Let’s be real– the weather in the southeastern United States can be downright miserable sometimes. We do things differently down here as a way to cope with the high temperatures and stifling humidity. Because of this, it may come as no surprise to you that certain types of fences are better for our hot and humid climate than others. Here’s a rundown on the most popular fencing styles and how well they work in our area.
Vinyl
Vinyl fence is arguably the best fencing option for a hot and humid environment. It will hold up to water damage from those frequent summer thunderstorms, and by setting your posts with concrete, you can ensure that the fence is sturdy against high winds. It maintains a constant temperature and doesn’t get extremely hot after sitting in the sun all day. And with its easy maintenance, you won’t be stuck out in the heat of the day trying to repaint it or repair broken panels. It’s also versatile– you can customize it to fit the exact look you want.
Aluminum
Aluminum fences have both pros and cons in our area. On the one hand, it’s extremely sturdy– you won’t have to worry about high winds blowing over your wrought-iron fence during a storm. On the other hand, after sitting in the heat of the day for several hours, the material does become hot enough to burn if touched. These types of fences often need a little more maintenance as well.
Wood
In our view, a wooden fence is a less ideal option for our climate. It’s very affordable, making it a popular choice for homes that need a lot of fencing over a large area. However, it is susceptible to wood rot if it’s exposed to large amounts of water, and with a rainy climate like ours, it will see a lot of moisture. It’s also the least sturdy of the popular options, so if a tropical storm or tornado cuts through the area, you may be more likely to lose sections of this fence. A wood fence also requires the most maintenance of the three types– you’ll need to stain it regularly in order to lock out moisture and prevent damage down the line. In the heat and humidity, this can become a highly unpleasant job. While wood fences can be maintained in our climate, you can expect them to be a bit more work.
Choose the right fence for your property with these tips in mind. Not only should you consider what looks best with your home and what you want your fence to accomplish but also how it will stand up to our hot and humid climate as well.
