Tips for Selecting the Right Fence Materials in Eugene, OR
Living in the Willamette Valley provides many benefits, ranging from the lush, emerald landscape to the relatively mild winters. But, just as the rain can make the landscape so green, it can also be unkind to outdoor structures. The constant moisture, combined with the overcast days that prevent drying out, along with the natural occurrence of moss, means that building a fence is not just about providing seclusion, it is about providing protection from the elements.
Considerations Before You Build
Prior to even considering the different types of wood, or the different textures of vinyl, there are several considerations that must be made prior to building your fence. Firstly, there are zoning laws in place in Eugene, Oregon, which are quite specific with regard to fence height, particularly in front yards and on corner lots. Ignoring these setbacks can prove to be quite costly, either in fines or in having to remove the fence you just built. Always best to check with the local planning department, or better yet, a knowledgeable contractor, prior to digging that first hole for the fence posts.
Beyond the legal aspects, there is also the question of the fence’s ultimate function. If the fence is to prevent the view of a busy street, or to enclose a hot tub for ultimate seclusion, then it must be quite solid with no openings whatsoever. But, of course, that means no sunshine, which is quite valuable in an Oregon winter. If, on the other hand, the primary function of the fence is to keep a dog inside, while providing an unobstructed view, then it may be better to have some space within the fence.
Material Durability in the Pacific Northwest
Having established what you are allowed to do and what you need to do, the choice of material is probably the most important decision you will make.
Western Red Cedar is traditionally used for Pacific Northwest region fence construction. It is highly resistant to rot and insects, making it a strong competitor against the damp climate. Not only will a cedar fence offer that timeless, warm, natural look, but it will also complement its surroundings perfectly, blending in with the natural beauty of Eugene, Oregon.
Yet, even with its many advantages, cedar is not entirely indestructible and will eventually turn gray if not stained and sealed properly, eventually succumbing to moisture damage.
Vinyl fencing, however, has gained widespread popularity over recent years, and for one very important reason: water resistance. It will not be affected by rain, no matter how deep it rains in November! It will not warp, rot, or even splinter, and for those who do not wish to go through the hassle of sanding and staining, vinyl is a highly attractive option, keeping its crisp, clean look with nothing more than an occasional hose down to clean off any dust or spider webs.
Chain link fence is still a viable option for those who wish to prioritize function over form, and while it will not offer that natural, warm look that wood or vinyl will, a galvanized or vinyl-coated chain link fence is virtually indestructible, withstanding even the worst that the Pacific Northwest weather will throw at it, while allowing wind and natural light to pass through, which could be useful for garden beds near the fence line.
The Cost-Benefit Analysis
Every home improvement project always boils down to the budget. However, when it comes to installing a fence, the initial cost is just half the battle. You should also consider the maintenance required to hold up the fence.
Chain link fencing has one of the lowest initial costs and requires almost no upkeep. Therefore, chain link fencing is the best choice when you want to save money. Cedar fencing has a middle-of-the-road initial cost. However, you must also consider the cost of stain, sealant, and labor every few years. If you don’t maintain a wood fence in Eugene, it will not last as long as it should.
Vinyl fencing has one of the highest initial costs. The materials are expensive, and labor requires a high degree of precision. However, you save money in the long run. Since vinyl fencing doesn’t require painting, staining, or replacing boards due to rot, it has an equivalent lifetime cost to wood fencing after a decade or so.
Securing Your Property
Choosing Eugene OR fencing involves balancing what you want to spend, what you are willing to maintain, and what you want it to look like. If you want to save money, go with chain link. If you want to save time, go with vinyl. If you want it to look good, go with cedar. If you want it to last in our rainy climate, make sure it’s installed by professionals!
