The Pros and Cons of Different Fencing Materials for Your Home
A new fence is an investment for your home, one that may be costly and that you expect to last for years. This is why you want to consider the material of the fence you choose, not just the style, as some will last longer than others and may require more maintenance and care over the years. Note a few pros and cons of different fencing materials so you know the best one for your residential property.
Wood
Wood is very classic and works with just about any style of home, and it's easy enough to change the colour or appearance of your wood fence on your own. You may also be able to easily change out a broken or damaged slat if you can cut and nail your own wood pieces. However, wood is notorious for rotting, holding mould and mildew and fading in direct sunlight. Most wood fences will need a recoating of paint or stain regularly, sometimes even every year.
Vinyl
Vinyl is often chosen for areas with a pool, as it's durable against damage from pool chemicals. It's also very lightweight so it's good for soft soil, where a heavier fence might sink and need added bracing. Vinyl can be stamped so it looks like wood, but it may still have a cheaper appearance than other materials.
Glass
A glass fence is often a favourite around a pool as it's durable and makes it easy to keep an eye on the pool area. However, glass fences may show fingerprints, watermarks, marks from animals rubbing their noses against the glass, and dust that collects on its surface. Remember that you also need to clean both sides of a glass fence, so keeping it looking good can be quite a bit of work.
Iron
Iron fences look very regal and are very good for adding security, as it's difficult to climb iron bars, especially if you add pointed finials at the top. They also allow for visibility around a pool area. The material won't bend or chip and is very difficult to damage in any way. Iron also very rarely needs recoating of any sort; a powder coating, which is like a paint that is applied in powder form, protects the iron from rusting and usually lasts for many years, if not a lifetime. The one drawback to iron is that the fence may be very heavy and may need some concrete around the posts to keep it in place.
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