Fence Designs, Ideas and Styles - Best Types of Fences

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A fence is one of the most important outdoor aesthetics of your home. If you have an old or outdated fence this can age your home significantly. Finding the right fence design can make the difference in selling your home, or simply making it the envy of the neighborhood.

There are many different types of fences which can make it difficult when deciding which one best suits your home. Fences began as a way to separate properties, but it has evolved into an art of its own.

Below are some of the best examples of fence materials, fence costs, and different fence styles which you can replicate to update your current fence or add one to your home.

Types of Fence Material

The top three materials for fences are:

Wood Fences

Pros

Can be used to create curves
More natural appearance
Can be finished with stain or paint to achieve your color of choice

Cons

Possibility of rot and/or problems with pests
Cost of lumber is increasing

Vinyl Fences

Pros

Can adapt to many different styles
Can last for 10+ years without fading, less maintenance

Cons

Limited colors (white, tan, dark tan)
For large spans, reinforcement is needed so the fence will not sag
Vulnerable to extreme temperatures
Repair costs are higher

Wrought Iron / Modern Steel

Pros

With use of modern steel material is more flexible
Very strong material

Cons

Possibility of rusting if scratched

Other Materials Frequently Used

Aluminum

Chain Link

Bamboo

Picket

Metal

Brick

Glass

Natural/Green

Stone

Fence Cost

When considering the fence material you should always make sure you are aware of the costs. Like many home improvements, the costs are completely dependent on material type, amount of material needed, as well as if you will be doing this yourself or paying for installation.

Fencing is usually priced per foot or meter. Therefore, the bigger the area you want to fence, the higher the cost. Building a beautiful, well-built fence is definitely one of the harder home improvements to do on your own. Also, do not forget to calculate the cost for renting the necessary tooling before taking the leap at conquering this home improvement on your own.

The average costs for a fence is right under $3,000. Keep in mind that this average is part of a huge range depending on which material you use as well as your region, as costs will vary.

Wood: $13-$19/ft

Vinyl: $25/ft

Wrought Iron: 6’ height $22/ft ; 3’ height $14/ft

Costs for installation are also usually done per foot. There is a large range of installation costs, but the average for a six-foot high privacy backyard fence is between $7 and $15 dollars per linear foot.

There is an option now for pre-made panels which makes things a little easier, but you will pay a little bit more to have the panel already constructed.

Fence Styles + Ideas

Now that we have discussed different materials and costs of fences, you are at the fun part – the fence style. Over the years, fence designs have grown from a basic line to divide properties to an art form that is an invitation to your home.

Below are 9 fence styles to help you on your fence makeover.