The best fencing material for your project will depend on:
- The purpose of your fence
- The available budget
- Your style and design preferences
All fencing materials have their advantages and disadvantages. Here is a comparison chart to help make your selection easier.
Timber / Wood
eg. Lattice, Picket, Post and Rail, Louvre, Paling, Lap and cap, Slats
| Advantages |
Disadvantages |
- 100% natural
- Versatile
- Wide range of styles available
- Cost effective
- Easily repaired
- Wide selection of finishes to suit. Painting or staining options
- Customised configurations
|
- Requires regular maintenance to keep original look
- Limited lifespan, some timbers can rot if not treated properly
|
Brick and cement
eg. Rendered, Natural Brick
| Advantages |
Disadvantages |
- Long lasting
- Provide good sound insulation
- Low maintenance
- Can be easily painted
|
- More costly than wood
- Can crack if not erected properly
|
Steel and Aluminium
Loop, Spear, Federation, Colorbond (Lysaght), Steelmesh, Tubular
| Advantages |
Disadvantages |
- Long lasting
- Strong when compared to other materials
- Lightweight
- No painting or staining
- Wide colour selection
- Multiple styles available
- Prefabricated, quick installation
|
- Can sometimes scratch or get dents
- Must be coated correctly to avoid rust and corrosion
|
Wire
eg. Chain wire, Stainless steel, Cable, Barbed
| Advantages |
Disadvantages |
- Long lasting
- Good ventilation
- Good for high applications (3+ meters)
- Quick installation
- Affordable
|
- No privacy
- Low visual appeal
|
Vinyl and PVC
eg. Lattice, Picket, Zigzag
| Advantages |
Disadvantages |
- Long lifespan
- Weathers well
- No painting or staining
- Impervious to insect damage
|
- Not as strong as timber or aluminium
|
Stone
eg. Sandstone, Natural and Reconstituted
| Advantages |
Disadvantages |
- Durable
- High visual appeal
|
- Size and height limitations
- High construction costs
|
Natural
eg. Brushwood, Bamboo, Reed, Cane
| Advantages |
Disadvantages |
- Environmentally friendly
- Rustic elegance
- Good airflow
|
- Not all materials are pest and rot resistant
|
Glass
eg. Frameless, Semi-frameless
| Advantages |
Disadvantages |
- Lets in light
- Good sound and wind proofing
- High visual appeal
- Good for pools and homes that want to capitalise on views
- Can be tinted to increase privacy
Strong
|
- More expensive than other fencing
- Can scratch
- Some glass types require regular cleaning
|
