Wood or vinyl? Which costs more? Let’s take a look at these two great fence options.
Wood fences and vinyl fences are both in high demand and look great, but which one is for your property? One of the biggest factors in deciding on a fence is the cost. Let’s take a look at the wood vs. vinyl fence cost and see what you might do with this knowledge. If you are ready to make a decision, you can ask Freedom Fence and Deck for a free quote in Maryland!
A Wood vs. Vinyl Fence Cost Comparison
Initial Cost
On average, the initial cost of a vinyl fence is higher than that of a wood fence. According to Bob Vila, the average national cost of a vinyl fence is $4,045, while a wood fence costs $3,065, as of 2024. The difference in cost will vary based on your location and how customized your fence is. For the most accurate cost assessment, you will need to get at least a couple of quotes from various local fence contractors.
Lifespan
Wood fences typically last only a couple of decades, while vinyl fences can last twice as long. Therefore, although wood fences are typically cheaper, you will have to replace it sooner than you will a vinyl fence.
Repairs
As for repairs, wood fences need repairs more often than vinyl fences. Wood fences can warp, splinter, and rot, and vinyl fences can get holes and cracks. Your wood fence can last a long time, but over time, its pickets, boards, or rails will shrink. It is quite easy to repair a wood fence, but it is harder to repair a vinyl fence. Therefore, though the repairs be fewer, vinyl fence repairs could cost more depending on their seriousness.
Maintenance
Vinyl fences need little more than washing to keep them in great shape. You could use a power washer or elbow grease. If mold or mildew is on your vinyl fence, you will need to use a detergent.
Wood fences not only need cleaning, but sanding and sealing as well. Wood fence stains usually have a sealer in them to protect the wood from UV rays, moisture, and stains. Therefore, wood fence maintenance is more expensive.
Which Is More Affordable?
At the end of the day, wood fences may cost more over time, but vinyl fences cost more upfront. The choice ultimately depends on what you are comfortable with spending and what suits your home best.
Upgrade Your Home and Reach Out to Freedom Fence Today
Whether you want a brand new patio in the spring or want to install a beautiful new wood fence, Freedom Fence and Home has the expertise, competitive prices, and professional service you need. Freedom Fence and Home has over 50 years of fencing experience in the Baltimore County area, Harford County, Essex, White Marsh, and Bel Air area, and we pride ourselves on giving our customers the best customer service experience possible. To see examples of our work and pick the right backyard feature for your home, explore our website. To get started on planning your project, give us a call at (443) 271-6841, or visit us online. For more information, tips, and updates about Freedom Fence and Home, follow us on Twitter, Pinterest, and Facebook.