How Long Should a Fence Last? Insights from a Fencing Contractor in Northfield, Illinois

30 Jan How Long Should a Fence Last? Insights from a Fencing Contractor in Northfield, Illinois

Your fence does a lot of work. It gives you privacy, keeps your pets and kids safe, and even adds to the beauty of your yard. But no fence lasts forever. Over time, every type of fence will eventually wear out — how long it lasts depends on the material it is made from.

Below, this fencing contractor in Northfield, Illinois is going to highlight some of the factors that impact how long a fence lasts, and we’ll also share some tips that will help you keep your fence in good condition.

The fence material is a big factor in its longevity.

For example, wood fences look warm and beautiful, but they need regular maintenance to stay that way. If you seal or stain your wooden fence every 2-3 years, it can last as long as 30 years, depending on the type of wood. But if you don’t look after it, wood can start to rot, warp, or attract insects, which means your fence will not last nearly as long without proper maintenance.

Vinyl fences are much easier to maintain than wood. Once they are installed, there is not much you need to do except keep them clean. And even with minimal maintenance, these fences can last 20–30 years. Vinyl fences can cost more upfront than wood, but the durability and low-maintenance qualities of the material can actually save you money over time. Vinyl is recyclable, so it is an environmentally conscious choice as well.

If you want something even tougher, check out aluminum and wrought iron fences, as these can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance. Steel fences are just as durable but may need periodic rust prevention to stay in their best condition.

A good fencing contractor in Northfield, Illinois, can help you compare different fence materials and choose the one that best matches your lifestyle. Are you someone who is happy to repaint and reseal your fence every few years? Or would you rather have a fence you barely have to think about? A fencing contractor will clearly understand your preference and help you make the best choice.

Taking care of your fence will extend its lifespan.

No matter how durable your fence is, it will still need some maintenance to last as long as it can. Without proper maintenance, even the best fence materials can wear out faster than they should.

For wood fences, regular sealing or staining is a must, as it keeps moisture, bugs, and rot from damaging the wood. You will also want to keep your wood fence clear of debris and vegetation because these can trap moisture and speed up decay.

Vinyl and aluminum fences are much easier to maintain. All they need is occasional cleaning to remove dirt and grime, and they will look as good as new.

Knowing the signs of wear tells you it’s time for a new fence.

Even the most well-maintained fence will eventually need to be replaced. But how do you know when that time has come?

If you have a wood fence, look for rotting wood, warped boards, or leaning sections. These are signs that it might be time to get a new fence. For vinyl fences, cracks or sun damage that weakens the fence structure are big red flags. For metal fences, rust and corrosion are usually the two common signs that the fence is reaching the end of its life.

If you notice these problems, don’t wait until your fence is falling apart — it’s better to reach out to your local fencing contractor in Northfield, Illinois to schedule an inspection. They can tell you if repairs are possible or if it is time for a new fence.

Proper installation can be necessary to make sure your fence lasts as long as possible.

Even if you buy the best, strongest fence material you can buy, it will not last long if it is not installed the proper way. Proper installation makes sure your fence can handle bad weather, daily wear and tear, and local building codes.

DIY installations can seem like a good option, but they can result in problems like weak posts, misaligned panels, or gaps that let in stray animals. Professional fencing contractors know how to anchor, align, and handle materials the proper way so they can give your fence the best chance of lasting for as long as they can.

Looking for a Fencing Contractor in Northfield, Illinois?

Do you want to enhance your property with a high-quality fence? If so, and if you are searching for the top-rated fencing contractor in Northfield, Illinois, look no further than Action Fence. Contact us today at (847) 949-6690 to learn more and schedule a free consultation.