How to Choose the Best Material for Your Fence
It can be hard selecting the best material for your new fence. Will a wood privacy fence go with your landscaping? Does vinyl come in styles that enhance the look of your home? Can you get privacy even if you choose budget chain link?
As with any major investment in home improvement, you get the most return on your dollar when you do your research first. But there are so many materials, designs and sizes available, the selection process can be daunting.
Homeowners who have gone through the process recommend reading home improvement blogs online and checking with neighbors when you see a fence you like. It is also a good idea to talk to an experienced fence contractor. He has the hands-on knowledge to help you make an informed decision.
To help you make a decision, here is a look at the most popular materials for home fences.
Wood Fences
Wood is the most popular type of fencing material, used on everything from traditional picket fences to tall privacy fences. It is attractive, giving any yard a natural, rustic feel.
Wood is one of the most affordable materials. It goes with every architectural style and exterior décor. Wood is easy to paint, or leave in a natural state, with just a stain.
The downside of wood is the fact that it needs regular upkeep and fence repair in Vienna, VA. It is affected by harsh weather conditions and windstorms. It should be cleaned every year and stained every three or four years.
Wood fence repair in Vienna, VA, is common because it attracts wood-loving pests like termites. It can also suffer from mold and mildew. Constant moisture can damage it, causing it to rot and splinter.
Vinyl Fences
Vinyl is more expensive upfront than wood. But it requires much less upkeep and fence repair in Vienna, VA. It holds up well under temperature extremes, snow and rain.
Maintenance consists of cleaning it at least once a year and inspecting it for damage. If you find a problem, whether a crack or a missing panel, you should do the fence repair in Vienna, VA, as soon as possible so the problem doesn’t get worse.
Vinyl can mimic the look of wood, like redwood and oak. It also comes in a variety of colors so it can fit in with the look of your home.
Split Rail Fences
Often called a snake fence or a log fence, this has a rustic look that fits in with many home styles and landscaping. It also works well on farms and estates to mark boundaries. A split rail fence does not offer privacy and is not the best choice if you want to keep children and pets within the yard.
It has a very basic design, using posts and lumber. It is often not painted, just stained. This makes it easy for fence repair in Vienna, VA, since rails that are damaged or worn can easily be fixed. Maintenance for this type of fence is simple and low cost. This is a big plus if you have a large amount of land to fence. It is also a good choice for rocky property because it doesn’t require deep postholes.
Chain Link Fences
Chain link fencing is very common for commercial use and around playgrounds. It is low cost, but not as attractive as other choices. Chain link has an open diamond pattern of galvanized or coated steel, which makes it very durable.
Chain link is not a good choice if you want privacy. Anyone can see in. You can add fence covers made of vinyl or canvas, but this is an additional expense for materials and labor. It can be built high, so it is an excellent choice if you to keep people out.
Chain link lasts for many years, whatever the weather in your area. It should be weatherproofed to resist rust and prevent discoloring. Most fence repair in Vienna, VA, with this material deals with replacing or refinishing rusted patches.
Aluminum Fences
Aluminum fencing can mimic the look of wrought iron and other materials. It is an affordable way to get an upscale look. It is durable, though not as long lasting as metals like steel and wrought iron.
You can find a variety of designs, including spaced panels, spiked rails, decorative patterns and customized details. It does not come in solid panels, so it is not a good choice if you want a privacy fence. It is often used for pool fences.
Aluminum fences stand up well to most weather conditions. The big problem is too must moisture, like heavy rains and snows. The most durable are powder coated, which does a much better job of handling the moisture problem. Fence repair in Vienna, VA, for this material is usually for damaged rails or decorative touches, or replacing sections damaged by rain and snow.
Ask the Fence Experts
Confused? Most homeowners are overwhelmed once they start researching the best type of fence to get. That’s why they decide to work with the team here at Carter Fence, since 1986 the fence experts in this area. We have the experience to help you choose the most cost-effective, useful and attractive fence material for your needs.
And when it comes time for fence repair in Vienna, VA, we can handle it. If it is our fence, remember that all of our work is guaranteed. And if someone else built the fence, we can repair, maintain or replace it as needed.
At Carter Fence, we have earned a reputation for excellent customer service and open communication. We always keep you in the loop, from design through construction. We are known for our quality materials, craftsmanship and competitive prices.
Here at Carter Fence, we handle a variety of outdoor projects, both commercial and residential, including:
- Fence repair and maintenance
- Privacy fences
- Wood fences
- Aluminum fences
- Pasture and estate fences
- Gates
- Chain link fences
- Split rail fences
- Vinyl fences
- Awning installation and service
- Deck construction
- Deck resurfacing
For a free, no-obligation quote for fence repair in Vienna, VA, call the experts at Carter Fence today.