A picket fence is a traditional way to create a residential boundary. These fences, often painted white, became popular in the 1950s, when they became a symbol for family and America. Today, they are representative of the American Dream, and are still one of the most popular fence designs. Traditionally, the fence pickets used were gothic pickets. These pickets have a pointed top, and are often the pickets that most people associate with this type of fence. The gothic pickets are not the only possible fence picket designs, however. Other possibilities include dog-ear pickets, French gothic pickets, and flat-top pickets. The French gothic pickets are similar in style to the basic gothic pickets, except that they have a nip in the neck, making them more decorative. For those who want to add a picket fence to their property, there are many choices on the market. Picket fences are usually painted white and are typically made out of wood, but modern versions of the picket fence can take other forms. Plastic is now a common material, as it is created to look like wood and doesn't need to be painted. Before a fence can be constructed, homeowners need to check the local zoning laws and contact the town or city they live in to seek permission. A phone call should also be made to the local electric, gas, and phone companies so that they can come and show you where the underground lines are. (This is generally a free service.) |
