Is vinyl fence cheaper than wood?
Fences are great, right? They keep kids safe, protect property, and add curb appeal.
But what type should you choose? Is wood fencing cheaper than vinyl? What are the benefits of both types?
Let’s compare them side by side, and learn how to decide whether a wood fence or vinyl fence is right for you.
Ready? Let’s get started!
Vinyl vs. Wood Fence: Which Is Better?
Fences come in many different materials. Vinyl fencing is one of the most popular choices because it offers homeowners a variety of benefits. This type of fence requires minimal upkeep and is easy to maintain. Vinyl fencing is also very affordable and can be installed quickly. In addition, it lasts longer than wood fences and does not rot like wood. However, there are some downsides to vinyl fencing. For example, it cannot withstand extreme temperatures well and it can become brittle over time. Also, it is susceptible to damage from animals and insects.
Wood fences are another option for home owners. They offer similar advantages to vinyl fencing. For instance, both types of fences require little maintenance and can be easily installed. Additionally, wood fences are much stronger than vinyl fences. Another benefit of wood fences is that they do not rot like vinyl fences. However, wood fences are less durable than vinyl fences. For example, wood fences tend to warp and split over time.
The best type of fence depends on what you value most. If you prefer a fence that looks good without requiring too much work, vinyl fencing might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a sturdy fence that won’t break down, wood might be the better choice.
Appearance
Vinyl fences are becoming increasingly popular because they look great. They’re easy to maintain and require less upkeep than traditional wooden fences.
Wooden fences are usually more expensive than vinyl fences, but they tend to last longer. Wooden fences are generally sturdier and better suited for areas where there is heavy foot traffic.
Variety and Options
There are many different materials available to make a fence. In addition to wood, there are vinyl options, metal options, plastic options and even bamboo options. Each material offers advantages and disadvantages. For example, wood fences are very durable, while vinyl fences tend to be less expensive. Metal fences are great for durability, but they can rust over time. Plastic fences are easy to maintain, but they don’t offer much protection against animals. Bamboo is considered one of the most environmentally friendly choices, but it does require maintenance.
Cost
Fencing panels come in several types, including wood, vinyl and aluminum. They are typically used for privacy, security and decorative purposes.
Wood is the most common material used in fence construction, but it is also the least expensive. Aluminum fencing is usually found in commercial applications because of the durability of the metal. Vinyl fencing panels are becoming increasingly popular due to their affordability and ease of installation.
The cost of fencing varies based on the materials used, how many panels are needed and whether the project requires a permit. You can find prices online or contact local contractors for estimates.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Vinyl fences are easier to maintain than wood ones, according to the experts. They don’t require much care, but you do need to clean them regularly. Wooden fences require regular cleaning, while vinyl fences look cleaner than wood ones.
Ease of Installation
Vinyl fencing is easier to install because it doesn’t require cutting into concrete slabs or digging holes. This makes vinyl fencing ideal for residential use. In addition, vinyl fencing is easy to repair and maintain.
Tie fencing is the simplest type of fence to install. You simply attach one end of each wire to stakes driven deep into the ground and connect the other ends together. Tie fencing is the cheapest option, too.
Privacy
Aluminum fences aren’t very heavy or strong. They’re often used to enclose areas where people want privacy, such as gardens, pools, yards, etc. But they aren’t very attractive, since they blend into the landscape. And they’re expensive compared to other materials like stone, brick, concrete block, and even wood.
Fences made of steel and wooden are much heavier than aluminum fences. Steel fences weigh about 10 times as much as aluminum ones, while wooden fences weigh around 3 times as much as aluminum fences. And because they weigh so much, steel and wooden fences require much stronger foundations, making them harder to install. Wooden fences are easier to install, but they tend to rot over time and eventually need replacing.
Wooden fences offer the most privacy out of the three options. Wood is naturally resistant to moisture, insects, and termites, and it offers great insulation. However, wooden fences are extremely heavy and difficult to move. If you decide to replace your fence, you’ll likely need to hire professionals to help you lift it.
