A fence should generally be oriented so that the more visually appealing side, often called the 'good side' or finished side, faces outward towards the neighbor or the street.
Understanding the 'Good Side' of a Fence
When a fence is constructed, especially panel fences like privacy fences, there are typically two distinct sides:
- The 'Good Side': This side usually has the smooth, finished surface with no visible posts or rails. It presents a clean, uniform look.
- The 'Post Side' or 'Rail Side': This side is where the structural elements like posts and rails are visible, providing support for the panels.
According to common fence etiquette, as referenced in "Understanding Fence Etiquette," a widespread practice is to ensure the 'good side' faces outwards.
A common practice is ensuring the 'good side' faces outwards towards the neighbour or street. This tradition reflects a gesture of goodwill and consideration for the visual appeal of shared spaces.
Why Face the Good Side Outward?
There are several reasons behind this common practice:
- Gesture of Goodwill: It's seen as a thoughtful act towards your neighbors, showing consideration for their view and the overall aesthetics of the neighborhood.
- Enhanced Visual Appeal: The finished side offers a neater and more attractive appearance, contributing positively to the streetscape or your neighbor's property view.
- Community Harmony: Following this tradition helps maintain a consistent and pleasant look within the community, fostering positive relationships between neighbors.
By having the good side face outwards, homeowners demonstrate that they value their neighbor's perspective and the shared visual environment.
Practical Application
While this is a common guideline, specific situations might vary. However, the principle remains: prioritize how the fence looks to those outside your property.
| Side | Direction It Faces | Appearance |
|---|---|---|
| Good Side | Outward (Neighbor/Street) | Smooth, finished, uniform |
| Post Side | Inward (Your Property) | Posts, rails, structural |
In summary, the standard and neighborly approach is to install your fence so that the finished, attractive side is visible to your neighbors and the public, keeping the structural side on your property.
