Choosing a fencing material is an important decision. Every material has its own benefits and
disadvantages. There are multiple types of materials from which to choose, with wood and vinyl
being the most popular. Wood and vinyl, also known as PVC, each have their own set of
considerations to factor in.
Before choosing a material for a fence, it’s important for individuals to know what they want
their fence to do, their budget, and how much time they’re willing to spend on maintenance.
That will help determine the best option for individual needs.
Cost
The cost of fencing is dependent on variables encompassing material, fence height, and size of
the area to be enclosed. The cost of wood fencing will depend largely on the type of wood
chosen. Redwood can run an average of $48 per linear foot, while pine will be about $28 per
linear foot. Vinyl fencing can run from $15 to $40 per linear foot. That doesn’t include labor or
posts for either type.
Longevity
Individuals can expect their wood fence to last between 10 and 20 years when properly cared
for and maintained.
A vinyl fence has an average lifespan of 20 to 30 years. It’s fire resistant and manufactured with
a 10 percent titanium oxide coating that’s a UV inhibitor. The tensile strength of vinyl is 5 times
that of wood. The material can withstand winds of 110 mph and gusts of up to 130 mph.
Low Maintenance
A wood fence will typically require more maintenance than other types in the form of stain,
paint and preservatives. The material is attractive to termites and boring insects. Wood will
eventually develop rot and mold from rain and humidity. It also cracks, warps, splinters and
becomes discolored over time.
Vinyl fences don’t require painting, staining or preservatives to keep it looking great. It’s
unattractive to boring insects and termites, so there’s no need for insecticide applications. It
doesn’t fade, rot or warp.

Individuals planning on installing a fence will typically find two types of wood – pine or cedar – as the most common choices. Individuals should know that they have a wide variety of wood species from which to choose when installing an outdoor fence. The best wood for a fence isn’t necessarily the optimal choice for every situation. The following are the best wood choices for an outdoor fence.

Cedar

The wood has excellent resistance to rot and natural oils that act as a deterrent to insects. It doesn’t become gray over time and is a cost-effective choice. Sealants and stains can be applied to provide moisture protection against salt spray and humidity in the South Florida climate.

Redwood

A redwood fence is approximately 23 percent stronger and more durable than cedar, but its also a more expensive option. Naturally resistant to insects and rot, it provides an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Once the fence has weathered a bit, it’s a good idea to stain it to extend the life of the wood.

Douglas Fir

A wood with strength, stability and an even grain, it has hints of red and yellow that make it unique in appearance. It will have some knots that add interest and character. Graying can be a problem if its not sealed or stained. It has a measure of resistance to rot and decay.

Cypress

The wood contains a naturally produced compound that’s a deterrent to insects and its naturally resistant to rot. Cypress is on the higher end of the cost scale due to its durability. Sealants and staining increase its natural properties.

Pressure Treated

Pressure treated wood undergoes a special process that infuses it with chemicals to make it resistant to decay, rot and insects, particularly termites. The color will depend on the species and grade of the wood, but it’s also available in color treated options to make it appear as redwood or cedar.

Many individuals envision their homes surrounded by a traditional white picket fence, while other homeowners opt for a tall wooden privacy fence to hide away from the world. No matter which option individuals choose, there’s painting or staining to consider. Wood fencing left unpainted or unstained will weather.

Painting

One of the best attributes of paint is that it creates a thicker barrier than stain and it comes in multiple colors. A simple pine fence can be painted to give it the appearance of hickory or high-end mahogany. Individuals aren’t limited to wood tones – they can choose pastels or bright, bold colors. The outdoor latex paint available for fencing will dry in 4 to 8 hours, depending upon the weather and humidity level.

The disadvantages are that it peels and chips over time, leaving the fence looking old, worn and neglected. Individuals will need to sand or scrape off the old paint before applying a new coat. A primer should also be applied before painting. The process will need to be repeated more often than staining. Paint prevents wood from breathing and can hasten the end of its lifespan.

