Which fence to choose: solid or with gaps?

A solid “wall” provides privacy

A solid high fence helps to isolate yourself “from the whole world”. This is especially important for those who live in a densely populated area and are tired of the close attention of their neighbors.

To ensure privacy, choose solid structures made of concrete, wood or metal. Construction materials can be mixed: build supports from brick, logs or steel poles.

The privacy of a solid structure is not only a plus, but also a minus. By fencing themselves off from others, some experience psychological discomfort.

Gaps “increase” the space

Owners of small plots will agree that thanks to small fences with gaps, the adjacent territory seems larger. This effect is created using structures in the form of:

• picket fence – a wooden fence made of boards arranged vertically;
• metal mesh or lattice, providing maximum visibility;
• plastic fence;
• wicker fence made of vines.

A blank fence reduces noise

This is important for those who live close to the road. A solid “wall” will not only protect you from the noise of passing cars, but will also protect your site and house from dust flying from under the wheels. Also, almost no light from car headlights at night penetrates through a solid fence.

The ability to reduce noise also works the other way around – by fencing yourself with a solid structure, you are unlikely to disturb your neighbors during evening gatherings, and you will also protect them from children’s screams and music.

A ventilated fence is more economical

We take average data and also take into account the logic: a solid fence will require much more material than a structure with gaps. Boards, concrete and metal are heavier than picket fences and mesh, so they require a strong support, which will also cost money.

If you are considering a more decorative option, a fence with gaps will provide aesthetics and save the family budget.

Relatively inexpensive logs can be used as supports for thin wooden boards or mesh. In addition, the fence can be made with your own hands, without hiring professionals.

A solid fence is more reliable

We are not talking about forged lattice fences made of durable metal or structures made of expensive wood species, which will last a long time, especially if they are erected by real professionals. Solid fences are mostly better able to withstand harsh climate conditions and the vagaries of the weather.

Fences made of construction mesh will quickly become unusable, bending, and wood, even protected with impregnations, will last less than the same corrugated sheet, which does not require repair and special care.

Fencing with gaps provides less shade

This criterion is especially important for gardeners: a solid fence, unlike a ventilated one, does not allow sunlight to penetrate the territory. For most of the day, the “wall” will shade the area, which is detrimental to some plants. The choice of flowers, shrubs and trees in this case will be limited, but in the heat you will provide yourself with shade and coolness.

The ground, which is surrounded by a fence with gaps, dries out faster from groundwater. The design also reduces energy costs, since the area around the house is evenly illuminated throughout the day.

A blank fence is a barrier to the wind

And this is not only an advantage. A special microclimate is created inside the area enclosed by a solid wall. There is a risk that the area will be stuffy, because the air flows will have nowhere to go. There is also a downside to the issue – distortion of ground winds, which in winter cause snow bald spots and drifts. A fence with gaps solves this problem.

Some owners of solid fences note that after rain, the air between it and the house becomes stale: this leads to prolonged dampness, mold and an unpleasant odor.

A fence with gaps is less safe

Due to the lightness and airiness of the structure, it is much easier for intruders to see what is located on the site and in the house, and then get inside. A guard, an angry dog, a video camera, an alarm system, or the owners themselves may be hiding behind a solid fence, so it will be much more difficult to assess the situation.

It is also difficult to climb over a smooth fence, while a low fence made of metal mesh or wood will not be a serious obstacle.

Choose a fence according to your needs, which play the most important role. As an option, pay attention to louvered fences, the horizontal elements of which are fixed at an angle, due to which ventilation, lighting, and privacy are preserved.