Best Fencing Wood vs Chain Link

When it comes to choosing the best fencing many people are torn between wood vs. chain link. This is because these two types of fences have been used for many years in different parts of the world. However, comparing wood and chain link fence makes it easier for you to make an informed choice of the fence to install in your property. The most important thing to consider before choosing the fence to install in your property is the purpose that you want the fence to play. For instance, if you want increased privacy, then wood fence is the best option for you. If you want a reasonably priced fencing option, then chain link fence beats wood fence. 

Although both wood and chain link fences are suitable for fencing a property, one of them might be suitable for you and unsuitable for another property owner. There are several factors that you should consider before making your final decision when it comes to choosing between these two types of fences. These include the following:

Cost
The materials that you choose to use in the installation of a chain link fence are tied to market value of the raw materials. As such, the choice of a chain link fence should be dictated by several factors including current price of stainless steel. On average, chain link costs 7 dollars per square foot. This implies that by this price a 500 linear foot costs about 3500 dollars. On the other hand, wood fence costs almost double or even more than this price when you use pressure-treated wood material such as cedar. Lumber solution costs about 17 dollars per foot. 

Additional expenses
Before making your decision, it is important to consider the additional expenses. For instance, after installing a wood fence you may want to aesthetic to the fence. This implies that you will need paint or stain for the raw material. This will add your expenses because you will purchase the paint or stain and pay for the project. Therefore, consider the overall cost of the two fences before making your choice. 

Installation
When it comes to installation of the fence, chain link is not bulky and this makes it easier to install. It also does not have much preparation work before installation. Chain link fence is also capable of installing with ease at places with varying terrain unlike wood fence that will require modification of the material or the terrain to install.  Therefore, consider the terrain of the area that you want to fence before choosing the fence to install. 

Post-installation issues
It is also important to consider post-installation issues of both wood and chain link fences. While termites can eat wood, they cannot eat the stainless steel of a chain link fence. As such, a wood fence has to deal with termites’ problem. In addition, in the event of harsh weather conditions, wood fence bears more burden that chain link fence since chain link fence is not more of a solid object like wood fence. 

Privacy
The main advantage of a wood fence is privacy that it allows the property owner. On the other hand, chain link fence is almost invisible when installed in the shrubs or when outfitted with lattice or fabrics panels. 

Maintenance
Wood fence requires more maintenance starting with the initial lumber treatment which requires investment of money and time. Even after installation, checking and maintaining a wood fence will save you from the cost of major alterations. Chain link, on the other hand is extremely low maintenance especially the chain link vinyl fabric material. 

A good fence adds beauty, value, privacy and security to a property. However, it is important to choose the best fencing by choosing wisely between wood and chain link fences.