Fences are a great way to define your home's boundaries, improve the landscaping, and/or provide security and protection. Luckily, fences come in many materials and styles, so you almost always have a perfect one for your needs. If you plan to build a fence, but you do not know which type of material is best, check out these popular options to see if one is right for you.

Wood

Wood fences are popular because they can be privacy fences, but they can also more stylish fences, such as a white-picket fence. Wood privacy fences are great for backyards because they prevent intruders from getting inside the yard, prevent children and animals from leaving the yard, and block some noise and visibility.

In the front yard, you cannot usually have a tall fence, so you may want to consider lower options like post and rail. Wood fences are beautiful and affordable, but they require a lot of maintenance to keep them in good condition. You will need to regularly clean and protect the wood with paint or stain, which will help block rot.

Vinyl

Vinyl fences are another popular option, and like wood fences, they can be many different types of fences, including privacy fences. Vinyl is a little more expensive than wood, costing about $20 to $40 per linear foot(compared to $10 to $30 for a wooden fence). The vinyl boards can even look like different types of wood.



You may have to pay more for installation, but your vinyl fence does not require as much maintenance as a wood fence. Vinyl fences do not ever need painting or staining for additionally protection. You mostly just have to keep them clean from dirt, moss, algae, etc. A hose or pressure washer can clean most of the debris, but you may need special vinyl cleaner.

Aluminum/Iron

Aluminum and iron usually create the same style of fence, but they are vastly different when it comes to price, strengths, and weaknesses. First, iron is much more expensive, costing about $20 to $100 per linear foot. On the other hand, aluminum, which can often create a similar-looking fence, only costs $35 to $55 per linear foot.

Another huge advantage aluminum has over iron is the maintenance. You do not have to do much to keep your aluminum fence looking great. With wrought iron, you do have to worry about rust sometimes, but the material is much more heavy-duty than aluminum.

Chain Link

Chain-link fences are quite common, but they are not always the most aesthetic. These fences are good if you want to keep children or pets inside the yard without disrupting visibility. Unless you put slats in the fence, you will be able to see right through it, which some homeowners may prefer. If you want your chain-link fence to blend into the background, consider coating the wires with green or brown plastic.

Chain-link fences are also very affordable because you will only often pay about $7 to $10 per linear foot , which often includes materials and professional installation. Maintaining a chain-link fence is rather simple, but you will have to regularly clean it to prevent damage, which can lead to rust.

A new fence can drastically change the appearance of your home but can also offer protection and privacy. With so many materials and styles from which to choose, you should have no problem finding a perfect solution for your fencing needs. For more information about fencing materials, or if you would like to request a quote, contact us at Duke Fence Co. Inc. We are happy to answer your questions.