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Many fences have a “good” side and a “bad” side. The so-called bad side features the structural elements of the fence, including any exposed posts and rails, while the so-called good side will be nicely finished.

But ultimately, it depends on the design of the fence as well as the materials used to construct it.

How Materials Affect The Way Your Fence Should Face

Generally, wood and vinyl fences that are made with solid board, stockades, pickets, or panels, rely on upright posts and vertical rails to support these elements. Sometimes there are just vertical posts with spaced slats (or board) attached to the posts. Either way, this means that there will be a difference between one side and the other. However, when there are just posts and rail (as in the traditional post-and-rail fence), the rails can be attached through the posts so there is no difference at all.

If chain link fencing is attached to a wooden frame, there will also be a difference between the two sides. But if it is installed in a more conventional manner, using a combination of vertical and horizontal metal poles to form a framework, then there will be no difference, and so your fence can face either way.

If There is a Good and a Bad Side, Which Way Should Your Fence Face?

So, if your fence isn’t the same on both sides, which way should your fence face?

While there are legal requirements for fencing in Georgia, these generally relate to the height of the fence as well as a need to avoid obstructions, for instance on corner lots, rather than the way your fence should face. Nobody is going to be able to force you to have a fence that faces in one particular direction unless it is exactly on the boundary and you and your neighbor are splitting costs. In this instance, the issue will need to be agreed by both parties with perhaps each section facing a different way.

But the argument continues, with many people believing that fence etiquette demands you let your neighbor benefit from the better-looking side of the fence. Others feel that if they are paying for the fence, they want to see the nice side. Certainly, there’s merit in the argument that if you are paying for the fence you should be able to decide which way your fence should face! And if it is erected on your side of the boundary, and you have paid the full price, there is no contention.

That said, there is a caveat: If the struts and horizontal structural elements are on the outside they might provide a perfect ladder for people to climb into your fenced property. And if you have erected the fence for security reasons you might be defeating the object if you leave the “ladder” on your neighbors side. So, perhaps it would be better to give your neighbor the advantage of aesthetics while you get the practical advantages.

When it comes to fences that face onto the street, most people will agree that having the “good” side facing outside is better. Without a doubt, it will benefit curb appeal, because the “good” side really does look more attractive. This, in turn, will increase the value of your property.

Choose the Best Fence for Your Property

If you live in Georgia and you are in the market for a new fence, contact the experts at FenceWorks of Georgia. We will help you decide exactly where to position your fence and which way it should face. Call us today.