Are you looking for a wood fence alternative? Many homeowners are looking for a long-lasting alternative to a traditional wood fence. In your research, you will come across the wood-framed metal fencing, which combines metal fence panels with wood posts and framing.
This fence may seem like a great alternative, but we will give you the inside track. (pssssst It’s not actually a “wood fence alternative”). The main reason being the first part of a wood fence to deteriorate would be the posts, and this new fence still has wood posts! So really this is also just a 10 year low value fence!
The Wood Posts Are Still the Problem
The biggest issue with a wood fence is usually not the boards. It is the posts.
The posts are sitting in the ground, exposed to moisture, and eventually they rot. Once the posts start going, the whole fence starts leaning, moving, or falling apart.
With a wood-framed metal fence, you still have the exact same problem. The metal panels may still look fine, but if the wood posts rot out, the fence still needs major repairs or replacement.
So are you really getting away from wood fencing? Not really.
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It Can Still Be High Maintenance
This fence is often promoted as a low-maintenance option, but there are still wood posts and wood framing that need to be looked after.
The bottom wood frame can also get damaged by weed whippers and other lawn-maintenance equipment. Once the wood starts getting chewed up, it can look rough pretty quickly.
You may not be staining full wood fence panels, but you are still maintaining a fence that depends on wood.
Metal Panels Can Dent
Metal panels can dent.
Kids playing with balls, hail, yard equipment or other impacts can leave dents in the fence. Unlike a wood board that can sometimes be replaced, a dent in a large metal panel may be very noticeable.
This may not matter as much in a quiet side yard, but it is something to think about if the fence is around children, pets or a busy backyard.
Metal Gets Hot
Metal gets hot in direct sunlight.
On a sunny summer day, the fence panels can become very hot to touch. This could be a concern if you have young children playing near the fence.
Wind Can Make It Noisy
Metal fencing can also make noise in windy weather.
The panels can rattle and the screws or fasteners can loosen over time. This may mean more maintenance and an annoying sound every time the wind picks up.
It Can Rust
People hear metal and assume it will last forever with no maintenance. But metal can rust and corrode, especially where the coating has been scratched, cut or damaged. The screws and fasteners can also become rust points.
It Can Make Your Yard Louder
Another thing people don’t always think about is noise amplification. Metal can reflect sound around your yard instead of absorbing it. Kids playing, dogs barking and regular backyard noise can sound louder or create more of an echo.
Limited Colours and Styles
There are usually fewer colour and style options with wood-framed metal fencing.
The look can also be quite industrial. Some homeowners like that style, but others may find it harder to match with their home, landscaping or neighbourhood.
What About Fire?
People may assume that because the panels are metal, the fence is fire-safe.
But remember, the frame and posts are still made from wood. You need to look at the complete fence, not only the metal panels.
The metal itself may not burn, but the wood structure still will.
Are You Getting Good Value?
This is the main question.
If you are paying for a fence because you want to get away from wood, but the entire structure still depends on wood posts and framing, are you actually getting good value?
You could end up paying for a fence that looks different but has many of the same lifespan and maintenance problems as a traditional wood fence.
The metal panels may last, but the fence is only as strong as the posts holding it up.
So, What is a Good Alternative to Wood Fencing?
We recommend you consider vinyl, and if you are on our website, you probably already are.
Why is it a good option? If you don’t want wood, then consider a real NON-wood option. 100% PVC vinyl fence.
Why Vinyl Is a Better Wood Alternative
Vinyl is a true alternative to wood.
The posts are vinyl. The rails are vinyl. The fence boards are vinyl. You are not hiding wood inside the fence system and hoping it lasts.
Vinyl does not rot and does not need staining or painting. It is made to be outside and is easy to clean.
You are getting a full fence system designed to work together, rather than putting metal panels inside a wood frame.
Think About the Long-Term Value
The cheapest fence today is not always the cheapest fence over time.
If the posts rot and the fence needs to be repaired or replaced in around 10 years, you may not be getting much value from your original investment.
Vinyl costs more than some entry-level fencing options, but you are getting a longer-term fence (30+ years) without the same rot and maintenance concerns.
When you are comparing fence quotes, do not only look at the price. Look at what the posts are made from, how much maintenance the fence will need and how long the full fence system is expected to last.
A fence is only as good as the parts holding it together!