Choosing a Bamboo Fence: Tips and Ideas

Looking to give your yard a quick upgrade? Transforming your outdoor space with a bamboo fence is one of the easiest and most effective techniques. CALI’s rolled bamboo fencing is stronger, easier to install, and greener than wood, making it an excellent choice for any climate and a variety of applications. Bamboo is one of the planet’s fastest-growing plants and can hit maturity in as little as 3 years. Harvesting bamboo poles can be done without causing any damage to the plant or the surrounding habitat, making it a highly eco-friendly and sustainable resource. Adding a bamboo fence to your yard is a simple, easy way to give your outdoor space a more finished look or add some tropical flair. 

Read on to discover everything you need to know about bamboo fencing, including its advantages, disadvantages, durability, and bamboo fence installation methods.

Is a Bamboo Fence a Good Idea?

Absolutely! Bamboo fences bring a distinct and natural aesthetic to any outdoor space, making them an increasingly popular choice for homeowners and landscapers a like. Unlike traditional wood fences, a bamboo fence offers a unique blend of beauty and resilience, creating a serene and elegant environment that complements various architectural styles.

• Strength and Durability of Bamboo Fences
  When it comes to strength, bamboo fences are hard to beat. Bamboo poles possess a higher tensile strength than many steel alloys, ensuring that your bamboo fence is not only visually appealing but also incredibly durable. This strength translates into a long-lasting fencing solution that can endure the test of time.

• Weather-Resistance: A Bamboo Fence Advantage
  One of the most impressive features of a bamboo fence is its exceptional resistance to weather extremes. Bamboo fences are known to last twice as long as traditional cedar fences, withstanding environmental challenges such as hurricane-force winds. The rounded bamboo canes allow wind to pass through the fence, reducing the likelihood of damage during severe storms. This weather resilience makes bamboo fences a smart investment for those living in areas prone to harsh weather conditions.

• Natural Termite Resistance of Bamboo Fences
  A bamboo fence not only stands strong against the elements but also resists pests, particularly termites. Unlike cedar or pine, bamboo is naturally termite-resistant due to its high silica content. Termites find it difficult to digest bamboo, which significantly reduces the risk of infestation—a common problem with traditional wood fences.

• Versatility and Applications of Bamboo Fences
  Thanks to its unique physical properties, a bamboo fence is suitable for a wide range of applications. Whether you’re looking to enhance privacy, create a decorative border, or establish a windbreak, bamboo fencing offers a versatile and sustainable solution. The rolled bamboo panels themselves are extremely versatile and can be used in applications far beyond fencing. We’ve seen it used to construct tiki huts, awnings, and tons of other creative designs.

Check out these various outdoor showers made using CALI’s rolled bamboo fencing.

What Are the Disadvantages of Bamboo Fence?

While bamboo fencing has many advantages, there are a few potential disadvantages to consider. Bamboo can crack over time due to weather conditions, though this does not affect its structural integrity. Regular maintenance, such as sealing and occasional cleaning, is recommended to keep your bamboo fence looking fresh and prolong its lifespan.

How Long Will Bamboo Fencing Last?

With proper care and maintenance, a bamboo fence can last for many years. CALI bamboo fencing is designed to withstand various weather conditions, including snow, sleet, rain, and sun. Typically, bamboo fences can last 10-15 years or longer, especially if they are sealed and maintained regularly. CALI’s bamboo fencing comes with a 7-year limited warranty, giving you peace of mind about your investment. View our guide on maintaining Cali bamboo fencing in this article.

Don’t take our word for it! Read this interview with a CALI customer up in Oregon who installed a bamboo fence on his property. He explains how bamboo’s eco-friendly properties and durability made it a perfect fit for his yard.

Is Bamboo Fencing Cheaper Than Wood?

The cost of bamboo fencing can vary depending on the type and quality of the bamboo poles used. Generally, a bamboo fence is more cost-efficient in the long run due to its durability and low maintenance requirements. While the initial cost might be slightly higher than some wood options, the savings on maintenance and the longer lifespan make bamboo a cost-effective choice. Additionally, bamboo is a sustainable resource, making a bamboo fencea more environmentally friendly option compared to traditional wood fencing.

Does Bamboo Fencing Need to Be Sealed?

Sealing your bamboo fence is recommended to protect it from the elements and extend its lifespan. A good sealant will help prevent cracking, fading, and weather damage. Applying a UV-protective sealant every few years can maintain the vibrant color and structural integrity of the bamboo poles. This simple maintenance step can significantly prolong the life of your bamboo fence.

