fence to your property, consider the following: * Building a fence can add value and beauty to your home; e Fences serve as an effective barrier for keeping out deer and other wildlife that might otherwise graze on landscaping; and Pets and children are safely and effectively contained with fences. The purpose of the fence often helps homeowners make the appropriate material choice. Fences come in many materials and styles. Popular “fencescaping” choices are color-coated chainlink; wood and vinylpicket, privacy and post and rail; and ornamental aluminum andsteel. Each of these has its own characteristics. For example, colorcoated chain-link “disappears” into landscaping while offering protection and security. Popular fencescaping colors are black, green and brown. Historically, wood has been a fencing favorite. Its versatility is virtually endless, from the natural appeal of a split rail to the quaint charm of white picket to the outdoor room feel of a privacy fence. Cedar and pressure-treated Southern yellow pine are the most popular wood choices because they are long lasting and resistant to rot and insect damage. Ornamental aluminum and steel fencing offer the unique sophistication of wroughtiron, but Today’s fence materials fit a variety of surroundings and can serve many purposes. with considerably less upkeep. In fact, ornamental aluminum is completely maintenance-free and won't rust, while ornamental steel fences are available with rustresistant coatings. “A fence can makeor break the whole design if it doesn’t fit with the building or garden, so I think about it every step of the way,” revealed Guy Morgan Williams, of DCA Landscape Architects, Inc., in Washington, DC. Williams also recommendstaking into consideration the size of the site, what the adjoining property looks like and whether the fence will be a backdrop or a focal point. To find a reputable fence con- tractor, call the American Fence Association at (800) 822-4342 or visit the web site at www.american fenceassociation.com.
