Composite Fence Panel Calculator
Estimate composite fence boards, aluminum post channels, and concrete bags for low-maintenance modern composite fences.
Fence calculator
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Overview
Composite fencing combines recycled wood fibers and dense thermoplastic polymers to create ultra-durable, weather-resistant fence boards with the look and texture of natural hardwood.
Modern composite systems typically use slotted aluminum post channels that tongue-and-groove composite boards slide down into horizontally, creating modern architectural privacy walls.
Common mistakes
- Failing to leave expansion gaps inside aluminum side channels, causing composite boards to buckle when heated.
- Attempting to span longer than 6 feet between posts with heavy composite boards, causing center sagging.
- Using undersized concrete footings that cannot support the substantial weight of dense composite panels.
- Lifting heavy composite boards by their tongues, which can crack or shear the alignment edges.
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Related reading
In-depth guides
Frequently asked questions
How heavy is composite fencing compared to wood?
Composite fence boards are generally denser and heavier than comparable cedar or pine boards of the same dimensions, which is why manufacturers spec robust aluminum posts and appropriately sized concrete footings. Check the specific product's weight per board for exact numbers.
Does composite fencing fade in the sun?
High-end co-extruded capped composite fencing resists UV degradation with a protective outer polymer shell that holds its color for decades.
Can you install composite fence boards horizontally?
Yes. Most premium modern composite systems are specifically engineered for horizontal board installation between slotted aluminum posts.
How many composite boards are in a 6-foot high panel?
Using 6-inch high tongue-and-groove boards, a 6-foot panel requires 12 horizontal boards stacked vertically between the aluminum posts.
Is composite fencing eco-friendly?
Many composite fence manufacturers highlight a substantial recycled content in their boards, typically a mix of reclaimed wood fiber and recycled plastic. The exact percentage varies by brand and product line, so check the manufacturer's own spec sheet.
Do composite fences ever need staining or painting?
No, composite boards feature integral coloration that runs throughout the material and are not meant to be painted or sealed. Color can still fade or wear unevenly over many years of sun exposure, especially on lower-grade or uncapped boards.
What wind rating can composite fencing withstand?
It depends heavily on the specific panel system, post spacing, embedment depth and footing size, so there is no single number that applies across products. Ask the manufacturer for their tested wind-load rating for your exact configuration before relying on it in a high-wind area.
How do composite fence costs compare to cedar or vinyl?
Composite fencing has a higher initial material cost than cedar or standard vinyl, but offers zero maintenance and an expected lifespan of 30 or more years.