Fences offer a variety of benefits to your home and property. They protect privacy, provide a natural sound barrier, and can boost curb appeal.
Fencing materials can vary based on your budget, aesthetic preferences, and local regulations. Choosing a durable material that resists rot and pests can help you save money in the long run. Contact Summerville Fence Co. now!
Wood is one of the most popular types of fencing materials. It is aesthetically pleasing, affordable, and durable when properly cared for.
Wood fences come in a wide variety of styles and can be used for both residential and commercial properties. They are typically made of woods that have natural resistance to decay and insects, like cedar, cypress, or redwood. They can also be made from pressure-treated pine or other rot resistant woods.
The type of wood you choose for your fence will have a significant impact on its lifespan and cost. Consider your local weather when making your choice. Does your area experience wet or dry conditions? Certain woods, such as redwood and cypress, work better in wet climates, while other woods, like pine, are more suitable for drier areas.
Before you decide on the type of wood to use, be sure to determine your budget. The most expensive woods, such as redwood, can last decades if properly cared for, while cedar and cypress are more cost-effective options but require regular maintenance.
Other factors to consider include the strength of the wood, how it responds to the weather in your region, and whether it will be susceptible to insect infestation. If you are concerned about the environmental impact of your wood fence, there are some woods that are sourced from sustainable forests, which are considered green.
Once you have determined the type of wood to use, it is time to start constructing your fence. Begin by preparing the ground for your posts, if necessary. Digging post holes by hand can be difficult in hard or rocky soil, so you may want to consider renting a power hole auger from a hardware store.
During the construction process, it is important to use high-quality nails and screws to avoid rusting and weakening the fence. Galvanized and stainless steel nails are recommended. In addition, you should use a wood preservative to help protect your fence from insects and rotting.
When you are ready to install your wood fence, begin by marking the layout of the panels and posts using string and stakes. Then, set the stakes and measure the distance between them to make sure your fence is straight and level. When you are finished, it is important to regularly inspect your wood fence for damage, rot, or insects. Repairing damage promptly can prevent more extensive and costly repairs later on. You should also regularly prune nearby vegetation, as this promotes proper air circulation and helps your fence resist rot and insects.
Metal
Whether you need security for your business, a boundary for your dog’s yard or simply a stylish accent around your house, metal fences provide strength, durability and attractiveness. But the cost, material and installation methods vary, making it important to weigh your options carefully.
The most common metal fencing today is fabricated steel and aluminum, which means it starts as large spools of pre-made material and goes through a series of machines to be cut and welded into panels. This method saves on raw material costs and labor, which is why these fences tend to be cheaper than traditional wrought iron styles and other handmade metal fencing.
Steel and aluminum also have the benefit of being able to withstand corrosion more effectively than most other materials, particularly wood and processed plastics. For homeowners, that means less maintenance and a longer lifespan for their fences.
Both fabricated steel and aluminum can be shaped into decorative fencing elements, such as loops, finials, scrolling and braiding, which is not always possible with wrought iron. This level of ornamentation can make a big difference in your property’s curb appeal.
For increased security, some types of metal fencing can provide added protection, such as taller wrought iron styles or barbed wire on top. This extra measure of safety may be necessary to keep children and pets safe from neighborhood dogs or potential trespassers.
A chain link metal fence, with its woven pattern and thin gauge of metal, is one of the least expensive types of metal fencing available. It’s ideal for industrial settings where security is the main concern, but can be used on residential properties as well. For a more visually appealing look, pair your metal fence with plants that complement its color and texture. A clipped hedge of American hornbeam, with its reddish-purple leaves that twizzle into the summer and orange-red finish in fall, provides a dramatic contrast to black metal pickets. Or choose the softball-size flowers of Allium ‘Globemaster’ to bring out the purple hues in your metal fence. This clump-forming perennial can reach up to 30 inches in height and adds color and interest to any landscape.
Vinyl
A vinyl fence is a popular choice for homeowners because it is a durable and economical alternative to traditional wood fencing. The material does not rot or need to be painted, so it requires less maintenance than other fencing materials. Unlike wood, vinyl and PVC fences also do not require regular treatments with toxic chemicals, so they are safer for children and pets to play around. Additionally, the smooth surface of a vinyl fence prevents splinters and provides an effective barrier to protect against accidental falls or dog bites.
The most common type of vinyl used in fences is polyvinyl chloride (PVC). PVC is a synthetic man-made plastic made from the ethyl chloride of fossil fuels and other ingredients. It is a highly versatile and sturdy plastic that can be molded into various shapes, making it a great material for constructing fences. It is also easy to install and can be cut into the size and shape needed for a specific project.
When purchasing a vinyl fence, it is important to choose a quality product. This includes choosing a reputable manufacturer and checking that the product meets ASTM standards for safety and durability. It is also important to consider future availability of repair parts for the vinyl fence. Many big box stores rotate out their products, leaving customers without a replacement option once they have installed their vinyl fence.
There are two primary methods of manufacturing PVC vinyl: CO extrusion and mono extrusion. While both manufacturing processes produce quality vinyl fences, CO extrusion is the most modern and efficient method of production. It uses fewer raw materials, is more energy-efficient, and produces a higher quality finished product.
When buying a vinyl fence, be sure to ask your contractor what type of PVC is used and how it has been tested for safety and longevity. MW Fence only uses high-quality vinyl that has been independently tested for safety and longevity by an independent laboratory. The PVC we use is 0.35 mm to 0.45 mm thick, which makes it easy to bend and strong enough to hold up to weather conditions.
Aluminum
Aluminum fences are a popular choice for home and business owners due to their durability and aesthetic appeal. They can be custom-made to meet specific requirements, including size, style, and color. Aluminum fencing also requires less maintenance than other types of fences, as it does not rust or require regular painting or staining. It also does not warp or rot, and can be easily welded to maintain its structural integrity.
The manufacturing process of aluminum fences begins with sourcing raw materials. This step is crucial to the quality of the final product. Choosing suppliers who prioritize sustainable sourcing ensures that the final product is both durable and environmentally friendly.
Next, the raw materials are extruded to produce individual fence components. The extrusion process allows for the production of intricate designs that would not be possible with other manufacturing methods. In addition, it makes the components easier to assemble into a finished fence. Once the components are extruded, they can be cut and shaped to refine their design and prepare them for assembly. This may include cutting the panels to the required length, bending them to create curves or angles, or adding decorative elements such as scroll patterns and custom logos.
Once the components are ready for assembly, they are welded together to create the completed fence. This stage is essential to the durability of the finished product, as it ensures that all the parts are properly connected and secure. In some cases, this may involve welding multiple sections of the fence together to create a continuous barrier. The welded seams are then powder coated to protect them from corrosion.
After the welding and assembly processes are complete, the fences undergo a thorough inspection to ensure that they meet industry standards before being packaged for shipment. This inspection includes checking for proper alignment, weld integrity, and overall structural soundness. The fences are then powder coated to prevent them from corroding or becoming rusty.
As with all types of fencing, the cost of installing an aluminum fence varies depending on factors such as topography and terrain. For example, steep sloping landscapes can require additional posts and galvanized brackets to ensure that the fence remains sturdy. Sloping land can also increase installation time, which in turn increases the overall cost of the project.