Machine Screen

Prior to the development of the Zen Garden in 2007-2009, we had a small generator installed along the far side of the house. At the time, I installed a two sided lattice fence to screen the generator from the roadside view. Later, around 2013, we added a mini-split air conditioning system. Both of these utilities were in the same area of the south-west corner of the house. 

When adding the air conditioning unit, I decided to enclose both sides of the utilities with a screening fence - each two sided, with an opening between the two. 

Later, I added a brick pathway using some left over brick following the vegetable garden enlargement project (Sept., 2023).

If you look closely, you can tell that the posts on the left were leaning, indicating that they were rotten and in need of replacement.

After discussing the issue with my wife, we decided to replace the entire structure. Instead of the traditional "neighborhood" look of the the cream post - green lattice fence, we opted to build an all new structure similar in appearance to the fence in the Viewing Garden - stained green posts and natural stained cedar panels.

2021 Viewing Garden

This decision was not taken lightly. Making these changes would extend the influence of the Asian inspired garden all the way around the house. The only remaining places untouched by that esthetic would now be the vegetable garden and the area adjacent to its front gate - what we call "mulch Island" (because of its size and the large Willow and Burning Bush).

So, once the decision was made, I ripped down the old fencing.

We were happy that most of the materials, including several posts and rails that were still in good condition, were taken by a neighbor to be recycled into a new project for their home.

I then dug new postholes, installed and stained new posts with post protectors, attached metal brackets to hold the rails, inserted the rails, and stained the remaining components. In all it took approximately five days of labor (two of which were during a 96 degree+ heatwave).

I also spay-painted the plastic post protectors green to help them blend in.

The fencing does a good job of complimenting the other Asian style fencing throughout the gardens and now anchors the distant Zen Garden with the far side of the house and lawn. 

It also works well with the newly face-lifted garden shed and Woodland Gate diagonally opposite the utility corner.

Given the added feature and updated materials, including the post protectors, I am confident that these structures will last 10+ years. I'm glad this major project is complete and I can now get back to tending my plants.