Choosing the right material for fence panel strips is a key decision that affects durability, appearance, and maintenance costs. We compare the most popular materials: polyethylene (PE), PVC, wood, metal, and composite.
Pros
Cons
Estimated price:280-440 PLN per set for one panel span (250 cm). Polyethylene (PE) is the material used in RattanArt strips available at CRAZYSHAPES.PL. Thanks to UV stabilizers and flexibility, PE is perfect for fence panel infills - it's more durable and crack-resistant than PVC, while remaining lightweight and easy to install.
Pros
Cons
Estimated price:200-380 PLN per span. PVC is a popular construction material, but for fence strips it has limitations - it's more brittle than polyethylene, degrades faster under UV exposure, and can crack on frosty days.
Pros
Cons
Estimated price: 150-350 PLN per span + maintenance costs. Wooden strips look natural but require regular maintenance. After a few years without treatment, wood turns grey and loses its appeal.
Pros
Cons
Estimated price:400-800 PLN per span. Metal is a premium solution. Aluminium doesn't rust but is more expensive. Galvanized and powder-coated steel is cheaper but requires coating inspection.
Pros
Cons
Estimated price: 350-700 PLN per span. Composite combines the advantages of wood and plastic but is more expensive than plastic strips and requires precise installation.
| Criterion | PE | PVC | Wood | Metal | Composite |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $$ | $$ | $ | $$$$ | $$$ |
| Durability | 10-15 yrs | 8-12 yrs | 5-10 yrs* | 20+ yrs | 15-20 yrs |
| Installation | Very easy | Easy | Medium | Hard | Medium |
| Maintenance | None | None | Every 1-2 yrs | Minimal | Minimal |
| UV resistance | Very good | Average | Poor** | Good | Good |
| Frost resistance | Very good | Poor | Average | Very good | Good |
* Wood durability depends on regular treatment. ** Untreated wood turns grey under UV exposure.
For budget-conscious, convenience and durability-oriented
Polyethylene (PE) - best price-to-quality ratio, zero maintenance, tool-free installation, excellent frost and UV resistance.
For natural wood lovers
Wood - beautiful natural look, but requires maintenance commitment.
For maximum durability seekers
Metal (aluminium) - investment for years, but highest price and harder installation.
For a balance of looks and durability
Composite - wood appearance without its drawbacks, but pricier than PE.
For most homeowners with fence panels, polyethylene (PE) strips are the optimal choice. They combine affordable pricing, durability, easy installation, and zero maintenance. Compared to PVC, polyethylene is more flexible, more frost-resistant, and better withstands UV radiation. RattanArt strips, available at CRAZYSHAPES.PL, are made from durable polyethylene and available in 7 natural colours that blend aesthetically with any fence.
