The most common question we get from homeowners is some version of: “What fence should I get?” The answer depends on four things — what you need the fence to do, what you want it to look like, how much maintenance you’re willing to do, and what your budget is. Here’s how to work through it.
Start With the Purpose
Different fence types are suited to different purposes. Before you look at materials or prices, be clear about what the fence needs to accomplish:
Chain Link: The Practical Choice
Chain link is the most popular residential fence in Winnipeg for good reason. It’s durable, low maintenance, cost-effective, and performs very well in Manitoba’s climate. Galvanized or black vinyl-coated options both hold up well. If your primary goal is defining property, containing pets, or securing a pool without a large budget, chain link is almost always the right answer.
The main limitation is visual — chain link provides no privacy and isn’t a decorative fence. If that matters for your application, look at the options below.
Wood: Privacy and Classic Curb Appeal
A wood fence is the go-to choice when full privacy is the goal. Board-on-board construction with solid panels gives you complete visual screening. It’s also the most traditional-looking residential fence and adds visual warmth that chain link can’t match.
The trade-offs: wood requires more maintenance than chain link (periodic staining or sealing), and a wood fence built with wood posts will eventually show frost movement. We use steel posts for our wood fences specifically because it reduces frost-related movement and extends the life of the fence.
Tip: If you want privacy but have a tighter budget, chain link with privacy slats is worth considering. You get approximately 80% coverage at a significantly lower cost than a full wood fence.
Ornamental Steel: When Looks Matter
Ornamental steel fencing (we install Ameristar® Montage panels) is the choice when you want a decorative fence that looks sharp and requires zero maintenance. No painting, no staining — the powder coat finish holds up without ongoing care. It’s fully rackable, so it follows sloped lots cleanly without stepping.
The trade-off is cost — ornamental is typically the most expensive residential fence option — and the open panel design provides no privacy. It’s most often used for front yards, estate entries, and properties where appearance matters more than screening.
Welded Wire: Functional and Affordable
Welded wire is a rigid grid fence suited to specific applications — garden enclosures, animal pens, chicken coops, and utility boundaries. It’s not a typical full-property residential fence, but for the right application it’s strong, cost-effective, and durable.
The Quick Decision Framework
Still not sure? Use our Fence Advisor tool or give us a call — we’re happy to talk through your specific situation.
