If you’re considering a new or replacement fence one of the first decisions you will have to make is whether to go for a single picket fence or one constructed from panels.
It’s certainly possible to build an attractive fence from individual pickets, but there are also good reasons to consider using manufactured fence panels. These are essentially pre-assembled units, of various standard sizes, and usually made from wood, vinyl or metal.
All About Fence Panels
Installation
If you build your fence from pre-assembled panels you will still have to do some preparatory work in surveying your ground and putting in the posts to receive the panels, but the process can be very quick and easy. Depending of course on the length of fence and the condition of the ground you may, for example, be able to finish installation in a single weekend.
Quality and uniformity
Buying pre-assembled panels from a reputable fencing company will ensure the quality and uniformity of each individual picket, as well as the strength of the panel’s assembly. Both the panels and the fence as a whole will share a robust structure and present a consistent and attractive appearance.
Flexibility
Factory assembly need not mean a lack of variety. Modern fence panels can be obtained in a range of heights, widths, and styles. Privacy fence panels, for example, are typically taller and solid in structure, while lower panels (say three feet) with spaces between pickets can be used to give a visually attractive look to a front yard or garden.
Of course, manufactured panels may not exactly match the length of the boundary to be fenced, so most types of panels can easily be cut to the required width.
Eight feet in width by six feet in height is a typical selection for most purposes, though eight feet in height may be required in some cases. Taller fences than this require special attention to be paid to the structure particularly in areas vulnerable to high winds.
It’s also always a good idea to check whether your town or city has any regulations relating to fence height and appearance.
The different materials available
Wood, aluminum and vinyl/PVC are the most common fencing materials. Wood fence panels are probably the most visually attractive option, but the downside is that they can require a good deal of maintenance depending on the climate.
Quality vinyl fence panels can retain much of the look of wood while requiring much less maintenance for a long life, while aluminum offers the strongest and most secure construction, and is also very durable and easy to maintain.
How to Choose Your Fence Panels
The kind of panel you choose will depend ultimately on the purpose of the fence, the budget available, and your personal taste. But with such a huge range of options available, it can be a great help to talk with an experienced industry professional before proceeding.
Find Out More
At Atlantic Fence & Supply Co of Hanover MD we’ve been proudly serving homes and businesses up and down the East Coast region for more than 30 years.
For advice on your fencing project, a free estimate or more details of our range of quality fencing supplies call us on 410-796-4747 or send us a message online here.
Our experienced specialists are always happy to help.