materials. It will not rot, warp, or require annual treatment. For homeowners in the Greater Montreal area seeking an attractive and long-lasting fence without the burden of constant maintenance, composite represents a wise long-term investment.
What Is a Composite Fence?
Composite is a material manufactured from recycled wood fibres and plastic polymers. This blend creates a product that replicates the appearance of wood while offering superior resistance to weather, insects, and moisture.
Comparison of Fencing Materials
| Criteria | Composite | Treated wood | PVC |
| Lifespan | 25–30 years | 15–20 years | 20–25 years |
| Maintenance | Occasional cleaning | Stain every 2–3 years | Occasional cleaning |
| Frost resistance | Excellent | Good | Very good |
| Appearance | Mimics wood | Natural | Mimics wood |
| Initial cost | High | Moderate | Moderate to high |
The Advantages of Composite for Quebec’s Climate
Resistance to freeze-thaw cycles
Composite absorbs very little moisture, which protects it from the splitting caused by water freezing within the material. Unlike wood, which can crack and split, composite retains its structural integrity season after season.
Dimensional stability
Composite does not warp or shrink like natural wood. Your fence will maintain its alignment and appearance year after year, with no adjustments required.
Moisture protection
Snowmelt and spring rains do not affect composite. It will not rot in contact with damp soil and is resistant to mould — a significant advantage in our climate.
UV resistance
High-quality composites are treated to resist discolouration caused by sun exposure. The colour remains stable throughout the entire lifespan of the fence.
The Long-Term Investment
The initial cost of a composite fence is higher than that of treated wood, but the difference is minimal. When calculating the total cost of ownership over 25 years, however, composite often proves to be the more economical choice.
Savings with composite:
- No need to purchase stain or sealant (savings of $200 to $400 every 2–3 years)
- No time devoted to annual maintenance
- No replacement of rotted or split boards
- Longer lifespan (less frequent replacement)
“A fence is more than just a property boundary. It is an element that integrates with your entire outdoor environment. At 360 Fonda Pro, we ensure that your fence blends seamlessly with your deck, your driveway, and the architecture of your home. Composite offers this design flexibility with remarkable durability.” — Dominique Maria, Fencing Division Manager
Professional Installation: Why It Matters
A poorly installed composite fence will lose its advantages. Installation requires particular attention to several key elements:
- Post depth: Must extend below the frost line (minimum 4 feet in Quebec)
- A larger volume of concrete
- Expansion spacing: Composite shifts slightly with temperature changes
- Ground level: A fence follows the contours of the terrain or can be installed level
- Appropriate hardware: Screws and brackets specifically designed for composite
Professional installation ensures that your investment will last as long as promised. At 360 Fonda Pro, we integrate the installation of your fence into the overall vision of your outdoor design, ensuring consistency between every element of your yard.
