Today many people look for the ways of reducing their negative impact on ecology in everything they do, from the kinds of transportation they use to the food they eat. It is a responsible thing to do, but there are still many areas that generally remain untouched by the attention of most environmentally conscious people – just because they haven’t yet considered what they can do to decrease their ecological impact in them. Fencing is one such area – there are types of outdoor fencing that are sustainably produced, durable and pleasant to look at, but many people simply haven’t heard about them. So let’s rectify this omission.
IMAGE: PEXELS
1. Bamboo
Fences made out of bamboo remove the need to choose between aesthetics, eco-friendliness, and durability as they combine all these features. First of all, bamboo visually resembles wood, which cannot but please those searching for a more traditional look and feel of their fences. Secondly, it is a natural yet sustainable product – bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants on the planet, with some species in certain regions growing as fast as 3 feet per day. Using it helps decrease deforestation – unlike wood, cut bamboo doesn’t need years to regrow. Thirdly, despite being a member of the grass family, bamboo is extremely sturdy and durable. Finally, it is undeniably stylish, which means that you don’t have to choose between being environmentally conscious and having a beautiful fence.
2. Reclaimed Wood
Using reclaimed wood products will help you maintain sustainability in two ways simultaneously: firstly, they decrease the need for newly harvested wood. Secondly, they utilize wood that is otherwise likely to go to waste simply. In addition to that, reclaimed wood often has an all-natural aged look that even pre-weathered new wood doesn’t come close to.
3. Bio-Composite Materials
Bio-composite fences are either fully produced out of organic, biodegradable materials or out of their combination with recycled materials such as plastic. What you get as a result is a fence that consists only of renewable resources or materials that give new life to recycled waste. Such humble origins don’t mean that they have to look humble as well – these fences usually mimic the look and feel of natural wood, without all the problems associated with it (such as the need for regular painting). It is far more durable than wood as well, which means that it will last for a long time with little to no maintenance. Another advantage is that biocomposite materials don’t contain toxic chemicals because their plastic components double as protection against moisture, eliminating the need for chemical sealants.
4. Artificial Stone
Artificial stone is actually produced out of recycled materials, but unless you are an expert, you will never tell it apart from real stone. It combines incredible durability and outstanding appearance, with sound blocking capability as a nice bonus. This is one of the few types of privacy fences that actually look good in addition to preventing the property from public view. However, what makes it a truly green solution is not just the fact that it is produced out of recycled resources but its sturdiness – it will not need repairs or replacement for years after installation.
5. Woven Hurdles
Woven hurdles are produced out of branches of softwood harvested at appropriate times of year for maximum durability and flexibility. In the past they have been widely used to fence off areas for cattle – now this craft is being revived as a sustainable, beautiful and all-natural type of property fences. In addition to having an unbeatable natural appearance, they are long-lasting and sturdy, working especially well in areas with strong winds – unlike the types of fences with large flat surfaces they have multiple natural gaps in their texture that let the wind through without damaging the fence properly. Even after a hurricane, you will never see them falling down. As for sustainability, proper woven hurdles are made of branches that will regrow the next year, without any lasting damage to the trees themselves.
6. Old Wrought-Iron Fences
These can be found in many architectural salvage shops, although it may take a while before you find the type you like. On the bright side, these panels are extremely durable and remain usable even after many years of service. Even if the fence you find happens to be severely worn out, it is often possible to get it back into shape with the help of some sandblasting or scraping, so don’t give up on it immediately. What you get as a result is a beautiful, sturdy fence that will lend your property a sophisticated look no other type of panels can create.
As you can see, the world of green fences is diverse, and the possibilities are many, in no way limiting your creativity. We hope that with the help of these tips you will be able to pick something you like.
If you are interested in even more lifestyle-related articles and information from us here at Bit Rebels then we have a lot to choose from.
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