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Creating A Backyard Safe Haven

Posted: 8/12/2010

Good fences make safe backyards.

(NAPSI) -According to reports by the U.S. Census Bureau, 75 percent of new homebuyers want a rear patio and 82 percent are looking for a home with a deck or porch. Additionally, 60 percent of new homebuyers remodel within the first six months of purchase, adding decks, yard enhancements and fences that create a comfortable, relaxing outdoor sanctuary. The trend is clear--the outdoors is what's in.

While curb appeal is often top of mind when designing outdoor living spaces, creating a safe environment may be even more important. The following tips can help keep you and your family safe while enjoying the outdoors:

• Choose the right height. A fence can help prevent children from getting outside the area and running into hazardous traffic, as well as keep out potentially dangerous intruders, such as stray dogs. Fences that are at least four feet high may be your best bet.

• Discourage climbers. Horizontal fence boards on post- and rail-style fences provide handholds and footholds, making it easier for a child to climb over or through the fence. If this is a concern at your home, opt for a fence with vertical boards, which are much more difficult to climb.

• Partition the pool. Pools should be fenced in with gates that are self-closing and self-latching to keep children out of harm's way. Fences that are at least five feet tall typically meet that need.

• Consider the climate. Look for fence products that are designed to withstand 75-mile-per-hour winds. If your yard gets a lot of sun, select decking products with heat-reflective technology that keep surfaces cool to the touch.

• Go the splinter-free route. Vinyl fence products, such as Bufftech from CertainTeed, will not rot or peel, which eliminates pesky splinters.

• Stick with slip-resistant materials. Help prevent slips and falls by selecting decking materials, such as EverNew, that are slip resistant.

• Contact a pro. Maximize the overall safety and performance of your fence, railing and decking by working with a professional contractor to ensure that outdoor living products are installed properly. To find a contractor nearby, visit www.certainteed.com or call (800) 233-8990.

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