Bad weather, falling tree limbs, and even kids and pets can take a toll on your fence. When building a new fence, you’ll want high-quality, durable materials to ensure it lasts years. We’ll walk you through the five most durable fence materials you should consider.
Chain Link
Chain link fences can last for over 20 years with proper maintenance. They are made with an extra coating (usually galvanized metal or vinyl) to protect them from rust and corrosion. They won’t warp, rot, or take insect damage and resist direct blows and injuries, increasing their lifespan.
The woven steel panels that make up a chain link fence’s design also play a part in its durability. Wind and weather pass right through the holes, keeping snow and ice from building up and giving it strengthened wind resistance. The thicker the panels, the stronger the fence.
Chain link fences are also easy to repair. If part of one gets damaged, just cut it off and replace it with a new section.
Vinyl
Vinyl (PVC) fences stand out because of their sturdiness. They’re made from a tough plastic that protects them from pests, fire, and moisture. They only react to extreme heat or cold and thus don’t expand or contract. They also require little maintenance; they don’t rot, splinter, or need refreshing, and cleaning them requires you to wash them with soap and water.
However, as vinyl ages, its color fades. Unlike wood fences, you can’t repaint or stain a vinyl fence, and if a section gets damaged (like a tree falling on it), you’ll have to replace the entire section.
To learn more about vinyl fences, read our article regarding the pros and cons of vinyl fences.
Cedar
Cedar fences are a popular choice for privacy fencing. They contain natural oils that protect them from insects, rot, and harsh weather conditions while allowing them\t to keep their color for many years. Pressure-treated wood is particularly popular because it enhances its resistance to moisture and termites.
Composite
Composite fencing is made of wood fibers and plastic polymers, giving it the look of the former and the durability of the latter. Because composite fences are made of plastic, they resist moisture, rot, and insects, won’t sway in the wind, and won’t chip or crack. They also don’t need to be repaired.
If you choose to install composite fencing, buy it from a reputable fencing company, as the quality of the fencing material can vary.
Metal
Metal fences can be made of wrought iron, steel, and aluminum. Not only are they heavy, but they’re galvanized and powder-coated through the manufacturing process. As a result, they are difficult to cut and won’t fade, warp, rot, or discolor.
Steel fences are lighter, more flexible, and can accommodate uneven terrain. However, it may eventually need a rust-resistant finish every few years to stop corrosion.
Aluminum fences are more lightweight, resist rain, hail, snow, ice, and sun, and never require painting or refinishing. They’re also easy to clean – hose them off once a month to eliminate dust or debris.
Frequently Asked Questions
There’s no such thing as a maintenance-free fence, but vinyl fences require the least of maintenance. Chain link fences are also low-maintenance fences.
With proper maintenance and upkeep, masonry fences can last over 100 years. Contrast that with wood fencing, which only lasts 20-30 years.
Read our guide on the pros and cons of masonry fences to learn more about them.
Wood fences, as their natural appearance, complement most homes.
The Final Word
Everyone’s property is different, and what might work best for one house might not work for another. To learn more about what fence is best for your property, contact one of FenceGnome’s pros. You’ll get a quote in minutes.
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