Are you looking to have some new fencing installed in your garden? Choosing the right fence from the many different types of fencing available is essential to completing the garden design of your dreams. After all, your fence takes up a significant amount of space. Our landscapers in Chesterfield have brainstormed all the things you need to consider before choosing a fence for your garden.
The first thing you need to consider is why do you want to erect a fence? What purpose will the fence fulfil? Most people build garden fences to outline a property boundary and for some privacy. However, some fences are merely decorative. Decide why you are considering a new garden fence, as this will determine which type best suits your needs. What is your budget for a new fence? Do you need a fence to keep pets within your property? Are you using the fence as a windbreaker for your plants?
Many types of fencing are available; however, the three most commonly used materials are timber, PVC and steel. Therefore we are going to compare these three fencing materials and find out what the pros and cons are of each of them.
Timber fencing
Timber is the most commonly used material for fencing; a wooden fence borders most back gardens around the UK. Timber fences come in many different styles and sizes. One of the main advantages of opting for a timber fence is that you can customise the finish by painting and staining the wood in any colour you choose. Although timber is not the cheapest material - it certainly isn't the most expensive!
However, timber does have its disadvantages, especially when compared to metal and PVC fences. As timber is a natural material, it can rot and warp, and insects easily damage it. It weathers easily and soon looks old. For this reason, timber fencing requires annual maintenance to ensure its longevity. Overall it has a shorter lifespan than metal and PVC fences.
One of the reasons timber fences are popular is due to availability. Popular wooden fences are usually made from pine - a widely available wood. However, if you are interested in a wooden fence, cedar is a much better choice. Cedar is naturally resistant to rot, decay and insect attacks. Treated cedar boards keep their shape well throughout the years and warp very little in the elements. Our landscapers in Chesterfield always recommend cedar if you are looking for a wooden fence.
PVC fencing
PVC is a combination of timber and plastic. It is a type of plastic that is an excellent material choice for a fence. Our landscape gardeners in Chesterfield also use PVC decking, otherwise known as composite decking. PVC is commonly designed to look like wood and has everything that a timber fence has to offer and more.
The most significant selling point of a PVC fence is that it requires little to no maintenance. Unlike regular timber, PVC never requires painting to look new. Due to the plastic nature of the material, it does not splinter - making it safe for gardens where there may be children playing. PVC is a manufactured material; it is designed to be high quality.
Unfortunately, quality comes at a cost. PVC is more expensive than a regular timber fence. Also, depending on the supplier you choose, many people think that PVC looks too plastic and much prefer a rustic, wooden appearance. Also, over the years, temperature changes can make PVC expand and contract, making it brittle and liable to damage. However, in comparison to timber, PVC is still much more durable.
Steel fencing
Steel fencing is stronger than other types of fencing, and steel maintenance is minimal. The durability of steel also means a steel fence offers excellent protection for your property. Intruders might be able to break through a timber fence, but they’d find it much more difficult to damage steel. Although there is a significant upfront cost to installing a steel fence, it will last you a lot longer, and therefore it’s worth it.
Unfortunately, just like timber fencing and a PVC fence, there are also disadvantages to a steel fence. Installing a steel fence is greatly dependent on a professional. Many people attempt to complete DIY projects at home themselves to save some money. With some help from the internet, you could probably erect a timber fence yourself; however, it is even more difficult to erect a steel fence.
Overall, steel is a long-lasting material. However, like any metal, you must maintain steel to prevent rust from forming correctly. Left exposed, iron and steel are inevitably destroyed by rust. To prevent rust, ensure the steel you have purchased has been protected with a coating.
At Chesterfield landscapes, we understand that there are advantages and disadvantages to every different types of fencing. Although our landscapers can suggest which type they think is the best, it all depends on what your garden looks like and what purpose you want your fence to fulfil. If you are still unsure what fencing material you think would suit your garden, do not hesitate to contact one of our expert landscape gardeners in Chesterfield today!
