10 ideas for building a fence on a budget

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A fence is the first line of defence for your property. Fencing protects your property and home by helping to keep intruders out, and children and pets in; there are fencing solutions that serve as a safety barrier around pools and spas. A fence also increases your privacy and can help to protect you from strong winds.

Fencing is available in a huge variety of styles, designs and materials. When it comes to selecting the material for your fence, with options ranging from natural timber to aluminium and composites, it's important to weigh the pros and cons of each to determine which is right for you.

When evaluating your options, one very important consideration is your budget. You’ll need to factor in the cost of the entire area you wish to fence in, as well as ongoing maintenance costs.

Remember, cheap fencing isn't always good fencing and sometimes the cost of ongoing maintenance and repair can exceed the initial capital outlay of a higher quality fence. Equally, however, the cost of certain fencing may be unusually – and sometimes unjustifiably – high. So, do your research before embarking on a fencing project.

Top 10 affordable fencing ideas for 2022

Though there are many low-cost fencing options available, these can come with higher maintenance requirements and style limitations. Go through the low-cost fence options available to you and then consider what you could buy for a little more money. Is it worth putting aside a little extra money now to buy something that will serve you better in the long run?

Let's explore some fencing ideas.

Composite fencing

High on privacy, security and safety, composite fencing is a popular material for creating a safe zone for pets and children.

High-quality composite fence boards look like natural timber; however, unlike timber, they are not vulnerable to pests or rotting. Though composite is not the cheapest option, it is extremely low-maintenance and can last up to 25 years, which can make it a cost-effective option in the long run.

Plasmar fencing

Plasmar is essentially recycled plastic fencing made from recycled material and comes with the assurance of a long lifespan. The fence posts are made from 100% recycled and engineering-grade polymer material.

This material is CSIRO tested for durability and is proven to last up to 50 years. This type of fencing can be used for several applications, including agriculture, aquaculture and residential fencing. In addition to its durability, plasmar fencing is also highly affordable.

PVC fencing

One of the cheapest fencing materials in the market – low cost being a big appeal to many people – PVC fencing can appear flimsy compared to other materials with extreme temperatures, causing the vinyl to become brittle and making it susceptible to cracking. PVC colours will also eventually fade or yellow through exposure to direct sunlight.

Aluminium fencing

Being strong, durable and low maintenance, this is a very popular fencing material option. Aluminium fencing is also available in a huge range of colours and styles, from white picket fences to modern louvres and more – you can also get timber look finishes that deliver the best of both worlds in terms of aesthetics and function.

Treated pine fencing

This fencing is specially treated to ensure it can withstand the harsh weather conditions outdoors. The pinewood panels are either chemically treated, or pressure treated to ensure they do not rot. Special care must be taken to ensure the panels that are chosen are not damp or show any signs of damage or weathering.

Barbed wire fencing

Barbed wire is the ideal solution for rural locations where you want to keep animals in – or out of your property. It is a low-cost option popular with farmers.

Wooden fencing

Wooden fencing is also high on the popularity list, as it scores well on the appeal factor. However, wood fences require regular sanding, oiling and painting and are less durable than other options. This can make it pricier in the long run.

Wrought iron fencing

Wrought iron is a strong and attractive fencing solution for your home. It's a great security fencing option and is available in a huge range of design options, including intricate custom designs. It can, however, be on the expensive side.

Vinyl fencing

This is a strong and flexible fence and is often chosen over wooden fencing due to its low-maintenance properties.

Masonry fencing

This is a sturdy fence built from stone, brick or concrete. It offers a high level of security and privacy, especially if built high enough and can also be aesthetically appealing. It is extremely long-lasting and can withstand rough weather conditions.

Key considerations for fencing:

How to save money when buying a fence

Where to buy an affordable fence for your yard

There are many local and online stores offering various fencing supplies. But not all fences and not all suppliers are equal. Do your homework to determine the best fencing material for your property. Don't forget to check out supplier reviews and examples of their work to ensure you engage a reputable company.