So Many Choices! A Guide To Choosing The Right Fencing Material

Posted on: 20 July 2016

Many factors need to be considered when choosing the right fence. Is it for beautification or security reasons? Do you have children or pets that need added protection, so escape isn't a possibility? You also must consider the maintenance and cost of the fencing. The right material needs to be chosen to suit your needs.

Make it Tall for Security

No matter what type of fence material you choose, be sure it is tall enough to secure the pet, child, or flowers you are trying to protect. Ideally, you want your fence to be at least six feet tall to prevent people from seeing over it. If you have freakishly tall neighbors, however, you may consider something taller than six feet.

Consider Privacy Issues

If you want a fence for privacy, many choices are available, but wood and vinyl are close to the top of the board for many reasons. Wood will require more maintenance, but it is sturdier than vinyl. Board on board or shadowbox fencing is secure and allows a structural view from both sides. You can get a reprieve from the neighborhood noises and more privacy if you add a bit of lattice work on the top of the fence.

Explore Different Types of Wood

Cedar and pine compose 80% of all wood fencing options. Cedar, spruce, and pine are the best wood options. Cedar's lifespan can be 15 to 30 years, with spruce at 4 to 7 years, and pine for approximately 5 to 12 years.

If you live in areas where moisture is an issue, such as around a beach, you should choose wood that has been treated. Lifespans can be increased for other woods for over 20 years, but it can increase cedar's life to 40 years.

Pressure treated pine (PT) is a good choice and can last for 20 years. The sun can damage it and cause it to crack, shrink or warp. Some have been damaged within one month.

Unfortunately, wood is susceptible to fungus, rotting, and bugs. You could have to replace it one board at a time.

Considering Vinyl

The 1950s brought vinyl to the mix to replace aluminum options. Maintenance is a plus for vinyl because it only requires occasional cleaning with a water hose and doesn't need to be painted. Normally, vinyl is up to five times stronger than wood fencing and should last your lifetime.

Understanding the Cost of Installation

The installation cost will depend on whether you are a do-it-yourself person or need a professional. Your costs for installing vinyl can vary ranging from $4 to $12 per linear foot for the handy person, and $7 to $25 per linear foot with the professional installation. Wooden fencing can range from $3 to $9 per linear foot for the handy worker and up to $8 to $25 per linear foot for the professional's expertise.

One of the biggest factors for protecting your fence is keeping it off the ground when you install it. You should also consider the neighborhood where you live. You want to blend, but you also want to have an exceptional fence to enjoy for many years. Contact a company like Gatlin Fence Company for more info.

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