Vinyl Fencing vs. Wood Fencing: Which Is Best For You?

When you picture a traditional front yard, the image of a white wooden picket fence might well spring to mind. A classic slice of Americana, and an example of how timeless and enduring wooden fences have been.

Wood is a great material for fencing. It’s tough, durable, and weather-resistant while being easy to source, easy to customize, and pretty affordable to boot. It’s pretty tough to compete with the long history of wood as a fencing material. Still, other types of fence styles and materials are worth considering as you do a vinyl fencing vs. wood fencing comparison.

Modern technology has allowed for big advances in fence manufacturing. The last few years have seen the rise of a new competitor when it comes to fencing options: PVC. 

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) plastic has been tried and tested in many sectors and is commonly used in plumbing. Vinyl has also been adapted to create attractive, resilient, and inexpensive vinyl fencing material.

So when it comes to vinyl fencing versus wood fencing, how do the two materials compare, and which is right for your fence? Well, this article will help you choose between vinyl fencing vs. wood fencing and decide which is right for your home.

IS VINYL BETTER THAN WOOD ON PRICE?

When trying to decide if vinyl fencing is cheaper than wood, first impressions would say no.

While the price of vinyl fencing has come down significantly in the last few years, wood is still generally available for less of an initial price per linear foot. However, there are a few things to take into account before making a final fence cost decision.

With vinyl, the upfront price is more or less all you will need to pay. No upkeep and no repairs, as with a natural or pressure-treated wood fence. Wooden fencing requires regular treatment and stains to keep it looking good. 

Wooden fences are also more likely to need repairs and will need to be replaced entirely after ten years or so. As a result, although you spend more at the beginning with vinyl fence products, the longer you own your fencing, the better value it becomes!

IS VINYL BETTER THAN WOOD FOR APPEARANCE?

Wood is a classic look, and incredibly flexible, looking great whether you treat it, stain it, paint it, or just leave it to weather naturally. PVC plastic has come on in leaps and bounds when it comes to appearance, with manufacturers like Blackline hhp™ resolving issues like chalking and warping to create natural-looking finishes. Being plastic-based, vinyl fencing also comes in a variety of fence styles like picket-top and privacy fencing and a variety of colors.

Over time, however, PVC fences come into their own. While the weathered look works with wood fences for a while, eventually discoloration, mold, and even insect damage will take its toll. PVC, on the other hand, will stay as attractive as the day you bought it for years.

IS VINYL BETTER THAN WOOD IN DURABILITY?

When talking about durability and long-lasting quality, vinyl holds all the cards.

Vinyl stands up to wind, rain and snow far better than wood and doesn’t need to be protected against natural pests. Because it’s maintenance-free, you don’t need to treat it or maintain it in any way — which saves you money. Since vinyl isn’t susceptible to rot or decay, it will last for many years – no need to replace the fence. In fact, vinyl lasts much longer than an equivalent wooden fence, with very little maintenance needed on your part. 

There are some types of natural wood, like cedar or redwood, that resist the elements more effectively, but when it comes to standing the test of time, a vinyl fence vs. cedar comparison still favors vinyl.

VINYL WINS ANY VINYL FENCING VS. WOOD FENCING COMPARISON

So is vinyl fence better than wood? There are definite advantages to both, with wood coming out cheaper, to begin with, and providing a more natural look to your yard. But in the end, the winner has to be vinyl. 

The extra money you spend up front is an investment, thanks to its durability. When you choose vinyl fencing, you end up saving money in the long run and getting a great-looking fence for years.

Are you looking for a quick vinyl fencing quote? Get in touch or visit our beautiful fencing gallery via our contact form today.