Prized because of larger than normal lot sizes, fewer neighbors, and more on-street parking, homes on corner lots have a lot of upsides. But it also means that you have more fencing you’re responsible for. So we occasionally get questions about the best plans for fence ideas for corner houses.
As a homeowner in more urban areas of Portland, you will likely have a house on either side of you, so it’s easy to demarcate the front and back yards. But on a corner lot, you don’t have that buffer on one side another home provides. It’s an interesting position: on the one hand, you have more privacy because of one less neighbor. Conversely, you also have less privacy because your home/yard is open on one side.
Corner House Fence Ideas
Traditionally speaking, front yards usually have shorter, more ornate fences while backyards are usually fenced in with fencing that is six feet or higher and are more interested in privacy and/or security. Transitions between the two are easier than corner houses because there are driveways, homes, and other boundaries that make separation more natural.
Living in a corner home presents unique considerations when choosing fencing options. Given the visibility from multiple angles and the need to maintain both street-facing and side-yard aesthetics, selecting the right fencing is important, both for aesthetics and security.
But transitioning from a three-foot white picket fence to a cedar fence with slats can be a little tricky, if not jarring. A lot of this will depend on what kind of fencing material you want to use and if you’re willing to use different materials to get the job done.
We should point out a few different codes and regulations at this point. Backyard fencing codes are pretty straightforward: they can’t be a certain height, make sure they’re on the property line, and so forth. However, when it comes to fencing in the front or side yards, you need to be aware of setbacks, line of sight, and other rules in addition to the standard regs.
The City of Portland has a pretty robust site when it comes to fencing regulations, including phone numbers so you can call for help.
Gradual Transitions
This fence idea for a corner lot basically starts short in the front yard to give views of your home and gradually gets taller every section or so until it reaches the height of the back fence. This creates a stair-step effect of sorts but achieves both form and function for your home.
With wooden fencing, you can use horizontal slats and just add one more slat in each section to achieve your desired height in the back. This gets rid of the standard horizontal rails common with cedar fencing because the slats themselves are attached to the end posts.
This can also be achieved with vinyl fencing as panels come in varying heights. Depending on your circumstances, you may need to alter the fencing to fit your situation. Before cutting the fence to height, check with the manufacturer to make sure you’re doing it correctly and not altering the stability of the panel. Your warranty may be voided if you change the panel in any way.
With vinyl fencing, you may have more options, too. For example, a vinyl picket fence in the front yard that eventually meets up with taller vinyl fencing in a similar style will give you a seamless look as you transition from the front to the side to the backyard fencing.
Mixed Material Fencing
In some cases, multiple types of fencing material that provide a stark contrast can work, too. Combining different fencing materials can create visual interest and cater to various functional needs. For instance, using a decorative metal gate or railing at the front with wooden or vinyl fencing along the sides offers a blend of security, privacy, and curb appeal.
Using wrought iron along with cedar rails can create a really sophisticated look for your front yard and effortlessly meets the more common cedar slat fencing of the backyard. Vinyl fencing comes in a wide range of styles and can mimic the look of several different materials so you won’t have to interrupt a specific style.
You can also forgo a fence in the front yard entirely, concentrating on the side and backyard fencing. As with all fencing, don’t forget to add a gate for easy access. You don’t want to go through the garage or house every time you’re moving from the back to the front of the house.
Landscaped Fencing
Integrating fencing with landscaping elements such as hedges, bushes, or flowering plants softens the appearance of the fence, adds greenery, and enhances the overall aesthetic appeal of the corner property. And they look great alongside cedar or vinyl, and even as part of a chain link fence.
Well-planned trees, shrubs, and hedges along the fence line provide natural barriers that provide privacy while improving the curb appeal. Tall, dense foliage can limit views from passersby while creating a serene atmosphere within the yard. Adding landscaping elements softens the harsh lines of fencing structures, making them appear more integrated into your yard.
Flower beds, climbing vines, and ornamental grasses add color, texture, and visual interest to the perimeter, enhancing curb appeal. In some cases, your hedges can grow around a chain-link fence to provide a natural look while providing solid security.
By incorporating thoughtful landscaping strategies, homeowners can maximize the functionality and visual appeal of fencing solutions in their front and side yards. You can transform your corner lot into an attractive outdoor area that will blend in nicely when meeting the more robust backyard fencing.
Fencing Ideas for Corner Houses in Portland
By carefully considering factors such as aesthetics, maintenance, security, and local regulations, homeowners can choose fencing options that not only address their practical needs but also elevate the visual appeal of their corner property. Consulting with professional fencing contractors can also provide valuable insights and assistance in selecting the best fence plan for your corner house.
Pacific Fence and Wire has been planning and installing fencing options throughout the Portland Metro area for more than 100 years. From designing fencing transitions from the front yard to the back in urban settings to farm fencing for more rural landscapes, our experience is unmatched.
At Pacific Fence & Wire, we prioritize our clients’ comfort throughout the entire process of the initial consultation, getting the work done, and signing off on the final paperwork. We are committed to going above and beyond to thoroughly explain all available fencing options and to ensure the highest quality workmanship.
Our objective is to maintain our position as Portland’s leading fencing company by consistently exceeding client expectations. We strive for complete client satisfaction, aiming to build relationships where clients feel confident referring us to their friends and family.
Looking to install a new fence or replace an existing fence with something more up-to-date and durable? Reach out to Pacific Fence and Wire and we’ll work with you to find the perfect fencing option for you, your home, and your neighborhood. Take a look at our gallery to see how we work with all kinds of materials on all kinds of terrain.
