Don't Fence Me In: Smart Tips for Selecting Your Ideal Front Yard Fence

Why Your Front Feature Fence Choice Matters More Than You Think

How to choose a front feature fence is a key decision for your Melbourne home's curb appeal and security. It creates the first impression, defines your boundaries, and can significantly boost your home's value.

Quick Guide to Choosing Your Front Feature Fence:

1. Define your purpose - Security, privacy, pet safety, or pure aesthetics

2. Match your home's style - Victorian, modern, Hamptons, or weatherboard

3. Select the right material - Timber, COLORBOND®, steel, or aluminium

4. Consider professional installation - For quality, compliance, and peace of mind

Your front fence is a design statement that welcomes guests, keeps your family safe, and protects your investment. The right choice improves everything from street appeal to property security.

Melbourne's unpredictable weather demands a durable fence. Combined with council regulations and your family's needs, the decision can be complex.

Installation costs typically range from $70 to $200 per linear metre in Melbourne, but this varies based on materials, design, and site conditions. For an accurate quote, work with experienced professionals who understand local requirements.

I'm Jake Bunston, Company Director at Make Fencing. With over a decade of experience, I've helped hundreds of Melbourne homeowners choose a front fence that balances style, function, and budget. I know the right fence transforms how you feel about coming home.

How to Choose a Front Feature Fence: A Step-by-Step Guide

Choosing a front feature fence requires careful consideration. At Make Fencing, we believe a fence should be a custom piece that lifts your property's features. Let's walk through the key steps.

Step 1: Define Your Fence's Purpose and Style

First, ask yourself: "Why do I want a front fence?" Your primary goals will guide every decision.

What Are Your Fence's Primary Purposes?

• Security: A good fence deters intruders. Even a decorative one makes your property less accessible.

• Privacy: A front fence can create a private outdoor retreat, letting you enjoy your front garden without feeling exposed.

• Pet and Child Safety: A front fence keeps pets from wandering onto busy streets and gives children a secure area to play.

• Defining Boundaries: A fence clearly marks your property line, preventing neighbourly disputes.

• Aesthetics and Curb Appeal: A front fence is a major contributor to your home's curb appeal. It sets the tone and improves your home's character.

Matching Your Home's Architectural Style

Your fence should complement your home's architecture for a harmonious look.

• Modern Homes: Sleek, minimalist designs using aluminium or horizontal timber slats create a clean aesthetic that matches modern lines.

• Victorian Terraces: Victorian terraces suit traditional fences with decorative elements that respect the home's heritage.

• Hamptons Style: The light, relaxed Hamptons aesthetic pairs well with a classic white picket fence or an airy timber design. Explore our Hampton Style Fencing options for inspiration.

• Weatherboard Homes: Charming weatherboard homes look fantastic with a traditional picket fence, evoking a sense of nostalgia. Our Picket Fencing Melbourne solutions can be customised to suit.

Considering the Neighbourhood Aesthetic

Look at other fences in your neighbourhood for inspiration. Choose a design that fits the local streetscape while still reflecting your style.

Step 2: Choose the Right Material for Your Front Feature Fence

Once you've clarified your purpose and style, it's time to select materials, considering durability, maintenance, and Melbourne's climate.

Our Popular Fencing Materials:

• Timber Fencing: Timber offers timeless warmth and suits both traditional and modern homes. It requires regular maintenance to prevent weathering and rot but can last 10-20 years with proper care.

• Steel Fencing: Steel provides robust security and a sleek, modern look. It's highly customisable with various design choices. Our Metal Fabrication Fencing is tough, stylish, and durable.

• Aluminium Fencing: Aluminium is a durable, low-maintenance option that won't rust, making it ideal for coastal homes. It's lightweight, versatile, and can be powder-coated in many colours.

• COLORBOND® Fencing: COLORBOND® steel is a sleek, secure, and low-maintenance choice. It's durable, resistant to rot, termites, and fire, and comes in many colours with minimal upkeep.

Durability and Maintenance in Melbourne's Climate

Melbourne's weather demands materials that can withstand diverse conditions.

• Weather Resistance: Our materials are chosen for resilience. Steel and aluminium are very robust, while properly treated timber also performs well.

• Low-Maintenance Options: For minimal upkeep, COLORBOND® steel is an excellent choice. It requires little more than an occasional wash, a great advantage for busy homeowners.

We pride ourselves on offering Custom Fencing Features that ensure your chosen material perfectly suits your home's needs.

Step 3: Balance Privacy, Access, and Landscaping

A front fence is an integral part of your property's function and aesthetic. This step involves balancing seclusion with access and landscaping.

