Fences have many functions. They define property lines and keep children and pets safe. They can be an attractive and elegant addition to the landscape. The right fence can also help you to protect your yard from prying eyes. There are many different kinds of fences and each has its own function.

Many states have specific fence laws. If you are planning to build a new fence, you may want to call your local planning and permitting department to find out more. These laws vary by city and state, but the basics are generally the same. In some cases, you can build a fence on a shared property line, but you may need to notify your neighbor.

Aside from defining property lines, some fences play an important role in a criminal’s operation. For example, a fence can disguise stolen goods, which increases the likelihood that the police will not be able to track them down. It can also serve as a way to transport stolen items to other locations.

A fence can be used to conceal or replace the serial numbers on stolen goods. It can also hide the monetary value of these items. Some professional thieves will focus only on valuable items, which may command a higher price in the legal market.

In addition to acting as a deception device, a fence can also be used to sell goods that would normally be worth less than the price tag. Thieves may choose to sell an item to a stranger instead of a friend, which reduces the chance that the owner will recognize the merchandise.

One of the most interesting uses of a fence is in the criminal underground of early China. They were a common fixture in teahouses, brothels, gambling parlors, and safe houses. In fact, they often acted as a bridge between a thief and the eventual buyer.

Another useful feature of a fence is the lattice, or the vertical spacing between pickets. This is a design feature of some wood fences, and it can provide you with an excellent view of your surroundings.

A fence can be constructed with a variety of materials, including aluminum, metal, and stone. Aluminum is commonly used for privacy fencing, and it can be painted to make it look like natural wood. Similarly, stone can add a nice touch to an Oriental rock garden. Metal fences, on the other hand, are typically used for security.

When you build a fence, you should consider the size of the post and the length of the rails. Most posts are 6 or 8 feet in length, and a rail is the horizontal support for the fence. To keep a fence sturdy, you can use concrete. Also, you can rake the rails into place. You can also add brace bands and end posts caps to protect the ends of the posts.

Choosing a good fence can be a challenge, especially when you consider that each city has its own set of laws for building and maintaining fences. However, if you are willing to do the legwork and research, you should be able to choose a fence that will fit your budget and your neighborhood. For more details on fence ask a local Houston fence company on your area.