All three materials work in our region, but each has specific considerations. Wood struggles most with our freeze-thaw cycles and humidity, requiring rigorous maintenance. Vinyl handles cold well (though extreme cold can make it temporarily brittle) and humidity reasonably well, though it’s sensitive to UV fading in sunny locations. Aluminum performs excellently in all conditions—it doesn’t rust or corrode regardless of temperature or humidity. If you’re in a harsh location or want maximum durability with minimal thought, aluminum metal fencing is the regional climate champion.
Which material works best in the Pennsylvania/New Jersey climate?
All three materials work in our region, but each has specific considerations. Wood struggles most with our freeze-thaw cycles and humidity, requiring rigorous maintenance. Vinyl handles cold well (though extreme cold can make it temporarily brittle) and humidity reasonably well, though it’s sensitive to UV fading in sunny locations. Aluminum performs excellently in all conditions—it doesn’t rust or corrode regardless of temperature or humidity. If you’re in a harsh location or want maximum durability with minimal thought, aluminum metal fencing is the regional climate champion.
Can I mix materials in my fence design?
Absolutely. Many homeowners use metal fencing for sections requiring durability or where they want the modern look, and wood or vinyl for privacy sections. You can create a fence with aluminum railings and wood infill panels, or vinyl sections with metal post caps. Mixing materials allows you to balance aesthetics, cost, and functionality. A qualified fence contractor can help you design a combination that meets your specific needs and budget.
Making Your Fencing Decision
Your ideal fence material depends on your priorities. Choose wood if you love its aesthetic and commit to regular maintenance—or budget for professional maintenance services. Choose vinyl if low maintenance and modern appearance are non-negotiable and you have the upfront budget. Choose metal if durability, longevity, and contemporary style are most important. And remember: you can combine materials to get the best of multiple worlds.
When you’re ready to install or replace your fence, working with experienced contractors who understand both the materials and your specific property ensures you get exactly what you need. Black Iron Timber Co and NXT Level Custom Builder serve Bucks County and the surrounding area, offering expert design consultation and quality installation for wood, vinyl, and metal fencing systems. Their team can assess your property, help you weigh the trade-offs, and install a fence that looks beautiful and lasts for decades.
Metal’s biggest advantage is durability combined with minimal maintenance. Aluminum especially is nearly maintenance-free—wash it occasionally, and it stays beautiful for decades. Metal doesn’t warp, rot, or require ongoing care like wood. It’s also highly repairable; individual sections can be replaced without affecting the rest of the fence. Modern metal fencing designs are sleek and contemporary, working beautifully with modern and transitional home styles.
The aesthetic limitation is real for some homeowners: metal looks modern and sometimes industrial. If you’re seeking a classical, warm, cottage-like appearance, metal may not match your home’s character. Additionally, metal fencing offers less privacy than solid wood or vinyl (most metal designs are open-rail), though privacy panels can be added. For contemporary homes, properties emphasizing views, or homeowners prioritizing durability and ease, metal is an excellent choice.
Comparing Fencing Materials: Cost and Lifespan
What’s the true cost difference between these materials over time?
Initial cost favors wood ($15-$30/foot), but this doesn’t tell the whole story. A 150-foot wood fence might cost $3,000 upfront but needs professional maintenance at $1,500-$3,000 every 2-3 years. Over 20 years, that easily reaches $15,000-$20,000 total. Vinyl at $5,000 upfront costs roughly $5,000 total over 20 years—no maintenance, no repairs. Metal at $4,000 upfront might have minor maintenance ($200-$400 annually for steel, nearly nothing for aluminum) totaling $6,000-$8,000 over 20 years. The “cheapest” material upfront often becomes the most expensive long-term option.
Which material works best in the Pennsylvania/New Jersey climate?
All three materials work in our region, but each has specific considerations. Wood struggles most with our freeze-thaw cycles and humidity, requiring rigorous maintenance. Vinyl handles cold well (though extreme cold can make it temporarily brittle) and humidity reasonably well, though it’s sensitive to UV fading in sunny locations. Aluminum performs excellently in all conditions—it doesn’t rust or corrode regardless of temperature or humidity. If you’re in a harsh location or want maximum durability with minimal thought, aluminum metal fencing is the regional climate champion.
Can I mix materials in my fence design?
