Installing a fence is a wonderful way to add value to your property. In fact, installing a high-quality fence can add as much as 50 percent of the cost of the fence to your home’s value.
However, you need to make sure you choose the right types of fences for your property if you want to have the biggest impact.
If you’re just starting to look at your options, you’re likely not even sure where to start. Here are a few of the most popular fencing options to consider incorporating into your property.
1. Wood
Wood fences are some of the most popular types of fences on the market. They’re durable, beautiful, and versatile when installed by an experienced contractor.
You can use wood to create anything from secure privacy fences that keep intruders out to decorative landscape accents that protect your garden from unruly pets. The only limit is your imagination.
Though wood is durable, it’s also expensive and requires regular maintenance if you want the materials to last.
If you don’t keep the wood stained and sealed, it will start to turn gray and may experience rot over time. Depending on where you live, you may need to maintain your fence once every few months. If you don’t, you’ll end up dealing with more frequent and costly repairs.
That said, wood fences also add value to your property and are ideal if you have a flexible budget for your fencing project. Although you may DIY your installation, it would be best to hire a fencing contractor to make sure it is installed correctly.
2. Vinyl Panels
Vinyl offers many of the same benefits of traditional wooden fences, but without the extensive maintenance requirements. They’re available in different colors ranging from fun and vibrant to mimicking natural wood.
The material itself is incredibly durable and doesn’t need to regular sealing or painting. Instead, all you have to do is rinse the dirt off with your garden hose.
Keep in mind that the cost of vinyl fences can vary based on the quality of the materials you choose. High-grade vinyl panels can be just as expensive as wood, but since you won’t have to pay for routine maintenance, you’ll end up making up for the upfront cost after a few years.
3. Chain Link
If you’re looking for the most budget-friendly option, chain link fence styles are the best choice. The materials are incredibly budget-friendly and the fence itself is often easy to install. In fact, many homeowners can handle the installation on their own over the course of a weekend.
Though chain link is the most affordable option, it’s not the most eye-catching. This means it won’t add as much value to your property as other fencing options.
If you live in an area with a homeowners’ association, you’ll need to make sure that chain link fences are acceptable in your neighborhood. Some HOAs ban them as they can disrupt the overall look of the neighborhood.
4. Wrought Iron
For homeowners looking to create a timeless and more traditional look, wrought iron fences are a great choice. These fences are incredibly wind-resistant and can improve security on your property once installed.
Wrought iron fences are a great way to add decorative flair, but they won’t do much to add privacy.
Keep in mind that wrought iron is also very heavy and needs regular sealing to prevent rust and corrosion. This means you’ll end up paying more for maintenance and upkeep over the life of the fence.
5. Aluminum
Aluminum fences are a wonderful and more affordable alternative to wrought iron. These fencing options can mimic many of the styles achieved with traditional wrought iron at just a fraction of the cost.
Even better, the fencing materials are much lighter, making installation easier and faster.
If the fence ever gets damaged, you’ll even be able to recycle the damaged materials. Even better, you won’t have to worry about sealing the posts or painting the panels every few months.
However, since aluminum is more lightweight, it’s particularly prone to damage from regular mowing and trimming. If you choose this fence, make sure to take care around trees, bushes, shrubs, and patches of lawn along the fence line.
6. Split Rail
Split rail fence styles are a wonderful way to add a touch of rustic style to your yard. These fences feature large logs or fence panels that nest inside a support post.
The result is a farmhouse-style fence that creates a boundary between your property and your neighbors’ but won’t leave you feeling closed off and isolated. Keep in mind that split rail fences can come in natural wood and vinyl options.
Think about the amount of work you’re willing to put in and how much you’re willing to pay for your fence before you choose the best materials for your home. In general, wooden split rail fences made from larger logs or old railroad ties will cost more than those made from vinyl.
7. Bamboo
If sustainability and privacy are important to you, bamboo fences are a great option. These types of fences for backyards give you tons of flexibility. You can plant live bamboo and use the stalks to create a durable and sustainable fence or build one out of harvested and treated bamboo to add a tropical look to your home and yard.
The materials are best used to create separate spaces inside your property line as they’re not the sturdiest option on the market. They’re particularly easy to damage if they’re hit by falling limbs.
Get to Know These Types of Fences
The best types of fences for your property will largely depend on your budget and what you want the fence to accomplish.
If you’re looking to boost security and privacy, wood and vinyl are the best options. However, if you’re trying to create a safe space for your kids and pets to play without breaking the bank, chain link may be a better choice.
Think about how much you want to spend and consult with an experienced fence contractor before you make a decision. They’ll help you find the best options for your property and your goals.
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