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Are you thinking about having a vinyl fence installed in your backyard? While the vast majority of fences installed in America every year are wood fences, vinyl fences, also referred to as "PVC" (Poly Vinyl Chloride), are becoming a popular choice for many homeowners. In this article, we are going to explore the "pros and cons" of vinyl fencing, so that you can make a well-informed decision on your next fence purchase.
The Pros of Vinyl Fence
Probably one of the most significant benefits of vinyl fencing is that it requires little to no maintenance throughout its lifetime. You never have to worry about staining or painting your vinyl fence.
Unlike its wood counterpart, vinyl fences do not crack or splinter over time, making them an excellent and safe fencing material if you have small children or pets.
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In recent years, some vinyl manufacturers have begun to fabricate high-end vinyl fences that even have the appearance of wood fences.
The Cons of Vinyl FencingBefore we get into the downsides of vinyl fencing, it is essential to note that some homeowners prefer the look, feel, and even smell of having a wood fence installed in their backyard. The following points are in no way meant to dissuade you from choosing a vinyl fence for your next project.
While this isn't a significant concern, even here with the cold winters in the Greater Chicagoland area, it is essential to note that the vinyl fence does not expand or contract with temperature changes. When it becomes colder outside, the material itself becomes more susceptible to break or shatter, making it more sensitive to damage in the event of a direct impact of some kind.
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One drawback of vinyl fencing you need to consider is that over time, algae, mold, and mildew can build up, causing bothersome stains on your fence. The excellent news about vinyl fencing is that these stains are easy to clean. Literally, with a hose, washcloth, bucket, and some soapy water, you can easily wash the fence restoring its original beauty with little effort on your part.
Presumably, the biggest downside to vinyl fences is that they are more expensive than their wood counterparts, especially when you factor in the initial upfront cost for material and labor. But in the long run, in most cases, you will find vinyl fences are more affordable overall than a wood fence because, as we mentioned earlier, they require little to no maintenance.
After all things considered, we highly recommend that you consider purchasing a vinyl fence for your next home project.
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