Wood requires a lot of consistent attention to keep a pleasing appearance. It needs restaining or repainting at least every couple of years and since the weather and pests play a toll, a wood fence will need regular repairs to keep it from completely falling apart.
While vinyl requires no maintenance other than an occasional spray down with a garden hose to keep it clean. Harsh weather and pests don’t affect vinyl so there is no upkeep either.
How Long Do Vinyl and Wood Last?
Wood can last up to 20 years, but this is the best-case scenario which includes constant refinishing, repainting, restaining, and replacing.
Vinyl, however, is durable enough to last up to 100 years, even with very little maintenance.
Total Cost
Wood depending on the size of your fencing project and the type of wood that you choose, the cost of wood fencing can be significant.
The upfront cost of vinyl fencing can be higher, compared to wood fences. However, since these fences require little to no maintenance, the money you pay upfront likely represents the total cost of the fence.
Installation Requirements
It is hard to install a wood fence, especially if you are trying to cover an area with lots of hills and dips.
Vinyl is engineered to be easy to install even when you encounter uneven terrain.
Style Options
You can paint a wood fence, but this paint will quickly fade and peel, turning a nice looking fence into an eyesore that dominates your property.
Vinyl is available in a huge range of colors and styles. And since these design elements are a part of the vinyl itself rather than a coating applied to the outside, the look doesn’t fade or degrade over time.
When it comes to choosing between a vinyl or wood fence, the most important factor is your own taste and preference.