If you’ve spent the summer wishing to replace your old, worn-out deck or fence but need help figuring out where to start, you’re not alone. Tackling outdoor projects like building a deck, repairing a porch, or installing a privacy fence begins with one important step: choosing the right materials.
This guide will give you the essential information you need to choose materials for your project confidently. With this knowledge, you’ll be ready to explore options and pick what works best for your home.
Let’s get straight to the point.
Choosing the right materials is key when replacing an old deck or fence. Wood options like pressure-treated (PT) wood, cedar, and premium choices like redwood and teak offer durability and aesthetic appeal but require maintenance.
Composite and PVC are low-maintenance alternatives that resist rot and insects. Metal fences, including wrought iron and aluminium, provide strength and style.
Vinyl and treated wood are cost-effective for fencing, while masonry offers a more elegant but expensive option. Chain link is practical for large areas. Before starting, check local Australian regulations for permits and material restrictions.
Wood Materials For Decks And Fences
Wood is often the first option people consider when selecting materials for a deck or fence. Wood is timeless, natural, and versatile, making it a popular choice. However, understanding the types of wood and their treatments is key to long-lasting results.
1. Pressure-treated (PT) Wood
Pressure-treated wood is essential for outdoor projects because it is chemically treated to resist insect, mould, and mildew damage. This treatment involves injecting chemicals into the wood, making it durable enough to withstand Australia’s harsh climate.
PT wood is usually used for structural parts like frameworks and posts, even if you opt for other materials for visible areas.
2. SPF: Spruce, Pine, And Fir
Spruce, pine, and fir—often labelled SPF—are common options for decks and fences. These types of wood share similar characteristics, making them interchangeable in many cases.
SPF woods are typically used for fence sections, and their affordability makes them a popular choice. However, they are not as durable as some other options and may require more frequent maintenance.
3. Cedar
Cedar is a favourite for outdoor projects due to its natural resistance to decay and insects. It has a distinctive appearance with fewer knots and a rich red tint. While cedar won’t warp or shrink, it can still degrade over time if left in the ground. For best results, use cedar with concrete footings or pressure-treated posts.
However, cedar requires regular care. After installation, a penetrating sealer is applied and reapplied annually to maintain its colour and protection.
4. Premium Woods: Redwood And Teak
If budget isn’t a concern, redwood and teak are excellent choices for a premium deck or fence. These woods are known for their natural beauty and durability. Like cedar, they resist termites, rot, and weather-related damage.
However, redwood and teak need sealing or oiling one to two times a year to preserve their colour. Sanding the wood before applying treatments can help restore its natural shine.
Alternatives To Wood: Composite And PVC
While wood is a traditional choice, alternative materials like composite and PVC are gaining popularity for their low maintenance and durability.
1. Composite Decking And Fencing
Composite materials, made from wood and plastic polymers, offer the look of wood but with better resistance to insects and rot. They are more expensive upfront than wood options like cedar or pine but require little maintenance and last longer.
One drawback of composite materials is that their unique fastening systems often require professional installation. Once installed, they only need an occasional wash to stay in good condition.
2. PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
PVC is another non-wood option becoming more common for decks and fences. It is a strong, long-lasting material that requires almost no upkeep. Unlike wood, PVC doesn’t suffer from insects or rot and remains unaffected by moisture.
Modern PVC options are far more durable and aesthetically pleasing than earlier versions. Some manufacturers even offer lifetime guarantees, making it a solid long-term investment.
Metal Fencing Options
Metal fences are an excellent option for homeowners looking for strength, durability, and style.
Wrought Iron, Aluminium, And Steel
Wrought iron has been used for centuries, adding a classic touch to any property. It’s durable but requires regular maintenance to prevent rust. Aluminium or steel fencing offers a rust-resistant alternative for a more modern look. Steel fences have the strength of wrought iron, while aluminium is lightweight and resistant to corrosion.
While metal fencing can be installed as a DIY project, many homeowners choose professional installation for a custom, polished result.
Other Common Fencing Materials
Other materials, including wood and metal, are commonly used for fencing projects. Each has benefits and considerations, depending on your home’s specific needs.
1. Vinyl
Vinyl fences have gained popularity due to their durability and low maintenance. Once installed, they require almost no upkeep beyond the occasional hose-down to keep them clean. Modern vinyl fences are available in various styles and heights, making them versatile. However, expert installation is recommended to ensure the fence remains straight and level over time.
