When it comes to choosing fencing for your home, especially in areas with extreme weather, the materials you pick make all the difference. Whether it’s heavy rain, intense sun, or freezing temperatures, your fence needs to withstand the elements. That’s where composite fencing shines. Unlike traditional wood or metal options, composite fencing is specifically designed to handle harsh weather conditions while still looking great and lasting for years. Let’s explore why composite fencing is the best choice for homes facing tough climates and unpredictable weather.
What Makes Composite Fencing Different?
Composite fencing is a modern fencing solution made from a blend of wood fibres and recycled plastics. This mix gives it the natural look of wood but with enhanced durability and strength. Traditional wooden fences can rot, warp, or break down over time, especially when exposed to severe weather. Metal fences, while strong, can rust and become unsightly. Composite fencing, on the other hand, is built to resist these problems. It doesn’t require frequent upkeep or treatments, making it an attractive option for homeowners seeking both practicality and style. Check out this guide to installing composite fence materials so you know what you’re dealing with.
Resistance to Moisture and Rot
One of the biggest advantages of composite fencing is its resistance to moisture. Traditional wooden fences tend to absorb water when it rains or snows, which leads to rotting, mould, and warping over time. This isn’t a concern with composite fencing. The materials used are designed to repel moisture, ensuring the fence remains solid and intact even in areas with heavy rainfall or high humidity. Plus, there’s no need for chemical treatments to prevent rot—composite fencing naturally withstands the elements, making it a low-maintenance and environmentally safer option.
Withstanding Strong Winds
If you live in a region prone to strong winds or storms, composite fencing is a fantastic choice. Unlike wood, which can splinter or snap under pressure, composite fencing is both strong and flexible, allowing it to stand firm during heavy gusts. Vinyl fences, while lighter, can be easily knocked over in high winds. Composite fencing, especially when properly installed, has the durability to stay upright and intact. It’s an ideal solution for coastal areas or anywhere with frequent storms and wind exposure.
UV and Sunlight Protection
In areas with constant sunlight and high UV exposure, many fences can fade or discolour over time. Composite fencing is specifically designed to resist these effects. Its materials include UV stabilisers that protect the fence from sun damage, ensuring it keeps its colour and appearance for years. Whether you live in a sunny climate or just want a fence that won’t fade over time, composite fencing offers long-term protection from the sun’s harsh rays without the need for regular repainting or staining.
Cold and Snow: No Cracking or Warping
For those living in colder climates, winter can wreak havoc on traditional fences. Wooden fences can crack or warp when exposed to freezing temperatures, while some materials may even break under the pressure of heavy snow and ice. Composite fencing, however, is built to resist these issues. It won’t crack or lose its shape in the cold, and it can handle snow and ice without any major damage. Since it doesn’t expand and contract as much as wood, composite fencing maintains its structure and appearance throughout the winter, making it a reliable choice for homes in snowy or frosty areas.
Resistant to Insects and Pests
Wooden fences can often attract unwanted visitors—namely termites, carpenter ants, and other pests. These insects can cause severe damage to a wooden fence, eating away at the structure and weakening it over time. Composite fencing is resistant to these types of infestations. Since it contains no organic material for pests to feed on, you won’t have to worry about termites or other insects making a meal out of your fence. This pest resistance makes composite fencing even more suited for homes in areas where termites are a common problem, giving you peace of mind for years to come.
Options You Have with Composite Fencing
The Height
While the width of composite fence panels is often decided, you can select what height you want it to be. For example, 1.8 metres is a popular option if you’re fencing your back garden. This gives you plenty of privacy with neighbours. If you’re going for a fenced-in perimeter at the front of your house, it’s often half of this height. Make sure you check what the rules are in your local area and if there’s anything included with your property deeds. This way, you’re abiding by those rules and making a good investment for your home.
The Trellis
There are some composite fencing designs that allow you to choose a trellis. In other words, this trellis will be attached at the top of the fence, adding interest and some height. Indeed, you’ll want to choose if you want a trellis to be attached to the fencing. If the answer is yes, you’ll also have to think about the colour and style.
The Posts
There are some composite fencing that come with the posts. The panels are already attached and this might make installation easier. Alternatively, you can choose to have your own posts and just purchase the panels. Consider who is going to be installing your new fence and what’s going to make the most sense for your garden. You also want to consider what type of posts you want, whether this is aluminium or concrete. After all, you want to ensure you have a secure boundary.
The Colour
Of course, don’t forget that you have fun choices to make with composite. You need to select the colour of the fencing you like the most. For example, there can be different shades of brown, grey and black. Consider whether you want to go modern and bold or something that complements your home. Since this is a material that lasts for years, take your time with your colour selection. You want to ensure that you’re going to be happy with the choice in the future.
Conclusion
Composite fencing is more than just a practical choice—it’s a smart investment for homeowners in areas facing tough weather conditions. From resisting moisture, UV rays, and high winds, to being immune to pests and cracking in the cold, composite fencing truly stands up to whatever the weather throws at it. Its long-lasting durability, low maintenance requirements, and eco-friendly benefits make it the perfect option for homes in harsh climates. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your garden or protect your property, composite fencing offers the protection, style, and longevity you need.
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