Form, function and finances – the three F’s of fence installations. When choosing which fencing material to use for your home, you must consider what the fence will look like, what purpose it serves, and what you can logically spend on it. At All Around Fence, LLC in Baltimore, MD, we help homeowners select the best fencing for their short- and long-term goals. No matter what your plans are, we’ll find a fence that’s right for you.
In this guide, we’ll look at the true cost of vinyl fencing, which is often viewed as a pricey alternative to wood. Is vinyl fencing more expensive than wood, or is it cheaper in the long run? Let’s do some comparisons to find out.
The Initial Cost of Vinyl Fencing vs. Wood Fencing
Wood fencing is typically less expensive than vinyl fencing during the installation process. Vinyl is crafted for maximum durability, which is why it costs more upfront. With that in mind, some forms of wood fencing can cost just as much as vinyl, if not more. If you opt for a top-quality wood with stain and decorative trim, the price will add up. If you’re looking for the most economical option possible though, a basic wood fence will be less expensive than vinyl.
What REALLY Matters – The Long-Term Cost of Vinyl Fencing vs. Wood Fencing
Even though wood fencing is less expensive initially, it requires expensive maintenance. You must have the wood cleaned and stained every few years, and you will eventually need to replace warped or weak boards. The average lifespan of wood fencing is 15 years, but your fence may not last quite that long. Weather, sun exposure, and upkeep will all play a role in the life of the fence.
Vinyl fencing, by comparison, can last for decades with little to no care at all. You may need to clean the fencing after rainy season because dirt in the rain particles will detract from the fence’s sheen (just like it does on your car). All you have to do is scrub the fence with some soapy water, and you’re good to go! No painting, no staining, and no tedious care required.
Vinyl fencing is less susceptible to insect damage and sun damage, so it’s less likely to need repairs. In fact, we rarely get called out for vinyl fence repairs in Baltimore. Most of the fence repairs we do are on wooden fences that have not been stained and weather treated. You don’t have to worry about that with vinyl.
Simply put: wood fencing is cheaper upfront but more expensive in the long run. If you’re looking to maximize your investment, vinyl fencing is the way to go.
How to Pay for Vinyl Fencing
If you cannot afford the initial cost of vinyl fencing, do not fret. There are fence financing programs available that let you pay for the fencing over time. You could also get a personal loan or a home equity loan through your bank or credit union. Getting a high-quality vinyl fence will increase your property value, so banks are more likely to provide funding for that. Arrange a payment plan that fits your budget, and you can get a durable, low-maintenance fence that’s perfect for you.
Contact All Around Fence, LLC to learn more about vinyl fencing in Baltimore, MD.
