Give A Front Yard A Luxe Upgrade With Columns Of Concrete Blocks

Some people like an open front yard, maybe because of the sense of community it can create.  On the other hand, local dogs making a mess of your lawn or neighbors not respecting your boundary are among a number of reasons why you might consider a fence. There are plenty of different styles, from a classic picket to a more contemporary design. Over on YouTube, JuanCA Cementos' channel shows us a luxe upgrade using concrete block pillars to support aluminum panels.

One of the things you'll want to decide at the outset is the type of fencing panels, first from a visual point of view, and also for spacing the support pillars. The ones in the video are light and open and 8 feet wide, but there are dozens of styles to choose from, offering a variety of privacy levels. You'll also need to think about a gate. In the video, the homeowners are having one made, but there are plenty of "off-the-shelf" solutions that could prove more affordable.

If you have an HOA, you'll want to see if they have any rules you need to take into account, and among other tips for building a perfect fence, you should check with your local building department before you begin. Restrictions can vary considerably, and a permit may be required. Failure to follow guidelines can result in a stop-work order and possible fines, so it's really not worth taking the risk.

A vital step in the construction is to dig a trench that is filled with concrete to provide a solid foundation. Without this, weather conditions, particularly frost, can cause soil movement that can damage the wall. So the footings (as they are called) need to extend below the frost line. In Fresno, where this wall is being constructed in the YouTube video, they recommend 12 inches. However, in Denver, Colorado, it should be 36 inches. So keep in mind where you live has considerable impact on the amount of work necessary.

A string line provides a guide to keep the wall height consistent, but it's important to check with a level too. Rebar and concrete are added to the blocks to support the wall and pillars safely. Joints are cleaned as work progresses because it would be near impossible to do once the mortar has set.

The project in the video was made by a professional crew, and you might want to get quotes from contractors for your project. That said, it's not a complicated build, so if you have basic trowel skills, it's a creative way to increase curb appeal that you might want to take on yourself. The keys to success are accuracy and patience.