When a tenant wants a fence on your rental property, there are multiple choices. The kind of fencing really comes down to your finances and how much maintenance you want to do. Also consider the purpose of the fence and how it related to the safety of your tenants and your property.
Different kinds of fencing will lead to different maintenance issues for you. Broken fencing can be an inconvenient and time-consuming expense. So here are some options:
Wood fence a traditional favorite requiring maintenance
Wooden fences are a traditional favorite and have historically been an iconic component of homes everywhere.
This is likely due to the fact that wood is a widely available material. Many kinds – especially pine and cedar – are rather inexpensive. Different cuts, grains, colorations, staining treatments and painting styles make wooden fences very versatile.
The downside with wooden fencing is it requires regular maintenance. It can be severely damaged by weather, vegetation and parasites. The best protection is to have the wood regularly treated by a professional, who can apply sealants, stains and preservative coatings.
A pricier option, “Pressure Treated” (PT) fences, are made with wood that has been treated with preservative chemicals when manufactured. It comes with special warranties. Our experts suggest keeping vegetation off the fence. That keeps excessive moisture off of it. Too, have it regularly treated to protect it against parasites, like termites.Very hot and dry climates can cause the wood to damage rapidly and crack, warp and splinter.
Vinyl fence is easy to install but can be damaged
A man-made material, vinyl fence (also called PVC) does not rot, splinter, crack or warp. The synthetic plastics utilized to craft this kind of fencing are inexpensive. Vinyl can be manufactured, so its market price is controlled and not likely to suddenly become more expensive.
Another benefit is easy installation.Lightweight pieces that can be simply snapped together make it easier. It does cost slightly more than wood, but is not easily damaged and maintenance is easier than wood. Manufacturers claim that the only maintenance issue that is likely to affect vinyl over time is discoloration. Vinyl can be painted to solve this problem.
However, vinyl is not as strong as wood. It can collapse due to harsh weather or impact. The plastics utilized are cold temperature-sensitive and can become brittle. Vinyl is not ideal for cold, harsh winter climates. Manufacturing processes behind vinyl production are not very environmentally friendly.
Aluminum ideal for decorative fence
Aluminum is known for its malleability. That is why it is widely utilized to craft decorative and elegant fencing.
Also, it is lightweight and easy to clean. Aluminum fencing is generally similarly priced to vinyl. However repair costs could offset the difference. Aluminum is delicate and bends and dents are common.
Aluminum is ideal for beautiful decorative fencing. It is not the best option for privacy and safety.
Chain-Link fence
Chain-link is a simple and inexpensive kind of fencing. It is ideal for very large spaces or pens, especially for pets. Installing chain-link fencing is also simple and fast.
It is not very sturdy and does not offer much privacy. If tenants or property managers want a fence for protection and privacy, this is not it.
The links of the fence and their junctions are vulnerable to rusting and corrosion. Vinyl coating can extend the life of chain-link. However most people opt for a complete replacement when wear and tear becomes evident.
Wrought Iron strong and saves on maintenance
Wrought iron is durable and looks great. Elegant styles can be created.
Iron is strong so a good choice for a secure fence that won’t need much maintenance over the years.
Wrought iron can develop a patina as it ages and oxidizes. There are treatments that a professional can use to restore the iron.
It saves money on maintenance, but it is the most expensive fencing option available. Installing heavy-duty iron fencing is also a work-intensive project.
Wrought iron can rust in wet climates. Rust develops where the iron is most worn down. So maintenance is essential to fix scratches and chips as soon as possible.
Brick and Stone a serious investment
Cement and bricks or stones is a pricier option. Wear and tear is less of an issue. But, installation can be expensive. Too, once they are in place it is costly to move or make additions.
Our maintenance professionals point out that opting for brick and stone fencing is a lengthy commitment and a serious investment.
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About Keepe:
Keepe is an on-demand maintenance solution for property managers and independent landlords. Keepe makes hundreds of independent contractors and handymen available for maintenance projects at rental properties.