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Reed Fence Vs. Bamboo Fence

Easily distinguished by its hollow, jointed stem, bamboo is the largest native grass in the United States, the Department of Agriculture reports. Giant reed is a tall, perennial grass native to Asia and found throughout the Mediterranean region. The stems of both grasses are used to create fencing. Do-it-yourselfers can find both types of fences at home improvement stores, or you can opt to have the fencing professionally installed.
  1. Source

    • While bamboo and reed fencing look similar, both come from different sources. Bamboo is a grass that is stronger than steel and wood. Bamboo fencing is made from the bamboo plant and resists rot and termites. The fencing can split over time but will retain its appearance and strength. Many people refer to reed as the cousin of bamboo because of its similar appearance. But reed fencing is made from natural reeds. The natural reeds are woven together using rust-proof wire to create reed fencing.

    Cost

    • Bamboo and reed fencing do not have the same price tag. Generally, reed fencing is cheaper than bamboo fencing. The price varies among retailers and contractors. At the time of publication, a 4- by 6-foot piece of rolled bamboo fencing cost approximately $50 and a 6- by 16-foot piece of rolled reed fencing cost approximately $24. For less money, you get 2 more feet in height and 10 more feet in length with the reed fencing.

    Look

    • Bamboo fencing has a thicker diameter than reed fencing. Bamboo also has a wider opening going down the middle than reed fencing. Bamboo fencing comes in natural, black or mahogany color, whereas reed fencing only comes in a natural color. Some reed fencing, however, may come in a slight green color with a small amount of yellow. While a single-row bamboo fencing is almost opaque, you may need to double reed fencing to make it opaque.

    Size

    • Reed and bamboo fencing comes in a variety of sizes. Purchase the fence in rolls or panels. Each type of fencing comes in different heights. The standard height for bamboo fencing is 4, 6 and 8 feet. Reed comes in a standard height of 6 or 7 1/2 feet. Bamboo fencing, however, can reach heights of up to 13 feet, and reed fencing can be as tall as 20 feet. Many retailers accept custom orders on both types of fencing for lengths and heights.