An attractive, affordable fencing option similar to chain link or ornamental steel. The following article will guide you through learning about Prism 3-D Welded Wire fences.

Prism 3D Welded Wire offers an attractive solution to black or colored metal fencing applications. Requiring little to no maintenance, welded wire is also appealing due to the numerous styles and colors currently available. The technology used to manufacture each panel system delivers an end product that allows the property owner to maximize visibility without sacrificing any complimentary characteristics to the surrounding environment.  

Powder Coated panels, posts, and brackets offering a wide array of options and preferences for a residential application. The most common application of this fencing product is the standard black panel. However, custom colors are available from a local Prism 3-D Welded Wire authorized installer. For more information on current color options, visit the RAL color chart here. 

The architectural grade coatings used on Prism 3-D welded wire, results in greater durability and increased cost effectiveness when compared to similar product categories such as aluminum or ornamental steel fencing. Upgrading from Chain Link to Ornamental Steel or Aluminum is typically very expensive due to the amount of labor and new materials required.  Alternatively, Prism 3-D offers a cost affordable upgrade from Chain Link that is comparable in strength and security to Ornamental Steel or Aluminum at a fraction of the price.  

Using 6-gauge welded wire, Prism 3-D panel systems are ideal for security applications such as; residential, commercial, and government. Each panel is configured to provide unobstructed visibility, deter climb, and is highly tamper-resistant. Welded wire fencing delivers peace of mind with regards to security and property access concerns.

Applicable to almost any application or property type, especially when considering an upgrade from a standard Chain Link, Ornamental Steel or Aluminum, the Prism 3-D Welded Wire system for those looking for a versatile, durable and secure solution without sacrificing any of the important benefits associated with a metal fencing application.

Adding a new fence to your home is an investment. While staining the fence can add to the overall cost of the fence, it is also essential to protect your fence. Not only does it enhance the natural beauty of your wood fence, but it also enhances its longevity. Proper staining creates a barrier that prevents moisture from doing damage to the wood. How often you need to paint or stain your fence is largely determined by the weather in your region.

1).  Pre-Stain – Using pre-stained wood boards to build the fence

2.)  After-Stain – When a contractor stains the fence after it has been built

- It is done before the fence is installed —  Staining is done by the mill that harvested the wood for your fence. The mill stains the pickets, posts, and rails before packaging and shipping them to the distributor. 

- Cleaner, no overspray — Since staining happens before the materials are shipped to you, you don’t have to worry about the mess that comes with do-it-yourself staining. 

- The material is completely and evenly stained —  The mill that produces the wood fences uses mechanical means to evenly apply the stain to the entire board and leave the materials to adequately dry before packaging. It also chooses the best stain for each wood type.

- The drying process is better — After staining, the wood undergoes a drying process that allows the stain to penetrate the wood. This helps to prevent streaking when subjected to rain or sprinklers after installation.

- There might be an added cost on top of the initial cost of the wood.

- Wide color and stain type selection — Clients have total control over choosing the color and what type of stain to use on their fences. This is good if there are other factors that need to be considered when it comes time to install the fences, such as weather conditions and topography. 

- You may have to hire another contractor 

- You must wait or a few weeks after the fence is built to dry the fence material. This waiting period could be longer if it’s the rainy season

- Overspray can be an issue — During windy days, you could overspray your house, garden, and neighbors.

Overlapped sections cannot be stained well — If staining is done after the fence is put up, it can be difficult to get the stain into the nooks and crannies. An even application can be more difficult at this stage. 

When it comes to stain for your fence, you have two choices: oil-based or water-based stain. Unless specified by your city or Homeowners Association (HOA), the choice is yours. It can be helpful to choose a stain that will complement your home’s exterior or your neighbor’s fencing. 

This article will walk you through the pros and the cons of each.

There are several other factors that need to be considered when choosing between oil-based and water-based stains:

Type of Wood

When choosing a stain to apply to your wood, it is important to first identify the correct stain base. A water-based stain is a better option for a wood that has a natural resistance to rotting, like cedar, cypress, or redwood. 

