Maybe new houses are being built in your neighborhood. Maybe the trees that originally shaded your house came down with the snow this winter. No matter what, privacy can be hard to come by these days! Fence installations are a great way to ensure the privacy of your home and can also add style to your yard and even increase the property value. When building a new fence, your first decision is the type of fence you want, and the choices are endless. Use this pros and cons list to help you decide!
Remember, the style of your new fence should follow the style of your home and fit the space you have available. Be sure to check what, if any, restrictions there are in your neighborhood. Some fences may be DIY projects, while others may require the help of a professional fence contractor or landscaper; the key to a stylish, lasting fence is proper installation, so don’t hesitate to contact a professional.
Wood Fences
Pros
- Quick installation
- Small space needed
- Can choose many different styles and paint/stain colors
- Will keep children and animals in/out
- Can repair small sections at a time
Cons
- Susceptible to rot and weather damage
- Planks can crack or split
- Paint will need upkeep
- Will need to be replaced every 15 years with minor repairs more frequently
Vinyl Fences
Pros
- Can choose a style to look like wood, or can choose a variety of colors
- Does not require painting
- Fire resistant
- Non-porous surface means easy cleaning
Cons
- More expensive than wood
- Susceptible to wind damage (connections between sections weaker)
- Have to replace entire section
- Can stain due to mildew
Natural stone fence
Natural Fences (Hedges or Privacy Garden)
Pros
- Often no ordinance on maximum height
- Easily customizable style, color, and aroma to your yard
- Hedges can provide homes for birds while keeping other animals out
- Deciduous shade trees provide shade in summer, light in winter
Cons
- Serious time and financial investment
- More involved upkeep than other choices
- Privacy gardens will vary season-to-season and year-to-year
Brick, Stone, and Concrete Slab Walls
Pros
- Strong and durable
- Fire resistant
- Low maintainence
- Easily customizable, with option to combine with other fencing types for style or increased light
- Probably best options for sound privacy
Cons
- Cost can be high
- Time consuming to install
- Heavy and can be bulky
- Susceptible to damage in earthquake-prone areas
Stucco fence wall
Masonry Walls (Stone or Stucco)
Pros
- Can use windows to add detail and light
- Little maintainence
- Fire resistant
- Can use various textures to add style
Cons
- Susceptible to cracks
- Will show stains from weather and wear
- Difficult to install and will most likely require a contractor
- Can be expensive
Prefab Concrete
Pros
- Durable and strong
- Fireproof
- Different styles available
Cons
- Expensive
- Requires construction crew to install
Wrought iron fence
Wrought Iron, Aluminum, and Steel
Pros
- Can add style with intricate designs
- Aluminum and galvanized steel will not rust
- Strong and can be topped with spikes for security
- Can be easy to install
Cons
- Wrought iron, aluminum, and steel are not suitable on their own for privacy fences; however, they can each be used in conjunction with brick or stone as ‘window’ pieces or fence toppers
- Often expensive, though different materials differ in price
- Aluminum is not as strong as steel or wrought iron
- Wrought iron will rust
