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Timber vs Colorbond Fencing

Timber is usually cheaper up front and warmer to look at. Colorbond costs a little more and needs far less upkeep.

100+
★★★★★
projects done

"The workmanship was excellent, the fence looks fantastic, and the attention to detail really shows."

Rob B. · Customer review
New timber paling fence with capping beside a footpath, Palmerston North
Timber screen fence behind a new timber deck, Palmerston North
Stained timber picket fence and gate around a Palmerston North home
Black aluminium pool fence around a patio and swimming pool, Palmerston North
100+ PROJECTS COMPLETED10+ YEARS EXPERIENCEFULLY INSUREDFREE QUOTESPALMERSTON NORTH WIDE100+ PROJECTS COMPLETED10+ YEARS EXPERIENCEFULLY INSUREDFREE QUOTESPALMERSTON NORTH WIDE

What Palmerston North
customers say

★★★★★

"We had a large fencing job done, and we couldn’t be happier with the result. The workmanship was excellent, the fence looks fantastic, and the attention to detail really shows. The whole process was professional from start to finish, with the job completed to a very high standard. It’s clear that pride was taken in the work, and the finished result has made a huge difference to the property. We would have no hesitation in recommending Rowdy Builders to anyone looking for a reliable, professional fence builder. Brilliant job and an excellent result."

Rob B.
Large fencing job
★★★★★

"We couldn’t be happier with the work from Guy at Rowdy Builders. From start to finish, he was friendly, professional and incredibly organised. He coordinated all aspects of the work, including arranging the additional trades required, and kept us well informed throughout the entire process. Everything was handled smoothly and professionally, and the end result was fantastic. We would highly recommend Rowdy Builders to anyone looking for quality workmanship and an stress-free experience"

Hayley & Rhys
Full job coordinated
★★★★★

"We recently had Guy and his ream construct a roof over the deck of our new house. He was pleasant and punctual on the site visit and made a number of suggestions on how it could be achieved. His quote was very reasonable and his timeline was stuck to. We are very happy with the result and recommend him to anyone looking for a similar job."

Steffan D.
Deck roof
★★★★★

"We recently engaged Guy from Rowdy Builders to repair a wooden fence blown over in strong winds, and construct a medium size deck at our property. From the outset, Guy was professional, approachable, and communicated extremely well, keeping us updated on progress and ensuring we knew what to expect at each stage of the project. The quality of workmanship was outstanding. The fence repairs were completed to a high standard, and the new deck has completely transformed our outdoor area. It is clear that Guy takes pride in his work and pays attention to detail, delivering a finished product that exceeded our expectations. We are extremely pleased with the result and would not hesitate to recommend Guy and Rowdy Builders to anyone looking for reliable, skilled tradespeople who deliver what they promise."

Steve C.
Fence repair and deck

The short version

Pick timber if you want the lowest price, a natural look and do not mind staining every few years. Pick Colorbond if you want a fence you can leave alone and you like a cleaner, harder look.

Neither is better in every situation. The right choice depends on your budget, your site and how you feel about maintenance.

Side by side

Timber (treated pine)Colorbond
Rough cost, installed$190 – $280 per metre$210 – $330 per metre
LookWarm, natural, can be stained or paintedClean, uniform, wide colour range
MaintenanceStain or paint every few yearsLittle more than a wash
Lifespan15 – 25 years with careDecades, depending on site and care
WindGood if well built and posts are deepGood if well fixed and braced
RepairsEasy to patch with matching timberPanel replacement, harder to match
NoiseQuietQuiet if well fixed, can rattle if not

Estimate only. Costs are always subject to change and many factors influence the final price.

Want a price for your place?
Free measure up, written quote, no pressure.

How to choose

Related pages

Fence cost guide →
Ranges and a calculator.
Timber fences →
Styles and prices.
Colorbond fences →
Steel fencing.
Fence posts guide →
What goes in the ground.

Good questions

Is Colorbond cheaper than timber?+

Usually not. Treated pine paling is typically the cheapest standard option, though prices overlap.

Which lasts longer?+

Colorbond often lasts longer with less care, but site conditions and installation quality matter more than material alone.

Which is better in wind?+

Both can perform well. Post depth, rails and fixings are what count.

Can I mix them?+

Yes, for example Colorbond panels on timber posts, or timber at the front and steel at the back.

Which is better for privacy?+

Both give full privacy when solid. Slat designs vary with the gap.

Is timber more eco-friendly?+

It depends on what you value. Timber is renewable, but treated timber has its own considerations. Steel is durable and recyclable.

Which is easier to repair?+

Timber is usually easier to patch. Colorbond needs matching panels.

Does Colorbond get hot?+

In direct sun the surface warms up. It can matter near plants.

Do you build both?+

Yes. We are happy to quote both so you can compare.

What about aluminium?+

Aluminium is a low-maintenance option, common for pool fences and slat designs. It usually costs more.

Let's get your fence sorted

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