Choosing the right fence for the front of your house is an important decision that requires careful consideration of factors like aesthetics, durability, privacy, security, and cost. With so many fencing options available, from wood to vinyl to aluminum and more, it can be overwhelming to decide which type is best for your home’s curb appeal and needs.
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Key Factors to Consider
When evaluating fencing for the front of your home, here are some of the key factors to take into account:
- Aesthetics – You’ll want to choose a fence style and material that enhances your home’s architecture and landscaping. Many homeowners opt for classic wood or ornamental iron designs in the front.
- Durability – The fence will need to stand up to weather and wear and tear over time. Vinyl, aluminum and iron are very durable options.
- Privacy – If you want the fence to provide privacy from the street, choose materials that are opaque or install it with small gaps between boards.
- Security – Front fences deter intruders from accessing your property. Taller fences of 6 feet provide better security.
- Cost – Prices can range dramatically based on material, height and installation. Get estimates to compare costs for your preferred options.
- HOA regulations – If you live in a neighborhood with a homeowners association, ensure your front fence conforms to any material, style and height requirements.
Popular Front Fence Materials
Now let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular options for front yard fence materials:
Wood
- Cedar – This naturally rot-resistant softwood is a classic picket fence material. It has a beautiful, warm look.
- Redwood – Redwood has a slightly reddish tint and is also naturally decay-resistant. It is more expensive than cedar.
- Pressure-Treated Pine – For a cheaper softwood option, pine can be pressure-treated to withstand the elements. It has a rustic appeal.
Pros: Natural, timeless look. Many classic design options. Softer appearance than metal or vinyl.
Cons: Requires regular maintenance and sealing/staining. Prone to warping, cracking and rotting over time.
Vinyl
- PVC – Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) vinyl is a synthetic plastic polymer used to make vinyl fencing. It can be molded into many designs.
Pros: Extremely durable and low maintenance. Doesn’t require painting or staining. Resists moisture, rotting, splintering and insects. Less expensive than wood.
Cons: Plastic appearance lacks natural character of real wood. Can become brittle and fade over time.
Ornamental Iron & Steel
Wrought iron and steel are common choices for elegant, classic front yard fences with timeless appeal:
- Wrought iron – Intricate, decorative designs created by hand-forging iron. Very expensive but unparalleled beauty.
- Steel – Pre-fabricated steel panels or rods that mimic the look of wrought iron for less cost.
- Aluminum – Lightweight aluminum is rust-proof and can be shaped into intricate ornamental designs.
Pros: Striking, architectural appearance. Very secure. Durable and low maintenance.
Cons: Expensive, especially true wrought iron. Impersonal metal aesthetic lacks warmth.
Composite Wood
Composite mixes recycled plastic and wood fibers to create fencing that looks like natural wood but resists moisture, rotting and insects. Brands like Trex are popular choices.
Pros: Looks very similar to real wood. No staining required. Durable and low maintenance.
Cons: Pricier than pressure-treated wood. Still susceptible to some fading, swelling and damage over time.
Most Popular Front Fence Styles
In addition to choosing a material, you’ll also want to select a fence style that suits your home’s architecture and needs. Here are some of the most popular front yard fence styles:
Picket Fences
Picket fences feature rows of vertical wood slats spaced closely together. This traditional style has a timeless, welcoming appeal. They also provide semi-privacy and security when installed properly.
Ranch Rail Fences
Ranch rail fences have horizontal wood rails secured to vertical posts, often with crossed diagonal bracing. This style can complement homes with a ranch or farmhouse style.
Split Rail Fences
Split rail fences use timber rails hand split lengthwise secured to wood posts. They have a rustic, natural look perfect for cottages or country homes.
Wrought Iron & Steel
As mentioned above, iron and steel fences provide ornate designs from intricate curves to pointed finials. They bring elegance and sophistication to home exteriors in traditional or formal styles.
PVC Vinyl
Vinyl also comes in picket, ranch, split rail and other mimicked wood styles. The plastic material allows for customized colors to match your home.
