A Comprehensive Guide to Fencing Options for Your Yard
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A fence can help improve curb appeal, increase privacy, and boost home security. In this guide, we’ll review the different types of fencing options, discuss important factors to consider before installation and compare the benefits and drawbacks of do-it-yourself (DIY) and professional installation to help you choose the right fence for your property.
Importance of Fences
Homeowners may install a fence for various reasons, including more privacy, enhanced curb appeal, and increased safety for pets and children. Here is a full list of reasons to install a new fence:
- Defines property boundaries and prevents accidental encroachments from neighbors
- Deters unwanted people from entering your backyard oasis
- Improves the curb appeal of your property
- Keeps expensive items, such as your lawn mower or trampoline, out of view
- Prevents pets from escaping
- Protects your garden from wild animals
- Provides more privacy and blocks views from the outside
- Reduces noise levels
Different types of fencing materials have various advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to compare a few options before deciding on the best solution for your yard.
Types of Fences
The most popular types of fencing options include chain link, masonry, metal, vinyl, and wood fences. Other fences include composite fences, living fences made from plants, and invisible fences. Compare the benefits, maintenance, durability, and cost of each popular fencing type below.
Chain Link
Chain link fences have a unique lattice construction that makes them very affordable, convenient, and durable. However, some homeowners dislike their appearance compared to other styles of fencing, and they don’t provide privacy for your outdoor space.
Maintenance and Durability
Professionally installed chain link fencing can last up to 20 years with minimal care. Chain link fences, specifically vinyl-covered chain links, are resistant to rust and corrosion. They also don’t take on much damage from pests or the elements.
Cost
Chain link fencing is one of the most affordable options available, with most installations costing between $2,450 and $4,000. Factors that affect the cost of chain link fences include the linear feet required, the height of the fencing material, and the gauge (or density) of the chain links. Vinyl-covered chain link panels will also cost more than plain galvanized steel.
Masonry
Masonry options, such as brick walls or stone walls, are an incredibly sturdy privacy fence option. They provide excellent sound insulation, and owners can use them to increase privacy between their property and an adjacent road or park.
Masonry fences come in a wide range of options, but they’re generally one of the more expensive fencing options because they require more on-site construction and heavier materials.
Maintenance and Durability
Brick privacy walls and stone fences can last up to 100 years. The materials don’t experience much wear and tear but can develop cracks and become unstable if the soil underneath experiences a lot of movement. You can maintain your brick walls by washing them with a pressure washer, repairing cracks, and addressing tilting panels.
Cost
On average, masonry fences can cost between $3,000 and $9,000 (or up to $480 per linear foot) for typical projects. However, the materials, complexity of the project, and labor costs will impact the total price.
Metal
Metal fencing is popular for its curb appeal, durability, and utility. Corrugated steel is a sturdy, functional option for acreage and commercial properties, while wrought iron fences and metal gates offer a sophisticated, charming appeal, especially when combined with privacy hedges.
Maintenance and Durability
Metal fences are one of the most durable fencing options available. Aluminum fences can last for decades without much risk of corrosion, while hollow, lightweight metal fencing can last for 20 years.
Most metal fences require some maintenance. Inspect the fence for signs of corrosion twice a year—once in the spring and once in the fall—and repaint or seal exposed metal that starts to rust with a galvanized spray or rust reformer.
Cost
Similar to wood fencing options, the cost of a metal fence ranges between $3,000 and $5,500. However, the size of your yard and the material you choose will also impact the fencing project cost.
Vinyl
Vinyl fencing is a cost-effective option that comes in a wide range of colors, heights, styles, and patterns. One of the most popular types of vinyl fence options is a white picket fence. Homeowners can easily install prefabricated vinyl panels in sections or hire a professional to complete the installation. This durable fencing option can also withstand rain and sun damage without degrading.
Maintenance and Durability
Vinyl fencing requires little to no maintenance and can last up to 20 years without sanding or repairs. However, if hit with enough force, it can develop cracks or holes.
Cost
Expect to spend $15–$40 per linear foot of installed vinyl fencing. The total cost to install a vinyl fence in your yard will vary based on the perimeter length and the style of vinyl or PVC panel you select.
Wood
Natural wood fences are beautiful and have a timeless style. Fencing options for this material range from simple pine panels to double-layered cedar beams. Other popular types of wood fencing materials include pine slats, spruce, cedar, redwood, and bamboo fencing.
