Property owners install fences for a wide range of reasons, including privacy, aesthetic enhancement and designating a secure space for loved one to enjoy. Choosing the right fence to achieve the desired effect requires some due diligence, however . By understanding a few basics about fencing materials and how they play into your goals, homeowners can choose their perfect fence.
What fence material makes sense for your home?
Let's frame this discussion around the traditional six-foot privacy fence employed in backyards. While local building outlets produce a variety of attractive products, it's essential to understand the following about different materials:
Cedar: This natural wood fencing material offers superior aesthetic beauty and long-lasting value. Its tight grain and attractive red ambiance make it a backyard darling. While cedar resists shrinkage, it may decay after several years unless treated regularly.
Chain Link: Metal fencing materials generally do not improve privacy. They do last an exceedingly long time and can be repainted with relative ease.
Composite: Similar to the flooring materials made from wood fibers and plastics, composite fencing appears natural in many ways. This manufactured material resists pest infestations and decay. Composite fencing can cost more than some others in its class and usually requires professional installation.
Redwood or Teak: Ranked among the more expensive fence materials, the natural wood delivers rare luster and beauty. Both types of lumber remain resistant to insects, shrinkage and decay. Homeowners can maintain redwood and teak fence integrity by applying a sealant once or twice annually.
Treated Wood: Pressure- and chemically-treated wood resists pests and decay for decades. Property owners may weigh these benefits against issues such as significant shrinkage and its gray appearance after drying. Treated lumber often comes moist and homeowners may have to wait upwards of a year before it can be effectively stained or painted.
Vinyl: This manufactured material continues to grow in popularity as newly-minted products reduce the tendency to crack or suffer discoloration. Homeowners may be best served to identify thick gauge "virgin" vinyl, which is more likely to stand the test of time.
By understanding the strengths and limitations of fencing materials, you can better make informed decisions about how to invest in your property.
About the Author
Miriam McKinney
A true native to the Western North Carolina area with family roots dating back to 1810, I am a true ambassador for Western North Carolina with undergraduate degrees in education and music from Mars Hill University and an MBA from Western Carolina University. As a former teacher in the area my goal is to educate, whether a buyer or seller, by providing the most current, relevant information available and by giving expert guidance throughout. My professional goal is to exceed my client's expectations through a commitment to excellence with their success as the number one goal! Being a trusted advisor and creating lifelong relationships is an honor. The result is that I have been a top producing Realtor providing clients with successful outcomes for 20 years. I am licensed in both North and South Carolina.
Real Estate is my love and passion, and when I am not helping my clients achieve their real estate goals, I am working on my real estate investment portfolio. I am a seasoned investor who not only helps my clients buy and sell real estate, but I own investment real estate as well. My experience with different investments is extensive - from commercial investments, short-term rentals, single family homes and at times I am even the one with the power tools and getting my hands dirty, which is incredibly satisfying and rewarding!
“Real estate cannot be lost or stolen, nor can it be carried away. Purchased with common sense, paid for in full, and managed with reasonable care, it is about the safest investment in the world.” Franklin D. Roosevelt
Giving back to the community and others is what this life is all about. I volunteer with Big Brother/Big Sisters, Conserving Carolina, travel abroad to help build houses for people without homes, give back to my profession as a past Secretary and Director for Land of the Sky Association of Realtors and serve on the Board of Equalization and Review for Buncombe County.
I love living in the mountains and enjoy the coast as well. This is the best of both worlds as North Carolina is an incredible state! I feel blessed to call the mountains of NC my home. One of my favorite activities is to hike with my Jack Russell, "Bella". Other favorites include cycling, mountain biking, kayaking, pilates, yoga, and paddle boarding. You will often find me participating in local and regional races. I love to travel the world but most of all I love coming home!
Experience matters. Real estate transactions are generally the largest transaction that most people ever do. I would be delighted to talk with you about your real estate goals and objectives and put my experience to work for you.
