Is a Vinyl Fence Cheaper than Wood?

There is no denying just how important a fence is to a homestead. For starters, it gives a home a natural feel on top of providing security and privacy. Historically, properties are shown using fences and by looking at a fence, someone can tell your personality. That’s right, we exhibit so much more with how we set up fences. 

There are many types of fences and more are invented by the day. But two common types of fences around the world are wood and vinyl fences. Both materials have been used to craft fences for mankind for a long time. At times it can be confusing to know which type of fence to pick as wood and vinyl look quite similar. Let’s debunk the two, shall we?

What to expect from wooden fences

Wood has been used to make fences for a very long time. Throughout the ages, wooden fences have proved to be durable and mostly affordable. On top of that, wood is also flexible which gives people a chance to exercise their creativity. But perhaps the main reason why wood is used all over the world is its availability. In nearly every corner of the world, you can expect to find timber, which makes wooden fences the go-to fence for locals. You can check out more about wooden fences here.

Why choose wooden fences?

Wooden fences come with a lot of pecks. See some of them below;

Flexibility in styles

There’s no denying that wood can be crafted in more than one kind of fence. Whether you’re going for a wattle fence or a split rail, wood will help you achieve that. On top, it’s quite easy to craft your desired styles. You can also paint the fences to match your house or gate for an improved look.

Easy installation

Most of the wood fences are super easy to install. In some, you don’t even need to call the professionals as you can do it yourself

Sustainability

Wooden fences are much more eco-friendly than vinyl fences. Once you modify your wood, it can serve you for a very long time. 

Cost

In a nutshell, you will need $6 per linear foot for a simple fence like split rail. But for the more sophisticated fences like privacy fences, you will need to cough up to $50 an hour. But compared to other fences like concrete, wooden fences are fairly priced.

The downside of wooden fences

The truth is, wooden fences also have their downsides. Check them out;

Susceptible to ants and termites

When it comes to wood, there is the age-old problem of termites. If left unchecked, wooden fences will fall due to termites infestations. Termites are kept at bay using pesticides or modifying the wooden fences while installing. This increases the initial costs.

Constant sealing and staining

Wooden fences require constant upgrades due to upgrades and rotting and sagging. On top of this, repainting is also due now and then which drives up the costs.

What to expect from vinyl fences

Over the years, vinyl fences have always been overlooked for their looks. But with time, more upgraded vinyl has started to hit the market changing the tides on how people see vinyl fences. So, why the change of hearts when it comes to vinyl fences?

The pros of vinyl fences

Durability

Unlike wooden fences that are prone to termites attacks and rooting, vinyl fences are not. This makes them low maintenance adding to their growing popularity.

Termite resistant

Perhaps one of the most important reasons why vinyl fences are preferred over wooden fences is because they are not attacked by termites. This makes them quite durable lasting through the seasons.

Fade-resistant

While wooden fences are susceptible to fade and the paint peels off over time, vinyl fences rarely do that. You’ll have them for a very long time without thinking of repainting.

Variety of styles

You’ve heard that vinyl fences are becoming quite popular right? Well, the main reason is that, now, people are getting a variety of styles to choose from. Having a variety means the fence will look as you would want it.

Little to no maintenance

While wooden fences require constant care due to rooting and tearing, vinyl fences require little upkeep. Once installed correctly, you will go for years without looking at it.

Easier installation

Compared to wooden fences, vinyl is a bit easier to install. Though subject to the person installing the fences, vinyl should not give you a hard time installing.

The downsides of vinyl fences

Pricey

Vinyl fences are quite expensive to install than wooden fences. Though there is minimal maintenance, the general cost can go as high as $20,000 for a standard yard.

Source: https://homegardenguides.com

Hard to dispose

Vinyl does that decay which is a good and bad thing, good because it will serve you for a while, bad because you’ll have a hard time disposing of it.

Little choice of colors

Though the styles are picking up, it’s still not as many as wooden fences which forces you to make do with the available ones.

Parting shot

Vinyl fences are quite expensive to install than wooden fences. But, vinyl does not require maintenance or repainting which gives it an edge over wooden fences. On top, you won’t have to worry about termites and other insects feeding on your fence.

On the other hand, wooden fences are quite easy to install with minimal costs involved. But you have to keep maintaining it for a long time. On the bright side, you get to choose the style and color you want without limitations.