Top 8 Fence Styles

 

Wood Fences

 

Wood is one of the most popular fencing materials. The three most common types of wood used for fencing are cedar, pine, and redwood.

Wood fences have a natural appearance that can blend into landscaping nicely. They also come in a wide range of fence styles, from simple pickets to elaborate designs. Wood is also easy to stain or paint to match a home’s exterior.

However, wood fences require more maintenance than other materials. The wood needs to be regularly stained or sealedto protect it from weathering and rotting. Even treated lumber will need upkeep every few years. Wood is also not as durable as metal or vinyl fencing.

Here are some of the most popular wood fence styles:

• Picket fences – These classic fences with pointed tops are a timeless look. They offer decoration but minimal privacy.
• Shadowbox – Alternating boards are set back, leaving gaps to let in light and air while maintaining privacy.
• Board-on-board – Vertical boards are placed very close together for maximum privacy.
• Basketweave – Thin slats are woven in a decorative, interlocking pattern.

We at ABC Fencing build custom wood fences to meet our customer’s unique needs. With proper installation and continued maintenance, a wood fence can last over 15 years in most regions.

Wood fences add beauty and character to a landscape. With many designs to choose from, wood suits a wide range of home styles and purposes. We would be happy to discuss wood fence options for your yard.

Metal Fences

Metal is one of the most popular choices for fencing due to its durability and variety of styles. The three most common types of metal fencing are wrought iron, aluminum, and steel.

Wrought Iron Fences

100% of wrought iron fences are made from iron that is heated and hand-worked by blacksmiths into decorative designs. Wrought iron has been used for fences for over 100 years.

Pros:
– Very strong and durable – can last 100+ years
– Classic, elegant aesthetic
– Customizable designs from simple to ornate

Cons:
– More expensive than other metal fences
– Prone to rusting without proper maintenance

Wrought iron fences work well for providing security and enhancing curb appeal around homes. The cost for wrought iron fencing installs around $25-$100 per linear foot.

Aluminum Fences

80% of homeowners choose aluminum for its durability and affordability. Aluminum fences are made from aluminum alloy that is rust-resistant and requires little maintenance.

Pros:
– Lightweight, easy to install
– Resists corrosion
– Cost-effective alternative to wrought iron

Cons:
– Less variety in styles compared to iron and steel
– Not as strong or decorative

Aluminum fences provide an attractive, no-fuss fencing solution. Expect to pay $15-50 per linear foot installed.

Steel Fences

Steel is the strongest and most secure metal fencing option. There are many types of steel fencing such as tube steel, chain link, and welded wire.

Pros:
– Very high tensile strength
– Most affordable metal fencing
– Range of privacy levels

Cons:
– Vulnerable to rust without treatment
– Limited in decorative styles

Steel fences offer sturdy protection for yards and animals. Price to install steel fencing averages $10-20 per linear foot.

We build custom fences and have installed various metal fence projects around homes in the neighborhood. Metal can provide an elegant, durable backyard solution if the proper style and type is selected for your needs. From simple wire enclosures to detailed iron gates, the possibilities are endless.

When choosing metal fencing, vinyl could also be an alternative depending on your priorities for privacy, security, and aesthetics. Vinyl offers a unique set benefits in terms of…

Vinyl Fences

Vinyl fences are made of PVC plastic materials. They are a great low maintenance option for your yard. Eight out of 10homeowners choose vinyl for its durability and variety of colors.

Vinyl fences come in many styles and designs. You can get classic picket fences in white or black. Or choose decorative styles like scalloped, spaced pickets, or privacy slats. With all the options, vinyl can match any home.

Vinyl Fence Pros

Vinyl fences have many great benefits:

• Low maintenance. Vinyl never needs painting or staining. Just wash it with a hose to look good as new.
• Durable and long-lasting. The PVC plastic stands up to weather and wear. Vinyl fences can last over 20 yearswhen properly installed.
• Affordable. Vinyl costs less than wood or ornamental metal fences per linear foot installed. The average vinyl fence costs $16 to $25 per foot installed.
• Variety of colors. Vinyl fences come in popular colors like white, black, grey, tan, and green. You can match your home or landscaping.
• Range of styles. Vinyl offers decorative and privacy fence designs. More ornate styles cost more per linear foot than basic pickets.

Vinyl Fence Cons

The drawbacks of vinyl fencing include:

• Can crack or become brittle. After many years of sun exposure, vinyl can start to crack and splinter. This typically happens after 10+ years of use.
• Not as natural looking as wood. The PVC plastic looks more manufactured. For a traditional wood fence aesthetic, vinyl is not an ideal choice.
• Higher upfront cost than chain link. Vinyl is 3-4 times more expensive to install than basic chain link fencing by the foot. It offers much more privacy and curb appeal over chain link though.

Is Vinyl Fencing Right for You?

Vinyl fencing is a great option if you want durable, low maintenance privacy on a budget. It offers style and strength at an affordable price point for most homeowners.

If you desire the natural, traditional look of wood fencing, then vinyl is likely not the best fit. It also can become brittle and crack over time. So for a long lasting wood look, actual wood is a wiser investment.

Vinyl works well for yard boundaries, pool barriers, pet containment, and basic privacy screening. Just be sure to have it properly installed per code to maximize its lifespan.

