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Do I have to give my neighbor the good side of the fence

Oct 05, 2023

The Good Side of Fence

Alright, fellow Huntersville residents, let’s get down to some backyard gossip. If you've ever thought about getting a fence installed (and hey, shoutout to us at Huntersville Fence Company, we’ve got your back!) you might’ve wondered: "Do I have to give my neighbor the good side of the fence?" This, my friends, is the age-old question that has stirred many a suburban debate. So, grab your favorite drink, pull up a chair, and let’s talk about the "good side of the fence."

First Off, What’s This “Good Side” Business?

In case you’ve been living under a rock (or maybe just not obsessing over fences like we do), the "good side" of the fence refers to the smooth, finished side that doesn’t show the posts or rails. The “bad side,” on the other hand, shows all the inner workings, rails, and the backside of the fence boards. Some folks think it’s just good manners to let your neighbors enjoy the view of the smooth side, while others believe they should enjoy the fruits of their fence investments.

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The Legality of the Good Side

Okay, so here's the 411. There isn’t a nationwide law that mandates you give your neighbor the good side of the fence. However, local by-laws or neighborhood covenants in some places might have something to say about it. So, it's always a cool idea to check in with your local authorities in Huntersville, NC, before making a decision.


Why Give Your Neighbor the Good Side?

  1. Neighborly Love: Look, we all know the age-old adage, "Love thy neighbor." Giving them the good side of the fence might just be the olive branch that keeps your barbeques friendly and the neighborhood gossip about you to a minimum (wink).
  2. Aesthetics: In some layouts, offering the good side to the neighbor can actually make your own property look better, especially if the internal side aligns with your house or landscaping.
  3. Maintenance: Here’s a sneaky one. If your neighbors have the good side, they might be more inclined to keep it clean and maintained because, well, it's what they see every day!


Why Keep the Good Side?

  1. You Paid For It: It's your investment. Enjoying the good side might just make you feel like you're getting your money's worth.
  2. Security: The "bad side" with its rails can sometimes act as a ladder for intruders or critters. Keeping the smooth side out might deter unexpected visitors.
  3. Customization: Want to hang planters, art, or other decorations? The good side offers a cleaner slate for all your creative endeavors.


So, What's the Verdict?

Honestly, there's no right or wrong answer here. It all boils down to personal preference, relationships with your neighbors, and what you feel best fits your property's aesthetic. It might be a cool idea to have a chat with your neighbors and see how they feel – who knows, they might not even have a preference!


If you’re still on the fence (see what we did there?) about which side to choose, hit us up at Huntersville Fence Company. We can share our insights, maybe tell a couple of fence jokes, and help you decide what’s best for your space.


Remember, whichever side you choose, make sure it’s a decision that feels right for you. After all, good fences make good neighbors, no matter which side you’re on!

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