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Timber or Colorbond?

Timber vs Colorbond

Timber vs Colorbond Fencing: Which Fence Is Right for Your Property?

Choosing between timber and Colorbond fencing comes down to your property, your location, your budget and the conditions your fence will face. Both options are excellent fencing solutions, but each has different strengths.

At Crawfords Fencing, we believe in giving customers honest advice about what will actually suit their property — not simply recommending the most expensive option.

Timber Fencing: Affordable, Strong and Proven

One of the biggest advantages of timber fencing is value for money.

Timber fencing typically starts from around $110 per linear metre, making it a more cost-effective option compared with Colorbond fencing, which commonly starts from around $150 per linear metre.

Many homeowners are told that Colorbond is always the better choice, but that isn’t necessarily true. Timber fencing has been used successfully for decades and, in certain environments, can actually outperform other fencing materials.

Where Timber Fencing Excels

Timber fencing can be a superior choice in wind-prone areas.

Unlike Colorbond panels, which are lightweight sheets that rely on rails and fixing systems, timber paling fences create a more solid structure that can handle strong winds effectively.

In extreme wind locations such as exposed properties, coastal areas or mountainous regions, there can be situations where Colorbond sheets may experience movement or, in rare cases, become dislodged if the fence system is heavily impacted.

Timber fencing does not have the same panel movement characteristics and can provide excellent performance in exposed conditions when installed correctly.

Timber’s Weakness

The main disadvantage of timber fencing is moisture.

Over time, timber can weather, age and deteriorate faster in constantly wet environments.

At Crawfords Fencing, we can help protect timber posts by applying bitumen membrane protection to the in-ground section of posts. This creates an additional barrier to help reduce moisture exposure and improve longevity.

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Colorbond Fencing: Low Maintenance and Long Lasting

Colorbond fencing is a popular choice for many Australian homes because it provides a clean, modern appearance with minimal maintenance.

Where Colorbond Fencing Excels

Colorbond fencing is extremely practical in many suburban environments.

Posts are typically installed into concrete footings approximately 700–900mm deep, creating a strong structure that performs well under normal conditions.

In many suburban areas, homes, buildings, trees and surrounding structures naturally reduce wind exposure, making Colorbond an excellent long-term fencing option.

One of the biggest advantages of Colorbond is appearance and maintenance:

  • It does not rot

  • It does not require painting

  • It maintains its colour

  • It can simply be washed with a hose to keep it looking fresh

A quality Colorbond fence can continue looking great for many years with very little maintenance.

Colorbond’s Weakness

While Colorbond is a fantastic product, it is not perfect for every location.

Because Colorbond panels are lightweight metal sheets, strong winds can create movement and vibration through the fence structure. In highly exposed areas, the conditions of the property should always be considered before choosing this option.

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Which Fence Should You Choose?

The answer depends on your property.

Timber fencing may be the better choice for:

  • Wind-exposed properties

  • Mountainous areas

  • Coastal locations

  • Customers wanting a cost-effective traditional fence

Colorbond fencing may be the better choice for:

  • Low-maintenance properties

  • Modern homes

  • Suburban blocks with normal wind exposure

  • Customers wanting a long-lasting clean appearance

Both timber and Colorbond fencing are quality products that provide excellent value compared with many other fencing options.

The best fence is not always the most expensive one — it is the fence that suits your property.

For honest advice on which fencing option is right for your home, contact the experts at Crawfords Fencing.

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    “What To Do When Your Neighbour Won’t Fix or Replace the Boundary Fence”

Need a Written Fence Notice for Your Neighbour?

If your boundary fence is damaged, falling down or needs replacing and you cannot get agreement from your neighbour, a Fencing Notice can help formally outline your proposed fence works.

A Fencing Notice explains:

  • The proposed fence location

  • The type of fence being installed

  • The contractor carrying out the work

  • The estimated cost

  • How costs are proposed to be shared

You can find the official Victorian Fencing Notice forms here:

Victorian Government Fencing Notice forms⁠

Before sending a notice, it is usually best to speak with your neighbour first and try to reach an agreement. Keeping communication clear and respectful can often prevent disputes.

If you need help understanding your fencing options, getting a quote, or choosing the right fence for your property, Crawfords Fencing can provide professional advice and help you through the process.

Please note: Crawfords Fencing provides fencing advice and installation services. For legal advice about dividing fence disputes, refer to the official Victorian Government resources.

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What To Do When Your Neighbour Is Uncontactable and the Boundary Fence Needs Replacing

Have you never met your neighbour, cannot get in contact with them, or have a neighbouring property that appears vacant? A damaged boundary fence can become a frustrating problem when you do not know who to speak with or how to move forward.

At Crawfords Fencing, we have seen many situations where a fence has been left damaged or deteriorating because communication between neighbours has been difficult.

Whether the property next door is vacant, the owner lives elsewhere, or you simply cannot establish contact, there are steps you can take to address the problem.

Start by Making Reasonable Attempts to Contact Your Neighbour

Before replacing a shared boundary fence, it is best to make reasonable attempts to contact the owner.

This may include:

  • Leaving a polite letter at the property

  • Contacting the real estate agent if the property is managed

  • Speaking with nearby neighbours who may have contact information

  • Keeping records of your attempts to make contact

If Your Neighbour Still Cannot Be Contacted

In Victoria, dividing fence laws provide a process for situations where neighbours cannot reach an agreement.

A written Fencing Notice can be used to formally outline the proposed fence works, including the type of fence, estimated costs and the proposed arrangement.

Victorian Government fencing information and forms can be found here:

[Victorian Government Fencing Information]

Document the Condition of the Fence

Before any work begins, it is recommended to keep records of:

  • Photos showing the condition of the existing fence

  • Dates of contact attempts

  • Quotes and information about the proposed replacement

Crawfords Fencing Can Help

Difficult fence situations are something we regularly help homeowners navigate.

From old damaged fences to boundary replacements where communication is difficult, Crawfords Fencing can inspect the fence, explain your options and provide professional advice.

A properly built boundary fence improves security, appearance and peace of mind.

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