Aluminum Ornamental
Lightweight aluminum can be designed into flowing scrollwork, spiked finials, and other decorative motifs for a metal upgrade over wrought iron.
Best Fence Materials by Home Style
Certain fence materials and designs tend to better complement specific home architectural styles:
| Home Style | Best Fence Materials |
|---|---|
| Colonial | Wood picket, composite picket, ornamental iron |
| Farmhouse | Wood ranch rail, wood split rail, composite wood |
| Cottage | Wood picket, composite picket, vinyl picket |
| Craftsman | Wood picket, composite picket, vinyl picket |
| Tudor | Wood picket, composite picket, ornamental iron |
| Ranch | Wood ranch rail, composite ranch rail, vinyl ranch rail |
| Mediterranean | Ornamental iron, ornamental aluminum, stucco and wood combo |
| Victorian | Ornamental iron, ornamental aluminum, wood picket |
Cost Comparison of Front Fence Materials
Fence material costs can vary based on type of material, height, design complexity and more. Here is a general comparison of average installed costs per linear foot:
| Fence Material | Average Cost Per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| Pressure-Treated Pine Wood | $10 – $30 |
| Cedar Wood | $15 – $40 |
| Redwood | $20 – $50 |
| Vinyl | $15 – $40 |
| Composite Wood | $15 – $45 |
| Ornamental Wrought Iron | $60 – $100 |
| Steel | $25 – $80 |
| Ornamental Aluminum | $40 – $80 |
Keep in mind these are just general estimates. Prices for custom designer fences can be much higher. Get quotes from local fencing contractors for exact pricing for your specific project.
Choosing the Best Front Fence Height
The height you choose for your front yard fence will impact appearance, privacy and security. Typical heights include:
- 3-4 feet – Provides boundary definition with some minor privacy and security. Allows visibility of your home’s facade.
- 5-6 feet – Substantially increases privacy while maintaining visibility of the upper portion of your home’s exterior. Most common height.
- Over 6 feet – Maximizes privacy and security but can obscure too much of your home’s facade. Often exceeds HOA regulations.
Consider your goals and requirements when choosing fence height. Also check with your HOA on any height limitations for front yard fences, which commonly cap out at 4 to 6 feet.
Installing Your Front Yard Fence
When you’re ready to move forward with your front yard fencing project, here are some tips for installation success:
- Obtain permit – Most municipalities require permits for front fence installation to ensure proper zoning and safety protocols.
- Hire contractor – Unless you’re highly experienced, hire a professional fencing company to handle the installation.
- Call to mark utilities – Call 811 before digging for them to mark any underground utility lines.
- Check boundaries – Confirm your property boundaries to avoid encroaching on a neighbor’s land.
- Level ground – The installers may need to level and clear the ground first for proper fence footings.
- Sturdy posts – The fence posts need to be sunk into the ground for stability, often set in concrete.
A quality fencing company will ensure proper installations standards are met, giving your fence long-lasting stability and security.
Maintaining Your Front Yard Fence
Proper maintenance is key to keeping your front fence in good condition:
- Wood – Seal, stain or paint every 1-2 years. Inspect for damage. Replace rotten pickets/rails as needed.
- Vinyl/PVC – Clean occasionally with soap and water. Repair cracks immediately to prevent widening.
- Ornamental Metal – Clean periodically with water and mild detergent. Touch up paint at first sign of rust.
- Composite Wood – Wash occasionally with soap and water. No staining needed but you can refresh the color.
A durable front fence material like vinyl or composite wood will be your lowest maintenance option. But any front fence will need periodic inspection and care to keep it functioning and looking its best.
Conclusion
Choosing the ideal fence for your home’s front yard involves weighing factors like aesthetics, durability, cost, and privacy/security needs. Popular materials for front yard fences include wood, PVC vinyl, composite wood and ornamental iron or aluminum. The style you select should complement your home’s architecture, with classic picket and ranch fences as top choices. Be sure to check height ordinances and work with experienced fencing professionals for installation. With proper installation and maintenance, your new front yard fence will beautifully accent your property for years to come.