Homeowners have multiple material choices for their fencing. You can choose from metal, PVC, wood, vinyl, composite, SimTek®, and masonry styles with a wealth of design options within each material type. There are pros and cons for each type and you can use the following tips for selecting the fencing materials that best fits your individual needs.

Building Codes and HOAs

Communities often have their own set of building codes about the type, style, color, materials, and height of the fencing that can be erected. If your area has a homeowners association (HOA) your options may be limited to what the HOA allows.

Cost

Fencing and the installation can represent a significant expense and you’ll need to know how much you can or are willing to spend. You may need to budget more to the project or seek a more cost-effective alternative, depending upon what you envision for your property.

Durability

The predations of insect pests, mold, and degradation from wind, rain, sun, and salt spray are very real considerations. The ability of your fence to withstand those elements and the unique climate will also be a consideration for the long-term durability of the fencing you choose.

Maintenance

Some types of fencing require regular inspections and periodic maintenance, while others are almost maintenance-free. Some may need to be painted, stained or sealed. An additional consideration in Florida is hurricanes and the associated damage they can sustain or inflict. Some types of fencing are able to withstand hurricane-force winds.

Objective

It’s important to know why you want a fence. They can be used for beautification, safety and security, to contain children or pets, minimizing road-noise, or to establish boundaries. The reason you want a fence will influence the material that’s selected.

Style

You may want a fence that blends into the surrounding architecture and prevailing styles or you may want something that’s a marked departure that makes your home stand out. You can choose from highly elaborate styles or no-frills options, but you should always research any relevant codes and regulations before making a decision.

Whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner, you want to get the best value for your money. The longevity of your fence will depend on a multiple elements. You’ll have to compare costs and contrast them against factors such as materials, intended purpose, aesthetic value, and ability to customize.

Wood

The longevity of a wood fence will depend largely on the type of wood used in its construction. Untreated cedar will last anywhere from 15-30 years, spruce can endure for 4-7 years, while pine can weather the elements for 5-12 years. Treated cedar can last 25-40 years, and treated spruce and pine can last for up to 20 years.

Even the treated wood utilized in today’s fencing is subject to moisture from the ground and weather. Wood fences should be inspected regularly for splitting, splintering and rusting of hardware. The wood can also be stained or painted to accommodate its surroundings.

Chain Link

Cost effective and easily installed, a chain link fence will serve its purpose for about 20 years, a vinyl coating will extend its lifespan by several years, and it won’t rust. Chain link offers security and requires little maintenance, but doesn’t provide privacy. Color options are limited and doesn’t allow for much customization.

Aluminum

An aluminum fence is durable, doesn’t rust, and can be customized. It’s available in an array of colors and provides security. Aluminum fencing can last for 20 years with almost no maintenance. It’s an elegant and stately look that adds value to any property.

PVC

The average lifespan of a PVC fence is 20-30 years and many come with a lifetime warranty. PVC fencing is fire-resistant, won’t attract pests, and is unaffected by weather and UV rays. Over 30 decorative and unique options are offered, it requires very little maintenance, and it’s available in a myriad of colors. It doesn’t rot, won’t attract pests, and is non-toxic. PVC fencing is also recyclable.

SimTek®

This is the king when it comes to style, texture and color options, and will last about 25 years on average. It resembles the look of stone and wood grains. SimTek® is resistant to impacts, is noise dampening, and provides security. It’s one of the most durable fencing materials offered and almost completely maintenance free. It’s able to withstand hurricane force winds of up to 110 mph and gusts up to 130. It’s unaffected by sun and extreme temperatures.

Fencing is available in so many colors, styles and materials it can be difficult to decide what to choose. Fencing materials run the gamut from wood, aluminum and PVC/vinyl to SimTek, chain link, and wrought iron. One characteristic will be fairly easy to decide – if the fence will be solid or see-through.

The materials can be utilized in a variety of ways to create solid or see through fences, though some perform best when used in specific ways. Much will depend on the reason the fence is being erected, local regulations, and taking into account personal preferences.

There are advantages and drawbacks to each type of material. Wood will need to be stained, painted, or replaced periodically. Aluminum and PVC/vinyl won’t rust and doesn’t need painting. It’s a relatively low-maintenance option that’s also economical. SimTek is eco-friendly and one of the most versatile and durable materials available.

See-Through Fencing

A stand-alone see-through fence can provide security, safety for children and pets, and doesn’t prevent natural light from entering. The biggest benefit of see-through fencing is that it enables people see out. It can keep intruders and unwanted wildlife out. The fencing styles have the advantage of being decorative and aesthetically pleasing.

Solid Fencing

A solid fence has a variety of benefits, not least of which is privacy and the ability to completely block activities from neighbors and the street. They provide increased security to prevent wildlife and intruders from entering and it’s equally effective for keeping children and pets inside and safe.

Solid fencing can be used in a myriad of situations to address specific problems. It buffers street sounds and noises for a more tranquil environment. It’s also effective as a windbreak and for coastal dwellers as a barrier against blowing sand and debris.

Pick the Purpose

One of the most important decisions individuals can make is why they want a fence. It doesn’t have to provide privacy, safety or a barrier against noise. It can simply be ornamental, decorative, and enhance the aesthetics and value of the property.