Privacy vs. Openness: Finding the Right Balance

• Fence Height Regulations: Most Melbourne councils limit front fences to 3-4 feet, with stricter rules on corner blocks to ensure driver visibility. Always check local guidelines.

• Picket Spacing: Spaced pickets offer a welcoming, semi-private feel. Spacing can be customised.

• Horizontal Slats: Horizontal slats offer a modern look. Gaps can be adjusted for a semi-private or more secluded feel.

• Solid Panels: Solid panels offer maximum privacy but are less common for front fences due to regulations. We can design compliant solutions if total privacy is your goal.

Planning for Practical Access

• Gate Placement: Strategic gate placement is key for convenient pedestrian and vehicle access.

• Driveway Gates: We offer swing and sliding gates. Sloping sites can be challenging, but our team has the expertise to recommend the best solution.

• Automatic Gates: Automated gates offer convenience and security. We specialise in high-quality systems with features like remote control and keypad entry, always prioritising safety. Learn more about our Gates & Automation services.

Integrating with Landscaping

Your fence should harmonise with your garden.

• Climbing Plants: Soften your fence with climbing plants like jasmine to create a living wall.

• Complementary Garden Beds: Planting shrubs or flower beds along the fence line adds colour and an extra layer of privacy. For a guide, you might find this helpful: A guide to choosing the right front fence for your new garden.

• Hedges: Hedges can be a soft, organic alternative or complement to a traditional fence.

Step 4: Budgeting and the DIY vs. Professional Choice

This final step involves your budget and deciding between DIY and professional installation.

Understanding Cost Factors

Installation costs in Melbourne generally range from $70 to $200 per linear metre. The final price depends on materials, design complexity, site conditions, and gates. We provide transparent quotes for high-quality, affordable fencing.

The DIY Dilemma: When to Call the Experts

A DIY approach might seem to save money, but it comes with significant risks. Fence installation is time-consuming and requires specialised skills and tools.

Mistakes like misaligned posts can be costly to fix and compromise the fence's stability. You also need to steer complex council regulations and be aware of safety risks, like digging into underground utilities.

The Professional Advantage: Peace of Mind and Quality Craftsmanship

Hiring professionals like Make Fencing ensures a hassle-free, superior outcome.

• Proven Expertise: Our experienced team can handle any project, simple or complex.

• Uncompromising Quality: We use high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship for a fence that's built to last.

• Council Compliance: We handle council compliance to ensure your fence is installed correctly.

• Efficiency: Our team works efficiently to complete your project on time and to the highest standard.

• Total Peace of Mind: Choosing Make Fencing means investing in a high-quality result for total peace of mind.

For a reliable and stress-free installation, explore our Quality Fencing Services and trust our expert Fence Installers Melbourne.

Your Perfect Fence Awaits

Key Takeaways for Choosing Your Front Feature Fence & Your Next Steps

Choosing a front feature fence is manageable when broken down into these key principles.

First, define your purpose: security, privacy, or aesthetics. Second, match the fence style to your home's architecture for a cohesive look. Third, choose materials like timber, COLORBOND®, or aluminium that suit Melbourne's weather and your lifestyle. Finally, consider practicalities like gate placement and landscaping.

Most importantly, invest in professional expertise. A DIY project can end up costing more in time, stress, and repairs. We help homeowners avoid common mistakes like choosing unsuitable materials or failing to comply with council regulations. You can learn more in our guide to Fence Design Mistakes to Avoid.

At MAKE Fencing, we create custom solutions that blend style, durability, and functionality. With over 10 years of experience, our director Jake ensures your vision becomes a reality, stress-free. We work with you to design a fence that's perfect for your property, lifestyle, and budget.

Ready to see what's possible for your front yard? We MAKE Fencing Solutions To Your Satisfaction. Contact us for a quote and let's bring your vision to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best low-maintenance front fence for a Melbourne home? COLORBOND® steel and aluminium fencing are excellent low-maintenance options for Melbourne. They resist rust, rot, and pests, and only need an occasional wash. COLORBOND® is especially durable and comes in a wide range of pre-painted colours.

How high can I build a front fence in Victoria? Generally, front fences in Victoria are limited to 3 to 4 feet (0.9 to 1.2 metres). Rules vary between councils, especially for corner blocks. We manage council compliance as part of our service to ensure everything is done correctly.

How much does a new front fence typically cost in Melbourne? The cost is typically $70 to $200 per linear metre, but this varies. The final price depends on materials, design complexity, gates, and site conditions. Contact MAKE Fencing for an accurate, custom quote.

Can you create a custom fence to match my home's unique style? Absolutely. Custom design is our specialty. We work with you to create a unique fence—from a Hampton-style picket to a modern steel design—that perfectly matches your home's character and improves its street appeal.