With the growing popularity of eco-friendly building materials and methods, it’s no surprise that several eco-friendly fencing options exist now. From traditional wood fences made from sustainable lumber to composite fences made from recycled materials, many choices are available to build an eco-friendly fence.
What Does Eco-Friendly" Mean?
The term “sustainable” is a popular way to label products and services to increase longevity or reduce environmental impact. Generally, “eco-friendly” or “sustainable” refer to practices that protect the environment or conserve resources.
What makes an object sustainable is a bit tricky to define, but several key factors exist.
Recyclable: The product can be reused or repurposed instead of constructed new ones or adding new ones to the environment.
Eco-friendly construction: Is it built using methods with minimal environmental impact?
Durable: The product will last a long time and be reusable or recyclable after its lifespan.
Natural materials: The product is made with natural or organic materials.
6 Eco-friendly Fencing Options
Here are some of the most popular and cost-effective environmentally friendly fencing options.
1. Bamboo
Bamboo is a great eco-friendly fencing option. It is a renewable resource and requires no chemicals or much water to thrive. Bamboo is also very strong and durable – stronger than wood – making it a great choice for fencing. Bamboo is twice as strong as cedar. If properly installed, a bamboo fence can withstand hurricane winds.
In addition, bamboo is resistant to termites, which cannot digest the silica found in bamboo.
Bamboo fencing is also ideal for residential and commercial properties because it is lightweight and easy to install. Best of all, bamboo fences cost less than traditional fencing materials.
2. Composite
Composite materials are produced from recycled plastic and wood fiber and do not require painting or staining like other fencing options. They are durable, require little maintenance, and have a classic style that will never go out of fashion. Composite fences come in various colors and styles to suit your taste.
A composite fence is a natural-looking barrier that is durable, insect-resistant, and weather-resistant. It is used in both residential and commercial properties.
3. Living
A living fence is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint while adding beauty and functionality to your property. A living fence is a hedge made of fast-growing plants placed close together and trained to grow into a living wall.
Living fences can be evergreen plants, trees, and shrubs. They can also be bamboo stands or any dense growth of rigid plants. Living fences have the additional benefit of filtering air pollutants and providing homes for wildlife. Easy installation and maintenance make these fences great choices for some homes.
4. Stone
Stone is another great choice; it doesn’t require any harmful chemical treatment. Stone fences can last for centuries, making them perhaps the most durable option. It is also very low maintenance and does not require painting like other fencing materials.
Stone fences also provide a natural look that can complement any home. Plus, the look of stone is hard to beat! Depending on the stone you choose, you can create a rustic feel, gothic, Mediterranean, European, or other styles. If you’re looking for a way to add aesthetic value to your property, stone is an excellent choice. It’s long-lasting and low maintenance. The fence is also resistant to rot, decay, and insect damage.
There are several types of stones you can use. You can choose from travertine, marble, granite, and sandstone items. Each type has various color options and grain patterns, allowing you to select a style that perfectly matches your home or business.
5. Wood
Many fencing options are on the market, but wood is one of the most eco-friendly. Wood is a renewable resource, of course, and can be reused or recycled when it is no longer needed. Wood is also biodegradable, so it will not clutter landfills.
One of the other benefits of wood is its versatility. Wood fences can be constructed in various styles to create any feel, from rustic to contemporary and everything in between.
Wood fencing is typically made of redwood, cedar, or other wood products certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. Wood fences can also last a long time if they are properly maintained.
6. Metal
Looking for a more sustainable fencing option? Consider metal! Some metal fences are made from recycled materials and are recyclable, making them a great eco-friendly choice. They’re also extremely durable and low-maintenance so that you can feel good about your purchase for years.
There are many types of eco-friendly fencing materials, from metal, including aluminum, steel, chain link, and wrought iron. Each type has unique benefits that make it a good choice for eco-friendly fencing. Aluminum is a lightweight metal that is easy to work with, making it a good choice for home projects.
It is also resistant to rust and corrosion, making it a good choice for coastal areas. Steel is a strong metal that is durable and low maintenance. It is also easy to recycle, making it an environmentally friendly choice. Wrought iron and chain link are classic fencing materials that are beautiful and long-lasting.
