The benefits of fences are endless, adding privacy, security, and in some cases, noise-reduction. Not all fences boast noise-reduction capabilities, but the ones that do can make the pain of living on a busy street or next to noisy neighbors a thing of the past.
Key Factors to Reducing Noise
If you’re interested in adding a noise-reducing fence to your yard, make sure it has the following elements.
Add Height
The best-constructed fence won’t offer any noise-reducing properties if it’s too short. Instead, design your fence to be as tall as regulations allow to prevent sound waves from traveling over your short fence right into your yard. To determine what fencing height options you have at your disposal, contact your Home Owner’s Association if your neighborhood has one and refer to your city’s guidelines. We recommend a fence at least 50% taller than the noise source for best results.
Choose Heavier Materials
The material of the fence matters. The heavier the fencing material, the better it will be at blocking sound. Redwood and cedar are some of the best fencing materials for reducing noise because of their strength and mass. These qualities double in making your fence extremely durable, long-lasting, and low-maintenance. The best part about using wood for your noise-reduction fence is that it blends well with any home style – you don’t need to sacrifice aesthetics for functionality.
Limit Fence Gaps
One of the best ways to block noise in your backyard is with a fence with minimal gaps. Limited space in between fence posts and panels will result in maximum noise reduction. Wood fences are a perfect example of a fence with limited gaps that reduce noise well. Certain styles of vinyl fences also offer limited gaps in between the fence sections, however, vinyl tends to be a lighter material which doesn’t translate as well to blocking noise.
How Soundproofing Fences Work
Soundproofing fences reduce noise by blocking sound waves. They do this through mass and density. The heavier the material the better it can absorb and reflect sound.
Materials Used:
● Heavy blankets: Add weight and absorb sound.
● Mass-loaded vinyl (MLV): Dense material that blocks sound.
● Acoustic foam panels: Compresses sound waves to reduce noise further.
The design of the fence matters. Tall fences near noise sources will reduce noise more, and short fences will not block as much. Sealing gaps in the fence will also help.
Additional Strategies For Noise Reduction
Add Sound-Absorbing Materials
Sound-absorbing materials like acoustic panels, soft fabrics, or thicker wood can enhance noise blocking in fences. Double-wall fence designs with insulation create additional noise barriers, but for long-term effectiveness, use weather-resistant materials.
Fence Placement
The placement of the fence matters. It should be near the source and block noise paths. Extending the fence height where noise funnels can create a higher barrier is also recommended. Make sure to comply with local regulations.
Extend Fence Length
Extending the length of the fence will reduce noise by creating a bigger barrier. A zigzag fence design will disrupt sound waves more. Solid material blocks noise better than openings or gaps.
Landscaping
Landscaping around fences can reduce noise by planting dense shrubs, trees, and evergreen plants. Layering vegetation and using water features like fountains will create a natural sound barrier.
Legal And Aesthetic Considerations
Check Local Regulations
Before installing a noise-reducing fence, we need to check local regulations. We need to understand zoning laws and any restrictions on fence height, material, and location.
Key points to consider:
● Height Limitations: Many areas have height restrictions for fences. We need to check local ordinances to ensure compliance.
● Permits: Some areas require permits for fence installation. We should check this beforehand to avoid fines or penalties.
● Property Lines: We need to be aware of our property boundaries. Installing a fence too close to a neighbor’s property will cause disputes.
Functionality Vs Design
Noise reducing fence requires balancing functionality and design. While our main goal is noise reduction, the fence should also fit our landscape.
Consider the following:
● Materials: Choosing the right materials matters. Solid materials like wood or vinyl can block sound but should also match our style.
● Color and Texture: Choosing colors and textures that match our home and yard is important. A well-designed fence will enhance our property overall.
● Landscaping Integration: Consider plants or landscaping near the fence to improve aesthetics. Greenery will soften the view and add more sound absorption.
Maintenance Tips For Longevity
Inspections
Regular fence inspections will detect early signs of damage like cracks, warping, or rust. Post stability and loose boards should be checked after severe weather. Documenting these inspections will help track conditions and plan for repairs to extend noise-reducing fence life.
Material Care
Fence materials have different care requirements. Wooden fences need to be sealed or stained, vinyl fences need mild cleaner and soft brush. Metal fences need rust prevention coating, knowing their specific needs will ensure noise reduction and longer life.
Fence Stability
The sturdier and more solid your fence is, the better it will be at reducing noise. The best way to ensure you’re getting a well-built and sturdy fence is to select a reliable and experienced fencing contractor that uses quality materials. Keep in mind that just because a fence is new doesn’t mean that it is sturdy and of high quality. Only an experienced fencing installer, like Sierra Fence, can assure you of your fence’s durability.
Why Sierra Fence Is the Right Choice for Your Noise-Reduction Needs
You don’t need to choose a fencing variation that was specifically manufactured for noise reduction to keep your backyard quiet. You also don’t need to sacrifice aesthetics for noise-reducing functionality. Instead, making minor alterations to existing tried-and-true fence types and choosing a highly experienced fencing team can vastly reduce the noise you experience while enjoying your backyard.
To build your next fence, look no further than Austin’s best fence company Sierra Fence. Contact us today for a quote for your fencing project!
