Fences provide a boundary to your outdoor area. They provide privacy to the people living indoors, security for the pets and the children, and a structure to the landscape. Wood is the most commonly used option to build a fence. However, another option that is widely used, other than wood, is polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Here is a comparison between both the materials to help you choose which option to go for while building a fence:
Appearance
Vinyl fences are typically used for a traditional solid-white look. While vinyl fences give the look of that classic white fence, nothing can beat the natural look a wooden fence offers. With different types of wood like redwood, pine or cedar available, you have the option of going for a highly polished surface for a neat look or minimum finish and glaze to add a rustic touch to the landscape. Vinyl fences, however, do not come in many forms. They can be accessorized with post caps and lattice tops. Wood can also be stained to give it a little color, while maintaining its natural look. But, painting vinyl fences is not recommended as it may ruin its aesthetics.
Installation
While both the fences are easy to install, the difficult part is the digging for the posts and setting up a concrete foundation for the fence. Because wood is heavier than vinyl, it takes a lot more effort to set it up. Vinyl fences can come in easy Do-It-Yourself packages which require less time and effort to set up the posts and the panels. Installation of both types of fences can be efficiently done with some professional help from home renovation contractors.
Cost
Cost-wise vinyl fences tend to cost twice as compared to the wood ones. Wood fences are available from $3 – $6 per linear foot for pine panels and can go up to $18 – $20 for a tropical style hardwood. The installation of wood fences can amount to $25 – $35 an hour. On the other hand, vinyl fences cost around $25 -$30 for a linear foot, with $40 -$60 for an hour’s installation. But, cost alone should not be your deciding factor. Understand your requirements and preferences and choose the one that fits the bill.
Maintenance
While both the types of fences require maintenance in their own manner, vinyl is more manageable and flexible than wood. Wood requires protection from organic factors. It can decay, rot, and chip due to water and excessive humidity. Staining and sealing the wood regularly can help prevent the damage and increase its lifespan. You can also go for oily woods like cedar, which offer extra immunity against decay. Vinyl fences, on the other hand, do not rot. Chipping or peeling doesn’t occur and is not an issue with vinyl fencing. However, they need to be cleaned to clear out the accumulated dirt and other debris for longer life.
As mentioned above, other materials are also available for fences these days. Read here for other factors that you need to consider while building a fence. If you wish to build a new fence or renovate the existing one, you can contact us here for exterior remodeling projects.