The Ultimate Guide to Composite Fencing

For many years, privacy fence in North America meant using wood. However, in recent years, many more options have become available. Today, you can choose vinyl fence, metal fence, concrete fences, composite fence, or something else. Let’s take a closer look at what composite fencing is, how it’s made, how it’s installed, and everything else you need to know.

How Is Composite Fencing Made?

The process of making composite fencing is very similar to what you would see when creating a product like MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard), but in this case, the product is a combination of wood fibers and plastic.

These materials are finely ground and mixed with various additives and colorants, then subjected to tremendous pressure to create a finished product that is strong, durable, resistant to the elements, and perfect for fencing. This production method results in boards that can withstand harsh conditions and still look great.

When Was Composite Fencing Invented?

You could be forgiven for thinking that composite fencing is a newer invention. However, this type of product—known as Wood Plastic Composite (WPC)—was invented in Milan, Italy, in 1960 by a company called Covema. While it has evolved over time, it still has a long, solid history of reliable use.

How Is Composite Fencing Sold?

Composite fencing is sold both in panel form and in board form. Many manufacturers offer boards of different profiles, along with matching posts, brackets, and hardware kits—often including coated metal posts and support rails.

Buying composite fencing panels that are already assembled typically means less on-site work. However, if you purchase boards and components, you might save a bit on materials, and you have more flexibility for custom fence designs or accommodating slopes on your property line.

Where Can You Buy Composite Fencing?

Composite fencing systems are easier to find these days. Large home improvement stores, fence companies, and specialized fence distributors often stock composite fencing. Some manufacturers even sell directly to the public.

No matter where you buy, look for reputable suppliers who stand behind their products and maintain consistent stock. If you need to replace or repair part of your fence in the future, it’s helpful to match color and finish from the same product line.

Is Composite Fencing Any Good?

Composite fencing offers the privacy and design versatility of wood, but it’s rot-resistant, insect-resistant, and corrosion-resistant, similar to vinyl fence. It typically requires no painting or staining, which makes it attractive for busy homeowners.

Many high-quality composite fence products also come with long warranties—sometimes 20 to 25 years or more—so you know you’re getting a material that can stand the test of time. It’s a solid option if you’re looking for a dependable privacy fence solution.

How Long Does Composite Fencing Last?

Manufacturers each offer different warranties, but most well-made composite fences easily last 30 years or more, assuming they’re not damaged by external factors like vehicles, fire, or extreme impact. With proper installation, a composite fence can truly be a long-term investment.

Is Composite Fencing Good for the Environment?

Composite fencing often features recycled materials, including reclaimed wood fibers and recycled plastics, which reduces waste. Additionally, there’s no need for chemical treatments to make it rot-resistant or insect-resistant, so there are fewer environmental concerns about toxic substances.

Since it has a very long lifespan, composite fencing also helps reduce the frequency of fence replacements, which keeps extra material out of landfills. In places like Phoenix, where sustainability efforts are growing, this can be especially beneficial.

Is Composite Fencing More Expensive?

Composite fencing can cost more than wood or vinyl initially, but the long-term value can be significant. Because composite fence boards are solid, they can hold up very well under tough weather conditions. Arizona’s scorching sun, for example, can take a toll on some materials, but composite stands up well.

Unlike wood, composite fence boards don’t rot or degrade, and when you pair them with coated steel framework and proper hardware, you can get decades of service with virtually no maintenance, no staining, no painting, and no insect damage to worry about.

Composite Fencing vs. Vinyl Fence

Composite fencing is often considered alongside vinyl fencing as a low-maintenance option, but there are some notable differences:

Vinyl fence components are usually hollow with internal stiffening ribs, making them lightweight but strong. Composite fencing boards are solid.
Vinyl fence is primarily made from PVC, while composite fencing blends wood fibers, plastic, and sometimes other materials.
Vinyl fence systems are typically sold as complete kits, and components from different product lines might not be interchangeable. Composite fencing can be more flexible in design and installation.
Both vinyl and composite fences come in a variety of colors, with some products featuring realistic wood grain finishes.

In the end, both are great low-maintenance privacy fence solutions. Personal preference, budget, and design requirements will help you decide which system is right for your property.

Is Composite Fencing Easy to Install?

Composite fencing installation is generally comparable to putting up a wood fence. If you have the right tools and experience, it’s not overly difficult. However, precision is important. Properly laid-out posts and fasteners ensure your fence remains stable and looks good.

If you’re not confident in your skills, it’s best to hire a professional fence installer. An experienced contractor will know how to accommodate sloped yards, work around existing structures, and follow local regulations. In areas like Phoenix, it’s often worth the time saved to call in an expert.

At Western Fence, we’ve seen that composite fencing performs exceptionally well in the Arizona climate. Its resistance to fading under the hot sun and to moisture during monsoon season makes it a smart choice for homeowners looking for a low-maintenance fence solution.

Western Fence proudly serves the Phoenix area with a variety of fencing services, including composite fence installation. If you’re exploring more about composite fencing or any other specialty fence materials, learn more about our Phoenix fence installation services. Let us know how we can help secure and enhance your property.