Installing a new fence is a major home improvement project that requires careful consideration. The material you choose for your fence will impact its durability, maintenance needs, cost, and appearance. With the two most popular options in NZ being timber and composite wood, it’s important to weigh up the pros and cons of each.

This article provides a detailed comparison between timber and composite wood fencing to help you determine the best option for your needs. We’ll start by explaining what each material is. Next, we’ll look at the benefits and drawbacks of both timber and composite wood. We’ll also directly compare the two materials across factors like durability, cost, environmental impact, and appearance. Finally, we’ll discuss considerations specific to installing fencing in NZ’s climate and provide info on suppliers. The goal is to equip you with the knowledge to decide whether timber or composite is the ideal fencing material for your property.

What is Timber Fencing

Timber fencing is a very common fencing material made from wood. The most popular timber fences are constructed from treated pine, cedar, etc. These wood types are naturally rot-resistant and durable.

Timber fences come in a variety of styles including picket, post and rail, basket weave, and lattice tops. They have a classic, natural look that many homeowners find appealing.

It is typically used for privacy, security, and aesthetic purposes in residential settings. It can enclose backyards and delineate property lines. Timber fences around 1.2 – 1.8 meters high provide privacy while allowing airflow. Some common uses are:

• Backyard privacy fencing
• Garden fencing
• Pool fencing
• Pet enclosure fencing
• Property boundary fencing

These fences are a popular choice due to their attractive look, strength, and versatile applications. The main downside is that regular maintenance is required to keep timber fences looking good over the long term.

What is Composite Wood Fencing

Composite wood fencing is a type of fencing made from a blend of wood fibers and plastic. Unlike solid wood fences, composite wood fences do not use whole pieces of timber. Instead, composite wood fences are made of recycled wood pulp and plastic bonded together under heat and pressure. This material forms into boards or panels that can be used to construct fences.

Composite wood is designed to have the beauty and warmth of natural wood but with increased durability. The plastic provides increased resistance against rotting, cracking, moisture damage, and insect infestation. It also requires far less maintenance compared to traditional wood. It does not need painting, sealing, or staining. Composite wood retains its color and resists fading in the sun.

It is commonly used for both residential and commercial fence projects. It works well for front yard fences, backyard privacy fences, pool fences, and fencing around parks or public areas. Composite wood can be shaped and cut similarly to natural wood, allowing for customizable designs. Most composite wood fence panels are available in a tongue and groove style for easy installation. The material is a great low-maintenance and weather-resistant fencing solution.

Advantages of Timber Fencing

Timber fencing offers several key advantages:

Durability

• Timber has proven durability when properly treated and maintained. Quality timber fences can last over 15 years.
• Timber is a natural material that holds up well to weather, sun, and moisture when properly sealed and stained.
• Rot-resistant timber species like cedar have natural durability even without treatment.

Appearance

• Timber fences provide an attractive, traditional look that complements many home styles.
• Timber’s natural grain and color variations add warmth and character.
• Customizable designs and stains allow personalization of appearance.

Cost

• While pressure-treated pine is the most budget-friendly timber option, higher grades like cedar are comparable in cost to many composite materials.
• Timber is a renewable and plentiful natural resource, keeping costs reasonable.
• Installation costs are often lower than composite fencing since timber is easier to work with.

Disadvantages of Timber Fencing

Compared to some other fence materials, timber fences come with certain downsides that are important to consider:

Maintenance

Timber fences require more ongoing maintenance than other materials like composite wood or vinyl. Over time, the wood can start to crack, splinter, or warp due to weathering. This requires periodically sanding down rough patches, staining or sealing the wood to protect it, and replacing damaged pickets or posts. Regular upkeep is key for timber fences to keep them looking their best.

Rotting

If not properly treated and sealed, timber fences are susceptible to rotting, especially in damp climates. The constant exposure to moisture causes the wood to decay over time. Rotted wood becomes structurally unstable and aesthetically unpleasing. Preventing rot requires applying protective treatments to penetrate deep into the wood.

Warping

Timber fences can warp or twist out of shape due to moisture absorption and weather changes. Wood expands and contracts with changes in humidity and temperature. Over time, this cyclic expansion and contraction causes the wood to bend, resulting in a wavy or skewed appearance. Warping is especially common with budget wood that hasn’t been properly kiln-dried.

Regular maintenance and sealing can help minimize these downsides. But compared to artificial wood materials, natural timber requires more upkeep to maintain its quality and appearance over the years.

Advantages of Composite Fencing

Composite fencing offers several advantages that make it an appealing choice for many homeowners and builders. Some of the key benefits of composite wood fencing include:

Durability

Composite fencing is designed to be highly durable and resistant to many of the elements that can degrade traditional wood fencing. The wood fibers are mixed with recycled plastic polymers, which results in a material that is more rigid and flex-resistant than natural wood. The plastic also provides protection against moisture damage, rotting, cracking, and insect infestation. With proper installation and minimal maintenance, composite fencing can last over 25 years without replacing any boards or posts.

Low Maintenance

One of the biggest perks of composite fencing is that it requires very little ongoing maintenance compared to traditional wood. Owners don’t need to regularly paint, stain, or seal composite fencing to maintain its appearance and prevent deterioration. The color runs throughout the material so it retains its vibrancy for years. Composite fencing also resists mold, mildew, and fungus growth. Aside from occasional cleaning, composite fencing remains in great shape year after year.

Resists Rotting

Because it contains plastic polymers, composite wood does not absorb moisture or start to rot like traditional wood fencing. The material is engineered to prevent water penetration and withstand exposure to the elements. Composite boards and posts resist cracking, splitting, and warping from moisture. This makes composite a great low-maintenance choice even in wet climates. Homeowners don’t have to worry about replacing warped, cracked, or rotten pickets.

