Which Is Cheaper, Wood Or Vinyl Fences?
Have you been looking for a perfect residential fence? While many options include chain link, wood, or vinyl, you may wonder which one is more economical. Remember that before purchasing a fence, factors such as longevity, durability, and UV resistance all play a part in creating a fence for your outdoor space. The most imperative part is looking for what will give you the most use for the longest time.
Is Wood Cheaper Than Vinyl?
Wood is a far cheaper alternative when comparing wood with vinyl. But this is only in the short term. Long term, you will need to consider maintenance costs. After vinyl is installed, you will not need to do any other maintenance.
Wood, on the other hand, will require additional cleaning and staining, and you may need to occasionally replace some of the fence. Since wood is more susceptible to damage from outdoor elements, you are looking at approximately at least $1,000 of staining just after the first year of installation.
When putting all these factors together, you can see that vinyl will reign as the champion long-term for cost savings.
What Will Wood And Vinyl Fence Look Like After Many Years?
As you probably have seen, wood fences have defects as part of their natural appearance. Some people enjoy the look of natural wood and prefer it to the more "artificial" appearance of other fence materials such as chain link or aluminum. However, this appearance will change over time, and you will see more warping, splinters, and even termites attempting to eat your fence.
Conversely, vinyl fence is UV-resistant and will likely not change appearance over time. This type of fence also can handle rain and other wet conditions far better than wood. This is the preferred fence if you live in an area with a lot of rainfall. And to top it all off, vinyl fence is available in many styles and colors to customize your yard.
How Long Will These Fences Last?
Regarding longevity, wood fences may last one to three years before needing additional repairs. On the other hand, vinyl can last from five to ten years. A vinyl fence will be more cost-efficient if you plan to live in your house for a long time. But, if you see yourself moving in a couple of years, a wood fence could make more sense.
When considering both fences, vinyl is the top pick for a fence, offering more ROI. But, if you want a short-term fix, a wood fence is just right.