- A well-chosen fence improves both the security and curb appeal of your property.
- Wooden fences are the most popular choice for residential properties due to their natural appearance and value for money.
- Chain link fencing offers a durable, cost-effective solution for commercial applications.
- Plastic fencing is an economical alternative worth considering for lower-budget projects.
- Professional installation is essential to maximise the lifespan and return on any fencing investment.
If there were no fences, hedges, or walls, the US would be one vast tract of land. That would never work because it is in our nature to look after things and take responsibility for them. That means for everyone who owns land, there must be a line drawn somewhere marking the extent of their property. But a line alone is not always good enough.
A line does not physically prevent someone or something from walking onto your land. There are several ways to make that boundary substantial. Hedges are fine but require regular tending. Walls offer solid security, but they are bulky, heavy, and generally demanding to construct.
That leaves one outstanding candidate: the fence. With so much variety available in terms of material, ease of assembly, height, and strength, fencing is also a clear winner on appearance. The best wooden fencing is good value, and it can add measurable value to your property for reasons of both practicality and attractiveness.
What Kind of Fence Do You Need?
The type of fencing you need depends largely on its purpose, which can be quickly defined as domestic or commercial.
Residential Fencing
For a home setting, a timber garden fence is what most homeowners go for in the end. The beauty of wood is that it is natural and looks natural. A wooden garden fence marking the edges of your yard looks like it belongs there.
It will require occasional maintenance with a chemical preservative, and it must be installed correctly from the outset to give it the best chance of lasting. A fence is expected to stand outside in all weathers: sometimes baking, sometimes freezing, often parched, and sometimes soaked. Correct installation makes all the difference.
For most residential jobs, the key choice is simply between vertical and horizontal panels, with the option of wire mesh at the bottom to keep small animals out. Fences can be far more ornate than this, but the fundamentals remain the same. With good professional installation, you can expect many years of reliable service from your timber fence.
Commercial Fencing
Commercial properties have different requirements: larger perimeters, greater security needs, and often stricter budgets. This is where materials like chain link and metal fencing come into their own. For a closer look at what suits commercial sites best, see the section below.
Commercial Fencing: Chain Link Is Better Than It Was
Chain link fencing definition: A type of woven wire fencing made from galvanised or PVC-coated steel wire, commonly used for securing commercial and industrial properties.
Chain link fencing tends to present in dark green, or at least its protective coating does. The older standard was galvanised wire, which was coated with a thin layer of zinc to resist rust. Despite the galvanising process, that wire would corrode relatively quickly once the zinc layer was disturbed. Good chain link fencing today is far more durable. The green coating is typically PVC, applied over the galvanisation to provide a much hardier layer of protection.
On the aesthetic side, contemporary chain link fencing now often features a smaller vertical mesh that most people find more visually appealing than older styles.
Alternatives to Wood and Metal Fencing
Plastic has made a real case for itself in fencing in recent years. It may lack the charm of wood and the adaptability of metal, but it is practical, low-maintenance, and above all economical. It should not be dismissed.
Comparing Common Fence Materials
| Material | Appearance | Durability | Maintenance | Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wood | Natural, warm | Good with care | Moderate | Mid-range | Residential gardens |
| Chain Link | Functional | Very good | Low | Low to mid | Commercial properties |
| Vinyl / Plastic | Clean, uniform | Good | Very low | Low | Budget-conscious projects |
| Aluminium | Elegant | Excellent | Very low | Mid to high | Decorative and perimeter use |
| Stone / Concrete Wall | Solid, permanent | Excellent | Low | High | High-security boundaries |
It is your property, your style, and your budget. Talk to the team at OnPoint Fencing, choose the kind of fencing that will look best on your property, and as it lasts well, you will not need to revisit the decision for a long time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does adding a fence actually increase property value?
Yes. A well-installed fence can increase property value by improving security, defining boundaries clearly, and enhancing kerb appeal. The exact uplift depends on the material, quality of installation, and how well the style suits the property.
What type of fence adds the most value to a home?
Wooden fencing, particularly cedar or pressure-treated timber, tends to add the most value to residential properties due to its natural appearance and broad appeal. Privacy fencing is especially valued by buyers with families or pets.
Is chain link fencing suitable for residential use?
Chain link fencing is primarily associated with commercial and industrial sites, but it can work in residential settings where budget and function take priority over aesthetics. It is especially useful for securing large plots or containing pets.
How long does a professionally installed wooden fence last?
A professionally installed wooden fence that is properly maintained with preservatives and regular inspections can last 15 to 20 years or more, depending on the wood type, climate, and level of ongoing care.
