Is it time to build a fence? Your property’s safety and security start at its perimeter, so it only makes sense to choose the best professional fence installers in the business. But even after you’ve gotten quotes from a few fence companies in Howell, NJ, for your project, there’s still a lot more to think about, such as choosing the right type of fence material for your needs. Here’s what you should know about the role different materials play in fence installation!
Wood Fencing
If you take a look around any residential neighborhood, you’ll quickly see that wood is one of the most popular materials for fences. Wood is stylish, can be painted or stained in almost any color, and adds a unique rustic touch. However, wood fences need a little more TLC than the other fences discussed here. Paint and stain can fade with exposure to extreme temperatures and UV rays, so any custom color will need to be reapplied every few years. You’ll also have to carefully watch the fence for signs of water damage. Pressure-treated woods don’t typically experience much degradation over time, even when exposed to water, but wood still may not be the best choice if you live in an area with a lot of flooding or moisture.
Pros: Beautiful, classic, highly customizable
Cons: Can be high-maintenance, vulnerable to water damage
Vinyl Fencing
Vinyl isn’t as common as wood just yet, but it’s quickly becoming one of the more popular fencing materials. It’s lightweight yet sturdy, easy to clean, and resists rot, mildew, and rust. Plus, it’s almost maintenance-free! Unfortunately, vinyl fences can discolor over time with exposure to the sun and elements, and discolored vinyl can be much harder to treat than discolored wood. After hiring a professional for vinyl fence installation, ask them about tips and tricks to keep your vinyl fence looking brand-new for years to come.
Pros: Modern, durable, lightweight
Cons: Can discolor over time, vulnerable to UV rays
Chain-Link Fencing
If you’re trying to build a fence on a budget, there’s no better material than chain link fencing. This lightweight yet sturdy material can withstand a ton of use and abuse and is relied upon for many different residential and commercial applications. In addition, chain-link fence posts are usually installed into a cement base, which keeps the base of the fence secure for years to come. However, it provides limited privacy unless it’s modified and has limited customization options compared to other types of fencing.
Pros: Hardy, affordable, height-adjustable
Cons: May need additional privacy modifications, not as customizable
Aluminum Fencing
Chain-link fences aren’t the only type of metal fences worth considering for your home or business. Aluminum wrought-iron fencing is becoming another popular choice, especially for commercial properties. They combine the beauty and easy maintenance of vinyl and wood fences with the strength of chain-link fences. However, they aren’t a hundred percent perfect. This type of fence can be expensive if you are installing a lot of fencing at once. Additionally, aluminum fence gates and locks can be vulnerable to wear and tear, degrading their aesthetic appearance over time. If curb appeal matters a lot to you, you should call aluminum fence repair companies every few years for the best results.
Pros: Strong, private, attractive
Cons: Can be pricey, needs specialized care
Get Your Dream Fence With GMX
As you choose a fencing material, keep these pros and cons in mind. However, at the end of the day, we know that fence material is a personal choice, so the final call always lies with you. And no matter what you have in mind, GMX Fencing is ready to help you create it! We’ll speak with you soon.