What Type of Fence Lasts the Longest?
When installing a new fence around your home in Kansas, longevity is likely your top concern. You want your investment to stand the test of time while continuing to serve its purpose for security, privacy, and curb appeal.
The good news is that there are several longest lasting fence materials and styles to choose from.
Which Fencing Lasts the Longest?
When installing fencing around your Kansas property, longevity is likely a top concern. You want your investment to stand the test of time while continuing to effectively serve its purpose for security, privacy and curb appeal.
You’ll be happy to know there are several durable fencing materials and styles to choose from that can last over 20 years when properly maintained.
These longest lasting fencing options include vinyl, aluminum, wrought iron, high-quality woods, and chain link. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each in more detail when weighing your choices.
Vinyl Fencing
Vinyl is one of the most durable and low-maintenance longest lasting fence options. It holds up very well to Kansas’ varied climate with hot summers and cold winters.
This material also resists rot, cracks, insects, and decay. With a life expectancy of 20-30 years, vinyl doesn’t require much upkeep beyond an occasional light cleaning.
Aluminum Fencing
Aluminum fencing will easily last over 20 years with its deep rooted resistance to corrosion and rot. Kansas is known for its tornados and rough storms so having a fence that can withstand high winds is important.
For your aluminum fence to look the best, it just needs to be cleaned periodically.
Wrought Iron Fencing
Wrought iron is an extremely durable material that can last over 50 years. It resists rusting, bending, warping and weather damage. With proper maintenance like painting or sealing, wrought iron fences can last for decades.
Wood Fencing
Certain dense hardwoods like cedar and redwood naturally resist rot and insects but no wood will last forever. With regular staining or sealing to protect from moisture damage, a wood privacy fence built with quality materials can last 15-20 years.
Chain Link Fencing
Properly installed galvanized chain link can last 20 to 30 years or more. You can expect to make repairs by replacing individual corroded links over time. Though not the most visually appealing, chain link is an affordable and durable fencing choice.
What Is the Best Fence Style for Longevity?
The simplest fencing styles often have the longest lasting fence posts as they have fewer components vulnerable to wear. Basic privacy, chain link, board-on-board, post and rail fences will outlast more elaborate designs prone to loosening and decay over the years. Contact us at any time to discuss the best fencing options for you.
What About Cost Considerations?
When considering longevity, also factor cost into your decision making. Though materials like vinyl and wrought iron last longer, they usually come at a higher upfront price point.
Pressure treated woods cost less initially but require more frequent staining/sealing and repairs. Think lifecycle costs over the full lifespan of the fence.
How Does Climate Impact Fence Durability?
Kansas’ variable climate with very hot summers and cold, wet winters can wear down outdoor fencing prematurely if the materials are vulnerable.
Vinyl, aluminum and wrought iron stand up extremely well year-round whereas wood needs careful sealing and finishes to mitigate moisture damage from rain, snow and ice. Evaluate your unique microclimate on the property when selecting a fencing type.
What Is the Best Wood For a Fence in Kansas?
For wood privacy fences in Kansas, Western red cedar is the gold standard. This premium softwood naturally resists rot, cracks, and insect damage thanks to its unique moisture-wicking properties and density.
What Type of Fence Lasts the Longest: FAQs
What fence lasts the longest — wood or vinyl?
Vinyl lasts longer overall, but wood fences properly maintained can still provide 15+ years of service.
Do aluminum fences rust?
No, aluminum fencing does not rust and provides over 20 years of use on average.
How long should a cedar fence last?
With periodic staining and sealing, high quality cedar fences can last 15-20 years in Kansas’ humid, changeable climate.
Can a rotted wood fence be repaired?
It’s best to fully replace rotted sections for structural integrity, but early stage rot can potentially be remedied with wood fillers, sanding, and refinishing.
Final Thoughts
So, what type of fence lasts longest? When prioritizing durability and longevity in your new fence purchase, we recommend considering low-maintenance vinyl or corrosion-resistant aluminum.
Both offer 20+ years of intact security and privacy with minimal upkeep required. High-quality woods like cedar and redwood also make sense providing you properly seal and care for them over their lifespan.
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