Every Greenhaven homeowner faces the same fence dilemma—practical chain link or charming wood? You know what? Both can be an affordable fence option in Greenhaven if you play your cards right. The trick is understanding what works best for our unique Maryland coastal setting.
Living near the Chesapeake Bay means dealing with salt air, clay soil, and humidity that can make or break your fencing investment. Let me break down the real costs, maintenance headaches, and neighborhood preferences so you can make the smart choice for your property.
The Real Numbers: What You’ll Actually Pay
Chain link runs about $9-16 per linear foot installed in Anne Arundel County. For a typical 100-foot perimeter, you’re looking at $900-1,600 total. Here’s the thing though—Greenhaven’s salt air means you’ll want galvanized or vinyl-coated options, which bump up the price slightly but save you headaches later.
Our clay soil presents its own challenges. Posts need to go deeper here, and contractors know it. Factor in Anne Arundel County permits (usually $50-100), and you might add another $200-300 to your project.
Wood fencing tells a different story. Pressure-treated pine runs $22-45 per linear foot, while cedar hits $25-35. That same 100-foot perimeter? You’re looking at $2,000-5,000 depending on style and height. Cedar handles our coastal climate better, but honestly, even pressure-treated pine works fine if you stay on top of maintenance.
The hidden costs get you with wood—permits, ground prep for our stubborn clay, and that first sealing job. Budget an extra $300-500 beyond the base installation.
Maintenance Reality Check
Chain link wins the low-maintenance game hands down. Annual hose rinse, maybe some spot rust treatment on cheaper materials. Quality galvanized chain link lasts 15-20 years with minimal fuss. The biggest issue? Posts shifting in our clay soil during wet seasons, but that’s a once-in-a-decade problem.
Wood fencing demands attention. You’ll clean and inspect annually, seal or stain every 2-3 years, and replace boards as they weather. Salt air accelerates everything—graying, cracking, even mildew in humid summers. Budget $200-500 yearly for materials and your time.
I’ve seen gorgeous cedar fences along Brightwater Beach Road that look amazing after five years. I’ve also seen neglected wood fences that look rough after two seasons. The difference? Consistent care.
Where Each Fence Fits in Greenhaven
Drive down Nabbs Creek Road and you’ll spot plenty of chain link. Makes sense—folks with boats need security without blocking water views. Pet owners love the visibility for keeping an eye on their dogs. It’s practical, affordable, and gets the job done.
Brightwater Beach Road tells a different story. Wood privacy fences dominate the established neighborhoods. Homeowners want backyard privacy for entertaining, and the traditional look matches those colonial and cape cod homes perfectly.
HOAs play a role too. Newer developments often restrict chain link to backyards only, while some require wood or vinyl altogether. Check your community guidelines before making plans.
Making Your Choice
Choose chain link if you’re budget-focused and want maximum coverage for minimum cost. It’s perfect for pet containment, basic security, and rental properties where you need durability without ongoing maintenance. The upfront savings are real—often 50-70% less than comparable wood fencing.
Choose wood if privacy matters more than cost. You’re planning to stay put for several years, enjoy weekend maintenance projects, or live in a community with appearance standards. Wood potentially adds more resale value, especially in established neighborhoods.
The Greenhaven Bottom Line
Here’s what matters for our area: both materials need coastal-grade options. Cheap chain link rusts quickly in salt air. Untreated wood rots fast in our humidity. Invest in quality materials upfront, regardless of which direction you go.
Clay soil affects both options. Proper installation techniques matter more here than in sandy areas. Don’t skimp on professional installation if your property has drainage issues or slopes.
For fence contractors like All Around Fence, the choice often comes down to your 10-year plan. Chain link costs less upfront and requires minimal maintenance. Wood costs more initially but potentially adds property value if maintained properly.
Quick decision matrix: Need immediate security on a tight budget? Chain link. Want privacy and curb appeal with money for ongoing maintenance? Wood. Simple as that.
Both options work in Greenhaven—the key is matching your choice to your budget, lifestyle, and long-term plans. Get local quotes, see materials in person, and remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the most affordable when you factor in maintenance and longevity.
Your fence should work for your family’s needs, not against them. Whether that’s practical chain link or classic wood, make the choice that fits your Greenhaven lifestyle.
