One of the deciding factors for many people looking into a new fence is the expected lifespan of the fence materials.
When it’s time to install a new fence or replace an old one, there are several materials to choose from. Choosing the best material for your home and your needs requires balancing a lot of different factors, one of which is the lifespan, or expected durability, of the material your fence is made of. Every fence requires different levels of maintenance and protection from the elements, which can affect its life expectancy. However, all fence materials have an average lifespan you can use as a baseline to help determine which is the right choice for you.
Wood
The lifespan of a wood fence depends on three main factors: the species of the wood, whether it’s treated, and how well it’s maintained. Spruce lasts for around 4-7 years, pine lasts for around 5-12 years, and cedar lasts 15-30 years. These are estimates are based on untreated wood that is given minimal maintenance. When the wood is treated, spruce and pine can last up to around 20 years, and cedar could last up to 40 years. Wood fences in any material can last even longer with frequent maintenance, such as cleaning and varnishing, to keep the wood clear and protected from rot.
Vinyl
Vinyl fences have a life expectancy of around 20 years if they are maintained and aren’t subjected to significant damage. While these fences are durable and able to withstand a lot of inclement weather, they won’t stand up against serious problems like car collisions, falling branches, or other forms of direct damage.
Chain Link
The lifespan of a chain-link fence depends on the specifics of the fence. For instance, a chain-link fence can be woven or welded, and woven fences have a longer expected lifespan. Also, a chain-link fence that is galvanized will last longer than one that isn’t. A galvanized chain-link fence has a lifespan of around 20 years, but a woven one may last a little longer than that.
Ornamental Metal
Ornamental metal fences, such as steel and wrought iron, can last a lifetime if properly maintained. As an example of this, the oldest fence in New York City is a wrought iron fence that was installed in 1771. Called the Bowling Green Fence, it’s a great example of just how durable and long-lasting ornamental metal fences are. With modern technology, it’s even easier to have ornamental metal fences that last an incredibly long time, thanks to powder coating. Powder coating creates an outer layer around the metal, offering it protecting from moisture damage that causes rust and degradation of the raw metal. Powder coating can last around 20 years and be reapplied whenever necessary to ensure the fence continues to last.
Commercial Fences from Hercules Fence DC
Hercules Fence DC has been providing property owners with quality fences for over 50 years. We are well-equipped to meet your needs, whether they are residential or commercial. We have extensive experience working with families and pet owners to keep the most important members of their home safe, so call us today about installing a new pet fence for your family. Contact us by giving us a call at 301-441-1600 or visiting us online. To see examples of our work, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Pinterest, and Flickr.
