These Are the Common Types of Fences for Homes

There’s a widespread belief in the USA that fences are anti-social. Yet, the math shows this trend towards unfettered sociability is on the decline.

Across the nation, the fencing industry’s predicted to grow at a rate of 4.9% per year between 2020 and 2027.

So, if you’re one of those homeowners who’s considering installing a fence, you’re not alone.

Whether you want to upgrade your curb appeal, improve your security, or keep your pets and kids secure, you’ll find plenty of choices out there.

Take a look at the different types of fences for homes before you decide.

Wrought Iron Fencing

This classic style’s been around for centuries and many of the best examples are custom-made creations with elaborate designs. Wrought iron is an expensive choice for fencing but it has several benefits if you own the style of home that matches this fencing type.

These are:

Extreme durability
Almost limitless customization options

Unfortunately, these fences also rust and flake over time unless you conduct basic routine maintenance. In most cases, applying a coat of clear linseed oil or liquid wax now and again does the trick.

It’s easy to restore these fences even when they’re severely aged and damaged.

To keep your fence looking at its best, rinse it with soapy water from time to time, and reapply exterior paint at least every five years.

Chain Link Fencing

Chain link fences are most often used for industrial applications or places like schools and sports venues. These fences consist of metal links twisted together and attached to upright posts to create a barrier.

They’re virtually transparent, excellent for keeping animals and children contained, and an affordable option for homeowners. If you need more privacy than these types of fences offer, you can plant shrubs or vines in front of them to block the view.

This type of fencing material lasts a long time with almost no maintenance, especially if you opt for the vinyl-coated variety.

Wood Fences

Wood fences are another long-lived favorite that’s available in several different varieties. The different types of wood fencing options you can choose from include:

Post and rail
Picket fences
Stockade fencing
Lattice fences
Shadowbox fencing
Scalloped designs
Solid board fencing

Thanks to this versatility you can choose a wood fence according to your specific needs, whether you want privacy, security, or simply a decorative effect.

When you take the time to find the best fence contractor in your area it’s much easier to decide on the most suitable wood fence according to your requirements.

Wood fencing’s an attractive, flexible, and durable option and the cost depends on the design you choose and the amount of fencing you need. You will need to conduct regular maintenance to keep these kinds of fences in tip-top shape.

Bamboo Boundaries

Bamboo fences offer many of the benefits of wood fencing and are an eco-friendly option for environmentally-conscious homeowners.

There are three main types of bamboo fencing available, namely, live bamboo, rolled bamboo, and bamboo cane.

Bamboo is a fast-growing plant, and live bamboo can grow up to a foot every year, although it can’t survive in frigid climates.

Aluminum Fencing

If you’re intent on getting a fence that’s affordable, attractive, and customizable, aluminum fencing’s the way to go. Like steel fencing, you can top these fences with attractive decorative elements and scrollwork.

This lightweight fencing isn’t very strong, so it’s not a great security option. The only maintenance you’ll ever need to do when you install an aluminum fence is an initial coat of paint.

Aluminum fencing can last for decades since it doesn’t rust and is a lightweight option. It’s often made from recyclable materials.

Modern PVC Structures

PVC’s the cheapest fencing option of all. They’re available in a huge range of styles that imitate wood fencing although they’re not always as sturdy as timber fences.

To add sturdiness to these fences, you can opt for wooden stakes covered by PVC sleeves to match the rest of the fence. PVC fences are extremely durable and can last for many years with no maintenance.

PVC fences are commonly made from recycled plastics, so they’re eco-friendly too.

Vinyl Fences

Vinyl fences are an upmarket alternative to PVC fencing. Some manufacturers claim they are five times stronger than wood fences and four times more flexible.

One certainty is that these types of fences are maintenance-free and easy to clean. All you need is a hose and some soap to remove dirt and even paint.

Although you’ll pay more upfront for a vinyl fence, you’ll benefit from numerous design choices, low maintenance costs, and a long lifespan. Despite its high initial cost, it’s still cheaper than many other types of fences.

Farm Types of Fences for Homes

While you might not need a farm-style fence if you live in suburbia, they’re a must for protecting your homestead in rural settings.

These fencing solutions usually consist of electric, barbed wire, and post-and-rail fences, or other woven or high tensile materials.

Farm fences serve to keep your yard neat and protect your garden plants from foraging animals. As such, practicality takes precedence over good looks in these settings.