These fences improve curb appeal, don’t require much maintenance, and can last up to 30 years if you have a cedar wood fence. However, wood fences cost more than other types of fencing, depending on the type of wood you choose, and they require occasional refinishing.
Maintenance and Durability
Untreated wood fences, constructed from pine or spruce, last around four or five years, and cedar fences can last as long as 30 years. Treated wood fence styles can last up to 20 or 40 years.
To extend the lifespan of a wooden fence, inspect it once a year for damage and pest infestations. You should also restain or reseal the wood every couple of years to prevent wood rot, sun damage, and decay.
Cost
On average, the cost of a wood fence ranges between $3,500 and $6,500. Factors such as the height of the fence panels, the size of the fence (measured in linear feet), and the wood material will affect the price.
Factors To Consider When Choosing a Fence
Consider any restrictions or requirements imposed by your homeowners association (HOA), your climate and soil conditions, your budget, and what type of fence functionality you want before choosing a fence for your property.
Below is a list of all the factors you should consider to get the most out of your new fence.
- Budget: Determine your budget for the new fence before starting the project. We recommend requesting estimates from at least three fencing companies to compare pricing on materials, installation, and labor costs.
- Climate and soil conditions: Wood fences decay faster in hot and humid areas, especially without frequent refinishing. However, metal and chain link fences can withstand inclement weather, do well in various climates, and don’t require much maintenance.
- Fence functionality: Consider your priorities when installing a fence, as this will affect the fencing material you choose. Think about whether you want a privacy fence or to boost your home’s curb appeal. Ask yourself if you want a fence just for your patio or to cover your full backyard property lines.
- Local restrictions: Your city may prohibit fences above a certain height, or your HOA may forbid certain types of fences, such as chain link fences. Double-check if your community has any restrictions on fencing before you move forward with installation.
- Maintenance: Some fences require more maintenance than others. For example, vinyl fences and aluminum fences don’t require much maintenance, while wood fences may require frequent washings or restainings to keep them looking their best.
Cost Comparison of Fences
The following table compares the costs of popular fencing options.
| Type | Average Cost | Average Cost Per Linear Foot Installed |
|---|---|---|
| Chain Link | $2,450–$4,000 | $13–$27 |
| Masonry | $3,000–$9,000 | $80–$480 |
| Metal | $3,000–$5,500 | $15–$75 |
| Vinyl | $4,000–$7,300 | $15–$40 |
| Wood | $3,500–$6,500 | $15–$35 |
DIY vs. Professional Installation
Material costs for each fencing option will vary, but labor costs can also affect the overall fence installation cost. Installing your own fence can help you save money, but it requires a lot of time and skill.
DIY Installation
Pros
- Add custom details and finishes based on your fence design preferences
- Enjoy significant savings on the total cost of the project
- Ensure the project meets your standards
Cons
- Digging fence post holes requires manual labor and specialized tools
- Installing a fence is laborious and can take a few days to a few weeks
- You may accidentally puncture underground utilities or place the fence outside your property line without the proper expertise
Professional Installation
Pros
- A contractor has years of experience and the tools necessary to complete your fence installation
- You don’t have to spend time installing the fence yourself
- You’ll have peace of mind knowing that your fence is properly installed and insured
Cons
- If you’re installing a fence during peak season (the spring or summer), you may have to wait for contractors’ availability
- The cost of professional labor can double the installation cost
Our Conclusion
There are dozens of different fencing ideas and options, each with unique benefits. Consider what matters most to you and determine your budget before installing a new fence. We recommend requesting a quote from at least three contractors to compare pricing. Unless you have significant DIY experience or are installing a small, lightweight fence, we recommend hiring a professional to complete the installation.
FAQ About Fencing Options
What is the cheapest option for fencing?
The cheapest fencing option is chicken wire, but it’s rarely used as a stand-alone material. Chain link fencing is the second cheapest option and provides more stability than chicken wire fencing.
Which fencing option is the best?
The best fencing option will vary between homeowners, but aluminum and vinyl fences are popular backyard fencing options because of their durability, security, and low maintenance construction.
What are some no-maintenance fencing options?
Some no-maintenance fencing options include vinyl, aluminum, and chain link fencing. These fence materials don’t require restaining and are pest-resistant, rot-resistant, and weather-resistant.
What is the easiest fence to install?
The easiest fence to install is vinyl fencing because of its lightweight design and minimal preparation requirements.
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