If you are looking to spruce up your property and increase its curb appeal without breaking the bank, a fence may be just the thing. However, if you are limited on your budget, it can be difficult to find the perfect fence material.
Thankfully, there are many inexpensive fencing options to choose from. From purely utilitarian to decorative, there is a style that will work for you.
Wood
Wood is a traditional option for fences, and it can be a good choice for those who want to save money. It is also durable and easy to maintain.
One way to cut down on the cost of a wood fence is to build it yourself. The vinyl fence might take a little time and effort, but it can be worth the savings.
Another inexpensive option is to use recycled materials. This can be done by asking neighbors, friends, or family if they have any old materials that could be used for fencing.
This can include pallets, wood scraps from a local lumberyard, or wood flooring that is being torn down. It can be a great alternative to a more expensive material like vinyl. In addition, it can be environmentally friendly since it uses recycled materials.
Chain-Link
Chain link is a low-cost fencing material that works well for most yard designs and landscapes. It is also highly durable and requires minimal maintenance.
Chain-link fences can be made from galvanized steel or vinyl-coated wire mesh and come in a variety of heights and styles. The 3 to 6 feet high options are the most common for residential purposes, but taller ones are available for industrial applications.
The cost to install chain-link depends on the type of mesh used, the height, gauge and materials for rails, gates, posts, and top rails. A typical installation costs about $7 to $12 per linear foot for a fence 4 feet tall.
Chain-link is a good choice for backyards that need to be protected from intruders and pets. It is also a popular choice for areas that have windy conditions. However, it doesn’t offer a lot of privacy and may not increase your property value as much as more expensive fencing options.
Aluminum
If you’re looking for a classic fence look with low maintenance requirements, aluminum is the way to go. These fences can cost as little as $11 to $29 per linear foot for a standard powder-coated fence.
They’re also available in more decorative styles, including arched tops and spear-tops. They can add both security and beauty to your property, especially when paired with a quality gate or automatic entry system.
Lastly, they’re extremely durable. They don’t bend or warp when the weather gets hot or cold, and they are resistant to bugs and mildew.
Wood fencing, on the other hand, requires regular inspection and repair to prevent rot and splinters. Moreover, the paints and stains used on wood tend to fade in the sun or rain.
Vinyl
Vinyl is one of the most popular fence materials because it’s inexpensive to install and requires very little maintenance. It’s also a great alternative to wood because it won’t rot, warp or peel and is resistant to termites and other harmful insects that can wreak havoc on wood fences.
There are several types of vinyl fencing to choose from, including privacy, three-rail, picket, shadowbox and rail fences. The most common style is a vinyl privacy fence, which offers the greatest level of privacy and separation because of the tight spacing between slats.
The cost of a vinyl fence depends on the type, color and installation. It also costs more if you decide to add features like gates, solar post cap lights or hanging flower boxes.