Wood is the most popular material for fences, but we understand it’s not for everyone. Before deciding on a fencing material for your residence, it’s important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of wooden fencing. McGee Fence & Deck helps customers in Ocean City and Waldorf, MD, weigh the pros and cons of wooden fences. We’ll help you make an informed decision about choosing a wooden fence for your property.
Benefits of Wooden Fences
McGee Fence and Deck provides classic, natural wooden fences for a traditional look. Some of the most significant pros of wooden fences include:
Visual Appeal
One of the most prominent benefits of a wood fence is its visual appeal. Their classic, natural look never goes out of style, and many find the more rustic a wood fence appears, the more inviting it is. Wood fences come in a wide variety of styles, like shadowbox, lattice, or board-on-board.
Privacy
Wood fences can offer partial or complete privacy to any property stylishly. Do you wish to lessen noise as well? Denser wood, like red cedar, naturally offers this function. The level of privacy a wood fence provides depends on several factors, such as the type of wood and fence style.
Price
The cost of wood fencing fluctuates significantly depending on the wood type, but it’s generally less expensive than many other fencing materials because the materials’ production isn’t as expensive. Considering the manufacturing process of different materials in comparison to growing trees, it’s easy to see why wood fences are typically more affordable.
Versatility
From picket to privacy, there are numerous styles available to suit different needs and tastes. Wood fences can be built to any height, making them suitable for a range of applications from decorative borders to high-security barriers.
Drawbacks of Wooden Fences
While wooden fences are the perfect choice for many property owners, we understand some people may need to choose another type of fence. Some of the drawbacks of wooden fences include:
Susceptibility to Elements
Wood is an organic material prone to decay. In a humid environment, decomposing wood can become a breeding ground for fungus and dry rot, which leads to fading and cracking. Lower-quality wood can lead to warping and twisting.
Maintenance
Routine maintenance can help to prevent the susceptibility of wood fencing. The problem is that not everyone is willing or able to care for their wood fence. Maintenance usually involves regular cleaning with a pressure washer or garden hose, repainting bi-annually, and re-staining every five years.
Initial Installation
Proper installation of a wood fence requires skilled labor to ensure stability and longevity. Installing a wood fence can be a lengthy process, particularly for large or complex designs.
Lifespan
Compared to steel, aluminum, or vinyl fencing, wood fences have a shorter lifespan of about 20 years on average. If not properly maintained, a wood fence can deteriorate even faster and may need to be replaced in just over half of its projected lifespan. Selecting top-quality wood can help to extend its lifespan, but not as much as other fencing materials.
Is a Wooden Fence Worth It?
After weighing the pros and cons of wooden fencing, it’s up to you to determine if a wooden fence is worth it. Our experienced team will assess your needs and help determine the best type of fencing for your property. If you want beautiful and budget-friendly fencing options, wooden fencing is an excellent choice. We can install wooden fences in multiple designs and colors. We’re always here to answer your fence questions.
Contact McGee Fence & Deck for AssistanceMcGee Fence & Deck works with you to create the perfect fencing for your property. We’ll help you consider your options, compare materials, and determine the best choice for your needs. Wooden fencing can last many years with proper maintenance and care. Our fence and deck products are built to last. We can give you an estimate on any of our fence and wood services. Contact us today to get started on your wooden fence project.