A fence can serve many purposes for different people. Some property owners prefer to have privacy from neighbors and traffic. Some may want to keep their pets out of harm’s way while also keeping intruders off of their domain. Others may simply want their property line clear and marked. If wood is your fencing material of choice, there are some options available to review when selecting the right fence for you and your family.
Research Wood Types
One factor you may realize when you start researching wooden fences is that they are not cheap. Depending on the size of your property, a brand new fence has the potential to put quite a dent in your wallet. However, there is a substitute for real wood that some believe to be sturdy and beautiful, without requiring a lot of upkeep. An alternative you may find yourself considering is imitation wood fencing. This option also has the potential to save you money in the long run.
Compare Your Costs
While a faux (composite) fence can cost you quite a bit per foot, a real wood fence may end up costing you a little less per foot initially. Saving a little bit of money upfront could be the best way to go, but it is still possible for you to save money in the long run by choosing composite fencing. Faux wood can last 15-25 years, while wood fencing generally lasts about 15. This makes it feasible that you would not need to repair or replace your fence for many years to come if you go with the faux wood option.
Maintain With Ease
Trustworthy sources will tell you that faux wood requires very little maintenance. Generally, it is only necessary to wash it down every once in a while to keep it clean. Real wood, however, is susceptible to sun damage, rot, splinters, and fading. If you have to replace wood boards every few years, the price over time can cost you much more than composite options. If you live somewhere with severe weather, it is possible that your real wood would need to be repaired even more frequently.
Do Your Own Research
If you are in the market for purchasing a new fence, take your time researching. It’s a good idea to keep your local laws in mind. Upon reading about fencing options, you may need to make a few phone calls before positioning your fence. Before installation, you should check to see if you need to apply for a fencing permit and make sure that your fence follows local building codes. You could also hire a property surveyor to make sure that you are fencing within your property line and make sure that you are not disturbing any underground power cables.