Have a question about bamboo fencing, but don’t see it addressed here? Check out our Bamboo Fence FAQ. You can also give our team a call if you have any additional questions or concerns.

How to Make a Bamboo Fence?

Creating a bamboo fence involves several steps:

1. Planning and Measuring: Determine the area where the bamboo fence will be installed and measure the length and height needed.
2. Selecting Bamboo: Opt for quality rolled bamboo fencing held together with galvanized steel wires.
3. Preparing the Site: Clear the area and ensure the ground is level to install the bamboo fence
4. Installing Posts: Securely set fence posts at regular intervals, ensuring they are sturdy and level.
5. Attaching Bamboo Panels: Attach the bamboo fencing panels to the posts using galvanized steel wires or zip ties.
6. Finishing Touches: Trim any excess bamboo and apply a sealant for added protection.

Watch Video: Learn how to use bamboo fencing to cover up a block wall, chain link fence, or an existing wooden fence in this vintage CALI video. Note that this piece was produced back in the day when we went by “Cali Bamboo.”

You can also check out this time-lapse video of rolled bamboo fencing being installed over a cinderblock wall by members of a percussion punk metal band. (Yes, you read that right.)

Do It Yourself Bamboo Fence

Building a bamboo fence yourself can be a rewarding project. CALI’s rolled bamboo fencing is DIY-friendly and easy to install. Here are some tips:

• Gather Materials: Bamboo fencing panels, fence posts, zip ties, screws, drill, level, and sealant.
• Prepare the Area: Clear and level the ground where the fence will be installed.
• Install Posts: Place the posts at regular intervals and secure them firmly in the ground.
• Attach Bamboo Panels: Use zip ties or screws to attach the bamboo fencing panels to the posts.
• Seal the Bamboo: Apply a protective sealant to prolong the life of the bamboo.
  

Watch Video: Get a quick overview of the whole process of this animated bamboo fence installation.

How to Attach Bamboo Fencing?

Attaching bamboo fences to existing structures is straightforward. Here’s how:

• To Chain Link Fences: Use zip ties to secure the bamboo panels to the chain link.
• To Block Walls: Attach 2x4s to the wall using masonry screws, then attach the bamboo panels to the 2x4s.
• To Wood Fences: Simply screw the bamboo panels directly onto the existing wood fence.

How Long Does a Bamboo Fence Last?

A well-maintained bamboo fence can last 10-15 years or more. Regular sealing and cleaning will help protect the bamboo from the elements and extend its lifespan. CALI’s bamboo fence is designed for durability and comes with a 7-year limited warranty, ensuring you get the most out of your investment.

Keep your bamboo fence looking its best for years to come with these tips in our Bamboo Fence Care and Maintenance Guide. Here you’ll find all kinds of advice like how to make your own cleaning formula and how to restore a weathered fence.

Can Bamboo Fencing Be Painted?

Yes, bamboo fencing can be painted or stained to match your outdoor decor. Use an exterior-grade paint or stain designed for bamboo or wood surfaces. Painting or staining can also provide an additional layer of protection against weathering.

How Durable Is Bamboo Fencing?

Bamboo fencing is highly durable. Engineering tests show that bamboo poles have a higher tensile strength than many alloys of steel. This makes bamboo fencing resilient to various weather conditions, including strong winds, heavy rain, and snow. The round bamboo canes also allow wind to pass through, unlike the slats in a traditional wooden fence which are more easily blown over. The natural silica content in bamboo also makes it resistant to termites and other pests.

Cali bamboo fencing is so durable, you can use it for various projects like an outdoor shower using Cali bamboo fencing.

How Strong Is Bamboo Fencing?

Bamboo fencing is incredibly strong and can withstand a lot of stress. The tensile strength of bamboo poles is comparable to steel, making them a robust option for fencing. CALI’s rolled bamboo fencing panels are internally strung together by galvanized steel wires, adding to their strength and stability.

A bamboo fence is a fantastic addition to any outdoor space. It’s durable, eco-friendly, and offers a unique aesthetic that can transform your yard. CALI’s rolled bamboo fencing is easy to install, DIY-friendly, and designed to last. Whether you’re building a privacy fence, covering a block wall, or creating a tiki bar, bamboo fencing is a versatile and sustainable choice. Transform your outdoor space with the natural beauty and strength of bamboo fencing today!