Disadvantages of Composite Fencing

While composite fencing has many benefits, it does come with some potential drawbacks to consider:

• Higher upfront cost: Composite fencing often costs significantly more than timber fencing when you initially purchase and install it. The composite materials and manufacturing process make it more expensive per linear meter than traditional wooden fences. Expect to pay 15-30% more for a composite wood fence.
• Can fade over time: The color in composite fencing comes from UV-inhibiting pigments. However, even with UV protection, most composite woods will experience some fading and discoloration over time when exposed to consistent sunlight and weather. The fade is gradual, but it can be disheartening to lose that rich color over 5-10 years.
• Limited style options: Composite fencing is restricted to certain standard styles and configurations like privacy and picket designs. It does not provide the same flexibility as timber for custom decorative patterns, engraving, cut-outs, or staining. Timber lends itself to more aesthetic creativity.

Durability Comparison

Timber and composite wood fencing have different durability characteristics and maintenance requirements that should be considered when selecting a fencing material.

Timber

• Natural timber can last 10-15 years or more when properly treated and maintained. Higher grades of timber like cedar may last 20+ years.
• Requires periodic sealing, staining, or oiling to protect from weathering, moisture, and pests. This maintenance is needed every 1-3 years.
• Timber is prone to cracking, warping, and rotting if not properly maintained.
• Can be susceptible to termite damage in some regions.

Composite Wood

• Composite wood is designed to be highly durable and low maintenance. It can last 25-30 years or longer before needing replacement.
• Requires very little maintenance since the wood fibers are embedded in a polymer matrix that protects it from the elements.
• Resists cracking, rotting, and insect damage better than natural timber.
• May fade slightly over time from sun exposure.

Overall, composite wood fencing clearly lasts longer and requires less maintenance than timber fencing. The exceptional durability and low maintenance needs make composite wood a better choice for most homeowners. However, composite wood also comes at a higher upfront cost.

Cost Comparison

When evaluating fencing materials, cost is often a primary factor. Both timber and composite wood fencing have upfront installation costs as well as long-term maintenance fees that should be considered.

Upfront Costs

Timber fencing is often the more affordable option for initial installation. The material itself can be sourced at a lower cost than composite wood. Composite materials are usually 2-3 times more expensive per linear meter.

With timber, the grade, quality, and type of wood will impact the overall cost. Cedar is more expensive than pine but lasts longer. Meanwhile, composite fencing has a narrower range of pricing regardless of brand.

Labor costs for installation are comparable for both materials. However composite fencing may have a slight edge since it often requires less time to install.

Long Term Value

Over the lifespan of a fence, maintenance costs add up. Timber fences require much more frequent staining, sealing and occasional board replacement. Composite fencing is virtually maintenance free for 15-25 years.

While timber is cheaper upfront, replacing boards or entire fences every 10 years can get expensive. The higher initial cost of composite fencing pays off in the long run with incredible durability and no maintenance.

In terms of overall value from installation to replacement, composite fencing often comes out ahead with a longer lifespan and worry-free upkeep. But timber can make more financial sense for cost-conscious homeowners planning to stay in one home for less than 10 years.

Real Fencing: Your Partner in Choosing the Right Fence Material

At Real Fencing, we understand how significant the decision between timber or composite wood fencing can be. As leading fence contractors in Auckland, New Zealand, we’re here to help guide you through this critical choice.

We provide a diverse range of fencing services including Aluminum Fencing, Timber Fencing, Garden Fencing, Hidden Dog Fences, Pool Fencing, Fence Repairs, Fence Painting, and Temp Fence Hire.

We always put our customers first, striving to enhance your quality of life and peace of mind with the installation of fences offering unprecedented comfort, security, and reliability. Our services span both residential and rural solutions. Whether you’re in need of a privacy fence for your home, a boundary fence for your farm, or a pool fence to maintain your family’s safety, we at Real Fencing have a solution specifically designed to cater to your requirements.

From the professional installation of new fences to the repair and maintenance of existing ones, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality services every time. Regardless of whether you opt for timber or composite wood, we assure flawlessly constructed fences that not only fulfill your practical needs but also amplify the aesthetic value of your property.

We revel in going above and beyond to surpass expectations, providing solutions that not only meet your fencing needs today but also continue serving you efficiently for years to come.

We credit our commitment to quality, dependability, and superior customer service for setting us apart from other fence installers. Rest assured, no job is too big or too small for us at Real Fencing.

When you choose us, we assure you that your fencing project is in hands that will execute it with absolute precision, efficiency, and integrity. Choose Real Fencing – where your peace of mind is our priority.

Conclusion

In reviewing the pros and cons of both timber and composite wood fencing, there are valid reasons to consider either material. Timber fencing provides a timeless, natural look but requires more maintenance. Composite wood is highly durable and low maintenance but lacks the aesthetic appeal of real wood.

Ultimately, composite wood seems to have more advantages for fencing in NZ’s climate. It stands up to wind, rain, and sun without warping, rotting, or requiring painting. The higher upfront cost pays off over time with practically zero maintenance needs. Environmentally, composite wood is a better choice as it makes use of recycled materials. Timber requires constant re-treatment and replacement, resulting in higher long-term costs and waste.

For a durable, low-maintenance fencing solution that will stand the test of time, composite wood is recommended. While timber has an undeniable beauty, composite reproduces the look of wood well and is the more practical option. With fewer costs and hassles down the road, composite wood fencing enables homeowners to enjoy their outdoor space without worry.