There is an old saying the "good fences make good neighbors" and this holds true today. However, depending on the situation your neighbor may need to be involved in the process of choosing the right type of fence because fences come in all different sizes, colors and materials.

Wood Fences

Using wood for a fence is quick and easy. In fact at most home stores you can buy 8' sections and assemble the panels on posts. Unlike the old wooden fences which rotted out after years of use a pressure-treated wood or cedar fence can last the life of the home without excess care. These types of wood can be painted, oiled or just left to weather.

Split Rail: Traditionally, wood fences in this country were a split-rail variety, an interlocking on spars to keep the domestic animals in and the predatory types out. During the Civil War these fences made great anti-personnel obstacles because it took time for the attacking soldiers to get over them. For rural settings and homes that have a southwest flavor the split rail fence can add a realistic definition to the property.

Picket: Another traditional style, the picket fence, is a carry-over for the English country garden and cottage-style homes. Many homes still use this quaint design and it is available in other materials as well. Picket fences are usually shorter than privacy fences, built to a height of usually 4 feet and the usually space between the boards is 1 1/2" gap.

Privacy Fence: Privacy fences not only act as a security perimeter but they also act as both a privacy and wind screen for your property. These fences can be built as high as 8 feet tall in many designs like "shadowbox," "arched" or "scalloped "design.

Vinyl Fencing

Vinyl has taken a large hold of the home fencing market because of its beauty, durability, and very low maintenance. It has 5 times the strength of wood and 4 times the flexibility without breaking. The initial cost is higher than wood or chain link but there is no need to paint or stain, and it is easily cleaned with a household cleaner and, for heavy dirt, a pressure washer. In addition, these fences are available in almost any variety from privacy to split rail. Since the color goes all the way through the material scratches and other marks are almost invisible. As well, the posts are made of 100% vinyl and will never rot, shrink, warp, peel, decompose or rust like a wood or iron fence post. There are two types of vinyl fencing:

Mono-Extrusion: This vinyl fencing is made from one layer of material. Ultraviolet inhibitors which protect the vinyl from sunlight go all the way through the product. This is not really needed and the extra cost of the inhibitor shows in the price.

Co-Extrusion: In this process there is an outer layer containing the ultraviolet inhibitor combined with an inside layer where is a very low UV protection. Many manufacturers make the inside layer out of reground material that may be a different color than the outside layer but as long as the outside is strong this shouldn't matter. This process is more expensive in terms of machinery investment for the manufacturer but the process and lower UV material significantly lowers costs. In all the lower cost of co-extruded vinyl creates a slightly more affordable product without sacrificing quality.

Another great advantage of vinyl fencing is the connecting system. While wood parts need nails, screws and hangers vinyl fencing can come in sections which can be easily fastened to the posts. The posts are usually vinyl with steel centers for support.

Aluminum Fencing

Powder-coated aluminum is another beautiful option for those who want a feature fence, like a around a swimming pool or courtyard. Aluminum mimics the style and beauty of the traditional wrought-iron fences without the maintenance. The new coatings keep their shine even longer than vinyl and they are easily put together by a do-it-yourselfer. All this, however, comes at a cost and this is the most expensive option.

Chain Link Fencing

A standard in the security of commercial enterprises chain link galvanized fencing is about the strongest of the fence line that can be purchased at a reasonable price. The wiring is usually a 9 gauge, zinc-coated mesh covered with a vinyl coating which makes it great for residential fencing too because you can choose a variety of these colors. Black is a popular choice for those who want the fence to blend in with the landscape features. Green and white are also great choices for a round pools or to blend in with the natural landscape of your yard.

Cement Block Fencing

For the maximum in privacy and security a cement block – cinder block – fence is preferred by many homeowners, especially in the large cities. A mason, rather than a fencer, builds these and they can go as high as the building code allows. Many new styles have erased the bland, monolithic look that the for which the walls are known.

Whatever fence you choose you will need to have your property lines rechecked and, if possible, cooperation from your neighbor. For more information on fencing contact Renovation Experts.