WPC composite fences have surpassed traditional wooden fences due to their exceptional lifespan of 20-30 years or even up to 50 years with proper care and maintenance. They add a timeless, luxurious touch to any curb’s outlook. Property owners can install the WPC composite fence either horizontally or vertically, depending on their visual taste. The orientation of WPC installation can dramatically change the perception of a space. Finding the right match for your space that blends seamlessly with its aesthetics is key to achieving design harmony.

This WPC composite fence style guide will explain why you should consider building a horizontal or vertical fence. We will examine its visual appeal, functionality, and other aspects, as well as its compatibility with KR WPC. The lifetime and initial cost of WPC material necessitate a deeper study of the element to create a perfect space that embodies luxury.

Horizontal Fences: Modern Aesthetics, Linear Appeal

The horizontal fences have been a big hit in recent years. The shift to modern contemporary designs is becoming evident. WPC fences offer a combination of reliability and aesthetics, setting them apart from vertical fences.

Visual Characteristics

• Closer to Nature: The use of horizontal fences mimics natural elements, creating a perception of wideness. The human brain associates horizontal lines with the ground, sea, or a sleeping figure. Inducing the perception of resting and stability.
• Perception of Wider Space: Our eyes follow horizontal lines from side to side. The movement of the eyes creates an illusion of openness, width, and continuity.
• Stability: As humans, we perceive things as more stable when they are well grounded compared to when they are vertical. Horizontal WPC composite fences create a sense of safety and reassurance.
• Perception of Height: Just like a horizontal WPC composite fence creates the sense of width, it also creates a sense of reduced height. If your fences are tall to create privacy, having them horizontal will make them feel less imposing.
• Modernism: The use of horizontal lines aligns with the modern contemporary look. It can make a space look modern, stylish, and sophisticated.

Functional Advantages

• Enhanced Privacy: Horizontal WPC composite fence boards offer increased privacy due to their overlapping style. They fill the gaps through the natural force of gravity.
• Sloped Landscape: If your space has portions where the ground height changes, a horizontal fence can make fencing easier. Cutting the pre-made height is enough to adjust to the slope (staggered alignment).

Considerations

• Sagging: The horizontal fence is supported using posts. Their distance determines the sagging effect in the middle. It is prominent in more traditional materials, such as wood and metal.
• Installation Methods: If the WPC composite fence material is not adequately secured to the posts or the posts are not securely anchored to the ground, imperfections may occur, which will be visually noticeable.
• Temperature: The changing temperature will cause the WPC composite fence material to expand and contract. Considering these changes during the fitting process is key to longevity and visual appeal.

Vertical Fences: Timeless Design with Practical Strength

Application spanning from property boundaries to military uses makes vertical fences worth studying. The timeless design of vertical fences has been around for centuries and remains a testament to their practical strength. Let’s examine why vertical WPC composite fences may be the ideal choice for you.

Classic Appearance

• Grand and Aspirational: The traditional and timeless look of vertical WPC composite fences evokes a sense of aspiration and grandeur. The upright aesthetics mimic tall natural objects, such as trees and mountains, which can lend the property a dignified presence.
• Sense of Security: From the old times of palisades and simple wooden fences, vertical structures have been seen as a sense of strength. Modern vertical WPC composite fence forms a psychological barrier that reinforces the sense of safety.
• Illusion of Reduced Width: Spaces with larger widths can utilize vertical WPC composite fences to create the illusion of reduced width. The eye will naturally follow other patterns rather than the fence width.
• Applications: The vertical composite fences are well-suited for colonial, farmhouse, and rustic homes that appreciate traditional looks. Moreover, they are great for gardens or spaces with curved corners.

Performance Benefits

• Beneficial Gravity: Vertical fences are less prone to sagging. Gravity works in favor, pushing the weight downward on each panel.
• Pre-Built: The installation process of vertical WPC composite fences is significantly more straightforward compared to horizontal ones. The panels are pre-built and do not require professional fitting. It is often referred to as the “DIY-friendly” fence design.
• Fewer Posts: The number of posts for vertical panels significantly reduces as the limitation of distance between posts is relaxed. It also reduces the cost and time for setting up the fence.
• Thermal Expansion: In comparison to horizontal, the vertical WPC composite fences do not require a margin for thermal expansion. It reduces setup time and eases the fitting process.

Limitations

• Outdated Look: The vertical WPC composite fences are considered less modern and unique. For some people, the vertical design may not align with the psychological impression they need.
• Maintenance: If any part of the panel is damaged, the entire panel must be replaced. It can be time-consuming and require a bigger maintenance budget.

