Fences are a great addition to any home with the many styles and types of materials available that can aid in the longevity of your home’s outer protection! One can choose to opt for a classic wood fence, vinyl as a viable alternative or even a chain link fence for longer life. When considering what fence is better for you, think about what goals you want to achieve with the fence. Would you prefer low maintenance, a low cost, or is a longer life span more of a goal? Each type of fencing material has advantages that can cater to certain categories of preferences while falling back on others. It’s important in your decision-making process to consider the pros and cons before ultimately making a commitment. In either case, you are sure to make an attractive addition to your home!
What type of fence is best?
Fences come in a variety of materials that range in use and protective features. Here are some of the most popular types of fencing materials.
For extra protection, you can eliminate space between wood panels!
Types of Popular Fencing Materials:
- Aluminum
- Bamboo
- Chain Link
- Electric
- Farm
- PVC
- Vinyl
- Wood
- Wrought Iron
What type of fence lasts longest?
Chain-link fences are considered to be the longest lasting type of fencing out there due to it’s non-rusting galvanized steel finish; because of this it also requires little to no maintenance. The drawback is that it won’t provide as much privacy as may be desired. It’s important to note that there are certain types of wood fences that can near the life span of a chain link fence.
What is the best wood for a fence?
Consider different types of wooden fences for your home!
There are many types of wood fences out there yet here are a few of note.
- Cedarwood: (Master Halco) This is the most popular type of wood fence for residences. It has a light grain with few knots that are resistant to decay, doesn’t warp or shrink, repels water and insects. It is recommended to install concrete fence posts as certain types may not be impervious to soil in comparison to treated wood. It’s available in a variety of styles such as lattice-topped or Saddleback. It naturally weathers to silvery gray so for color and weathering protection an annual sealant application is recommended.
- Cypresswood: Cypresswood is rot resistant and contains a natural chemical deterrent to bugs called cypretine, which greatly increases the lifespan of the wood.
- Redwood: Redwood is an option that is used extensively although it’s cost is higher. It’s durable, resistant to insects and rot yet is recommended to use a stain to prevent it from turning gray with age. If moisture, dry conditions, freezing and thawing are prevalent in your area then this wood is not the best option as it will be prone to damages.
What are the parts of a wooden fence called?
Different types of fences may be made of different materials, but their basic anatomy is similar. Starting from the ground up, the base of a wood fence is the area where the posts enter into the ground. In order to provide more stability and strength, it is often recommended and practiced for them to be cemented in. A few inches higher up features the bottom rail which helps secure the balusters. Balusters, aka pickets, are the vertical columns of wood that are butted together or spaced apart. The posts of the fence are dispersed at either end of an entryway or spread out every so often along the line of the fence and act as the foundation hold of the fence as they hold up and connect the pickets/balusters. Usually, when these aren’t secured well, the rest of the fence will suffer. The top rail of a wooden fence acts in much of the same manner as the bottom rail by both securing the balusters and also attaching to the posts. If you have a gate on your fence, your hinges will connect it to a secure post and allow for swinging or turning movement. A gate latch will help in keeping the gate shut with a lock or other device. (Roof inspections)
You local fencing company is ready to assist you with your fencing needs!
Wood Fence versus Vinyl
Is a wood fence better than vinyl?
Vinyl is a great alternative to a wood fence if you’re willing and able to spend more! It won’t be susceptible to the damages wood is known for such as dry rot, fire, fungus or termites and it’s even able to imitate the look of it if preferred! It has a longer life span and is able to stand against the elements of weather rather well. It is virtually free of maintenance and only requires to occasionally be hosed down of dirt or washed off with mild detergent. Be sure to know that early vinyl fencing products had the tendency to sag, turn brittle after a few years and turn yellow. However, today’s fencing manufacturers solved this problem by offering more durable options. It’s recommended to select a “virgin” thicker gauge for the best longevity.
For wood fence contractors in Crowley and Fort Worth, TX call 817-948-4503 with Ware Fencing!