If the wood you are intending to stain is covered in a previous coating of paint or stain, certain steps should be taken in order to achieve a new protectant, even layer. Although it may be difficult to establish what the previous layer is, it will be helpful in your choice of oil-based vs. water-based stains. If the previous layer is oil-based, a water-based stain will adhere better and should be used.

If the wood will be in direct exposure to wind, rain, and sunlight, an oil-based stain is the best choice. This is because it is more durable than a water-based stain and will provide a more complete protective layer against these elements.

Unless specified by your city or Homeowners Association (HOA), the choice is yours. It can be helpful to choose a stain that will complement your home’s exterior or your neighbor’s fencing. 

Oil-based stains apply more transparently than water-based stains, so the beauty of the wood’s grain on the fence is clear. 


Oil penetrates deeper into the fencing material, making it easier to apply, and coating the wood more evenly.  This leads to a more even finish without visible lap marks.


While this may seem like a disadvantage, it actually improves the finish quality of oil-based stains. Oil-based stains dry slowly, giving an even finish across the wood. This contributes beauty to the fence to ensure maximum curb appeal for the home and grounds.

If you want the longest-lasting results for your fence, oil-based stains last longer than their water-based counterparts. Maintenance to keep fences looking their best is reduced and the time between stain applications is often extended, saving time and money.


Most oil-based stains have muted colors to appear more natural-looking and to let the wood grain show through. However, this limits color choices to browns and darker tones.

Since it offers the greatest protection against sunlight, wind, and rain, oil-based stains often come at a higher price point.

This might not be the biggest concern for most fence installations, but it can be a major consideration when staining the fence or other additions that attach directly to a home.

Water-based stains come in light and dark shades that have richer hues of color. It also keeps its color for a longer period of time compared to oil-based stains.

Water-based stains are often less expensive than oil-based stains. They are also more environmentally friendly since they will not emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

This makes water-based stains good for indoor and outdoor use, drying much faster when applied on wood because water evaporates much faster than oil.

Water-based stains coat previously treated wood fences more effectively. They can be added over previous applications of water or oil-based stains without unsightly smears or patches. This makes water-based stains ideal for touching up fences. 

Because water-based products absorb into the wood without adding a layer of oil in the process, they allow greater air movement through the wood. This can prevent water from becoming trapped in the fibers and causing the fence to decay or deteriorate. This also means that the stain doesn't emit off-putting fumes or smells compared to an oil-based stain. 

While oil-based stains protect the wood from harsh elements of nature, water-based stains repel mold and mildew more effectively. This is related to the quick drying time; water is not trapped in the first place, so it cannot cause decay.

Water-based stains are not transparent, so the beauty of wood grain on the fence is lost. 

Water-based stain is more vulnerable to the fence material movement, so the surface tends to crack easier.

Water-based stains dry fast and also raise the grain of the wood, making it more difficult to use. Pre-treatment conditioning is needed to prevent these and to help make the stain bond easier with the wood. 

At the end of the day, choosing between an oil-based stain or a water-based stain is about which you prefer. The most important things to consider are material, protection, and an appearance that will complement your home.

Two types of wood dominate the construction world: softwood and hardwood. It may seem like softwood should be weaker than hardwood, based on the name only. However, this is not the case. The terms “softwood” and “hardwood” address the attributes of the tree and the wood’s origin, not the attributes of the wood when used in fencing and other construction projects. Hardwoods come from deciduous trees  such as oak, beeches, and maple trees which lose their leaves annually, whereas softwoods are from evergreen trees that have leaves all year round. Examples of evergreen trees are pine, cedar, and olive trees.

Here are some of the attributes of each type at a glance:

With 80% of all timber coming from softwood, it is a popular choice for a variety of uses, including wood fences, decking and other outdoor applications. Softwoods tend to be a more aesthetically-pleasing wood type, and are typically lighter in color.  As you can see above, softwood maintains its straightness better which is a characteristic important in fencing applications, however there are the occasional exceptions. For example, Poplar is a hardwood, yet it is often used on the east coast to create post-and-rail type fences.  Due to the slow growth that is common to hardwoods, Poplar is becoming less common as the supply lessens. 