Stain

Staining also enables individuals to choose whatever color they’d like for their wood fence. Using stain is a less time-consuming process and will cost less than painting. Individuals won’t have to sand or scrape away the old stain, they can just apply a new coat, provided they’re not changing to a different color, in which case they’ll need to remove the top finish.

Stain enhances a wood’s natural grain, will slow the aging process, and acts as a barrier against UV rays. It can also aid in deterring termites and makes wood less susceptible to rot, cracking and warping. Wood with smaller pores and uneven grain patterns, such as maple and birch, are more resistant to stain.

The color in stained fences will fade over time and a new coat will need to be applied. It doesn’t have to be replaced as often as paint, but stain requires two full days to dry. Some types of wood are better suited to staining than painting.

A wooden fence can last for up to 20 years when taken care of properly and regular maintenance is performed. However, there will come a time when you may want to replace your fence to update its look or because its at the end of its lifespan. Professionals in the field recommend that you plan on replacing wood fencing every 10 years.

Even though wood is treated to mitigate many common problems, the material is also subject to a variety of detrimental factors in South Florida. They encompass flooding, salt water, chipping, cracking and splitting. Fencing can rot, sustain damage from mold, and a variety of insect pests. Over time it can begin to sag, become discolored, warp, and begin to splinter. The following are some things to consider when deciding to replace your wooden fence.

Easy Solutions

Wooden fencing can be painted and insects can be eradicated. Loose hardware can be tightened and missing hardware can be replaced. Small cracks and holes can be filled with putty or wood filler to prevent more serious damage.

Replacing fence posts will be more expensive and difficult since the old supports will have to be dug out of the soil and they’re typically encased in cement when the fence is installed. You can also replace missing rails or boards. The downside is that a new board or rail will look different than the rest of the fence unless its painted.

Time to Replace

If you need to replace more than 20 percent of the fencing, it’s time to replace the entire structure. Another good reason to replace your fence is if it no longer meets your needs. You may desire more privacy or security than the existing fence provides. It may not be sufficient to keep children and pets contained or unwanted wildlife out.

You may simply want to update the look of your fence or transition to another material or style. No matter what your motivation happens to be, a careful examination of your wood fence is essential before you make a decision.

The vision of a white picket fence from a bygone era continues to stick in the collective mind of America, fueling the desire for a wooden fence. Innovation has resulted in a myriad of wood types, vertical and horizontal installations, along with classic to thoroughly modern designs.

Your wooden fence will typically last about 15 years, but with proper care and maintenance, its lifespan can be extended up to 20 years. When it’s time to say so-long to the fence, there are an extensive number of ways that the wood can be recycled and repurposed. The wood is highly prized by crafters for custom, handmade projects.

Regular Cleaning

A wooden fence can collect dirt, dust, vegetative debris and mold. The fence can be cleaned effectively with a power wash that should be performed at least once a year. Twice a year is even better.

Stain, Paint and Seal

Wooden fences make an aesthetically appealing frame for properties. They will also require some care to keep them looking great. Give them a new coat of stain or paint every few years, followed by a coat of sealant. It may seem like a lot of effort, but caring for your fence from the beginning will increase its longevity, maintain its appearance, and save you thousands of dollars in repair and replacement costs.

Inspect and Repair

Nails can rust, screws can pull out and old metal bracing can allow corners to sag. All those situations can lead to boards and posts that break, sag and rot. Wood fences are also subject to insects and mold damage that requires prompt attention. Failure to keep up with regular maintenance and simple tasks such as tightening screws reduces the fence’s lifespan.

Pressure-treated wood is typically utilized for fencing for longer life and resistance to insects and weather, but that doesn’t make the wood invincible. It’s an easy matter to hire a contractor to perform inspections and make repairs when needed if you don’t have the time to perform the job.

Wood remains a popular fencing material in multiple environments. Anyone thinking of installing wooden fencing as a DIY project may be tempted to save some money by purchasing lumber that hasn’t been pressure treated. Don’t do it – there are a number of very good reasons why professional fencing companies use pressure treated wood. Some building codes even require pressure treated lumber for projects.

