Sundaymail Editor
Fences boost security and privacy in a front or backyard space and can even add aesthetics.
The amount of privacy that a yard fence adds is up to you, as is the budget. Though yard fencing can be expensive, we have rounded up some cheap fence ideas to fit nearly any budget.
Corrugated fencing
Recycling old materials is a great dual-purpose way to build cheap fencing. You might already have the materials if you happen to be tearing down an old metal shed or barn. But if not, corrugated metal panels are inexpensive and easy to find.
Pallet fencing
For DIY (do-it-yourself) projects, pallets are a common go-to, especially to build a yard fence. They start as flat transport structures to make stacking and lifting large objects easier. They can be broken down into slats or kept complete for the project.
Split rail
Split-rail fences are most commonly seen on farms and ranches. Relatively cheap fencing, they were an easy and affordable way to corral animals and mark off property boundaries. But you do not have to live on the ranch to appreciate the rustic feel of split-rail fences. Save money by making your own or buy them ready to put up.
Chain link
Some people consider chain-link fences ugly, even if they are a great candidate for affordable fencing. Unless you are fencing a new pup in, why choose chain link? Its simplicity is very versatile. Getting chain link in different colours or pairing it with wood accents quickly makes a tonne of aesthetic difference.
Four-rail horse fence
The four-rail horse fence is another type of backyard fence typical to ranch land or farmhouses. It is like a split rail, but the wooden pieces fit closer together and are wider, making the gaps in between smaller, offering more security.
Bamboo fences
In warmer climates, you can grow a bamboo fence yourself by planting it along the desired line and letting it grow. If you prefer dry bamboo, grow in a convenient spot until it reaches the right height. Then, cut it down, dry it and put it up as a fence. Bamboo grows incredibly quickly, up to 36 inches in 24 hours. You can also buy pre-made rolls of bamboo fencing.
Vinyl fencing
Vinyl has become a more common yard fence option in recent years, despite its historically bad reputation as looking cheaper than wood or metal. But modern vinyl can be beautiful and appear upscale when done right. It’s durable and easy to assemble, isn’t susceptible to termites and is very lightweight. Vinyl comes in numerous styles and can be painted in different colours.
Split rail and mesh
Like the price and appearance of a split-rail fence but it is not enough security? If you want to close up the gaps, or need a fence that keeps the dog inside, combine split rail with mesh. They are also great for protecting a vegetable garden from predators.
Concrete fencing
Concrete can be an affordable fencing option when security and privacy are paramount. Go with pure concrete for maximum coverage, or add brick or wood accents to break up the design. You might need to call in the professionals for this one, which could drive up the price.
Barbed wire
Most often associated with farmland, barbed wire is not used so much for aesthetics as for security. If you are trying to keep creatures or people out of an area, you can do it cheaply with a barbed wire yard fence.
Living fences
If you have a green thumb and want to be eco-friendly, growing your own “living fence” as an alternative method of yard fencing, hedge plants, such as privet or boxwood, are normally your best option.
Lattice fencing
Lattice fencing might seem flimsy in concept, but you can fortify it with cement or wooden beams on either side. Or you can add it to a more typical wooden fence as a unique accent.
Hog wire
Hog wire is one of the cheapest ways to fence a yard. The material is rigid, originally meant to fence in small animals and visibly mark property boundaries. The grid-like design keeps predators from getting in and pets from getting out. Using small amounts of wood keeps the yard fencing cost-friendly; stain it for added curb appeal.
Wattle fencing
Wattle fencing is not only cheap but also an adventurous DIY project. Wattle fencing is made by weaving together thin branches of wood through vertically placed stakes, and you can easily find an online tutorial. Try something new and make it a beautiful family project. Source from trees in your yard or ask a neighbour or local business if you can buy some of their branches.
Chicken wire
A chicken wire garden fence is likely the best-known affordable fencing. It is a dirt-cheap way to keep unwanted critters out. Chicken wire is very thin and unobtrusive. –mymove
Online Reporter