In addition, some of the typical softwood species are some of the most popular choices for wood fencing. Pine and cedar are commonly used for wood fences because of their relatively inexpensive cost and longevity. These softwoods are easy to work with, and they also resist shrinkage.

Price is another major difference between softwood and hardwood when it comes to fences. Softwoods tend to be less expensive because they grow faster and reproduce in greater quantities. This is because their unprotected seeds are free to scatter longer distances, covering a larger area. Hardwoods tend to be more expensive because of their low sustainability, slow growth, and the fact that some hardwoods are imported from tropical countries. 

Within the softwood category, there are many other individual species with their own unique characteristics. Now that you know the general direction on wood type, you can proceed to check out the different species of wood.  Check out our other articles for more on each wood species.  

Durability, flexibility, and sustainability: these are some of the qualities that make vinyl fences a great choice for many homeowners across the United States. Constructed from virgin or recycled vinyl — from one pure source or multiple sources, respectively — this type of fence comes in a range of styles, designs, and colors. It was first used in the late 1970s by farmers for their pastures, who got vinyl material from irrigation pipe manufacturers and fashioned it into sturdy post and rail fences. The synthetic fence proved to be more durable than the traditional wood fence, and has since become popular. 

The primary benefit of vinyl fences is that they require little to no maintenance, and can last 20 to 30 years. Most vinyl fences come with a lifelong warranty, and they are impervious to pests, impact- and fire-resistant, and durable in many types of weather. These many benefits make vinyl a great choice for a residential fence, and they can often be customized according to the aesthetic of a home. Colors and textures are incorporated early on in the manufacturing process, so customers never have to worry about the additional labor of sanding or painting.  From privacy fences and picket fences to safety fences for pools and gardens, vinyl fences are used in practically every neighborhood across the US. 

Privacy fences deliver complete privacy with no gaps between pickets. Slats form a solid wall of vinyl, keeping prying eyes out of the yard or home interior. Most vinyl fences are six feet tall, but they can be higher depending on individual preferences. They can be customized, with patterns such as horizontal, lattice, and criss-cross, and there are a variety of stains and textures that mimic wood. This type of vinyl fence is excellent for customers who live in busy areas and would like to reduce noise. Privacy fence installation costs an average of $28 per linear foot; this includes both labor and materials. 

The picket fence is the classic American favorite. Vinyl picket fences are particularly popular thanks to their clean white look. The form and style of a picket fence can also vary, leaving plenty of room for customizations: scalloped or flat top, narrow-spaced or wide-spaced pickets. This style gives homeowners a traditional look and feel without the headaches of continued maintenance and upkeep. Vinyl picket fences keep pets in a safe environment, create boundaries between the homeowner’s property and the neighbor's land, and enclose a safe space where children can safely play away from vehicles. The average cost of installing this type of fence is around $15 for both labor and materials.

Another popular type of vinyl fence is the ranch or post and rail. This type of fence is often used for farms, pastures, and animal enclosures, as well as an accent to landscaping. Made up of posts and between two and four rails, it isn’t ideal for privacy and security, but it gives a clear definition of any property. Installations of this type of vinyl fence are around $6 to $8 per linear foot depending on the number of rails.

Vinyl fences are relatively easy to install, which makes them a top choice for DIY enthusiasts. They come either panelized or as board-and-rail systems. In panelized systems, panels hang between posts; board-and-rail systems have individual boards and rails, much like a wooden fence. Just like LEGOs, rails snap into post slots and are held in place with locking tabs. Boards interlock and are held in place with plastic U-channels; an augur (or post-hole digger) is required to install the vinyl posts. 

General landscapers, construction companies, general contractors, licensed handyman, and dedicated fence installers are all capable of installing vinyl fences; customers can also check the list of accredited fence installers of the American Fence Association, a national organization representing the fence, deck, and railing industry. As with any fence project, customers should check with their local homeowner’s association for any stipulations regarding height or style. 

