What you need to know about fencing materials before you build

Before you set out on your fencing adventure you should consider these popular materials to find the best type of fencing that is suited for your needs and budget.

Cedar - Wood

Cedar is the most popular fencing material for backyard privacy fencing in the Okanagan. Cedar is a beautiful, high-quality wood, with a desirable red hue and is less likely to warp, buckle, twist or shrink.

While cedar naturally resists decay and insects, this wood is not as impervious to soil as treated wood and will likely rot after several years if set in it. If you choose to build a fence from cedar, its recommended to install in a concrete base or secure to fence posts that are a treated wood

Maintenance tip: Cedar naturally weathers to a silvery gray, and a fence of this material will require maintenance, including occasional plank replacement. For long-lasting color and protection apply a penetrating sealant immediately after installation and annually thereafter.

Vinyl

Vinyl fencing uses PVC as the raw material and is one of the most versatile fencing materials. Early vinyl fencing got a bad rap because it tended to yellow, sag, or become brittle after a couple of years. But today’s fencing manufactures are putting out durable fencing products in a variety of heights, colors, and styles.

Vinyl fencing is generally low-maintenance and will not crack or splinter like wood, will not rot or have an insect problem, and will not need refinishing. However, the initial installation cost can be high, and extreme weather can warp or otherwise damage the material. For many people, the pros outweigh the cons. For the best results, installation must be precise, so consider hiring a professional fence installer.

Maintenance tip: Vinyl fencing is basically maintenance free. Vinyl is nonporous, so if you fence gets dirty you typically can spray it down with a hose.

Composite

Composite is becoming an increasingly popular fencing material. Manufactured from wood fibers combined with plastic polymers, composite fencing provides a wood-like looking finish, but is durable, strong, and long lasting.

Composite fencing materials are weather, wind, insect, and rot-resistant which adds to their lifespan. Composite runs slightly more expensive than vinyl and cedar and can be vulnerable to fading and scratching.

Maintenance tip: After professional installation, composite fencing requires only an occasional spraying with plain water to keep it looking clean and fresh.

Chain Link

Chain link is extremely popular with homeowners in suburban areas like the Okanagan. Chain link fences offer adequate security for pets and kids at a competitively low cost. The materials are among the least expensive fencing options available, making this type of fence ideal for large rural yards. Chain link is extremely durable and lasts for a long time.

Maintenance Tip: Chain link can corrode overtime, but it is difficult to prevent. For a better looking and longer lasting chain link fence, consider upgrading to vinyl-coated chain link.

Concrete

When you think of a concrete fence, you likely think of security or privacy over style and aesthetics. Over the past few years, there have been huge advancements in the aesthetics of concrete, as you can now have it mimic other materials, with advancements in precast concrete, concrete panels are becoming more stylish.

Not only is concrete long-lasting and durable, it also involves no maintenance. It may be more expensive upon installation but can last for over 50 years, which ups the resale value of your home. Concrete also tends to be much more soundproof then other fencing materials.

Titan Fence Co. has the knowledge and expertise to help you choose the right fencing material for your job, give us a call today 250-808-6991