6 Fence Types Used in Calgary Landscaping: Pros, Cons & Best Uses
Choosing the right fence for your landscaping project in Calgary can enhance privacy, curb appeal, and security—all while complementing your yard’s unique style. Here’s a breakdown of six popular fence types, each with its key uses, benefits, and potential drawbacks.
#1. Wood Fencing
Description & Use: Wood fencing, like cedar or pressure-treated pine, remains a classic choice for Calgary homeowners. Its natural look provides warmth and curb appeal, making it ideal for front or back yards that need privacy or a softer aesthetic.
Pros of Wood Fences:
Lowest cost when compared to other fences
Can be stained or painted to match your home
Offers a warm, classic, and timeless appearance
Cons of Wood Fences:
Requires periodic maintenance (sealing or painting)
Susceptible to weathering from Calgary’s winters
Could degrade rapidly if not properly maintained
General Cost: Varies widely by wood type and fence height, but is generally moderate compared to premium options. Today, a standard wood fence starts at around $65 per linear foot (subject to change).
#2. Vinyl Fencing
Description & Use: Vinyl fencing is a plastic composite material proven to be a durable, low-maintenance solution well-suited to Calgary’s varying weather. Available in many styles and colours, it offers durability and longevity, making it great for busy homeowners who don’t want to spend too much time worrying about how their fence will stand the test of time.
Pros of Vinyl Fences:
Very low maintenance, especially compared to wood fences
Weather resistant; doesn’t rot or rust
Wide variety of colours and styles to choose from
Cons of Vinyl Fences:
Higher upfront cost than wood fencing
Limited ability to customize after installation
More expensive to repair versus wood, if required
General Cost: Usually more expensive to install than wood, but has lower long-term costs due to minimal maintenance. Today, vinyl fencing typically starts at around $75 per linear foot (subject to change).
#3. Chain-Link Fencing
Description & Use: Chain link fences are made of woven steel wires and are a cost-effective choice for property boundaries and security. They’re commonly used around backyards or where visibility is needed, and can be upgraded with vinyl coating or privacy slats to improve appearance.
Pros of Chain Fences:
Relatively budget-friendly; can cost lower than wood, up to as much as vinyl
Strong and secure, an exceptional option for dog owners
Can be customized with coatings or slats
Cons of Chain Fences:
Industrial look may not suit all landscapes
Limited privacy without added slats
Sometimes allow dogs to climb and breach overtop
General Cost: One of the lowest-cost fencing options; price increases with upgrades like privacy slats and a variety of other customizable features. Today, your typical chain-link fence starts at around $40 per linear foot and can easily reach $70 per linear foot (subject to change).
#4. Metal Fencing
Description & Use: Metal fences, including ornamental iron and aluminum as two examples, add an elegant, modern touch to your home. These fences are highly durable and resist rust, making them a reliable, stylish option for Calgary’s climate. However, they are often the most expensive type of fencing.
Pros of Metal Fences:
Elegant designs and are often visually striking
Extremely durable structurally, lasting the test of time
Minimal upkeep needed; built strong and to endure
Cons of Metal Fences:
Cost more than typical fencing material such as wood or vinyl
Less privacy than solid panels; elegant designs are often see-through
Heavy and difficult to install, unless done for you by a professional installer
General Cost: Among the more expensive options due to material and installation costs, but pay off with longevity and style. Your typical cost for a metal fence can easily range from $80 to $250 per linear foot, or more dependent on the material, design, and so forth (subject to change).
#5. Composite Fencing
Description & Use: Composite fencing blends recycled materials and wood fibres to create a fence that can capture the look of wood but with much less maintenance. Its resiliency makes it especially suitable for Calgary’s fluctuating temperatures.
Pros of Composite Fencing:
Low maintenance; no painting or sealing required
Eco-friendly (often made from recycled materials), and can mimick wood
Highly durable, much like vinyl, due to its mixed nature
Cons of Composite Fencing:
Typically more expensive than both wood and vinyl
Often have fewer colour options compared to vinyl
Softer material, which can sometimes need repair
General Cost: Generally, the highest upfront investment versus wood and vinyl, with low maintenance that can help offset costs over time. Today, a composite fence can start at around $85 per linear foot, and easily reach upwards of $130 or more (subject to change).
#6. Living Fencing
Description & Use: Living fences use dense shrubs or hedges to create a natural barrier that provides privacy and wind protection. They add seasonal colour and a lush look to any landscape, and can often be the most cost-effective fencing solution.
Pros of Living Fences:
Natural appearance, adding a beautiful ambiance
Provide shade and habitat for birds and other small wildlife
Can offer wind protection and noise reduction for homeowners
Cons of Living Fences:
Require regular trimming and care
Proper establishment can take several years
Less immediate privacy compared to solid fences
General Cost: Initial planting may be moderate, but ongoing maintenance is essential. Overall, living fences can be some of the most cost-effective solutions
What Fence Should You Choose?
When choosing a fence for your Calgary landscaping project, consider what’s most important to you: privacy, durability, aesthetics, maintenance, and/or budget. As shown above, each fence type—from classic wood or low-maintenance vinyl, to hands-off composite or natural living barriers—has unique advantages and a few drawbacks. Assessing your needs and preferences is the start to choosing the best fencing solution that best fits your home and lifestyle.
If you need a specific quote for one of these fence types or want help designing your landscape, your team of professional fencing landscapers in Calgary is happy to help! Get in touch with us anytime to start planning your dream landscape today!