If you are considering replacing your home's existing fence or are putting up a new one to replace a hedge, then you may be confused by the different sorts of fencing product that are available. This is because fencing systems tend to be designed for different sorts of purposes. What would suit a farmer to keep livestock penned in, for example, is not likely to provide adequate security in a suburban dwelling. Read on to discover the best sort of fence system to opt for if you want to mark out the boundary of your property as well as products that will suit you if you want a higher level of privacy or security.

Garden Fences

The vast majority of garden fences are made from treated wood which allows them to withstand the elements for years. Panels are constructed from overlapping horizontal slats which create a physical barrier between their wooden fence posts. It is possible to purchase these types of fence panels in various sizes to suit your garden's needs. Some people want high fence panels to shut out noise from a nearby road while others simply want a waist-high fence that they can see over. Slatted garden fences do cut out some light, however, which is not great for growing plants in borders close to them. Therefore, lattice fence panels or picket fencing, which both allow air and light through, tend to be popular with keen horticulturists.

Security Fences

A wire mesh fence is the most common method of preventing unwarranted access to your property and of providing a secure environment. Wire mesh panels are durable and hard to cut through unless a very determined criminal wants to gain access. What's more, they are extremely tricky to climb over. Another option for security-conscious homeowners is steel palisade. A fence that is constructed from steel palisade is tamper-proof and extremely robust against vandalism. The panels that make up a steel palisade fence will last for years, and gates that are made to go with them are also incredibly reliable with secure hinges.

Privacy Fences

Vertically overlapping fence panels are ideal for providing extra privacy. Whereas a slatted garden fence panel provides a gap here and there that can be looked through, a fence panel with overlapping vertically arranged sections is almost impossible to peer beyond. Alternatively, opt for tongue and groove fence panels which mean that no gaps will appear at all, no matter how small they are. Choose high fence panels that come up well above eye-level and the corresponding height for any gates that will be fitted.