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In the age of climate change, the environmental impact of the products we use has never been more important. As global warming becomes an increasingly scary reality, we as everyday consumers are rightfully becoming more and more concerned with reducing our carbon footprints and the volume of waste we produce.
If you’re a homeowner thinking about investing in some uPVC fencing for your garden, you’re probably having these exact concerns. After all, you want to make sure that you’re choosing the most environmentally friendly option, but with the two most popular fencing materials being wood and plastic, it can feel a little like being stuck between a rock and a hard place at times.
So, is uPVC fencing the right option for you? In this article we’ll break down the properties of the different types of fencing materials you’re likely to find on the market, weighing up their pros and cons to help you make a more informed decision.
Also referred to as PVC or vinyl fencing, uPVC is an incredibly versatile thermoplastic polymer which is used in a wide variety of outdoor projects. In simple terms, it’s a durable and weather-resistant material that comes in a variety of colours and finishes, which mimics the look of natural wood without having to encounter the drawbacks of traditional fencing.
uPVC is so popular in part because it does not rot, warp, crack or split, even in harsh weather conditions, meaning it maintains its beauty and structural integrity for many years. It’s also a sustainable choice for environmentally-conscious homeowners, as it’s recyclable and doesn’t require the harvesting of natural wood resources, contributing to forest conservation efforts.
Now that we have an idea of what uPVC fencing is, let’s talk about why it could be the right choice for your garden.
uPVC is made up of recycled materials, which immediately gives them a huge advantage over timber fencing. Not only does this mean that no trees have to be felled during the production process, but using recycled materials also allows waste to be diverted from landfills and provides it with a second life.
On top of this, uPVC can be recycled at the end of its lifespan, which is perfect for contributing to a more sustainable product lifecycle and reducing the overall environmental impact of your investment. Once you’re done with your fencing in several years time, it can simply be remade into something else!
Plastic fencing is designed to withstand the elements, including harsh weather conditions, UV rays, and moisture. Plus, it’s also adept at resisting rot, decay and insect damage. This resilience reduces the likelihood of damage over time, leading to a longer lifespan compared to traditional wood fencing. The durability of plastic fencing contributes to its eco-friendliness by reducing the need for premature replacements and reducing overall resource consumption.
Perhaps the most standout feature of plastic fencing is just how little maintenance it requires to stay looking its best. Unlike wood, plastic fencing does not demand regular staining, sealing or painting. This not only saves homeowners time and effort but also means that you won’t have to bother with extra treatment products. This is a big plus as the harmful chemicals found in many of these products, such as synthetic or natural resins, solvents, thinners, dyes, pigments and other harmful additives, aren’t released into the surrounding environment.
Now for the fun part! uPVC fencing comes in a variety of styles and colours, offering you the flexibility to match your fencing with the overall design of your home. Whether you prefer a classic white picket fence or a modern panel design, uPVC provides numerous options to suit your tastes.
While uPVC is popular for good reason, traditional fencing materials still have their merits. Let’s take a closer look at wood and metal fencing.
When we think of a classic garden fence, wood is often the material that springs to mind. Wood has been a traditional fencing material for centuries, appreciated mainly for its natural beauty. While its appearance is a big plus, there are certain features of wood fencing that the average busy, modern homeowner might feel put off by:
Metal fences, often made of aluminium or wrought iron, come complete with a difference set of benefits:
When looking for a fencing supplier, it’s crucial that you don’t just go for the first company you find on Google. Shopping around and getting a couple of quotes from different suppliers will not only give you a better idea of what level of service and how much you can expect to be paying, but also gives you the opportunity to source a business that shares similar values to your own. For example, if you’re concerned about the sustainability of your project, you should do some thorough research to identify companies that prioritise sustainability in their products, operations and supply chain.
A reputable fence supplier will always adhere to industry certifications and standards that prioritise product quality, safety and sustainability. Proof of certification can often be found on a company’s website, but if in doubt, give them a call and a team member will be sure to provide you with some evidence. This is a surefire guarantee that your chosen installer is committed to meeting crucial professional benchmarks that will ultimately make the experience of working with them much more enjoyable.
It’s important to never underestimate the power of reviews and testimonials when sourcing a professional service. Customer reviews provide valuable insights into the practices of fence installers – from product quality to customer service. You could also ask family members, friends and people in your local area for recommendations, as they might be able to point you in the direction of a business they had a positive experience with.
Are you thinking about having plastic fencing installed in your garden in time for next summer? If so, Fitrite’s beautiful, low-maintenance fencing is the perfect choice for practically any outdoor space. Our comprehensive range of fencing products come complete with numerous benefits that help them to stand the test of time and are guaranteed to enhance your property’s value. Our team of specialists provide an all-in-one service that will help you to completely revitalise your garden.
With a wide range of colours and textures to choose from and a network of professional fencing designers and installers, our exceptional service means you’ll be enjoying your installation for many, many years to come. Because we are experts, we’re able to ensure your installation expands the functionality of your garden, providing greater space for relaxation, dining and entertainment. We can even provide design and layout suggestions to help you make the most out of your fence panel’s appearance and functionality.
So, for a plastic fencing installation service you can trust, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our professional team here at Fitrite. Fill out our online form to get a free, no obligation quote, or call us on 0808 304 4317 for more information.
