Fences can serve a couple of different purposes, so how do you choose the right type of fence for you?
1. Establish the purpose of the fence
Most homeowners have a specific reason for installing a new fence. These include:
- Aesthetics: The right type of fence can change the appearance of an area dramatically. This will not only transform the property into a place where you love to spend time or entertain, it will also add substantial value.
- Privacy: Different type of fencing provide either partial or complete shielding from another space on your property, or from the outside world.
- Security: You may want to secure the property against intrusion from the outside, or simply enclose a specific area to contain children or pets safely.
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2. Decide on the preferred style of the fence
Once you know the purpose of the fence, you can start looking at the types of materials and styles available for that type of fence. Although this is a very unique and personal choice, also look at the general landscaping and architectural style of your home when deciding. Fences come in a huge variety of materials and styles, and it should not be difficult to find exactly what you’re looking for.
3. Determine your fencing budget
As with anything else we want to buy, budget is an important consideration. When deciding which type of fence you can afford, it’s a good idea to not only look at the initial cost, but to also consider factors such as installation and maintenance costs to help determine the total lifetime cost of the fence.
4. Choose material
Once you have a good idea of the fence style that you want, it’s time to look at the material choices available. Fences are basically built form three basic materials - metal, wood, and vinyl or PVC. Each type of material provides a distinctive look, is available in a wide variety of colours and styles, and have different disadvantages and advantages.
Metal Fences
Metal fences include chain link fencing, palisade fencing, clear view fencing and razor wire fencing. Most of these don’t provide privacy as they are not fully shielded. Palisade fencing is available in various colours for aesthetic purposes.
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Ornamental aluminium fencing are an affordable alternative to a traditional wrought iron fence and can provide a unique, upscale look. They do however have the advantage that regular maintenance is not required as is the case for ornamental iron.
Wooden Fences
If you prefer a natural look, wood will allow you to quickly and easily install a fence whose look can be changed periodically by simply painting or staining it a different colour.
Vinyl or PVC Fences
PVC fencing is becoming a very popular option and they typically come with a 20 year warrantee. This is mainly due to these fences requiring virtually no maintenance. They won’t rot, aren't susceptible to termites, and also don’t rust or corrode like metal does. Vinyl fences are also available in many different styles, including picket, privacy, and even styles that resemble ornamental iron.
