If you live in Glenview or nearby North Shore suburbs, choosing the right fence material is a major decision. A fence isn’t just a boundary—it’s an investment in security, aesthetics, and long-term durability in the face of Chicagoland’s weather.
Two of the most popular options for property owners in Glenview are metal fences (e.g., aluminum, wrought iron, steel) and wood fences (e.g., cedar, pressure-treated pine). Each has its benefits and trade-offs. In this guide we’ll compare metal vs wood in terms of cost, maintenance, durability, style, and suitability for Glenview & the greater North Shore region.
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Glenview is a mature, established suburb with varied architectural styles, tree-lined lots and lots of seasonal weather: humid summers, snowy winters, freeze-thaw cycles, and the occasional thaw-freeze swing. These factors impact how well a fence performs over time:
Snow and ice can weigh on fence panels and cause damage.
Moisture and humidity can cause wood rot, warping, or insect damage.
Municipal regulations in suburbs like Glenview, Northbrook or Wilmette may have fence-height, material or appearance requirements, especially for front yards or historic properties.
Visibility, curb appeal, and maintenance levels all matter in these neighborhoods.
Because of this, when Glenview homeowners consider a new fence, they often weigh not just the upfront cost but how it will hold up over time—which means maintenance, repairs, lifespan and value matter a lot.
Let’s look at typical installed cost ranges in Illinois/North Shore for wood vs metal fences so you have realistic benchmarks.
Wood Fences:
For wood fences in Illinois, you’ll commonly see prices around $24–$45 per linear foot including materials and labor according to recent national data.
For example, a 150-foot run might cost between $3,600 and $6,750 (for basic wood styles) in many Midwest suburbs.
Illinois‐specific data shows cedar/treated pine fences typically in the range of $40–$60 per linear foot for higher quality wood.
Metal Fences (Aluminum, Steel, Wrought Iron):
Metal fences generally carry a higher upfront cost because of materials and fabrication. For Illinois/North Shore area, metal fencing can range from $30-$70+ per linear foot depending on style, finish and material.
For example, one local guide for the North Shore suggests metal may cost more initially but lasts much longer, reducing lifetime costs.
What this means for Glenview homeowners:
If budget is your main constraint and you want privacy or a full panel fence, wood gives you more dollars for your foot of fence initially. But if you want a long-term solution with less maintenance, metal may make more sense. wood is still a very valid choice.
Wood Fences:
Good wood types (cedar or pressure-treated pine) properly installed can last 15-20 years or more, with maintenance.
But raw wood is much more vulnerable: rot, insect damage, warping, and maintenance burden can shorten its life especially in wetter or freeze-thaw conditions typical of the North Shore. Wood fences in Chicagoland often need more frequent upkeep.
Metal Fences:
Powder-coated aluminum or galvanized steel fences in suburban settings can last 30-50 years or more with minimal upkeep.
The main maintenance concern is rust (for steel/wrought iron) or finish damage—but modern metal finishes handle moisture, snow, and salt well.
For Glenview, where winters bring snow and salt and summers bring humidity, metal fences have a big advantage in longevity and maintenance.
The bottom line for Glenview:
If you plan to stay in your home a long time and want the fence to last decades with minimal fuss, metal is strong. If you expect to move in 10-15 years and want lower upfront cost and more design flexibility, wood is still a very valid choice.
Wood Fences:
Excellent for full-privacy applications (6ft+ board-on-board, shadow-box styles) which are very common in Glenview backyards.
Warm natural appearance, can be stained any color, matches traditional homes and large tree-filled lots.
Good for front yard picket fences too.
Metal Fences:
Best for decorative or ornamental applications (aluminum/wrought-iron) and front yard open style fences.
For full privacy, metal isn’t typically used alone unless combined with infill or privacy slats but you’ll pay more.
Offers elegant look, good for homes on larger lots, more modern aesthetic, and better longevity.
In Glenview neighborhoods with historic homes, metal can complement traditional styles very well.
Which style fits Glenview?
If your goal is full backyard privacy, wood is very common and works well. If you want a decorative front boundary, pool enclosure or modern minimal look, metal often wins in style and durability.
Wood Fences:
Requires staining/sealing every 2-3 years, boards may need replacing, risk of insect/rot damage.
Maintenance cost adds up over time.
Example: untreated boards might need replacement earlier in humid or shaded yards.
Local cost of repair/replacement could erase initial savings if you neglect maintenance.
Metal Fences:
Very low maintenance: occasional cleaning, check for chips in coating, maybe repainting/retouching every decade or so.
Less risk of structural damage from weather, pests or warping.
Because the hardware and material are more robust, fewer repairs.
For Glenview yards, especially yards with exposure to elements, this maintenance difference often makes metal more appealing despite initial higher cost.
When you compare total cost over 10-20 years:
Wood may cost less upfront but will require more care and periodic repairs/staining.
Metal costs more upfront but often has lower lifetime cost due to less maintenance and longer lifespan.
For example: assume a standard 150 linear-foot fence in Glenview. If wood costs ~$40/ft = ~$6,000 and metal costs ~$60/ft = ~$9,000. But if wood needs a major repair or board replacement after 10 years, that may add $1,000+ and you may need another refresh every 10-15 years. Metal may only need a little maintenance at year 15 and continue 30+ years.
This “lifetime value” metric is important for Glenview homeowners who expect to stay or want low-maintenance living.
In Glenview and many North Shore suburbs:
There are height restrictions for front yard fences (often 4ft max) and for side/rear yards (often 6ft or sometimes 8ft).
Material and design rules—some historic areas prefer more decorative metal or defined styles.
You may need a permit and survey of property lines.
Installation in winter or shoulder season may save on cost and allow timely grading/installation before spring landscaping.
Make sure whichever fence you pick—wood or metal—complies with Glenview municipal codes. A local contractor like yours (Atlantic Fence Inc) helps navigate these rules.
When to go with Wood:
You want full privacy for your backyard (6ft height or higher).
You prefer warm, natural appearance and are willing to maintain it.
You have a moderate budget and plan to stay 10-20 years.
When to choose Metal:
You want a decorative front yard fence or perimeter boundary that stands decades.
You prefer low maintenance and higher long-term durability.
You expect to stay 20+ years and value longevity.
Given Glenview’s mix of tree-lined lots, older homes and new builds, many homeowners choose a hybrid: wood for privacy back yards, metal for front yards or feature fences.
Choosing between a metal fence and a wood fence in Glenview, IL is not just about price—it’s about fit: the right material, the right style, the right long-term commitment.
If you value privacy, warmth and lower cost now, wood is a strong choice.
If you value durability, minimal upkeep and long-term value, metal may be the smarter investment.
Whatever you choose, ensure it’s installed professionally, fits local codes in Glenview, and is truly what you want for your home and backyard.
📞 For a free consultation, call Atlantic Fence Inc at (847) 766-5976 to explore your options and get your local quote today.
Atlantic Fence Inc is your trusted local fencing expert in Northbrook, IL. We provide durable residential and commercial fencing solutions with a focus on quality, security, and honest service.
