Choosing the best fencing products will depend on what kind of fence you need. A security fence, for example, will require different fencing products than a privacy fence, garden fence, or decorative fence. Start by deciding the purpose of your fence and then determine your ideal budget. These two considerations will have the biggest impact on the fencing products you choose. Remember that hardware is just as important as the fence panels you choose, and keep in mind that some fencing materials will require regular maintenance to prevent rot, rust, or other types of damage that results from regular exposure to the elements.
Chain link fencing products are commonly used as security fencing or as inexpensive perimeter fencing designed to keep unwanted visitors out or other people, animals, or things contained within a space. Be sure to choose chain link fencing products that are galvanized, meaning the steel has been chemically bonded with zinc or aluminum to help prevent rust and corrosion. Once you have found galvanized fencing, be sure to choose the correct gauge of steel for your purposes; thicker gauge steel is strong, durable, and useful for security fencing and heavy duty applications. Lighter gauge steel is less sturdy, though it makes a good border fence.
Wooden fencing products will very often require some sort of regular maintenance in the form of painting, staining, waterproofing, or other types of treating. Choose wood that is high quality and durable; cedar is perhaps the best choice because it is naturally resistant to damage from the elements, such as rot and warping. It is also resistant to bug infestations, and it is naturally beautiful. Pressure treated lumber is also a good choice because it has been chemically treated to resist rot and mold due to moisture exposure. Avoid untreated lumber; if you do choose untreated lumber to reduce the cost of the fencing, be sure to treat it yourself with some sort of water resistant or waterproof paint or stain.
Other fencing products include vinyl, concrete, brick, stone, iron, and aluminum. Brick is the most expensive of the fencing products available, and it requires special skills to install properly. Brick will, however, be quite long lasting and attractive. Iron, too, can be expensive, though it is rugged and durable, and it is a very attractive fencing material. Aluminum is meant for lighter duty purposes, such as perimeter fencing around a pool area. It is resistant to corrosion and rust, though it is not as strong as other options. Vinyl is very low maintenance and attractive, though it can be difficult to install.
