Understanding the Difference Between Vinyl and Wood Fencing Costs

If you’re installing a fence on your property, there are a lot of decisions you have to make. In terms of material, the choice between wood and vinyl fencing may be difficult. Understanding the costs can help with the decision making.

Material Expenses

When it comes to materials, vinyl fencing is engineered to be better than wood. Due to its manufacturing, it may cost more to install vinyl fencing than a wood fence initially. However, it also depends on the quality of wood you choose. When lumber prices rise, so do the costs behind wood fencing.

Installation Estimates

When it comes to installation, vinyl and wood fencing are similar. Contractors have to go through the same process to prep the ground for the post holes and concrete. Likewise, contractors still have to pay close attention to the various measurements. The major difference between wood and vinyl fencing is that vinyl panels may come with predrilled areas for hardware. Vinyl can save contractors money because there is less wasted material and the whole panel may be preassembled.

Maintenance Costs

Once you have the fence installed, you need to consider how you’re going to handle maintenance. When you have a wood fence, you may have to spend countless hours pressure washing, stripping, training and painting. However, when you have a vinyl fence, you only need to worry about wiping or hosing it down occasionally. Between wood and vinyl flooring, wood costs more to maintain.

Replacement Risk

Over time, you may expect to have to replace your fence. Vinyl lasts for at least 20 years at a time. Whereas wood fencing may not last nearly as long. Wood decays, rots and bows. Even if you treat wood, you eventually have to replace panels, if not the entire fence.

In general vinyl fencing tends to be a more cost-effective option. While it may be more expensive when it comes to materials, it is easier to maintain and lasts longer than wood fences.