Absolutely. Many homeowners use metal fencing for sections requiring durability or where they want the modern look, and wood or vinyl for privacy sections. You can create a fence with aluminum railings and wood infill panels, or vinyl sections with metal post caps. Mixing materials allows you to balance aesthetics, cost, and functionality. A qualified fence contractor can help you design a combination that meets your specific needs and budget.
Making Your Fencing Decision
Your ideal fence material depends on your priorities. Choose wood if you love its aesthetic and commit to regular maintenance—or budget for professional maintenance services. Choose vinyl if low maintenance and modern appearance are non-negotiable and you have the upfront budget. Choose metal if durability, longevity, and contemporary style are most important. And remember: you can combine materials to get the best of multiple worlds.
When you’re ready to install or replace your fence, working with experienced contractors who understand both the materials and your specific property ensures you get exactly what you need. Black Iron Timber Co and NXT Level Custom Builder serve Bucks County and the surrounding area, offering expert design consultation and quality installation for wood, vinyl, and metal fencing systems. Their team can assess your property, help you weigh the trade-offs, and install a fence that looks beautiful and lasts for decades.
Metal fencing—typically aluminum or steel—combines durability with minimal maintenance. Aluminum won’t rust, requires no staining, and lasts 20-30+ years. Steel is slightly less expensive than aluminum but requires occasional painting to prevent rust in humid climates. Metal fencing costs $25-$50 per linear foot installed, positioning it between wood and vinyl price-wise.
Metal’s biggest advantage is durability combined with minimal maintenance. Aluminum especially is nearly maintenance-free—wash it occasionally, and it stays beautiful for decades. Metal doesn’t warp, rot, or require ongoing care like wood. It’s also highly repairable; individual sections can be replaced without affecting the rest of the fence. Modern metal fencing designs are sleek and contemporary, working beautifully with modern and transitional home styles.
The aesthetic limitation is real for some homeowners: metal looks modern and sometimes industrial. If you’re seeking a classical, warm, cottage-like appearance, metal may not match your home’s character. Additionally, metal fencing offers less privacy than solid wood or vinyl (most metal designs are open-rail), though privacy panels can be added. For contemporary homes, properties emphasizing views, or homeowners prioritizing durability and ease, metal is an excellent choice.
Comparing Fencing Materials: Cost and Lifespan
What’s the true cost difference between these materials over time?
Initial cost favors wood ($15-$30/foot), but this doesn’t tell the whole story. A 150-foot wood fence might cost $3,000 upfront but needs professional maintenance at $1,500-$3,000 every 2-3 years. Over 20 years, that easily reaches $15,000-$20,000 total. Vinyl at $5,000 upfront costs roughly $5,000 total over 20 years—no maintenance, no repairs. Metal at $4,000 upfront might have minor maintenance ($200-$400 annually for steel, nearly nothing for aluminum) totaling $6,000-$8,000 over 20 years. The “cheapest” material upfront often becomes the most expensive long-term option.
Which material works best in the Pennsylvania/New Jersey climate?
All three materials work in our region, but each has specific considerations. Wood struggles most with our freeze-thaw cycles and humidity, requiring rigorous maintenance. Vinyl handles cold well (though extreme cold can make it temporarily brittle) and humidity reasonably well, though it’s sensitive to UV fading in sunny locations. Aluminum performs excellently in all conditions—it doesn’t rust or corrode regardless of temperature or humidity. If you’re in a harsh location or want maximum durability with minimal thought, aluminum metal fencing is the regional climate champion.
Can I mix materials in my fence design?
Absolutely. Many homeowners use metal fencing for sections requiring durability or where they want the modern look, and wood or vinyl for privacy sections. You can create a fence with aluminum railings and wood infill panels, or vinyl sections with metal post caps. Mixing materials allows you to balance aesthetics, cost, and functionality. A qualified fence contractor can help you design a combination that meets your specific needs and budget.
Making Your Fencing Decision
Your ideal fence material depends on your priorities. Choose wood if you love its aesthetic and commit to regular maintenance—or budget for professional maintenance services. Choose vinyl if low maintenance and modern appearance are non-negotiable and you have the upfront budget. Choose metal if durability, longevity, and contemporary style are most important. And remember: you can combine materials to get the best of multiple worlds.
