Modern Garden Fencing Provides A Huge Range Of StylesEver since man first settled and began to build permanent houses, there have been fences. The first role of fencing was to show the boundaries of the land and to keep out intruders, and these are still two of the main reasons for erecting a fence. There are still those two types of fence, security fencing and decorative fencing, although the range of choice for fencing materials is now wider than ever, encompassing everything from totally natural materials such as wood to man made fencing materials such as steel and plastic. This article will look at the two main types of fencing and the various fencing materials, and some considerations needed to be taken into account when installing a fence. Security Fencing Security fencing is one of the oldest types of fencing. It was first used to keep out intruders from a fortified house, and this is still a major consideration for many householders today. There are now a wide range of types of security fencing available and the choice is largely a question of how much security is needed mixed with the decorative aspects of the fencing. Chain link fencing is very secure, especially when high, though has very few decorative features. Some types of wood fencing, especially with strong wooden panels, can be fairly secure and also aesthetic into the bargain. Other types of security fencing can include barbed wire fencing and even electric fencing. If security is not a concern, there is a wide choice of decorative fencing materials available. One of the most common types of decorative fencing is the ubiquitous picket fence. This offers practically no security whatsoever, but is a very pleasing way to mark the boundary of your land. For a little more security, a higher vinyl fence or bamboo fence can do the job. A bamboo fence, if high enough, can provide decent security though with the natural looks of wood to make for a pleasing effect. Other decorative fencing materials can include split rail fencing and basket weave fencing. Fencing Materials The choice of fencing materials is now so broad that just choosing the materials for the fence can be a job in itself. Natural materials are still common and popular. Wood has long been a favorite fencing material, with bamboo, pine and cedar fencing being among the choices. But there are some good fencing material options from among the synthetic materials. Vinyl is popular, since it is inexpensive and can be long-lasting. It also comes in many styles, including lattice and mesh styles. Metal fencing can offer security as well as good looks, and among this type are wrought iron fencing, aluminum fencing and steel fencing. All of these types are readily available from online suppliers and can be found at discount if searched for. As can be seen, there is a huge number of choices in the types and styles of fencing available to the modern householder or commercial property owner. The main choice to make is whether security is the most important consideration, in which case a strong fencing material such as chain link may be the best choice, or whether decorative fencing is what is needed, in which case a softer material such as bamboo or a simple picket fence may suffice. Once this decision has been made, there is a huge range of choices as to what fencing material will do the job. |