Which type of fencing is best?
Choosing between types of fencing begins with identifying why you are installing a fence. Which type of fence is best for you will depend on what you need it to do. Here, we’ll review the types of fencing best suited for the three main “jobs” of a fence: privacy, security, or containment.
Best Types of Fencing for Privacy
If your goal is to gain privacy from neighboring yards or to block a street view, consider a wood or vinyl privacy fence. Building a privacy fence from cedar or vinyl with little or no space between boards, or even a closely spaced lattice with climbing plants and foliage, can offer a great deal of privacy and a pleasing addition to your landscape. The height of your privacy fence may be limited by local building codes, so be sure to check those (or use a local Charlotte area fence company like ours, who is already well-versed in local codes).
Best Types of Fencing for Security
Different heights and types of fencing can provide varying degrees of security for your property. From pool fences to deer fences and more, when you need a barrier to prevent entry from the outside world, you want a fence with a reliable and lockable gate, a lack of places to grip or climb, and a taller height. Wrought iron and aluminum provide great strength and durability, making these popular types of fencing for security. However, if privacy is part of what makes your property more secure, a wooden or vinyl privacy fence can still be a good option, but be sure to keep flush planks facing out, and any horizontal rails on the inside, making it more difficult to climb.
Best Types of Fencing for Containment
Perhaps you have pets or small children you need to keep contained in your yard. Dog containment is a very popular reason for installing a fence. Choosing the best type of fence for containing a dog starts with one question: is your dog a jumper or a digger? If you have a smaller dog, or a dog who does not jump, a 3- to 4-foot fence in any material should be adequate. However, if you have a larger dog (or if your small dog can jump high!), consider an option that is 5 feet or higher. If your dog likes to dig, regardless of how tall your fence is, you will want to either include hardscaping along the fence line or bury the fence at least six inches underground. Any type of fence material can be used for containment as long as the fence height and the space between slats is calculated appropriately.
We’ve been helping Charlotte area customers choose and install the best types of fencing for their needs for over 15 years. If you need a fence, contact us today. We’d love to help!
