Wood or Vinyl: Which Material Is Right for Your Privacy Fence?

As Philadelphia’s top-rated fencing company, we’re often asked to provide guidance when clients are making decisions about fencing materials. Many people are torn between wood and vinyl fences to surround their outdoor areas; however, both of these materials have different advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, we’ve created this infographic as a side by side reference for customers that can’t make up their minds when choosing between wood and vinyl. After checking out some pros and cons, continue reading below as we get into detail: 

Maintenance

Wood requires some ongoing work to keep it functional, good looking, and presentable, but the payoff of a gorgeous-looking fence can be well worth it. On the other hand, vinyl requires very little maintenance. You can hose vinyl down from time to time; with wood, you’ll want to clean, treat, and stain it annually for the first three years. This activity will need to be repeated every other year after that. Depending on weather conditions, wood can be prone to rotting and warping. However, vinyl will maintain its appearance and structural integrity for many years.

Cost

Initially, vinyl is more expensive than wood. However, after the initial investment, there will be no ongoing maintenance costs. Vinyl fencing should remain beautiful and secure for years to come, except in rare cases of extreme weather. Conversely, wood is quite affordable upfront, but it likely won’t last as long as vinyl fencing. Wooden fences typically need to be replaced roughly every 10-15 years. If you have a low budget and a large yard, wood would be the best option. If your yard is small, it may be worth stretching the budget to invest in vinyl upfront.

Aesthetics

Most homeowners prefer the look of an authentic wooden fence. They are traditional and offer plenty of character and an all-American nostalgic feel. That being said, although wood looks great when it’s brand new, it could fade, decay, and rot over time without proper care.

If you want a fence that will retain its beauty with minimal effort, vinyl can be an ideal choice. With vinyl, there is no need to worry about termites, weathering, treatments, and fading. Vinyl now comes in a variety of colors, some of which can mimic real wood. 

Whether you opt for a wood or vinyl fence, always work with professional companies that offer high-quality materials. Both of these factors will influence the fences aesthetic appearance.

For more information, and to contact the leading fence installers in Chestnut Hill, PA, contact us today!