How to Maintain a Wood Fence

Annual Maintenance Checklist A well-maintained wood fence can last 15-20 years. Follow this annual routine: Inspect for loose boards, leaning posts, and rot — especially at ground level Clean with a garden hose or light pressure wash (1,500-2,000 PSI max) Trim vegetation, vines, and tree branches away from the fence Repair damaged boards, tighten hardware, and re-secure loose rails Staining and Sealing Apply a quality wood stain or sealant every 2-3 years. This is the single most important thing you can do to extend your fence's life. Wait for a dry period with temperatures between 50-90°F. New pressure-treated wood should weather for 2-3 months before the first stain application. Preventing Rot The most common failure point is where posts meet the ground. Ensure posts are set in concrete (not bare soil) and that water drains away from the base. Keeping the bottom of fence boards 1-2 inches above ground prevents moisture wicking.

What Is the Cheapest Fence to Build?

Most Affordable Privacy Fence Options If budget is your primary concern, here are your best options from cheapest to most expensive: Bamboo: $10–$25/ft — cheapest eco-friendly privacy option Wood privacy: $15–$35/ft — cheapest durable privacy fence Cedar: $20–$45/ft — premium wood with natural rot resistance Vinyl: $20–$40/ft — cheapest long-term when factoring in zero maintenance How to Save Money DIY installation saves 40-50% on labor costs Pressure-treated pine is the cheapest wood (vs. cedar or redwood) Standard 6-foot height costs less than 8-foot Straight runs cost less than lots of corners and angles Off-season installation (late fall/winter) may get better contractor rates Cheapest vs. Best Value The cheapest fence upfront isn't always the best value. A $15/ft wood fence lasting 12 years costs $1.25/ft per year. A $30/ft vinyl fence lasting 25 years costs $1.20/ft per year — actually cheaper over time.

Metal vs Wood

Choosing between Metal and Wood fencing? Metal offers low maintenance, a 20–40 year lifespan, and $20–$50 per linear foot, while Wood offers high maintenance, a 10–20 year lifespan, and $15–$35 per linear foot. Here's a full side-by-side comparison of cost, lifespan, maintenance, and best use cases.

Quick Comparison

	Metal	Wood
Cost / ft	$20–$50	$15–$35
Lifespan	20–40 yrs	10–20 yrs
Maintenance	low	high

Overview

Metal

Metal panel fences use corrugated steel, Corten steel, or flat metal sheets mounted between posts to create a modern, industrial privacy barrier. They offer complete privacy and a bold contemporary look. Corten steel develops a natural rust patina that acts as a protective layer.

Wood

Wood privacy fences are the classic American fence, offering warmth and natural beauty. Typically built with pressure-treated pine, they provide full privacy with tightly spaced vertical boards. Wood fences can be painted or stained in any color and are easy to repair.

Common Uses

Metal

✓ Modern home privacy
✓ Industrial aesthetics
✓ Commercial screening
✓ Contemporary landscaping
✓ Urban backyard fencing

Wood

✓ Backyard privacy
✓ Property boundaries
✓ Pet containment
✓ Decorative borders
✓ Noise reduction

Pros & Cons

Metal

+ Bold, modern aesthetic
+ Complete privacy with solid panels
+ Very long-lasting — metal doesn't rot
+ Fire-resistant
+ Low maintenance once installed

− Can dent from impact
− Corrugated steel can be noisy in rain and wind
− Gets hot in direct sunlight
− Professional installation recommended
− May not comply with HOA requirements

Wood

+ Affordable upfront cost
+ Easy to customize height, style, and color
+ Natural, warm appearance
+ Simple to repair — replace individual boards
+ Widely available materials

− Requires staining or painting every 2-3 years
− Susceptible to rot, warping, and insect damage
− Shorter lifespan than vinyl or metal
− Can lean or sag over time
− Weather damage accumulates without maintenance

Cost Comparison

Measure	Metal	Wood
Per linear foot	$20 – $50	$15 – $35

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Lifespan & Maintenance

Attribute	Metal	Wood
Expected Lifespan	20–40 years	10–20 years
Maintenance Level	low	high
Material	Metal	Wood

Which Is Better: Metal or Wood?

Choose Metal if you need:

✓ Modern and industrial home designs
✓ Low-maintenance privacy
✓ Commercial and mixed-use properties
✓ Creative architectural statements

Choose Wood if you need:

✓ Budget-conscious homeowners
✓ Custom designs and heights
✓ DIY installation
✓ Properties wanting a natural look

Metal is not recommended for:

× Traditional neighborhoods
× HOA-restricted communities
× Budget projects
× Areas prone to denting

Wood is not recommended for:

× Areas with heavy termite activity (without treatment)
× Wet climates without proper maintenance
× Homeowners who dislike regular upkeep

Published February 15, 2026

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