Key Decision Factors for Homeowners

Architecture and Yard Size

The architectural design of the house is key in selecting the vertical or horizontal WPC composite fence. Here are some tips for considering the house or building architecture and space size before installing the fence:

1. Houses with flat roofs or low-slung profiles can utilize horizontal fences so that it does not overpower the structure.
2. If the architecture surrounding the fence has geometric forms with clean lines, then a WPC composite fence can further enhance the look and blend seamlessly.
3. Always consider vertical or horizontal fences in the space design. If the space is narrow and wide, think vertical. Go for horizontal if the width is moderate.
4. Blending modern features with traditional elements is easier when using a natural wood grain finish on WPC composite fences.
5. Use vertical frames for taller buildings and architecture to reduce the overpowering height.

Maintenance Expectations

Using WPC composite fences as your boundary or segregation method is ideal for maintenance and structural support. The composite nature ensures that the fence material is highly resistant to water, rot, mould, and fading. Moreover, it needs no painting or sealing to avoid damage. Cleaning is also simple with water or a mild soap.

Note: The horizontal designs may collect more dirt and require more rinsing compared to the vertical WPC composite fence design.

Cost and Installation

The vertical fences often require less structural support. Horizontal WPC composite fences require more support and have limitations on the distance between each support post. Typically, a distance of 6ft or less between posts is recommended to avoid sagging of horizontal panels. Moreover, horizontal WPC fence may require custom brackets or framing, but it offers a premium look.

The cost of material only for the WPC composite fencing is:

• Overall Material Cost Range

WPC composite fencing materials typically range from $11 to $45 per linear foot.

• Standard Privacy Fence (5-6 ft tall)

The materials for standard privacy fences typically fall within the $22 to $34 per linear foot range.

• Taller Fences (6.5-8 ft tall)

These can reach $28 to $45 per linear foot.

• Individual Slats/Boards

Some sources indicate that individual composite fence boards can cost between $12 and $15 per slat.

• Complete Panels (e.g., 6ft x 6ft)

Pre-assembled or kit-style panels can range from $100 to $240 per 6ft panel, with premium styles costing more. Some examples found included 6ft x 6ft panels with one post for around $309.99.

Why WPC Works Well Either Way

Strength and Stability

The WPC composite fence material is designed to resist sagging and warping by utilizing cross-sectional designs that provide resistance to deformation. Their stability and strength make them suitable for installation in either direction, vertical or horizontal.

Design Flexibility

Well-established brands like KR WPC offer exceptional design flexibility, allowing for a traditional wood-look with modern tones. Here are their key features, which make KR WPC an excellent material choice for fencing:

Note: The KR WPC fencing works seamlessly with both concealed and exposed metal posts, in either direction.

Conclusion: Find the Fence That Fits Your Home’s Character

The first thing anyone visiting your house, business, or property should notice. It sets the impression with its sleek aesthetics and long-lasting finish. The flawless WPC, which can stand the test of time, is both practical and stylish. A user can go for either a vertical or horizontal layout for their WPC composite fencing panels. Any disadvantages that older horizontal designs had are addressed through improved cross-sectional design, enhanced stability, superior material, and greater compatibility.

If you’re considering purchasing WPC fences for your next project, consider KR WPC composite fencing. It offers an excellent lineup of standard 6ft × 6ft (183 × 183 cm) and customizable fencing options. They offer 2D and 3D wood grain embossing with more than 8 standard colors to choose from. Visit the  KR WPC website to find a custom solution for your project!

FAQ

1. Can WPC fencing be installed both horizontally and vertically?

WPC is the most versatile fencing material. It can be installed both horizontally and vertically owing to its modular panels, aluminum H-groove and U-groove systems, and custom panel sizes.

• Is a horizontal fence stronger than a vertical fence?

The horizontal fences need to be stronger in comparison to the vertical fence. As they are prone to sagging, they require professional fitting to ensure proper incorporation. Using a WPC composite fence can solve the problem, as it offers intricate designs to address these issues and provides seamless aesthetics with longevity.

• Does a horizontal wall cost more than a vertical one?

The installation costs and expertise required to install a horizontal wall are typically higher than those of a vertical one, as there are more considerations for tolerances and margins. Vertical fences are easier to install in the form of 6ft x 6ft panels.

• Which fence orientation offers more privacy?

The modern WPC composite fencing provides privacy in both directions. The panels can overlap to create a seamless surface that leaves no space for prying eyes. The installation process still plays a key role in reducing the gaps.

• Is vertical fencing easier to install for DIY projects?

Yes, vertical fencing is ideal for DIY projects due to its panel-wise installation process. They often come in pre-built panels that have simple slots between fence posts. They are great for gardens with curved or uneven surfaces. Moreover, the gravity works in stabilizing the whole assembly, making it easier to install.