Home owners all have their own reasoning for installing a fence on their property. Some will want privacy, while others need a fence to children and pets safe on the property or out of a pool area.
Adding a fence can add to the charm of your home and also to it’s value. Choosing the right fence for the job and the correct material can be a tough process as there are so many choices to go with.
Before you choose the type of fence you want to install, check with your local building or zoning dept, as many towns or counties have regulations on what type of fence and where you can place it on your property.
This simple guide will help you choose the right type of fencing material, no matter what purpose you have in mind.
FUNCTION
The first thing you need to consider is the function of the fence. Fences come in a wide range of materials, from metal to wood to vinyl, and the type you pick largely depends on the function of the fence. If you want privacy, then choose a material that is large in height and offers plenty of concealment. If you want security, then you have a little more flexibility in terms of materials, though you still need to select a material that is both strong and long lasting.
WOOD
Wood is a versatile material that can be painted to match any kind of outdoor decor. It’s great for privacy because of its height and concealment properties, but it can also add a lot of aesthetic value to your yard. The downside of wood is its high maintenance and inability to offer proper security. A wood fence that is properly maintained can typically last from 10 – 20 years, though composite wood can last much longer.
VINYL
Vinyl is a material that can be used for privacy or aesthetics, depending on how it is installed. Vinyl can even mimic wood and is not predisposed to rot, weathering, or warping that typically goes hand in hand with wood fences. When it comes to color, however, homeowners are left with fewer options. While it does not require as much yearly maintenance as wood, it is susceptible to mildew in areas that have high concentrations of moisture. Vinyl can be installed as boards or as pickets
METAL
Metal comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, from aluminum fences to wrought iron, and is great for security purposes or keeping pets from escaping your yard. Steel fences are a bit stronger than aluminum, while wrought iron fences are also great for security. The best benefits of choosing metal as a fencing material is its durability and ability to last a long time. In fact, a wrought iron fence can last upwards of 50 years if properly maintained.
The first thing you need to consider is the function of the fence. Fences come in a wide range of materials, from metal to wood to vinyl, and the type you pick largely depends on the function of the fence. If you want privacy, then choose a material that is large in height and offers plenty of concealment. If you want security, then you have a little more flexibility in terms of materials, though you still need to select a material that is both strong and long lasting.
Wood is a versatile material that can be painted to match any kind of outdoor decor. It’s great for privacy because of its height and concealment properties, but it can also add a lot of aesthetic value to your yard. The downside of wood is its high maintenance and inability to offer proper security. A wood fence that is properly maintained can typically last from 10 – 20 years, though composite wood can last much longer.
Vinyl is a material that can be used for privacy or aesthetics, depending on how it is installed. Vinyl can even mimic wood and is not predisposed to rot, weathering, or warping that typically goes hand in hand with wood fences. When it comes to color, however, homeowners are left with fewer options. While it does not require as much yearly maintenance as wood, it is susceptible to mildew in areas that have high concentrations of moisture. Vinyl can be installed as boards or as pickets
Metal comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, from aluminum fences to wrought iron, and is great for security purposes or keeping pets from escaping your yard. Steel fences are a bit stronger than aluminum, while wrought iron fences are also great for security. The best benefits of choosing metal as a fencing material is its durability and ability to last a long time. In fact, a wrought iron fence can last upwards of 50 years if properly maintained.
