It's spring, that time of year when pieces of fencing, all sizes and materials, show up on the curb, waiting to be picked up by the trash-collection crews. Falling tree branches have smashed these fences, or homeowners have neglected them.

If you find yourself in the market for a new fence right about now, here are a few things to consider before you buy.

Need to know: Whether this is a do-it-yourself job or something to leave to a professional. If only a small section of fence needs replacing, you may be able to pick up some pointers at Saturday morning classes offered by home centers (check schedules at your local store). But if you're replacing an entire yard perimeter's worth of fence, or starting from scratch, it's more cost-effective to call a pro who provides a warranty.

Dot your i's: Check into your municipality's rules about fence installation. For example, they may require you to put the more attractive, finished side of the fence facing toward your neighbors. It's also a good idea, especially with a first-time installation, to check with the utility companies to see where water, phone and electrical lines are buried.

Style check: The look of your house should determine which fence you buy. A white picket fence and a geodesic dome will clash, as will a post-and-rail fence and a Victorian Queen Anne.

Size matters: Prices are generally quoted based on length, so you'll need to know the dimensions of the area to be fenced and how many feet of fence are required. Decorative solid fences sold in sections go from a few dollars to $100 a foot. Utilitarian fencing (vinyl or wire mesh) comes in rolls costing less than $1 per foot.

Panel profile: Wooden fence panels can be stained, painted or coated with a mildewcide to keep sections in shady areas from turning green. Solid panels offer the greatest amount of privacy and prevent unauthorized escapes by little ones and pets. Panels come in a few styles, usually in 8-foot sections from 4 to 6 feet high.

Act naturally: Roll-on fencing (also known as natural fencing) can be used by itself or to freshen existing barriers, and typically comes in flat mats of reed, thatch, bamboo and willow. The mats can be easily attached to almost any fence style and are easy to trim to lower heights.

Go country: Post-and-rail fencing can give even a city yard a rural appearance. Though it will delineate a boundary line just fine, post-and-rail provides neither privacy nor help keeping people and pets in (or out). Rails are split or rounded and range from about 8 to 12 feet in length (the longer, the more chance of sagging). Posts can be 36 inches to 60 inches above the ground.

Clever deception: Polymer fence looks like iron but doesn't rust. It comes prepainted, and the coating lasts forever.

Wash-and-wear: Vinyl fencing is low-maintenance, though sections in total shade will need to be washed periodically. It doesn't fade as quickly as wood, but when you get tired of whatever color you've chosen, there is a very good chance you'll have to install a new fence.