5 or 6 Feet? And Which Fence Actually Lasts?

If you're planning a new fence in Peterborough, there are a few decisions that seem simple until you start getting quotes.

How tall should it be? Which material will last the longest? And what colour will still look good five or ten years from now?

Here are a few things worth considering before you book your fence installation in Peterborough.


What Type of Fence Lasts the Longest?

There's no single answer because installation quality and maintenance matter almost as much as the material.

For homeowners looking primarily for longevity, metal fencing can be an excellent choice. Chain link fencing is also remarkably durable and requires relatively little maintenance.

Wood can last for many years as well, but it requires more attention to moisture, staining, and damaged boards. The quality of the posts and installation also makes a huge difference.

In Peterborough, where fences have to deal with wet springs, hot summers, freezing temperatures, and repeated freeze-thaw cycles, proper post installation is particularly important.

A great fence material won't make up for poorly installed posts.


Should You Get a 5-Foot or 6-Foot Fence?

For most homeowners, this comes down to privacy versus openness.

A 6-foot fence is the popular choice when the goal is backyard privacy. It's particularly useful when neighbouring homes are close together or you want to create a more secluded space around a patio or pool.

A 5-foot fence can be a better choice when you want some separation without making the yard feel enclosed. It can also work well when visibility and an open backyard are more important.

Before deciding, stand where the fence will actually go and think about what you want to block—and what you still want to see.

And don't forget to check Peterborough's applicable municipal requirements before finalizing your design. The City maintains its zoning and fencing by-laws, including regulations that can vary depending on the property and situation.


What's the Fence Colour Trend for 2026?

The big trend right now is dark, modern fencing, particularly charcoal and deep grey.

Black and charcoal work especially well with contemporary homes and landscaping because they tend to recede visually, allowing greenery and the house itself to stand out.

But there's another direction worth considering: natural wood tones.

Warm cedar, brown, and natural-looking stains give a backyard a softer, more traditional appearance and are a great fit for Peterborough's mix of established neighbourhoods and properties with a more rural feel.

So don't feel that you have to choose black just because it's popular. A fence should work with your house, landscaping, and the character of the property.


Example

We recently worked with a homeowner near Ridgewood Road who was originally planning a 6-foot privacy fence around the entire backyard.

After looking at the property, they realized they didn't actually need six feet along every side. The section facing the street benefited from a more open design, while privacy was the priority along the back.

Instead of simply putting up the same fence everywhere, we helped them choose a layout that gave them privacy where they wanted it without making the entire yard feel closed in.

It's a good example of why the "standard" fence isn't necessarily the best fence for every property.


Planning a Fence Installation in Peterborough?

If you're comparing fence installation Peterborough companies, start by thinking about what you actually want the fence to accomplish.

Do you need privacy? Security? A safe area for a dog? A boundary for a larger property? Or simply a finished look for your backyard?

Once you know that, choosing the height, material, and style becomes much easier.

Whether you're looking for a privacy fence installation in Peterborough, a durable fence for a larger lot, or a simple backyard fence, Peterborough Fence can help you choose an option that suits your property and your budget.

A good fence isn't necessarily the tallest or most expensive one. It's the one that's properly designed, properly installed, and suited to how you actually use your yard.

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