Shiner’s Fencing & Contracting Ltd. is a licensed Peel Fence Systems Dealer based in Newmarket, Ontario.
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Different Fence Types & Which Is Right for You

Date: September 24, 2024
Close-up of an ornate black wrought iron fence on a residential property on a cloudy day.

Choosing the right fence for your home is more than just picking something that marks the edge of your yard—it’s about security, safety, and adding that personal touch that makes your space feel like yours. With so many fence types out there, it’s easy to get lost in all the options, especially when every material seems to promise the world. But here’s the truth: not all fences are created equal.

At Peel Fence, we believe your fence should be durable, affordable, and actually work for your home—not create headaches down the line. We’ve been helping families for over 50 years, providing wrought iron and chain link fences that last, look great, and don’t need constant upkeep. Let’s walk you through your options and show you why these fencing solutions might just be the perfect fit for your property.

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Why Fencing Matters

Think about it. A fence is one of the first things people notice when they pull up to your home. It’s the finishing touch on your yard, the thing that keeps your kids and pets safe, and what lets you sleep a little easier knowing you have that extra layer of security. But beyond the functional side, your fence can make your space feel open, welcoming, and secure—or it can close it off, leaving you feeling boxed in.

The fencing types you choose can make all the difference. And while wood, vinyl, and composite fences may look nice in a showroom, they often bring hidden downsides—like constant maintenance and vulnerability to weather damage. You deserve something better—something like a chain link or wrought iron fence that won’t just look good but will last.

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Your Best Fence Types, Broken Down

Let’s dive into the most common fence types and see how they stack up.

1. Chain Link Fences

Close-up of a black chain link fence in a backyard.

Chain link fences are the unsung hero of the fencing world. They might not be flashy, but they are incredibly reliable. These fences offer the perfect mix of security, durability, and affordability. They’re easy to maintain (almost zero upkeep, actually), and their open design lets you keep an eye on everything—perfect for pets, kids, and just feeling connected to your space.

Best For: Families who want a secure, budget-friendly fence without sacrificing visibility.

Considerations: If privacy is a concern, you can always add privacy slats or grow climbing plants alongside your fence. Plus, unlike wood fences, chain link doesn’t block sunlight or airflow, which means your plants and garden will thrive.

2. Wrought Iron Fences

Close-up of a beautiful, decorative wrought iron fence with artistic forging.

Wrought iron fences are where strength meets elegance. They offer unmatched security and look stunning while doing it. If you’re looking for something timeless that adds instant curb appeal, wrought iron is your go-to. Plus, it’s built to last for decades with minimal maintenance—just a little rust prevention from time to time.

Best For: Homeowners who want their fence to be a statement piece—elegant, secure, and built to withstand anything.

Considerations: While wrought iron might have a higher upfront cost, it’s well worth the investment. You won’t need to replace or repair it for years, which means it’s much more affordable in the long run. And let’s be honest—nothing else adds quite the same sophisticated charm to a property.

3. Wood Fences: Why They Fall Short

Portion of a new wooden fence around a house with trees on the other side.

There’s a reason wood fences are often marketed for privacy. They can create a solid barrier between you and the outside world—but that comes with a price. Not only do wood fences need constant maintenance (think staining, sealing, repairing rotted boards), but they’re also vulnerable to weather damage. And if you’ve ever had a wood fence blown over in a storm, you know how frustrating—and expensive—it can be.

Why Avoid Them: Privacy with wood fencing is an illusion. Strong winds can easily knock them down, and because they block airflow and light, your yard can feel closed off and your plants can suffer. Wood fences are also prone to frost heaving, meaning those posts you thought were securely set in cement may shift in winter, causing even more problems.

4. Vinyl and Composite Fences: It’s Not What It Seems

A white vinyl fence running across a yard on a bright summer day with a blue sky and trees in the background.
Panoramic view of dark brown stained composite fencing.

Vinyl and composite fences are often sold as maintenance-free alternatives, but they come with their own issues. Sure, they don’t rot like wood, but they can crack and warp—especially in colder climates. Plus, vinyl can get brittle over time, and composite fences come with a hefty price tag.

Why Avoid Them: While they may seem like an upgrade, vinyl and composite fencing still require upkeep and don’t offer the durability you’d expect for the cost. They also block airflow, and without the option to let in light, your garden might not get the attention it needs. When you compare this to chain link or wrought iron, the choice becomes clear.

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Other Important Aspects of Property Fencing

1. Regulation Pool Fences

A dark wrought iron pool fence surrounding a residential pool in a home’s backyard.

Have a pool? You want a fence that keeps your loved ones safe while allowing you to monitor everything. Both chain link and wrought iron fences meet all pool safety regulations and provide a non-climbable barrier that’s strong and secure. Plus, their open design lets you watch your kids and pets easily, offering peace of mind without sacrificing aesthetics.

Best For: Families who need a secure, regulation-compliant fence for their pool.

Considerations: Peel Fence knows local pool fencing bylaws inside and out, so you can trust us to handle everything from compliance to installation.

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2. Automatic Gates

A wrought iron security gate with rock columns is pictured at the driveway entrance of a large residential property.

Automatic gates are an excellent addition to any fencing system, providing enhanced security and convenience. Whether you’re looking to control access to your driveway or add a touch of sophistication to your entrance, automatic gates offer a seamless blend of functionality and style.

Best For: Homeowners seeking to increase their property’s security and convenience with easy access controls.

Considerations: Automatic gates can be customized to match your existing fence style, ensuring a cohesive look that complements your home’s architecture.

See our Case Studies of previous automatic gate installations.

Why Peel Fence’s Wrought Iron and Chain Link Fencing Are the Best Choices

We’ve been in the fencing business for over 50 years, and there’s a reason we’ve stuck with wrought iron and chain link fencing—they look great and they work. Our installation method, where we drive hollow posts into the ground and fill them with the undisturbed earth, guarantees a sturdy foundation that won’t shift or heave during winter. This technique has stood the test of time, giving you peace of mind that your fence is there to stay.

As for privacy, the combination of a black chain link fence or wrought iron fence with planted shrubs or climbing plants creates natural privacy without the risks associated with other so-called privacy fences.

And when it comes to price? You can’t beat the affordability of these fencing types. They’re less expensive to install, require little to no maintenance, and offer unbeatable durability.

Contact us for a Free Quote.

Let’s Find the Right Type of Fence for You

At the end of the day, you want a fence that complements your home, meets your needs, and stands the test of time. And while wood, vinyl, or composite fences might look appealing at first glance, they often come with more hassle than they’re worth. Wrought iron and chain link fences from Peel Fence give you the best of both worlds—beauty and strength, all without the headaches.

Ready to find the perfect fence for your home? Contact us today for a free quote and let us help you choose a fence that will make you proud every time you pull into your driveway.

Explore our Residential Fencing Options today!