When you’re ready to install or replace your fence, working with experienced contractors who understand both the materials and your specific property ensures you get exactly what you need. Black Iron Timber Co and NXT Level Custom Builder serve Bucks County and the surrounding area, offering expert design consultation and quality installation for wood, vinyl, and metal fencing systems. Their team can assess your property, help you weigh the trade-offs, and install a fence that looks beautiful and lasts for decades.
Metal fencing—typically aluminum or steel—combines durability with minimal maintenance. Aluminum won’t rust, requires no staining, and lasts 20-30+ years. Steel is slightly less expensive than aluminum but requires occasional painting to prevent rust in humid climates. Metal fencing costs $25-$50 per linear foot installed, positioning it between wood and vinyl price-wise.
Metal’s biggest advantage is durability combined with minimal maintenance. Aluminum especially is nearly maintenance-free—wash it occasionally, and it stays beautiful for decades. Metal doesn’t warp, rot, or require ongoing care like wood. It’s also highly repairable; individual sections can be replaced without affecting the rest of the fence. Modern metal fencing designs are sleek and contemporary, working beautifully with modern and transitional home styles.
The aesthetic limitation is real for some homeowners: metal looks modern and sometimes industrial. If you’re seeking a classical, warm, cottage-like appearance, metal may not match your home’s character. Additionally, metal fencing offers less privacy than solid wood or vinyl (most metal designs are open-rail), though privacy panels can be added. For contemporary homes, properties emphasizing views, or homeowners prioritizing durability and ease, metal is an excellent choice.
Comparing Fencing Materials: Cost and Lifespan
What’s the true cost difference between these materials over time?
Initial cost favors wood ($15-$30/foot), but this doesn’t tell the whole story. A 150-foot wood fence might cost $3,000 upfront but needs professional maintenance at $1,500-$3,000 every 2-3 years. Over 20 years, that easily reaches $15,000-$20,000 total. Vinyl at $5,000 upfront costs roughly $5,000 total over 20 years—no maintenance, no repairs. Metal at $4,000 upfront might have minor maintenance ($200-$400 annually for steel, nearly nothing for aluminum) totaling $6,000-$8,000 over 20 years. The “cheapest” material upfront often becomes the most expensive long-term option.
Which material works best in the Pennsylvania/New Jersey climate?
All three materials work in our region, but each has specific considerations. Wood struggles most with our freeze-thaw cycles and humidity, requiring rigorous maintenance. Vinyl handles cold well (though extreme cold can make it temporarily brittle) and humidity reasonably well, though it’s sensitive to UV fading in sunny locations. Aluminum performs excellently in all conditions—it doesn’t rust or corrode regardless of temperature or humidity. If you’re in a harsh location or want maximum durability with minimal thought, aluminum metal fencing is the regional climate champion.
Can I mix materials in my fence design?
Absolutely. Many homeowners use metal fencing for sections requiring durability or where they want the modern look, and wood or vinyl for privacy sections. You can create a fence with aluminum railings and wood infill panels, or vinyl sections with metal post caps. Mixing materials allows you to balance aesthetics, cost, and functionality. A qualified fence contractor can help you design a combination that meets your specific needs and budget.
Making Your Fencing Decision
Your ideal fence material depends on your priorities. Choose wood if you love its aesthetic and commit to regular maintenance—or budget for professional maintenance services. Choose vinyl if low maintenance and modern appearance are non-negotiable and you have the upfront budget. Choose metal if durability, longevity, and contemporary style are most important. And remember: you can combine materials to get the best of multiple worlds.
When you’re ready to install or replace your fence, working with experienced contractors who understand both the materials and your specific property ensures you get exactly what you need. Black Iron Timber Co and NXT Level Custom Builder serve Bucks County and the surrounding area, offering expert design consultation and quality installation for wood, vinyl, and metal fencing systems. Their team can assess your property, help you weigh the trade-offs, and install a fence that looks beautiful and lasts for decades.
The tradeoff is upfront cost. Vinyl typically runs $30-$60 per linear foot installed—roughly double the cost of wood. For a 150-foot fence, you’re looking at $4,500-$9,000. Over its 20-25 year lifespan, vinyl becomes cost-effective compared to wood (which requires ongoing maintenance), but the sticker shock is real upfront.