What Are the Benefits of Eco-Friendly Fencing?
Eco-friendly fencing has many benefits over traditional fencing options, including being more aesthetically pleasing, providing privacy, and being environmentally friendly. The materials are durable and can keep pets in and wildlife out.
Aesthetically Pleasing
Eco-friendly fencing adds a touch of beauty and value to your home with low environmental impact.
Privacy
Eco-friendly fencing provides privacy by blocking out unwanted views and noise. It also provides a sense of security and safety. It’s a great way to create a private space in your yard without harming the environment.
Environmentally Friendly
Made from sustainable materials, eco-friendly fencing help reduce your carbon footprint and improve your home’s energy efficiency. This type of fence doesn’t strain the planet’s resources. It also helps improve air quality.
Durability
Eco-friendly fencing is not only good for the environment, it is also durable. This type of fencing is made from recycled materials, so it is a sustainable choice that will last for years. It is also low maintenance, so you won’t have to spend much time and money on repairs.
It is also resistant to insect damage and decay, as it can withstand the elements. Eco-friendly fencing is an investment that will pay for itself over time.
What Makes Certain Fencing Materials Eco-Friendly?
The popularity of eco-friendly products and services is increasing day by day. With the greening of our homes and industries, many designers focus on creating sustainable environments. The fencing industry, a significant contributor to environmental degradation, is receiving much-needed attention for incorporating sustainability measures in its work.
There are many ways a fencing project can be green, from selecting environmentally friendly materials to how the project is built. Here are a few features that make fencing eco-friendly:
Recycled Materials
The use of recycled materials reduces waste in landfills. The fence material should be reusable at the end of its life. Some materials, such as aluminum, are eco-friendly because they can be recycled repeatedly.
Manufacturing Process
The manufacturing process should not produce harmful emissions but be environmentally friendly and efficient. The process should produce products made with few or no chemicals, reducing their environmental impact.
Biocomposite fencing is one type of eco-friendly fencing made from recycled materials. The manufacturing process starts with recycled plastic and wood chips that are melted and poured into a mold that creates the desired shape. The materials are processed into boards and finished with a protective coating or sealant.
This process creates a durable material that resists rot, insect damage, and weathering. Be sure to research the manufacturing process of any eco-friendly fencing material before purchasing it.
Sustainable Materials
Sustainable fencing materials are often used to create barrier gardens, reducing soil erosion and filtering water pollutants. Using durable materials that require little maintenance help reduce the environmental impact of a fence.
The type of materials you choose can make a big difference in the overall sustainability of your project. Aluminum and steel are also sustainable fencing materials. Furthermore, some eco-friendly fencing materials may be certified by organizations such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), which ensures that the materials are sourced sustainably.
Renewable Resources
Some materials, such as bamboo, are environmentally friendly because they are renewable resources. Renewable resources can regenerate over time, assuring that they will be around in perpetuity. Bamboo can be harvested, for instance, but it can re-grow over time or be replanted to replace what was cut for consumption.
It is important to check the certifications of your renewable product to ensure it comes from a reputable source, however, since not all bamboo comes from a sustainably managed forest.
FAQ About Eco-friendly Fencing
Can I install a DIY eco-friendly fence?
If you’re handy with tools and comfortable working outside, installing an eco-friendly fence yourself may be possible. However, leave it to the professionals if you’re not confident in your abilities.
How do I make a fence more eco-friendly?
The best way to make a fence more eco-friendly is to use recycled and sustainable materials whenever possible.
What are the drawbacks of eco-friendly fencing?
The main drawback of eco-friendly fencing is the initial cost. Green fencing can be more expensive than traditional fencing options, but the long-term savings and environmental benefits can be significant.
Our Take on an Eco-friendly Fencing Project
Eco-friendly fencing can be a great addition to any home, not only for its aesthetic value but also for its many benefits. Eco-friendly fencing options are available for those looking for a way to be more environmentally conscious.
At Latitude Fencing & Gates, we always look to improve our processes and find new ways to work smarter. We’re working to become more efficient by exploring sustainable fencing options. Eco-friendly fencing is a great way to go green and help the environment. Contact us today for a free quote.