What Type of Fence Should I Invest In

Choosing the right fence for your property involves considering several factors, including maintenance, durability, aesthetics, and cost. Each fencing style has its advantages and disadvantages, and identifying which factors matter most to you will help guide your decision.

Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of some common fencing options:

Chain Link Fencing

Pros:

• Low Maintenance: Once installed, chain link fencing requires little to no upkeep. If it gets dirty, a simple wipe down is enough to keep it looking clean.
• Close to the Ground: Chain link fencing can be installed very low to the ground, making it a good option for keeping pets like dogs from escaping underneath.
• Versatile: Chain link fences don’t need perfect square corners and are available in various heights and colors, with common options being 4, 5, and 6 feet tall in black vinyl-coated or galvanized finishes. Custom sizes up to 10 feet are also available.
• Durability: Often referred to as “Hurricane Fencing,” chain link fences are strong and resistant to high winds.
• Budget-Friendly: Of all standard fencing types, chain link requires the lowest initial investment.
  

  

Cons:

• Difficult Repairs: Repairing a chain link fence, especially re-stretching the fabric, can be challenging for a DIYer.
• Climbable for Dogs and Kids: The diamond-shaped pattern can provide footholds for dogs or children to climb over.
• Easily Scratched: The posts and top rails, especially in black fencing, can be scratched, though these can be touched up with black spray paint.

Vinyl Privacy Fencing

Pros:

• Complete Privacy: Vinyl privacy fences offer total seclusion—neighbors can’t see in, and your pets can’t see out. This is ideal for dog owners whose pets get agitated by other animals or for those who simply value their privacy, like enjoying a hot tub without prying eyes.
• Low Maintenance: Similar to chain link, vinyl fencing requires little maintenance. If it gets dirty, you can wipe it down with a rag, but avoid using a pressure washer unless it’s on a very low setting.
• Adjustable Gates: If your gate’s latch isn’t aligned perfectly, you can easily adjust it with a wrench, making the gate functionality simple to maintain.
  

Cons:

• Bright Color: The standard white vinyl can be quite bright and even blinding in direct sunlight.
• DIY Repairs are Difficult: Vinyl is not an easy material for do-it-yourself repairs.
• Wind Resistance: Vinyl fences are not built to withstand extreme winds, like those from a Derecho (80+ mph).
• Color Issues: White vinyl can yellow over time, and other colors may fade.
• Less Flexibility: Unlike chain link, vinyl isn’t as adaptable to uneven ground.
• Cracks in Cold Weather: Vinyl can crack if struck too hard, especially in colder temperatures.
• Cost: Vinyl privacy fencing can be more than twice as expensive as chain link.

Cedar Fencing

Pros:

Cons:

• Requires Maintenance: Cedar needs to be maintained regularly, including staining every 2-3 years to prevent fading.
• Natural Wear: Over time, cedar pickets and rails can split, meaning the fence won’t look the same as when it was first installed.
• Shrinkage: Cedar pickets tend to shrink as they age and dry out, potentially leaving small gaps between them.
• Cost: Like vinyl, cedar fencing is more than twice the cost of chain link.

Ornamental Steel Fencing

Pros:

• Elegant Appearance: Ornamental steel fencing provides a high-end, elegant look, making it a popular choice for upscale properties.
• Quick Installation: These fences can be installed quickly, which minimizes disruption to your property.
• Easy Panel Replacement: If a panel gets damaged, it’s simple to swap it out with a new one.

Cons:

• • Spacing Issues: The 3-3/4” gap between the pickets may be wide enough for small pets to squeeze through.
  • Higher Cost: Ornamental steel is slightly more expensive than chain link, though typically not as costly as vinyl or cedar.