Vinyl’s aesthetic has improved enormously in recent years. Modern vinyl comes in colors beyond white and off-white—blacks, grays, and wood-grain finishes that mimic natural wood without the maintenance. However, some homeowners still find vinyl looks plastic or artificial compared to real wood. Additionally, vinyl is less repairable—if a panel is damaged, you often need to replace the entire section, not just the damaged board. In extreme cold, vinyl can become brittle; in extreme heat, it can warp slightly. For most homeowners in the Philadelphia region, vinyl performs well, but it’s not ideal for homeowners with strict historical or character expectations.
Metal Fencing: Durability and Modern Aesthetics
Metal fencing—typically aluminum or steel—combines durability with minimal maintenance. Aluminum won’t rust, requires no staining, and lasts 20-30+ years. Steel is slightly less expensive than aluminum but requires occasional painting to prevent rust in humid climates. Metal fencing costs $25-$50 per linear foot installed, positioning it between wood and vinyl price-wise.
Metal’s biggest advantage is durability combined with minimal maintenance. Aluminum especially is nearly maintenance-free—wash it occasionally, and it stays beautiful for decades. Metal doesn’t warp, rot, or require ongoing care like wood. It’s also highly repairable; individual sections can be replaced without affecting the rest of the fence. Modern metal fencing designs are sleek and contemporary, working beautifully with modern and transitional home styles.
The aesthetic limitation is real for some homeowners: metal looks modern and sometimes industrial. If you’re seeking a classical, warm, cottage-like appearance, metal may not match your home’s character. Additionally, metal fencing offers less privacy than solid wood or vinyl (most metal designs are open-rail), though privacy panels can be added. For contemporary homes, properties emphasizing views, or homeowners prioritizing durability and ease, metal is an excellent choice.
Comparing Fencing Materials: Cost and Lifespan
What’s the true cost difference between these materials over time?
Initial cost favors wood ($15-$30/foot), but this doesn’t tell the whole story. A 150-foot wood fence might cost $3,000 upfront but needs professional maintenance at $1,500-$3,000 every 2-3 years. Over 20 years, that easily reaches $15,000-$20,000 total. Vinyl at $5,000 upfront costs roughly $5,000 total over 20 years—no maintenance, no repairs. Metal at $4,000 upfront might have minor maintenance ($200-$400 annually for steel, nearly nothing for aluminum) totaling $6,000-$8,000 over 20 years. The “cheapest” material upfront often becomes the most expensive long-term option.
Which material works best in the Pennsylvania/New Jersey climate?
All three materials work in our region, but each has specific considerations. Wood struggles most with our freeze-thaw cycles and humidity, requiring rigorous maintenance. Vinyl handles cold well (though extreme cold can make it temporarily brittle) and humidity reasonably well, though it’s sensitive to UV fading in sunny locations. Aluminum performs excellently in all conditions—it doesn’t rust or corrode regardless of temperature or humidity. If you’re in a harsh location or want maximum durability with minimal thought, aluminum metal fencing is the regional climate champion.
Can I mix materials in my fence design?
Absolutely. Many homeowners use metal fencing for sections requiring durability or where they want the modern look, and wood or vinyl for privacy sections. You can create a fence with aluminum railings and wood infill panels, or vinyl sections with metal post caps. Mixing materials allows you to balance aesthetics, cost, and functionality. A qualified fence contractor can help you design a combination that meets your specific needs and budget.
Making Your Fencing Decision
Your ideal fence material depends on your priorities. Choose wood if you love its aesthetic and commit to regular maintenance—or budget for professional maintenance services. Choose vinyl if low maintenance and modern appearance are non-negotiable and you have the upfront budget. Choose metal if durability, longevity, and contemporary style are most important. And remember: you can combine materials to get the best of multiple worlds.
When you’re ready to install or replace your fence, working with experienced contractors who understand both the materials and your specific property ensures you get exactly what you need. Black Iron Timber Co and NXT Level Custom Builder serve Bucks County and the surrounding area, offering expert design consultation and quality installation for wood, vinyl, and metal fencing systems. Their team can assess your property, help you weigh the trade-offs, and install a fence that looks beautiful and lasts for decades.
