Are you looking for a fence to add pizzazz to your property as well as privacy and security for your family? Then, a masonry fence might be the way to go. But just what is a masonry fence?
Masonry fences are exterior enclosures built from individual units of brick, concrete blocks, stucco, or natural stone. Masonry fencing requires vastly different tools and skills than traditional fencing. While traditional fencing is held together with screws, the bricks or stones for masonry fencing are laid in a staggered pattern and secured with mortar.
These types of fences are commonly used for residential properties and come in several different designs. There are many different techniques and materials to create a masonry fence that compliments the aesthetic of your home.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- What is the Purpose of a Masonry Fence?
- Examples of Masonry Fences
- Pros and Cons of Masonry Fences
- FAQ About Masonry Fences
What is the Purpose of a Masonry Fence?
Masonry fences are used for privacy, security, ornamentation, sound insulation, and protection from shade and wind. In addition, masonry fences provide superior durability and design flexibility. The wide range of masonry colors and textures can complement your home’s architecture or blend with the natural beauty of your landscape.
Because fences are constantly exposed to the elements, selecting the proper materials, design, and quality is important to maximize their overall longevity.
Examples of Masonry Fences
Though masonry fences come in a wide variety of styles, there are two main design types that you can sort these styles into: open and closed.
Open masonry fences are usually lower than closed fences to create a view of the yard and house. These fences contain pillars connected by iron bars or wooden fence panels. Some open masonry fences are designed with pillars or posts that are connected with shorter walls made of stone or brick.
Closed masonry fences are privacy fences with no gaps or openings besides the gate. They are built very tall to block out sound and offer privacy and protection.
Any masonry material can be used for either open or closed masonry fences, whether it’s brick, stone, concrete, marble, or stucco.
Pros and Cons of Masonry Fences
Before you decide on building such a permanent structure on your property, consider the pros and cons of masonry fencing.
Pros:
- Durable
- Secure and soundproof
- Plenty of variety in styles and materials
- Fire resistant
- Pest resistant
- Long-lasting
Cons:
- Expensive and not a good return on investment
- Requires maintenance and upkeep
- Does not create an open or breathable yard space
- Time consuming to construct
- Permanent structure that is difficult to alter
FAQ About Masonry Fences
The natural wear and tear of brick over the years are prone to expand over time, causing cracks and faults within the wall. Brick walls can last over 100 years if they are properly installed, inspected, and maintained.
The laws are different in each state, but most fences cannot be higher than 4 feet in the front yard or 6 feet in the backyard. You can always get a permit to raise the height of your fence. Your neighbor may be able to stop or stall the construction of your fence but would need to prove why you should not be allowed to build the fence. Always check laws and regulations in your city or county before you start planning your fence.
Precast concrete fences have a thickness of at least 125 mm (4.92 inches) if reinforced and 150 mm (5.9 inches) if there is vertical rebar from the footing.
When to Hire a Fencing Pro
Putting up a fence is hot, back-breaking work, and that’s nothing compared to the headache you get figuring out property lines and permits! Why spend your free time placing fence posts when you can hire an experienced and reliable pro instead?
If you’re looking for someone to take care of all your fencing needs, whether you want a masonry fence or standard wooden privacy, we invite you to check out Lawnstarter’s extensive list of fencing contractors available in your area!
Main photo credit: Wikimedia | CC-BY-SA-3.0,2.5,2.0,1.0
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