As the Smithsonian points out, “Fences are icons of the American landscape.” Americans, for better or worse, have staked out their homes and territories over the course of centuries by using fences.

Obviously, residential fencing is not meant to keep cars from crashing through homeowners’ yards. House fences make yards more private, add curb appeal, improve property value, and — sure — add some home protection by making it harder for burglars to break in, but they’re not meant to stop a car. Yet, you’d be surprised how often cars smash through wooden fences. It happens a lot more than you might think.

As the weather cools and the leaves begin to turn, your thoughts are likely turning to the fall maintenance needs around your home and yard. Maybe you’re thinking ahead to the spring and planning your budget around what major projects you can commit to saving for.