????????????????????????????????????????????????? ? RankMath Metadata — paste into WordPress manually ????????????????????????????????????????????????? Focus Keyword: wood vinyl metal fence comparison SEO Title: Wood vs. Vinyl vs. Metal Fence: Full Comparison Slug: wood-vinyl-metal-fence-comparison Meta Description: Wood, vinyl, and metal fences each have distinct trade-offs. This guide compares durability, cost, maintenance, and appearance so you can make the best choice for your property. ?????????????????????????????????????????????????A fence is one of the most visible features of your property—it defines your space, increases privacy, and significantly impacts curb appeal. But choosing the right type of fencing involves balancing aesthetics, durability, maintenance, and cost. Wood looks beautiful and feels classic but requires regular upkeep. Vinyl is low-maintenance and modern but can be expensive upfront. Metal is durable and secure but may clash with certain home styles. For homeowners in Bucks County and the Greater Philadelphia area, the choice often comes down to what matters most: do you want character and warmth, minimal maintenance, or maximum durability? Understanding the true differences between these three fencing types will help you invest in the right choice for your home and lifestyle.
Why Choosing the Right Fence Type Matters
A fence is a long-term investment that typically lasts 15-30 years depending on material and maintenance. Choosing the wrong type means either accepting years of maintenance work you didn’t anticipate, or living with a fence that doesn’t match your home’s character or function. The right choice depends on your property’s specific needs, your climate, your lifestyle, and your budget—not just picking the most popular option at your local home center. The difference between a fence that looks beautiful for decades and one that deteriorates or requires constant work often comes down to understanding what each material genuinely offers and making an intentional choice.
In Pennsylvania and New Jersey, climate adds another layer of consideration. Harsh winters, temperature fluctuations, humidity, and occasional extreme weather affect different materials in different ways. Understanding how each fencing type performs in our regional climate is essential for making a choice you’ll be happy with long-term.
The Three Main Fencing Types: A Detailed Comparison
Each fencing material has distinct characteristics that make it better suited to different situations. Wood fencing offers timeless beauty and natural character—few materials look as warm and inviting as a well-maintained wood fence. Vinyl fencing provides modern aesthetics with minimal maintenance, making it ideal for homeowners who want their fence to virtually “disappear” from their to-do list. Metal fencing (typically aluminum or steel) offers superior durability, security, and a sleek contemporary look. The right choice depends on what you prioritize.
- Wood: aesthetic appeal with moderate upfront cost but significant maintenance; classic look that ages beautifully or deteriorates depending on care
- Vinyl: low maintenance with higher upfront cost and limited style options; modern look that stays clean without painting or staining
- Metal: maximum durability with moderate cost and minimal maintenance; contemporary aesthetic that works well with modern or transitional homes
Wood Fencing: Character, Cost, and Commitment
Wood fencing remains popular because it genuinely looks beautiful. Cedar, redwood, pressure-treated pine, and other wood species offer warmth and character that other materials struggle to match. The initial cost is reasonable—typically $15-$30 per linear foot installed, depending on wood quality and design complexity. For a 150-foot fence, that’s $2,250-$4,500, which is significantly less expensive than vinyl or high-quality metal.
However, “less expensive” comes with a serious asterisk: maintenance. Wood requires regular staining or sealing (every 2-3 years), repair of damaged boards, and treatment for insects and rot. The Pennsylvania and New Jersey climate—with freeze-thaw cycles, humidity, and occasional ice storms—is tough on wood. Left untreated, a wood fence deteriorates rapidly, becoming gray, splintered, and unsafe. If you love the look of wood but aren’t prepared for ongoing maintenance, you’ll end up with a fence you regret. Wood is the right choice only if you’re willing to commit to regular care, or if you hire professionals to maintain it (which adds to long-term costs).
One advantage of wood: it’s easy to repair. Individual boards can be replaced, and damage is usually localized. If a section rots, you replace that section without replacing the entire fence. This modularity makes repairs relatively affordable compared to some other materials.
Vinyl Fencing: Convenience at a Premium Price
Vinyl fencing is the low-maintenance dream for busy homeowners. Once installed, vinyl requires essentially no upkeep—no staining, sealing, painting, or special treatments. Dirt washes off with a garden hose. It won’t rot, splinter, or warp like wood. It’s resistant to insects and weather damage. If durability and convenience are your priorities, vinyl is compelling.
The tradeoff is upfront cost. Vinyl typically runs $30-$60 per linear foot installed—roughly double the cost of wood. For a 150-foot fence, you’re looking at $4,500-$9,000. Over its 20-25 year lifespan, vinyl becomes cost-effective compared to wood (which requires ongoing maintenance), but the sticker shock is real upfront.