Vinyl fencing may be one of the most durable types of fencing, but it often comes at a higher price point. The initial costs of installation and repair are more expensive than wood fencing, but long-term costs of vinyl are very minimal, since maintenance is easy. This fact, along with the various styles available, makes vinyl fencing an excellent choice for customers who are looking to get the most for their budget. 

Vinyl Fences: The No-Maintenance Favorite

Ornamental fences have been a fixture in European properties for centuries. Only introduced to America about half a century ago, this type of fence is defined by its open style, made up of connected but separated stakes of metal, as seen in the picture above. The style’s actual appearance can be quite diverse, ranging from traditional to sleek and modern, and can make an aesthetic statement while still achieving their functional objective of security. Ornamental fences also make an excellent focal point of a garden or lawn, with a classic look that fits in both residential and commercial properties. They are highly durable. 

Ornamental fences are designed to offer security while letting the architecture or landscape they surround shine. 

Homeowners who enjoy making their home as elegant as possible should strongly consider an ornamental fence, which can come in aluminum, steel, or iron. These materials each come in different colors, including black, bronze, white, and gray. 

Aluminum Ornamental Fences are the most common type of ornamental fence, and come in a variety of colors. This style tends to emulate a traditional fence, with finial-capped pickets arranged in simple patterns. However, it can also be modernized, with even simpler picket layouts and clean lines. A relatively inexpensive option, aluminum fences also have the advantage of being durable against the elements; they are corrosion-resistant and do not rust. Aluminum fences are also 100% recyclable, and most manufacturers use a substantial amount of recycled scrap aluminum to produce ornamental fencing. On average, aluminum ornamental fences can cost $30 to $50 per linear foot installed and can run as much as $100 to $300 or more per linear foot. 

Steel Ornamental Fences are popular for their strength and durability. These fences cost an average of $30 to $50 per linear foot installed, but can also run as high as $100 to $300 or more per linear foot. Toughness is generally the selling point for steel fences, with the consequence that clients who choose steel tend to prioritize security over aesthetics. However, steel doesn’t lack the possibility of creativity; steel fences can be cut or stamped into various decorative designs, which are further highlighted by the client’s choice of bronze or black coloring. 

Iron Ornamental Fences meanwhile are known for offering a level of flexibility that challenges that of steel. Once this type of fence is cast in sand, it allows for the formation of creative pieces without the need for cutting or stamping. Typically, iron ornamental fences have simple designs, with plain horizontal rails and basic vertical pickets or stiles. The picket often extends beyond the top of the top rail, and is crowned with an arrow-shaped finial. Other designs alternate between pickets topped with finials and those without. More complex designs incorporate decorative elements, such as arched picket arrangements, geometric ornaments, and scrollwork. Like steel fences, iron fences can cost an average of $30 to $50 per linear foot installed. 

In summary, the three types of fence presented here each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Despite this, all three types are known for their durability, as well as their potential to be an aesthetically pleasing addition to any home. 

With proper treatment and maintenance, these fences can last longer than the home they surround. Appropriate maintenance includes keeping plants and shrubs away from the fence to avoid warping of the material, general scrubbing and washing of the fence when algae attaches itself to the material, and quick replacement of old parts when they have corroded. 

Regulations on fence installation vary between cities. Most municipalities have very specific zoning code requirements depending on fence height, materials used, and location, though if a fence is less than six feet tall, a building permit or zoning approval may not be required. Inspectors generally measure a fence from the base of its posts to the fence top. 

There are many exceptional American fence stallers with the correct experience to guide clients in choosing the best fences for their homes. Most of the truly excellent firms are members of the American Fence Association (AFA). Established in 1962, the AFA is the largest professional association representing the fence, deck, and railing industry, and has members in all 50 states, Canada, and 18 countries outside of North America. 

Ornamental Fences: A Decorator’s Best Friend

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