Lumber that’s been pressured treated undergoes a process to make it more durable and less likely to succumb to a variety of elements that can shorten its lifespan. The process removes air from the lumber’s cell structure and chemicals are forced into the pores. The wood is then cured and dried. In some instances, a fire retardant is infused into the lumber’s structure using a pressure system.

Extended Lifespan

Pressure treated lumber resists the ravages of weather, UV rays and ocean salt much better and far longer than untreated wood. Building supplies that are pressure treated are more durable and has a longer lifespan than untreated wood. The life expectancy will depend on the chemicals used and the type of wood.

Fungi

When lumber is pressure treated, it’s more resistant to multiple species of rot-causing fungi. Wet rot occurs when the wood is exposed to an excessive amount of water and is most obvious closer to the ground. Dry rot is often mistaken for insect damage. White rot is the result of fungi that breaks down the cellular structure of the wood.

Insects

Wood that’s pressure treated has an increased resistance to the depredations of insect pests that include termites, carpenter bees, wood-boring beetles, horntail wasps, and carpenter ants.

Weathering

Using pressure treated wood aids in minimizing the potential of the fencing getting a weathered look. Stains and sealants can be applied for an extra level of protection.

Wooden fences have an especially aesthetic appeal for many people, whether it’s a traditional white picket fence or stockade fencing for privacy. Before deciding on a wood fence, there are some things you need to know about caring for it. The following are things to consider before deciding on the installation of a wooden fence.

Painting and Staining

One of the easiest ways to add a layer of protection from the elements is by painting or staining your wood fence. However, it’s a process that must be periodically repeated. That’s not a problem if you have the time to perform the necessary task or the funds to hire it done. Even if you do paint or stain your fence, you’ll still need a sealant.

Sealants

Wood designed for exposure to the elements is typically treated with preservatives. Even if your fence has been treated, you’ll need to apply a sealant. That can take the form of latex epoxy enamel, latex, shellac, urethane or varnish.

Rot and Insects

Wood fences are subject to rotting and insects. An infestation of termites, ants and a variety of beetles will create wounds in the wood that enables moisture to enter. That will accelerate rot. The good news is that there are insecticides specifically designed for wood fences, but they’ll also need to be reapplied from time to time.

Hardware Checks

Metal hardware is used to secure wood fences and those fittings can rust and loosen. If the fencing is extensive, it can be tiring and take a significant amount of time to inspect the hardware and replace it if necessary.

Cleaning

Wooden fences absorb moisture when it rains, when humidity is high, or when sprinklers accidently “water” them. That can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. You’ll need to use a power washer and a brightening agent to lighten and reduce the look of weathering. Work it into the fencing using a bristle brush, then rinse the fence down and let it thoroughly dry before applying stains or paint.

Wood remains a favorite fencing material for many people and it’s available in a myriad of styles to beautify properties, accommodate a variety of specific purposes, and meet personal preferences. The following are some of the most popular styles, in no particular order.

Board-On-Board

A board-on-board fence resembles a picket fence on a grander scale. Large upright pickets are attached to horizontal rails. It doesn’t offer as much privacy since each board doesn’t touch and there are small gaps between them. An advantage to this type of fence is that the design enables air to flow through to cool the environment and they hold up well in strong winds for the same reason. The term board-on-board is often used to describe a shadow box type fence, but there are differences.

Estate

This is the type of fence seen pictured in thoroughbred horse farms. The design is simple, easy to see through and decorative, though the primary function is to keep horses and other prize livestock in. It’s also called post and rail.

Picket

Picket fences are no longer the bland white barriers of the past depicted in TV and film. They’re available in different colors and styles. They can be installed with scalloped tops, a myriad of rail sizes, and multiple types of points/decorative elements on top.

