Timber vs Colorbond Steel Fencing: The Best Choice for Your Property
Adding a fence to your home is not only great for keeping pets in, giving kids a safe space to play, and optimizing privacy, it also increases the resale value of your home. Like most other home-related upgrades or installations, you want to make sure you get the best value for money when choosing a fence. Besides choosing a fence that matches your landscaping and that is visually appealing, you also want something that won’t require much maintenance and that will be durable throughout the seasons. Here’s your ultimate guide to choosing between Colorbond steel fencing and timber fencing for your property.
Colorbond Fencing
Colorbond fencing is not just any panel of painted steel. The inner base is made of Zincalume which is a combination of zinc and aluminium. It is made in adherence to strict Australian Standards, to meet strength, durability, anti-corrosion, and quality requirements. The steel is coated with an enhanced corrosion-resistant coating, pretreatment, and a topcoat of exterior grade paint is baked onto the steel outer layer specifically designed to prevent blistering and flaking. With outdoor fencing being subject to harsh weather conditions from severe heat and cold, to rain and hail, the material undergoes thorough testing to ensure it won’t be affected by the elements and retains its flawless look for years.
Durability
With the specialized construction of Colorbond, it probably comes as no surprise that this is recommended as a highly durable material. Besides being rot and warp-resistant, it is also unappealing to pests and termites. The material is also fire-rated as an extra safety measure.
Maintenance
With so many aspects of your home that constantly require maintenance, you don’t have to worry that your Colobond fence will be one of them. These fences don’t require repainting or staining. Simply wash it down with warm soapy water once in a while for improved maintenance and your chores are done.
Price and Longevity
With its excellent durability and low maintenance, Colorbond comes in more expensive than timber fencing, however, if you work on the fact that it will last you 10 years longer and costs less to maintain, it doesn’t work out to be a higher cost in the long run.
Security and Style
Steel fencing may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but Colorbond comes in a variety of colours so you can complement the look of your property with something that perfectly fits your personal preference. The solid panels don’t have any gaps and feature clean lines with a modern look. Since there are almost no footholds or easily detachable slats, the fence offers high security and are not easy to climb over.
Timber Fencing
Timber fencing is classic and offers a natural look with varying types of wood, textures, grains, and finishes. It can be stained, varnished, or painted to customize the look. Most fences are made of pine wood that is treated to enhance its weather- and bug-proof qualities.
Durability
Wood treatments enhance the resistance to harsh weather conditions and chemically treated panels will also prevent fungi and pest infestation or damage. Compared to Colorbond, timber fencing is however more susceptible to rot and can warp if not properly treated and maintained under extreme conditions.
Maintenance
Timber fencing requires a little maintenance that may depend on the type of wood and coating. It will need a touch-up with either paint, varnish, or oil, as well as sealant to enhance water and rain protection as it wears. Although this doesn’t have to be done too often, you will need to purchase these extra materials for upkeep when necessary.
Price and Longevity
Most timber fences have a lifespan of around 15 years. Extra care and maintenance can prolong this by a couple more years. Timber fences are a cheaper option than Colorbond, however, their lifespan is around 10 years less.
Security
When it comes to security, timber fencing is better than no fencing, but not completely burglar-proof. Fences are generally constructed with slats, both vertical and horizontal, which are easier to climb over than steel panels, and easier to snap or dismantle. If you prefer the look of timber fencing, make sure you have a secure, thick, and well-installed unit to ensure good safety features.
If you’re looking for an immediate solution on a budget, timber fencing may be a good option.
However, Colorbond is an investment that will last longer, require less maintenance, and offers colour versatility. Since a fence is part of your property and landscape design, carefully consider how much effort you are willing to put into maintenance and the value you will get for your money spent.