Fence types
Every option below can be great or terrible depending on who installs it. Choose the material, then choose quality.
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Wood & Cedar Privacy
Best for: Backyard privacy, classic look, budget flexibility
Pros
- Warm, natural look
- Many styles: side-by-side, board-on-board, shadowbox
- Easy to repair one board at a time
Watch-outs
- Needs stain/seal maintenance in Texas sun
- Pickets can warp, gray or split over time
⚜️
Wrought Iron & Ornamental Steel
Best for: Front yards, pools, views, gates, curb appeal
Pros
- Long life when finished well
- Keeps views open
- Custom welding for gates and accents
Watch-outs
- Little privacy
- Rust where the finish is damaged, so it needs touch-ups
🏳️
Vinyl
Best for: Low maintenance, clean modern look
Pros
- No staining or painting
- Will not rot
Watch-outs
- Quality varies a lot. Cheap vinyl can get brittle under strong UV
- Fewer color choices; may be limited by HOA
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Chain Link
Best for: Pets, utility areas, budget containment
Pros
- Usually among the cheapest options
- Durable, quick to install
Watch-outs
- No privacy unless you add slats
- Some HOAs restrict it
🐎
Ranch, Pipe & Wire
Best for: Acreage in Bulverde, Helotes and the Hill Country
Pros
- Cost-effective over long runs
- Pipe fence is very sturdy
Watch-outs
- Needs welding and rock drilling skills
- Large projects need careful layout
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Gates & Automatic Openers
Best for: Driveways, side yards, security
Pros
- Big curb appeal and convenience
- Can be custom-built to match the fence
Watch-outs
- Sag if posts and hinges are undersized
- Openers need power and maintenance