Fences serve many purposes, from privacy to security and aesthetics to boundary marking. With so many materials and fence options available, it’s important to prioritize your primary purposes for the fence in order to make the right decision. Whether you’re a contractor planning a large-scale project or a homeowner upgrading your backyard, understanding the uses and benefits of different fence materials is essential to meeting needs and expectations.

Our team at Everguard Fence Materials has been serving the Pacific Northwest for years with a commitment to personalized customer service, competitive pricing, and high quality products and materials that last. With our longstanding experience in the fence industry, you can trust us to deliver expert guidance and an intimate understanding of the following materials and their uses. So let's get into it!

Chain Link Fencing (Black Vinyl and Galvanized)

Chain link fences are among the most versatile and cost-effective fencing options available. They’re made from interwoven steel wires that create a strong and durable barrier. There’s a reason you see them used so often all over the globe! We offer chain link materials in two different finishes: black vinyl-coated or galvanized.

Best Uses of Chain Link Fences

• Security: Ideal for commercial properties, schools, and sports facilities. The durable construction and see-through design make it easy to monitor the area while maintaining a secure boundary.
• Residential Use: Black vinyl-coated chain link fences are an excellent choice for backyards. They blend into landscaping better than traditional galvanized fences and offer a more premier look.
• Temporary Fencing: Chain link is commonly used for construction sites or event boundaries because it’s easy to install and relocate.

Pros and Cons of Chain Link Fences

• Pros:
• Affordable and low maintenance
• Long-lasting and resistant to corrosion (especially black vinyl-coated)
• Great for large areas
• Cons:
• Limited privacy unless combined with slats, like our pre-slatted option
• Basic galvanized chain link may not be aesthetically pleasing

Cedar Boards (Clear, Grade 1, and Grade 2)

Cedar fencing is a classic choice for homeowners seeking a natural, warm look while prioritizing privacy. Cedar boards come in three main grades, each of which are carried by Everguard:

• Clear Cedar: Premium quality cedar with no knots or major blemishes, perfect for high-end projects seeking a clean and polished aesthetic.
• Grade 1 Cedar: Contains small, tight knots for a slightly more rustic and natural appearance.
• Grade 2 Cedar: Features larger knots and imperfections, making it the most affordable option for a wooden fence.

Best Uses of Cedar Boards

• Privacy Fences: Cedar boards are ideal for creating solid privacy fences that block sightlines and reduce noise.
• Decorative Fencing: Clear cedar’s smooth finish makes it perfect for decorative panels and gates.
• Garden Enclosures: The natural look of cedar complements landscaping and garden areas beautifully.

Pros and Cons of Cedar Boards

• Pros:
• Naturally resistant to rot, decay, and insects
• Beautiful, warm aesthetic that ages gracefully
• Versatile and easy to stain or paint for customized colors and looks
• Cons:
• Higher upfront cost for the premium grades
• Requires periodic maintenance (staining/sealing) to retain its appearance over time

Hog Wire Fencing (Stainless Steel, Galvanized, and Black)

Hog wire fences, also known as welded wire fences, are constructed with sturdy metal grids that provide security with minimal visibility obstruction. They’re a modern favorite for combining strength with style, particularly in rural and semi-urban settings. We offer multiple finishes, including stainless steel, galvanized, and black-coated wire.

Best Uses of Hog Wire Fences

• Pet Enclosures: Perfect for safely containing dogs or other animals without obstructing views.
• Garden Fencing: Keeps out pests while maintaining visibility of your plants and flowers.
• Modern Deck Railings: Black-coated hog wire is a popular choice for sleek, minimalist deck and porch railings that provide security and safety.
• Farm Applications: Often used for livestock fencing, hog wire balances durability and affordability to provide a perfect solution for enclosing goats, pigs, and other animals.