Vinyl’s aesthetic has improved enormously in recent years. Modern vinyl comes in colors beyond white and off-white—blacks, grays, and wood-grain finishes that mimic natural wood without the maintenance. However, some homeowners still find vinyl looks plastic or artificial compared to real wood. Additionally, vinyl is less repairable—if a panel is damaged, you often need to replace the entire section, not just the damaged board. In extreme cold, vinyl can become brittle; in extreme heat, it can warp slightly. For most homeowners in the Philadelphia region, vinyl performs well, but it’s not ideal for homeowners with strict historical or character expectations.
Metal Fencing: Durability and Modern Aesthetics
Metal fencing—typically aluminum or steel—combines durability with minimal maintenance. Aluminum won’t rust, requires no staining, and lasts 20-30+ years. Steel is slightly less expensive than aluminum but requires occasional painting to prevent rust in humid climates. Metal fencing costs $25-$50 per linear foot installed, positioning it between wood and vinyl price-wise.
Metal’s biggest advantage is durability combined with minimal maintenance. Aluminum especially is nearly maintenance-free—wash it occasionally, and it stays beautiful for decades. Metal doesn’t warp, rot, or require ongoing care like wood. It’s also highly repairable; individual sections can be replaced without affecting the rest of the fence. Modern metal fencing designs are sleek and contemporary, working beautifully with modern and transitional home styles.
The aesthetic limitation is real for some homeowners: metal looks modern and sometimes industrial. If you’re seeking a classical, warm, cottage-like appearance, metal may not match your home’s character. Additionally, metal fencing offers less privacy than solid wood or vinyl (most metal designs are open-rail), though privacy panels can be added. For contemporary homes, properties emphasizing views, or homeowners prioritizing durability and ease, metal is an excellent choice.
Comparing Fencing Materials: Cost and Lifespan
What’s the true cost difference between these materials over time?
Initial cost favors wood ($15-$30/foot), but this doesn’t tell the whole story. A 150-foot wood fence might cost $3,000 upfront but needs professional maintenance at $1,500-$3,000 every 2-3 years. Over 20 years, that easily reaches $15,000-$20,000 total. Vinyl at $5,000 upfront costs roughly $5,000 total over 20 years—no maintenance, no repairs. Metal at $4,000 upfront might have minor maintenance ($200-$400 annually for steel, nearly nothing for aluminum) totaling $6,000-$8,000 over 20 years. The “cheapest” material upfront often becomes the most expensive long-term option.
Which material works best in the Pennsylvania/New Jersey climate?
All three materials work in our region, but each has specific considerations. Wood struggles most with our freeze-thaw cycles and humidity, requiring rigorous maintenance. Vinyl handles cold well (though extreme cold can make it temporarily brittle) and humidity reasonably well, though it’s sensitive to UV fading in sunny locations. Aluminum performs excellently in all conditions—it doesn’t rust or corrode regardless of temperature or humidity. If you’re in a harsh location or want maximum durability with minimal thought, aluminum metal fencing is the regional climate champion.
Can I mix materials in my fence design?
Absolutely. Many homeowners use metal fencing for sections requiring durability or where they want the modern look, and wood or vinyl for privacy sections. You can create a fence with aluminum railings and wood infill panels, or vinyl sections with metal post caps. Mixing materials allows you to balance aesthetics, cost, and functionality. A qualified fence contractor can help you design a combination that meets your specific needs and budget.
Making Your Fencing Decision
Your ideal fence material depends on your priorities. Choose wood if you love its aesthetic and commit to regular maintenance—or budget for professional maintenance services. Choose vinyl if low maintenance and modern appearance are non-negotiable and you have the upfront budget. Choose metal if durability, longevity, and contemporary style are most important. And remember: you can combine materials to get the best of multiple worlds.
When you’re ready to install or replace your fence, working with experienced contractors who understand both the materials and your specific property ensures you get exactly what you need. Black Iron Timber Co and NXT Level Custom Builder serve Bucks County and the surrounding area, offering expert design consultation and quality installation for wood, vinyl, and metal fencing systems. Their team can assess your property, help you weigh the trade-offs, and install a fence that looks beautiful and lasts for decades.