Understanding How Different Fencing Holds up Over the Years
Your fence faces the elements every day. In fact, those elements are some of the biggest offenders when it comes to keeping your fence looking like new. The composition and manufacturing of your fence will determine the type of weathering it will—or won’t—show. Some fences require regular upkeep to look their best, while others call for little to no maintenance. Below, we examine the various types of fencing available and the factors involved in keeping each of them looking like new:
- Treated Wood Fencing: Wood fencing is susceptible to weather and insects. Without regular maintenance, wood can warp or splinter over time as it sits in the sun or rain. Applying a stain or waterproof sealant can maintain the high-quality look of your fence for years. Additionally, the bottom of the fence should be placed just above the ground to keep soil and water from piling against and rotting the wood. Some woods, such as western red cedar, contain natural oils and acids that make it naturally insect-repellant as well as less likely to rot or decay with little to no chemical treatment at all.
- UV-Protected Aluminum Fencing : Aluminum fencing is resistant to fading, scratching, rust, and corrosion with the right initial manufacturer’s application of UV-protective powder coating. The lighter the coating, the more vulnerable the fence is to sun damage. Additionally, aluminum comes in different grades; the lighter the grade, the higher the chance for bending or other damage.
- Modified PVC or Vinyl Fencing : PVC or vinyl fencing won’t tarnish, stain, splinter, or warp. PVC’s two biggest enemies are sun and cold, but their effects can be mitigated with the right manufacturing processes. Choose PVC made with titanium dioxide and treated with impact modifiers to render it sun- and cold-resistant. Additionally, the thickness of the vinyl will affect the strength of the fence—thicker vinyl is virtually indestructible, while thinner vinyl is more easily torn, cut, or dented.
Do you want a fence that looks like new year after year? Paramount Fence delivers the services and materials to provide you with a quality fence in Aurora, Naperville, and the surrounding communities. Visit us on the Web or call us at 630-239-2714 today.