2. Treated Wood
Treated wood, often used for gazebos, pergolas, and fences, is a cost-effective option for creating outdoor privacy. While it resists insects and moisture, treated wood tends to warp or twist after installation. Select stable boards from a lumber yard rather than purchasing in bulk to avoid this. Ensure that no boards feel “green” or moist, as they are more likely to shift as they dry.
3. Masonry Fences
Concrete, stucco, brick, block, and stone fences are elegant yet expensive. These materials are typically reserved for higher-end projects and require professional installation. Although they have a hefty price tag, masonry fences offer beauty and durability.
Many homeowners pair masonry fences with metal or wood for a balanced aesthetic and to reduce costs.
4. Chain Link Fences
Chain-link fences are a practical option for homeowners seeking an affordable way to enclose large areas. While they offer little privacy, they are excellent for keeping pets and children safe. For a more attractive finish, consider chain-link with a vinyl coating, which adds durability and visual appeal.
Choosing The Right Fence For Your Property
Once you’ve considered the material options, the next step is selecting the right fence style. The type of fence you choose should reflect your taste and the function you need it to serve.
1. Privacy Fences
Privacy fences are tall (usually around 6 feet) and block visibility from outside. They are ideal if your primary concern is creating a secluded outdoor space. Privacy fences can be made from wood, vinyl, or composite materials.
2. Lattice Fences
Lattice fences, typically 1.8 meters high, provide privacy while allowing some visibility through a decorative chequered pattern. They add a classic touch to gardens and outdoor spaces.
3. Picket Fences
The traditional white picket fence is timeless and works well for front yards. It usually reaches about waist height and has spaced slats, balancing visibility and containment.
4. Scalloped Fences
Scalloped fences have an ornamental top that curves like picket fences, giving the fence a softer, more decorative look.
5. Dog-Eared Fences
A dog-eared fence offers a staggered design, where adjacent boards are placed at varying intervals. This style adds texture and interest to any yard while maintaining privacy.
6. Farm Fences
Farm fences consist of horizontal planks spaced widely apart. They are practical for rural properties, offering enough barriers to keep livestock in without obstructing the view.
7. Barbed Wire Fencing
While barbed wire is practical for securing large rural properties, it is generally prohibited in urban areas due to safety concerns. If you’re considering barbed wire, verify with local authorities whether it’s allowed.
Fencing Regulations And Permits
Before starting any fencing project, it’s essential to check local regulations. In Australia, fencing laws vary depending on the council or municipality. You may need special permits or a lot of surveys before building along a property boundary. Local regulations may also restrict the height and materials used for fences.
Conclusion
Choosing the right materials is the foundation of any successful outdoor project, whether building a deck, installing a fence or revamping a porch. Pressure-treated wood, composite, and PVC are excellent options for durability, while premium woods like redwood and teak offer unparalleled beauty. Metal and masonry fences provide strength and style, and chain links are affordable for large properties.
Before purchasing materials, check local regulations and ensure you know any permit requirements. With the right materials and careful planning, you can complete your project and enhance your outdoor space.
FAQs About House Fence
What Is The Cheapest Material To Build A Fence?
PVC fencing. The cheapest way to create a fence for your home is to get one made from PVC. Such fences substitute wooden pickets and stakes to offer protection from the outside world. PVC sleeves improve the stability of wooden posts used as a fence, reducing the cost of material and labour.
Is PVC Fencing Cheaper Than Wood?
The cost of installing a new fence is relatively affordable. Installing a vinyl fence costs less than wood, although wood as a material is generally cheaper. Wood ranges from $2 to $10 per picket, while vinyl costs between $2 and $6.
What Is The Easiest Fence To Install?
Wood panels are the quickest and easiest fence to install. Although they are not always the cheapest, they save time installing the rails and pickets separately.
Can You Install A Fence By Yourself?
Installing a fence by yourself doesn’t come without problems. While you might save on the monetary labour costs that would go to a company, you’ll spend time installing the fence. Remember that most fence installers have teams of multiple people, which helps the process go faster.
Do You Need Concrete For Fence Posts?
No, fence posts don’t need to be set in concrete, and there are plenty of other ways to fix them if this seems too permanent. Concrete may be the worst option if you are using wooden posts.
