The Composite Fence Design Trend That Will Dominate In 2025

Fact: A fence is not just meant to keep neighbors from snooping. That's not to say privacy doesn't matter. The truth is that Americans value personal privacy, although attitudes vary from one region to the other. In some neighborhoods, unless you have a good reason for putting up a fence, folks may think you're just being unfriendly. But come to think of it, the thought that a neighbor can see everything in your sunroom when relaxing a couple of feet away can be a bit unsettling. That's one reason you'll need a fence. Yet, when choosing the type of fence to put up, you have to balance between what's functional — meaning what will serve the purpose — and what is stylish. So, which front-yard fence design will dominate 2025?

Experts in the industry believe we will see growing interest in modern, clean-line designs (complete with chic, horizontal slats), mixed materials, and eco-friendly preferences. All these features mean the horizontal composite fence design will dominate in 2025. What's the big deal with the composite fence design? Aside from its sleek, stylish appearance, it is incredibly durable. For perspective, this design may outlive homeowners, especially considering some suppliers offer 25-year residential warranties.

When you think of plastic fencing, you probably think of vinyl. However, the composite fence design is another plastic variant many homeowners consider a better alternative to vinyl. While vinyl is made of a white, thermoplastic material known as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) — or simply vinyl — the composite fence design is made from a mixture of recycled plastic and natural timber fibers. Also, while vinyl fencing first appeared in the American fencing landscape in the 1980s, composite fencing is much more modern, having debuted in the mid-2000s. Today, the most common composite fencing brands are Trex, which is North America's largest composite decking company, and the Utah-based SimTek.

So, why is interest in composite fence design growing? One of the reasons is that composite fence designs are incredibly eco-friendly. Remember, homeowners are increasingly opting for more environmentally friendly fence choices for their yards. And many aren't fazed by cost implications. For perspective, as per the second Business of Sustainability Index by GreenPrint, 66% of Americans are willing to fork out more cash, provided a product is sustainable. Composite fencing easily meets this need, bearing in mind its impressive percentage of recycled content. Consider that some brands use more than 90% recycled material. That said, composite fences come in different shapes and styles.

First, homeowners are increasingly falling in love with horizontal slats. Although vertical fencing has its advantages, including the fact they are easier to fit on uneven terrains, it can't hold a candle to horizontal fencing, especially when it comes to aesthetic appeal. From their clean lines to their sleek, contemporary look, this style can effortlessly keep heads turning. Plus, even if it all comes down to perception, horizontal fences can make a space appear bigger. The other composite fencing style that is getting rave attention is the kind that comes with mixed texture. Manufacturers are getting creative and combining different materials to curate a more eye-catching appearance. Think of a traditional panel with red cedar or another material to provide contrast — such as embossed wood grain.

Also, if you didn't get the memo, ornate fencing styles are becoming relics of the past. Therefore, the styles with minimalist designs are likely to elicit heightened interest when it comes to composite fencing. Think of simple geometric patterns and only a few add-ons, if any. The trick is for the main building's architecture to hog attention. Finally, peel your eyes for composite fencing designs with smart features, including motion sensors — and those with customizable elements — just if you want to bring character to your yard.