Which Fence Material Last the Longest?

There are numerous fencing materials that you can pick when you go to the market. You can get wrought iron fence, wood fence, composite fence, and vinyl fence.

Choosing fence material that last the longest can be a bit difficult if you don’t know-how. It is one thing to select a durable fencing material, and it is another thing to select a durable and aesthetically appealing fence.

The different types of fence material that exist have their own qualities that make them unique. While some will last longer than others, most of them are not aesthetically appealing. 

So, the fencing material that you should choose should be one that is beautiful and will last the longest. Continue reading this write-up to find out which fencing material lasts the longest.

Wood Fence

The wood fence is one of the most common fencing types used by homeowners today. This kind of fence is made of woods like pine, fir, cedar, and redwood. 

Softwood fences are treated with chemicals so that they will last. Hardwood fences are not treated with chemicals because they are naturally strong. 

They have the ability to resist insect attack and are resistant to elements of weather.  Wood fences can last for up to 10 years, depending on the type of wood.

 Softwood will last for 10 – 12 years, while hardwood fences will last for more than 15 years. That is if the fence is properly maintained. 

The mention of upkeep leads to another topic, which is maintenance. For a start, wood fences like all wood materials are difficult to maintain.

 You have to sand, oil, seal, and stain it regularly to make it last longer. It means doing it at least once a year. If you don’t, the wood will not last for up to 10 years.

Vinyl Fence 

Vinyl fence is widely spoken of as one of the best fencing types. Unlike wood that needs stressful maintenance, vinyl does not need it. It is a just-install-continue-to-use type of fence.

 In fact, that is why vinyl is favoured by most homeowners. No need to stain,  sand, and seal a vinyl fence. Also, it is resistant to insects and weather. 

This makes it possible for vinyl fences to last for up to 30 years. Note that you must clean your vinyl fence, and you must not dump dirt close to it.

Chain Fence

The chain can also be used as a fencing material if they are linked together. It can last for up to 20 years if it is painted properly to prevent rust.

 Chain, although good, will only demarcate your property but cannot give you privacy.

Wrought Iron Fence 

A wrought iron fence is durable and can withstand high wind and torrential rainfall. They require low maintenance and will last for more than 30 years if properly maintained. 

The setback of iron fences is that they are like chains and cannot provide privacy for your yard.

Composite Fence

Composite fence is another type of fence that lasts longer. This means that a composite fence if properly maintained, will last for up to 35 years.

 One good aspect of composite fences is that it is unlike a wood fence that needs tedious maintenance. There is no need to oil, sand, seal, or stain your composite fence to make it last longer. 

To maintain your fence, all you have to do is give it a regular cleaning. Another good thing about composite fences is that they are aesthetically appealing. 

In fact, this is why most homeowners choose them. Aside from the fact that they can be made in different colours, they can be finished so that they will look like wood. 

Which Should You Choose?

As humans, we tend to choose what appeals to us. This means that when choosing a fence material, longevity is not the only factor to consider.

 You will also consider if the material is beautiful and if it will fit your yard perfectly. Of all the materials mentioned, wood, composite, and vinyl fence provides privacy and last long.

 Others provide little to no privacy. Of the three, composite and vinyl does not require much maintenance. This narrows it down to two options. 

Of the two, only composite can be made so that it will appeal to homeowners. This is because it can be made to look like wood, and it will still last long with little maintenance.

Conclusion 

The fence material that last the longest are wood, iron, vinyl, and composite. Composite fence is better than Ither fence material because it is aesthetically appealing.