Pros and Cons of Hog Wire Fences

• Pros:
• Highly durable and resistant to wear
• Blends functionality with modern aesthetics
• Customizable for various applications
• Cons:
• Can be more expensive than traditional wire fencing
• Requires proper installation for a polished look
• Very see-through, so privacy is limited

Fence Posts (Pressure Treated, Post on Pipe, and Cedar)

Posts are the backbone of any fence, providing the necessary support and stability. That makes choosing the right type of post even more critical than your selection of the boards or fabric. We provide multiple options at Everguard, along with our favorite and most innovative: post-on-pipe.

Types of Fence Posts

• Pressure-Treated Posts: Treated with chemicals to resist rot, decay, and insects, these posts are both durable and cost-effective. They’re a clear top choice for many fencing projects because of their value.
• Post on Pipe: This innovative design combines a wood post with a steel pipe foundation to prevent the wood from directly contacting the ground. This is an especially valuable option for fences in our region due to the persistent moisture in our soil that can wear on fully wooden posts.
• Cedar Posts: Naturally resistant to rot and insects, cedar posts offer a warm, natural aesthetic to match cedar fencing for a consistent and elevated look.

Best Uses of Different Fence Posts

• Pressure-Treated Posts:
• Perfect for decking, playsets, or cedar fences where durability is essential.
• Great for areas prone to moisture or soil shifting.
• Post on Pipe:
• Ideal for high-moisture environments or projects requiring superior longevity.
• Suitable for contractors seeking low-maintenance and long-lasting solutions.
• Cedar Posts:
• Best for projects emphasizing natural beauty and cohesiveness with cedar panels.
• Perfect for high-end decorative fences and garden enclosures.

Pros and Cons of Different Fence Posts

• Pressure-Treated Posts:
• Pros: Affordable, durable, and resistant to rot
• Cons: Proper installation is required to avoid warping over time
• Post on Pipe:
• Pros: Extremely long-lasting and less prone to rotting or splitting
• Cons: Higher upfront cost
• Cedar Posts:
• Pros: Naturally beautiful and rot-resistant
• Cons: Higher cost compared to pressure-treated options

How to Choose the Right Fence Material for Your Project

Let’s circle back to the beginning. Selecting the right material greatly depends on the purpose of your project. Consider structural needs first to ensure that you’re building a fence that will prove to be a lasting investment. As well as that, think about how much privacy you’re desiring. From there, you can narrow your choices down with aesthetic and budget decisions. Here are some expert tips to guide your decision:

Tips for Fence Contractors:

• Large Commercial Projects: Chain link fences (galvanized or black vinyl-coated) can provide your customer with an affordable and durable solution that’s easy for you to install in large quantities.
• High-End Residential Jobs: Cedar boards (Clear or Grade 1) paired with cedar posts will create a premium look that your customers will love.
• Functional Applications: Hog wire fencing offers a modern yet functional solution for any urban gardens or farm projects that come your way.

Fence Tips for Homeowners:

• Privacy and Beauty: Cedar boards with cedar posts are perfect for creating a backyard oasis that will stun your family and friends.
• Modern Style: Black-coated hog wire paired with pressure-treated posts delivers a sleek, modern vibe that’s growing in popularity and will last for ages.
• Budget-Friendly Security: Galvanized chain link is the perfect and practical choice for securing pets or property without breaking the bank.

Your Local Fence Experts

At Everguard Fence Materials, we take pride in being your trusted partner for all fencing needs. Our wide range of materials ensures that we have everything you need for any project—from durable chain link for large commercial installations to high-end cedar boards for a beautiful residential fence. Beyond that, we also offer all the tools you need and services like hole drilling for your posts. We’re committed to being your comprehensive fencing resource that makes your job and life easier.

More than anything else, the right fence material will make all the difference in achieving your project’s goals. Whether you’re a contractor managing multiple jobs or a homeowner tackling a DIY project, it’s vital to understand the strengths and uses of each material to ensure that your investment pays off. If you have any more questions about our particular fencing materials, simply reach out to us!

Remember, selecting the right material isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about longevity, functionality, and value. Visit our facility or use our Fence Material Calculator today to plan your next fencing project with confidence. With Everguard Fence Materials, you’re not just building a fence—you’re building something that lasts!