Shadow Box

This type of fence utilizes a design in which individual boards are attached vertically to horizontal rails. The upright boards are placed in a manner in which they alternate, one on each side of the rail, that results in a quasi-overlapping pattern. It’s not a solid fence but does afford a level of privacy and neighbors can’t see through unless they’re peering at an oblique angle. The term board-on-board is often used interchangeably with shadow box fences, but they’re different.

Split Rail

Originally developed as a basic way to corral livestock, the design has become a popular fencing option in a number of environments. The fence is erected by threading rails through holes in upright posts. It’s sometimes referred to as ranch-type fencing and typically installed as a decorative feature rather than functional.

Stockade

Primarily designed for privacy, they’re often used to surround backyard pools to meet safety standards. The fencing features a solid barrier of boards placed tightly against one another so others can’t see through. The boards are typically pre-assembled in panels that are installed rather than placing each individual board. The fencing isn’t as attractive from the inside as the outside, but it is effective for creating secure yards for children and pets to play.

Individuals seeking to enhance the beauty of their home through the use of fencing have several choices, each with its own set of advantages. There are several things to consider when selecting fencing material. Homeowners will need to decide, beginning with much they want to spend on their fence and the type of material they prefer. It’s always best to consult with a fencing professional before making any definitive decisions.

Aluminum

Available in multiple styles, colors and designs, aluminum fencing brings an elegant and sophisticated look to any property. It’s equally stylish around homes, commercial properties, city parks, schools, and industrial complexes. It’s versatile, won’t rust, and can be topped with spikes for an extra layer of security. Aluminum is low maintenance and it’s a standout in the beauty category with all the stateliness of wrought iron.

PVC

The material is offered in an extensive range of sizes, colors, styles and patterns from which to choose. PVC enhances the beauty of properties, can be installed with a variety of decorative tops, and retains its beauty against UV rays and all types of weather. It also withstands severe winds, is relatively maintenance-free, and won’t rot, peel, chip or splinter. It’s unattractive to insect pests.

SimTek®

Through a special manufacturing technique, SimTek® fencing can be made to emulate the appearance and texture of wood and high-end stone. It’s tough enough to withstand hurricane-strength winds and won’t degrade under UV rays, ocean surf or biologicals such as algae. It’s not attractive to insect pests and is an excellent sound buffer.

Wood

Fencing made of different types of wood are available and the cost will partly depend on the type of wood that’s selected. It’s offered in multiple styles that can enhance the value and beauty of homes while providing an additional level of safety. However, it does have some disadvantages. It may need to be painted or stained and it can fall prey to termites and other insects.

Wooden fencing is available in many styles and can provide some of the most beautiful and unique options for enhancing landscapes, providing privacy, securing the premises, and ensuring the safety of children and pets. However, wooden fences do require more maintenance than other types of materials. For those considering erecting a wooden fence, the following are some elements that should be factored in.

Preserving the wood and protecting it from the elements can require yearly painting or the application of a water repellant coating. It’s important to keep vines and bushes away from the wood. The vegetation contains moisture that can generate mold and hasten deterioration. Heavy plants can damage or even destroy the fence. Irrigation and sprinkler systems should never be allowed to water the fence.

Staining can occur from foliage or flowers that touch a wooden fence. To remove stains and address issues of mold, the fence will need to be scrubbed with soap and water or a specialty cleaner created specifically for the task. A pressure washer can be used, being careful to use a pressure setting that won’t blast and damage the wood. Use a fan spray if possible.

Insects are drawn to wood fencing and it’s vulnerable to the predations of bugs ranging from termites to wood borers. Individuals may find themselves needing to apply chemicals to discourage damaging pests.

Inspections will need to be performed at least on a weekly basis to determine the condition of the fence. Be prepared to check all the hardware to ensure it isn’t loose, rusted, or needs to be replaced. During the inspection, make sure posts are secure and haven’t been affected by any erosion around the base.

With regular maintenance, a wood fence will remain a beautiful addition to the landscape for many years to come. However, a wooden fence does come with a significant time investment to keep it in optimal condition and looking great. Individuals never know when their available free time may change or circumstances dictate that they’re no longer able to care for the fence properly.