Rethinking Fencing Materials – Is Wood Still the Best Choice for Property?
Whether you’re looking to enhance your property, raise the resale value or keep pets and children safe, the right fence will add curb appeal and function to your home. However, most homeowners are aware that not all fencing materials are created equal. Many people are opting to forgo the traditional wood fence and instead go with a more eco-friendly material. But is this really the best decision? In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of various fencing options so you can make the most informed choice for your home.
The biggest drawback of traditional wooden fencing is its vulnerability to moisture. Moisture can cause rot, warping and insect damage. If left untreated, this can quickly lead to a costly repair bill or even a complete fence replacement. To help combat this, it’s important to have your wood fence sealed on a regular basis.
In addition, the type of wood used will affect how long a fence will last. Cedar, for example, is the most durable option but also the most expensive. Spruce and pine are lower-priced options but won’t stand up to moisture as well as cedar.
Another common issue with wood is its susceptibility to fungus and mold. This is especially true if the fence is not properly installed. To prevent these issues, it’s important to have your fence built by a professional Milwaukee fence company.
One of the best ways to reduce your environmental impact when choosing a wood fence is to opt for recycled composite materials. This material combines wood fibers with plastic polymers to create a product that is more resistant to moisture and insects than traditional wood. Additionally, it’s more likely to withstand rotting and can even be used in areas prone to flooding.
Another benefit of recycled composite is that it’s almost entirely composed of recycled material. Compared to traditional wood, this can cut your environmental footprint significantly by reducing the amount of fresh, non-recycled lumber required for construction.
Lastly, recycled composite fences are designed to look and feel like traditional wood fences. This makes them a great option for homeowners who are concerned about the environment but still want to enjoy the classic look of wood fencing.
The main concern with chain-link fencing is that it’s not as sustainable as other materials. For example, it’s not ideal for parks or sports fields as it can obscure the view of players and may not provide enough of a barrier to stop young children or adults from wandering into traffic. A woven hurdle fence is a much more environmentally friendly option for these locations as it can screen out bins, utility areas and oil or gas tanks from public view. Plus, the woven texture of hurdles means wind can pass through, making it a very durable fencing option. To further reduce your ecological footprint, choose a company that is committed to sustainability practices, such as Natural Fencing, which has won three national environmental awards. This company safeguards local forests by only harvesting at the appropriate times of the year and on a sustainable basis.