When shopping for vinyl fencing, look for thicker, reinforced PVC materials with UV protection. And choose styles and colors to enhance your home’s architecture and landscaping. Vinyl is available from big box stores, specialty shops, and fence installation companies.

Now that you know the key factors of vinyl fencing, you can determine if its the right fit your home improvement project. Whether you need privacy, pet containment or just a decorative border, vinyl likely has a solution that checks all the boxes.

Composite Fences

Composite fences are made from a mix of wood fibers and recycled plastics. They have a very natural, wood-like appearance that allows them to blend in well with natural surroundings, but they are also very durable and require little maintenance.

Composite fences have several key benefits:

• They are designed to imitate the look of real wood, with the wood fibers giving them a natural, organic aesthetic. Over 90% of composite fences are made to mimic wood grain and textures.
• They are extremely durable, designed to last over 25 years or more without rotting, cracking, or requiring paint or stain. The recycled plastics make them sturdy and resilient.
• Composite fences require very little upkeep – no painting, staining, or sealing required. You can occasionally wash them with a hose to keep them looking clean. This makes them a very low maintenance option.
• They do not warp or crack like real wood. The plastics make them hold their shape in all weather conditions over many years.

However, composite fences also have some downsides:

• They tend to be more expensive upfront than other fencing options, costing $15-30 per linear foot installed. While they save money long-term by not needing regular maintenance, the initial investment is higher.
• There are a limited number of style options available compared to real wood fences. Most composite fences are offered in simple privacy or picket styles in just a few neutral colors. There are not as many customizable options.

Here are a few examples showing common composite fence applications:

• Backyard privacy fences – The most popular use of composite fencing is for 6 foot tall privacy fences enclosing backyards. Their wood-like look pairs well with landscaping while being durable and low maintenance.
• Pool fences – Composite material that won’t rot or warp makes these fences perfect for pool boundaries. Their resistance to moisture and weather ensures safe, long-lasting pool enclosures.
• Fence gates – Gates see a lot of wear and tear. Composite’s durability makes it ideal for gates that need to stand up to regular use by people and pets without showing signs of age over many years.

So in summary, composite blends the warm, natural look of wood with the strength and resilience of recycled plastics to create durable, low maintenance fences perfect for privacy, security, pools, and pets. Their upfront cost is higher but over their 25+ year lifespan they can save money compared to wood.

In the next section, we’ll conclude by looking at some final thoughts about when composite works best.

Conclusion

When you ponder your outdoor space, keep in mind that the right fence can work wonders. It’s not just about marking your territory but about crafting a haven that mirrors your taste and shelters your world. Our handiwork at The Sodfather extends to building fences that stand the test of time and the whims of Winnipeg’s weather. Whether you seek a fortress of solitude or a charming picket fence, we’ve got the tools and the talent.

Key Takeaway: Choosing the perfect fence hinges on a blend of factors—budget, looks, and staying power. But beyond the fence itself, the real magic lies in skilled installation and ongoing care. Trust us to erect a barrier that not only looks sharp but also serves your needs, whether it’s for keeping your pets safe or jazzing up your garden.

At The Sodfather, we craft custom fences with the same care we lavish on every blade of grass. We understand the peculiarities of our local climate and how they can affect your outdoor space. So, if you’re set to reinvent your perimeter or need a snow barrier, we’re just a call away. Reach out at 204-999-9951 for a friendly chat and a free quote. Our promise? To provide you with a service as steadfast as our fences.

Frequently Asked Questions about Fence Styles

What are the different types of fences?

There are several different types of fences to choose from. Some popular options include wooden privacy fences, vinyl fences, chain link fences, wrought iron fences, and picket fences.

What is a wooden privacy fence?

A wooden privacy fence is a solid fence made from wood boards or panels that are tightly joined together. It provides high levels of privacy between yards.

What is a vinyl fence?

A vinyl fence is made of durable plastic or vinyl materials that are resistant to cracking, peeling, and rotting like wooden fences. They come in a variety of styles and colors to choose from.

What is a chain link fence?

A chain link fence is a type of mesh fence made from woven metal wires or chains. It is relatively inexpensive and good for areas that need visibility but less privacy.

What is a wrought iron fence?

A wrought iron fence has an ornate, decorative style made of iron bars or rods that have been formed through a metalworking process. It is durable and low maintenance while adding aesthetic appeal.

What is a picket fence?

A picket fence has vertical boards or pickets placed close together to form points at the top. It is a classic style that provides some privacy while still allowing views through the fence.

What kind of fence works well for privacy?

A solid wooden privacy fence or vinyl panel fence works very well for high levels of privacy between yards as they block views and have boards tightly joined together without spaces.

What kind of fence is best for a backyard with pets?

A chain link or woven wire fence is a good option for backyards with pets as it allows them visibility and does not obstruct their ability to go in and out of the yard. The spacing of the fence also prevents smaller pets from escaping.

What kind of fence should I avoid for certain areas?

Fences made of materials like wood should generally be avoided near pools or other bodies of water, as they can rot more easily over time in wet areas. Metal, vinyl or composite fences hold up better in these conditions with less maintenance.

What factors should I consider when choosing a fence style?

Some factors to consider include privacy needs, budget, durability, maintenance requirements, surrounding landscape or hardscape, and local regulations or HOA restrictions. The intended use of the fenced area should also be taken into account.