Your choice of boundary material at the front of the house will depend mainly on its setting. If you live on a busy road you may find a wall or fence a less troublesome option than a living boundary that is susceptible to the effects of traffic fumes. A townhouse would suit an elegant wrought iron fence, while a country cottage would look more at home behind an informal hedge or painted picket fence. You may wish to discourage wandering dogs, intruders or vandals or simply mark the edge of your property with a low wall.
Planning regulations govern the height of a wall or fence that adjoins a highway, so if you want privacy, you may need to plant a hedge. But the taller the hedge, the more difficult it will be to trim. Remember that screening the property too effectively can be a burglar's blessing. Hedges must be trimmed to prevent them overhanging a pavement or road. A small front garden should always have low boundaries to prevent it feeling too enclosed and shaded.
A brick or stone wall will last indefinitely, and is more vandal-proof than a fence. With a little practical knowledge it is not difficult to build this kind of wall yourself. A low fence is even easier to erect, although you may need another person to help. Use metal post spikes embedded in concrete for the greatest stability. Never embed wooden fence posts directly in concrete as they will quickly rot off near ground level.
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Brick and stone walls are long-lasting and aren't difficult to build.
