Written by
20 July 2023
•
10 min read
Choosing a fence for your home is quite an involved process that starts by first deciding what type of fence you need. You could easily spend hours researching each and every single style but we thought we’d save you some time by identifying the main ones and summarising their pros and cons so you can hit the ground running.
Wood fences are one of the most popular types of fencing for homes in New Zealand. They are widely available in many types of timber and styles like the picket fence, paling fence, privacy fence and more. While affordable, easy to work with and aesthetically pleasing, a wooden fence can require ongoing maintenance and is susceptible to pests and rot.
Composite fencing combines wood fibres with plastic polymers to create a durable and low-maintenance fencing solution. It can have similar aesthetics to wood fencing without the same upkeep. It can be a little more expensive in comparison to some timber options and is prone to warping with big temperature changes if not installed properly.
Related article: What is composite fencing and why is it so popular?
Aluminium fences are a great contemporary choice that suits modern residential and commercial buildings. The physical characteristics of aluminium as a lightweight, durable and long-lasting material make it ideal for fencing. It can, however, be costly and slightly more complicated to install.
Steel fencing is an incredibly robust and durable option, often preferred as security and boundary fencing in commercial and industrial settings, though sometimes in residences too. Though incredibly strong, steel is heavy with professional installation nearly always required. Without a powder coated finish (or otherwise) it is susceptible to rust.
Vinyl fencing (also often referred to as PVC fencing) is made from polyvinyl chloride giving it traits and qualities like insect and rot resistance that natural alternatives do not. These low-maintenance attributes make it very appealing to some though others dislike the environmental impact these products can have.
Glass fencing is a subtle and sleek choice for those who want a fencing solution that doesn’t obstruct the view. In homes in New Zealand, they are often used for decking and are also very popular as pool fencing. On the flip side to this, they don’t provide any privacy for an outdoor space and are probably not the right choice for those on a tight budget.
Related article: Things to know about glass pool fencing in New Zealand
Wrought iron fencing has a rich history having been used all around the world for centuries. For this reason, they have a timeless and classical appeal with practical strengths like robustness and durability. As you may already know, they are incredibly heavy, can be pricey and might not suit everyone’s tastes.
Concrete fences or concrete block walls are sturdy, permanent solutions to consider around your property line. They are great for privacy and security with no gaps or panelling to see through but they are a labour-intensive option to install and don’t offer much variety in terms of styling and aesthetics.
Stone wall fences, also known as stone or rock walls, are a bold and natural fencing option that adds rustic vibes to any home. They offer great longevity and are very robust but take a while to install and are not as versatile as other choices.
Wire and net fencing is not as common in urban areas compared to some other fencing options but are still well worth considering given their cost-effectiveness, especially over larger sections. They do tend to be more functional than decorative and don’t offer much privacy.
Chain link fencing is typically associated with commercial and industrial settings but not exclusively so. As a matter of fact, they can also be a cost-effective solution for the home and a quick fix if time is of the essence. The aesthetics are a touch limited however and they can be vulnerable to damage.
Green wall fences, also known as living walls, are a unique and visually appealing form of fencing that incorporates plants and foliage into its structure. They have great environmental credentials but do require a bit of expertise and upkeep to thrive.
Related article: The true cost of fencing in New Zealand
With all the main types of fences available in New Zealand covered, you hopefully now have a good understanding of the different options and the respective advantages and disadvantages they have. What’s important when picking the right choice for you is to think about your needs and requirements as well as the architectural style of your home and the weather conditions you typically experience. There might be one choice that stands out or a few if you’re lucky, allowing you to select to specific traits you want in your fence that will serve you for years to come.
Discover an extensive range of high-quality fencing solutions on ArchiPro