Steel fences provide the least amount of privacy. They’re easy to install, but they’re also very light weight. This makes them easy to handle and transport. You won’t find many places selling steel fencing kits, though. Most homeowners prefer to buy pre-assembled steel fences.
Aluminum fences are cheap, lightweight, and durable. They’re typically sold in kit form, meaning you can assemble them yourself. Because they’re inexpensive, aluminum fences are frequently installed on properties without a lot of land. In fact, some cities prohibit the use of metal fences altogether.
Durability
Vinyl Fences usually have a much longer life span than wooden ones. They require no maintenance and do not rot. In addition, vinyl fences are easy to clean and maintain. If you live near a lake or river, vinyl fencing can help keep water out of your yard. Vinyl fences are very durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions such as hurricanes and tornadoes.
Wood Fencing is prone to rotted and insects. When compared to vinyl fencing, it requires more care and attention. Wooden fences must be painted every few years to prevent insect infestation. This process involves treating the fence with chemical paint.
There are many brands of wood fences available. Some are treated while others are not. You can choose from a variety of colors and styles depending on what you want your home to look like.
Painting and Finishes
Vinyl fences are one of the most popular choices for residential fences because it offers many benefits over wood and metal fences. They are extremely durable and require little maintenance. Vinyl fencing is also easy to install and paint. If you choose to repaint your vinyl fence, you can do so yourself without hiring a professional painter.
Repairs and Replacements
Vinyl fencing is one of the easiest types of fencing to maintain. If you notice damage to your vinyl fence, simply cut out the damaged section and replace it with a similar replacement. This process is much easier than repairing wood fences, which are usually built with multiple layers of material. You’ll want to make sure that the replacement pieces match the original color, style, and texture.
Wood fences are typically less expensive than vinyl fences, but they do require some maintenance. If your wooden fence needs replacing, you’ll want to look into getting a new fence installed. Fencing companies can help you find the best deal possible, and you can save money by choosing a reputable contractor. Be careful about hiring someone who doesn’t provide references; many people use online reviews to give fake testimonials. Ask friends and family members for recommendations, and check online review sites like Yelp.com.
Property Value
A well maintained vinyl or wood fence will increase the property value of your house. Vinyl fences are usually less expensive than wood fences, but they don’t last nearly as long. They’re easy to maintain, however, and you can easily change colors without having to replace the whole thing. If you want something durable and beautiful, go with wood fencing.
Vinyl vs. Wood Fence: Which is Best For Your Home?
The vinyl fence industry has exploded over the past decade. In fact, there are now hundreds of different types of vinyl fences available. Some are designed for privacy, while others are meant to blend into the landscape. Others are even built to withstand harsh weather conditions. So what makes one type better than another? Let’s take a look at some pros and cons of each option.
Pros & Cons Of Vinyl Fencing
PROS
• Easy To Install – Vinyl fencing is relatively simple to install. You don’t need special tools or training to do it yourself.
• Durable – Vinyl fencing is very durable and won’t rot, warp or crack. It’s also resistant to termites and insects.
• Low Maintenance – Vinyl fencing requires little to no maintenance. Just wash off the dirt and grime once in awhile and you’re good to go.
CONS
Which is best for homes with kids?
Vinyl fencing is the most popular choice among homeowners looking for fence options for their children. Homeowners who go with vinyl fencing typically choose it because of its affordability, ease of installation, and durability. However, wood fences may warp over time and become easier to see through. They also tend to splinter easily.
Which is best for homes with pets?
Wooden fences are great for keeping dogs inside. They’re easy to install and maintain, too. But vinyl fencing is easier to clean, and it lasts longer. And there’s no maintenance required for wooden fences. Plus, you don’t have to worry about dog damage to the wood.
The biggest drawback to wooden fences is that they require regular upkeep. You’ll want to keep up with cleaning the wood regularly. If you’re worried about stains, try applying stain protectant every few months.
Vinyl fencing is ideal for those looking for low maintenance. It doesn’t require much care. Just make sure you use a quality sealer once a year.
To find out how far apart you should space your fence posts, check our guide here.