Robert Frost said in his famous metaphorical poem, Mending Wall, “Good fences make good neighbors.” But, if you’re a homeowner in need of a new fence, you probably know that they do so much more than that. Modern fencing provides security, keeps pets where they belong, and the right style of fencing can add the perfect accent to your home. A good fence also allows homeowners to set boundaries between their neighbors’ property and their own and can add overall value to the home itself. So, if you are in the market for your first fence, or if you just need to replace the old one, you might be wondering which fence is right for you. There are certainly many choices including, chain link, vinyl and wrought iron. However, for most home owners, the practical, affordable solution is wood fencing.
Wood Fencing vs Vinyl Fencing
Many homeowners love the idea of vinyl fencing and it is not difficult to see why. Vinyl fencing offers up certain qualities that wood fencing just can’t match. Once installed, vinyl fencing tends to last. There’s no need to worry about any sanding or painting, and expensive stains or sealants are not necessary. Vinyl fencing also won’t mildew and it is resistant to UV rays.
So why aren’t all neighborhoods filled with homes surrounded by vinyl fencing? Well, like most things in life, for every positive, there are a few negatives. When it comes to vinyl fences, the most obvious one is cost. Vinyl fencing can be expensive, often running thousands of dollars more than normal wood fences. Also, there is that dreaded “plastic look.” Many people feel that vinyl fences have an artificial and sometimes cheap look - an ironic twist considering their actual cost. It’s almost impossible to recreate the warm aesthetically-pleasing look of real wood. And, for many people, the advantages that vinyl fencing has over wood fencing either aren’t worth the extra costs or don’t make up for the perceived unnatural appearance.
Wood Fencing vs Chain Link Fencing
The positives of a chain link fence are obvious. Unfortunately, so are the negatives. While chain link fencing is more durable and lasts much longer than an average wood fence, it also has a tendency to rust over time, sometimes resulting in an unnatractive eye-sore. Chain link fences also fail to provide the privacy that wood fences offer. So, you need to ask yourself whether you want to sun bath and barbecue in front of an audience or behind the privacy of a fully enclosed wooden fence.
Wood Fencing vs Wrought Iron Fencing
Wrought iron fencing can add beauty and elegant style to a home. Above all, it is durable, capable of lasting up to hundreds of years. However, it is very costly and possesses many of the same drawbacks as chain link fencing. Obviously, you can easily see through it. So, again, if privacy is your chief concern than wrought iron fencing is not the way to go. This type of fencing will also eventually rust if not properly maintained.
Wood Fencing Installation - Leave it to the Pros
A properly maintained wood fence can last for years, but it must be built correctly and sealed properly. Many people who think they can build a wooden fence themselves, often end up with rickety, unstable results. Sometimes the end result is so disappointing, a contractor must be hired to repair or even completely redo the entire project.
The number one cause of fence problems is premature failure of one or more of the posts. Posts are the backbone of the fence and without the proper equipment and know-how, your posts are likely to either be crooked or too shallow, resulting in an unattractive fence that likely won’t last very long.
When it comes to wood fence installation, the best choice is to leave it to the pros. Building a fence is about a lot more than elbow grease. A professional contractor will consider many things you won’t, including, soil consistency and climate patterns. A professional wood fence installer can also ensure that the fence is level and can easily negotiate the hills and contours of your lawn - things that are likely to give your average do it yourselfer fits.
Average Cost of Wood Fence Installation
Costs tend to vary based on the city you live in, the type of wood you choose, and the size of your yard. However, generally, the average wood fence is going to cost you around $3000 whereas aluminum, vinyl and wrought iron fencing generally costs one or two thousand dollars more.
Wood fencing tends to be the most popular choice of homeowners because it offers the most privacy and the warmest look for a reasonable price. And, for a little extra you can ensure your fence looks great and lasts for years with the help of a qualified professional contractor.
