NOT PRACTICAL for someone looking for a reference of fence designs or construction techniques. Sure the author gives good information about basic design factors but does not offer much help to develop and build a finished product.

A great book if you have some time to kill and you enjoy hearing about and looking at pictures of old-fashined fences. - Mine's going back to Amazon in exchange for something more practical. In fact, I wish Amazon would do a better job in reviewing these books to save me a lot of time.

Nash points out the many reasons for fencing, from the practical to the ornamental and how each type may be designed and constructed. He explains the reasoning and functionality of purpose-built fences very clearly.

There is also great technical detail, from how to pick materials to how to layout and set fence posts. There are clear diagrams of common fence joinery and shop tips for making the various components. Do's and don'ts in design are pointed out. Repairs and maintenance are also discussed.

Although there are no measured drawings, the aspect ratio of the "golden rectangle" is presented to aid you in making an attractive, as well as functional, fence. The rich plethora of color photographs and clear diagrams depicting an incredible variety of designs will inspire, or perhaps confound you, with ideas to build your own fence.

The only problem with this book is that there are so many great ideas, it's hard to pick just one!

I wanted to see some examples of privacy fences of various materials, since I am planning one for our back yard.

This book is replete with photographs, drawings and text covering all sorts of fences, with ideas galore for enhancing your home. Most of the fences depicted are wooden, and I have opted for a vinyl model, but nevertheless the book is a splendid effort and worthwhile for anyone who is thinking of putting up a fence, either for decoration, security, or privacy.

Joseph Pierre