Why Do Fences Have Gaps?
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Why Do Fences Have Gaps?
Almost every home is fenced, whether partially or fully. A fence is a structure often made of a series of boards or slats held together by longer slats at the top and bottom. They serve several functions, depending on the needs of the property owner.
Fences have several different designs, but one thing is shared among all of them: the gaps. Fence boards are placed with varying lengths of gaps that serve differing purposes. Given that we see fences everywhere, it’s quite easy to overlook them without giving their existence much thought.
What are fences used for?
To figure out what fence design will suit your needs and how wide the gaps should be, you should first think about what you want a fence for.
1. For protection
Fences serve as your first line of defence against would-be trespassers. They provide a barrier that protects your home and property from those seeking to do you harm. They also keep animals away from ruining your garden or backyard. It’s essential for you to have a sturdy fence for it to fulfil this purpose well.
2. For privacy
Fences can also serve as walls for your yard, especially if you usually hang out there. They cover up part of your surroundings to partially hide your territory from passers-by and other people living within your surroundings. Without a fence, everything would be exposed, and others would be privy to what you are doing.
3. For aesthetic purposes
Fences are also ideal for enhancing your home’s appeal. They can be designed in a way that beautifies your yard and adds a touch of sophistication to your house’s overall look. A well-designed fence will warrant several impressed looks from outsiders.
When you’re putting up a fence for this purpose, then plan out the design, including how wide the gaps should be.
What are fence gaps for?
Unknown to many, fence gaps exist for several reasons. As fences are common, it’s quite easy to overlook them without giving them much thought. However, if you don’t plan out your fence gaps well, it can lead to several issues for you. Here are some reasons why fences have gaps in the first place.
1. Air circulation
One reason why fences have gaps is to allow air to circulate the area it surrounds. The bigger the gaps, the more air you can let in. This is important for homes that are exposed to heat; not letting the air circulate would mean a more uncomfortable area for your home.
2. Allowance for board expansion
Wooden boards, when exposed to moisture, tend to swell and expand. This is an unavoidable natural occurrence that a fence builder should know. Therefore, having gaps between your boards gives the wood some room to grow without ruining your fence design.
3. Better resistance to the wind
Placing gaps between your fence boards will strengthen your fences better to combat wind effects. Gaps provide space for air to pass through in such a way that your fence will not be absorbing the full impact of the wind’s pushing force. At the same time, it also lessens the wind entering your area, protecting your surroundings as well.
Something as mundane as fence gaps turn out to have a significant effect on your homes and yards, that’s why it’s vital for you to carefully plan out and choose the fence design that will suit your needs. Make sure to have your purpose for putting them up clear in your head, and space out your fence boards accordingly.
Need more advice about your Newcastle fencing needs? Contact Chainwire Fencing today.