If you’re ready to install a new fence on your property, you’re probably wondering which material is best. While there are many options available, most homeowners choose wood. At Mr. Fence, we want to help our Evansville, Indiana clients make the right choice for their needs. So, with that in mind, we’re going to go over the pros and cons of wooden fencing. Here is everything you need to know.
Installation – Quick and Easy
No matter how much fencing you need, wood is a fast and efficient choice. Compared to other materials like vinyl, aluminum, or stone, wood can be cut, shaped, and built in a few hours rather than a few days.
Here is a brief overview of what it takes to get a new wood fence around your property. Best of all, Mr. Fence can take care of the heavy lifting so you can sit back and enjoy the results or if you are a do-it-yourselfer, we have installation instructions on our website.
Step One: Installing the Posts
All wood fences have posts to help stabilize the structure. Because these are load-bearing supports, we will install them first. Depending on the kind of design you choose (i.e., picket vs. lattice), the posts can be spaced close together or farther apart. Unlike aluminum or masonry fences, we just have to dig a hole for the fence posts. Other materials usually require a concrete setting, which can take a day to dry.
Step Two: Attaching the Rails
Once the posts are set into the ground, we’ll put rails on the top and bottom of the fence. These will act as horizontal supports for the pickets or wooden boards. If you choose a lattice-style fence, we’ll install one or two rails in the middle as additional foundations.
Step Three: Putting on the Pickets
Most picket fences have pointed tips to discourage climbers. However, we can shape them in a variety of ways, depending on your preferences. If you decide on a vertical board fence, we’ll overlap the pieces so that you get more privacy and security.
Overall, the installation process can take from a few hours to a few days, depending on the size and length of the fence.
Cost – Cheaper Than the Alternatives
Because wood is readily available and easy to cut, it’s one of the more cost-effective materials on the market. For example, vinyl fencing, which can replicate the look of wood, comes in a select few sizes. So, if you want a fence that’s either taller or shorter than the standard options, you’ll have to get each piece custom-made.
That being said, the only other affordable fencing is chain-link. However, since chain-link fences can have a much more commercial or industrial feel to them, they’re not very popular for home use. Also, they don’t look as good as wood for curb appeal.
Another point to keep in mind, however, is the long-term cost of maintenance. While other materials will be pricier up front, wood will experience more wear and tear over time. Not only will you have to treat and stain your fence regularly, but you’ll have to inspect it for water damage and rot. Fortunately, we can help you maintain your fence so that you don’t have to worry about it as much.
Aesthetics – Versatile Design Options
One of the drawbacks to other materials is that you are severely limited in how they will look. Wood, however, is easy to shape however you like. Some examples of wooden fence designs include:
-Lattice – These fences are perfect for gardens and other sections of your yard
-Picket – The idyllic front-yard fence for many homes
-Vertical Board – Ideal for preventing trespassers and onlookers
-Post and Rail – Creates an image of country farms
Additionally, you can add decorative windows, paints, stains, and gates to enhance the appearance of your wooden fence. Also, if you want to make changes, it’s relatively easy to do so. Overall, you have way more creative license – there are no limits to what you can do.
Durability – Works in Most Situations
Although wood will experience more wear and tear than alternative fencing materials like aluminum , it’s still pretty resilient. To ensure that your fence will stand up to the elements, you can choose from a variety of woods. Some wood, like redwood, will hold up year after year with minimal upkeep.
There are only a few situations where you might want to upgrade to a different type of fence, such as:
–Security – Wood can be climbed or broken relatively easily. A aluminum fence is going to offer better protection from intruders.
–Pools – We highly recommend aluminum or vinyl fencing for your backyard pool. Wood can warp or rot if it gets too wet.
Contact Mr. Fence Today
If you’re ready to install a new wood fence for your Evansville, Indiana home, contact us today. We’ll come out for a site visit and provide you with estimates based on your needs. We also specialize in other fencing materials if you want more variety. Let us build the fence of your dreams.
