When it comes to fencing, the choice often boils down to two primary materials: metal or wood. Whether you’re looking for an ornate, decorative metal fence to complement your period home or perhaps a timeless, rustic wooden fence, the decision ultimately comes down to one crucial factor – cost. Stay with us as we look at the pros and cons of each to determine which is more budget-friendly.
Wooden fencing is relatively inexpensive upfront
The initial cost of wooden fencing is less than that of metal – but not for the long haul. Despite its lower upfront cost, to prolong its natural beauty, wood requires a lot of maintenance to help extend its lifespan. Extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain, storms, and wind can cause major damage to your fencing. Water can lead to significant moisture damage, which over time, will rot and deteriorate if left untreated. It’s good practice to remove any stubborn dirt or mould using a pressure washer or wood cleaning treatment to blast away dirt that’s built up on a regular basis. Failing to do so will result in the fence’s structure to weaken, ultimately leading to a whole new replacement sooner than expected.
Another important factor to consider is the installation process. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast keen to tackle the project yourself or prefer to hire a professional, wooden fencing is generally easy to install. While it’s crucial to ensure the installation is done securely to prevent damage and limit any repairs, the lightweight nature of wooden fencing makes installation a much smoother process. An advantage for those willing to install the fencing themselves, rather than pay a professional.
Metal fencing makes for a good investment
Metal Fencing may be more expensive up front, but it’s a durable investment that will see you through for years to come. Metal fencing has been engineered to withstand the test of time, providing homeowners with total peace of mind. Unlike wood, maintenance costs are just a fraction of the price, significantly reducing upkeep expenses. The pre-galvanised steel often used in fencing is resistant to rust and bound together with stainless steel fittings also resistant to rust and corrosion. This is a big plus for homeowners who don’t want the hassle of frequent weatherproofing and constantly investing in specialised treatments to maintain the lifespan of their fence.
Another important aspect to consider is security. You could argue metal fencing offers greater security compared to wooden fences due to its sturdiness. Breaking through a metal fence will require significant effort, often involving noisy tools like grinders, alerting people nearby of their presence. Slats in a wooden fence can weaken overtime and are susceptible to snapping if not well maintained, allowing easy access to unwanted intruders and prying eyes. An important factor when weighing up the cost difference between wood and metal fencing.
Which is more budget friendly - metal or wood?
In the grand scheme of things, metal fencing could prove to be more budget friendly when you take into factor its durability, reliability and the security it provides. While the initial costs might be slightly higher, the long-term savings make all the difference. Regular treatments can add up over time, but are not as vital with metal fencing. Having said that, you can never underestimate the timeless beauty of natural wood, but it’ll come at a price when it comes to maintenance expenses.
Whichever you decide, Wrought Iron Gates Direct offers a comprehensive range of modern and classic wrought iron fencing. From elegant driveway and garden gates to expansive estate and bi-fold gates, we have something to suit everyone’s taste and budget. Additionally, we also offer a range of handcrafted wooden gates, manufactured here in the UK. With hundreds of sizes and styles to choose from, you can trust in Wrought Iron Gates Direct to deliver the perfect gate or fence for your home, at a price you’ll love.
Should you have an enquiry or need help with ordering, give us a call on 0844 804 5577 or send us a message at sales@wroughtirongatesdirect.co.uk - we’d be delighted to help.