How long will the fence last?
People often neglect to ask this basic question. If you have to replace your fence every 5 years, it isn’t much of a bargain. Also, a worn, faded, and deteriorating fence is not likely to offer an enjoyable relaxing backyard experience. Wood fencing tends to be the most popular fence historically due to the low pricing options, yet it requires strenuous upkeep with sanding, painting, sealing and then typically replacement in just a few years. One has to ask themselves, just how many years are you willing to keep up the annual maintenance work only to have to rip out those posts, haul off your splintered, old rotting wood fence panels to a disposal location and paying a fee, before switching to a long-term and hassle free solution. Let’s not even talk about the amount of trees destroyed each year to provide homeowners with their backyard sanctuary.
Composite fencing (typically a plastic and wood-flour mix inside with a plastic shell on the outside) was developed to outlast wood fences, at a hefty price, yet these heavy fences don’t last much longer than wood. Additionally, after these were released into the market, it was realized that they absorb water through nail holes and cracks, get moldy, warp, and cannot be “touched up” by sanding or painting. While it was a good attempt to reuse and recycle material which would have otherwise been wasted, it just didn’t make the cut, having to also be replaced over time. Composite fencing is heavier and cannot be recycled easily if at all due to the mix of various materials within the board. Because wood and organic fibers are inside, this still attracts insects and absorbs moisture.
Capped cellular PVC fencing was engineered using 100% inorganic elements to outperform other fence materials and designed to last indefinitely. Impervious to water damage, bug infestation, and deterioration from the weather, Capped cellular PVC fencing has quickly become a great choice for residential and commercial projects. Because there are no wood particles, PVC fencing will not attract termites or absorb water thereby creating mold. It is possible that this fence type may even outlast your home. How is that for long-term performance?
What type of maintenance is required to keep the fence looking nice?
If you are a new homeowner, this is something that you may not have thought about. However, if you have ever owned a wood fence before, you know the headaches and work that has to be completed year after year to keep your fence looking great. While homeowners dread the annual maintenance of sanding, painting or staining their wood fence, and just plain give up with composite fencing which has little recourse after it begins to degrade, with capped cellular PVC fencing, there little to no maintenance – leaving those grueling summer weekends staining and cleaning behind. Sprinklers won’t stain it, grass debris and mud can be easily sprayed off with a garden hose, and the colors are fade resistant without ever needing to apply paint, sand, or stain. How do you like to spend your summers?
Will Homeowner Associations accept the fence material and styles?
Homeowner Associations (HOA) have set standards for the purpose of maintaining curb appeal and property values. Outdoor structures such as fencing can either add or detract from the beauty of each property and the residential area as a whole. This is why HOA’s love capped cellular PVC fencing – because capped cellular PVC fencing provides a natural wood textured appearance and rich colors which easily blend into the surroundings, adding a sense of elegance and style to the neighborhood. This is also a great boost for the neighborhood reputation to enhance property values since you won’t have to deal with the graying or rotting fences that will need replacement over time. Imagine never hearing from your HOA to replace the gate or wood fence pickets that have failed?