For generations, wood has enjoyed a top spot with homeowners who are planning a fencing project to add security, privacy, or curb appeal to their property. Abundant supplies of lumber and attractive designs helped to make wood fencing both popular and economical. 

With lumber prices rising sharply and supplies dwindling, many homeowners find themselves looking at other fencing materials, like vinyl. Homeowners who would like to learn more about how vinyl fencing compares to wood will find the following information valuable for their situations. 

Vinyl requires very little maintenance

Wood fencing can last for a long time, but it requires regular maintenance to do so. Protective coatings of paint, stain, or sealant must be applied to wood to help prevent damage from exposure to the elements. In addition, wood fencing can be damaged or destroyed by insects, like termites and carpenter bees. 

Unlike wood, vinyl fencing does not need to be painted, sealed, or stained to maintain its appearance. In most instances, vinyl fencing may require only infrequent cleaning with a power washer or garden hose to remove dust and debris. In addition, pests are not interested in consuming vinyl fencing, so homeowners do not need to use pesticides or repair damage after an infestation. 

Vinyl can pay for itself over time

Traditionally, vinyl fencing has been more costly to install than wood, but the post-pandemic lumber shortages may have helped to shrink that gap. Homeowners concerned about the initial cost of vinyl fencing should also figure out the ongoing cost of maintaining wood fencing before deciding that vinyl is too expensive. 

Wood maintenance costs add up quickly due to: 

• purchasing paint, stains, and sealants plus the labor costs to apply them
• costs involved in repairing wood rot and pest damage
• replacement costs when the fence reaches its lifespan

Because vinyl fencing can last for decades with little or no maintenance, it can quickly help homeowners recoup initial purchase costs that may be a bit more costly than wood. 

Vinyl can offer better curb appeal

While wood fencing can be attractive, the crisp, clean look of vinyl can freshen up the appearance of residential properties and may even help improve curb appeal. Homeowners who are planning to sell their home can find that installing vinyl fencing improves buyer interest in their home. 

To learn more about how vinyl fencing compares with traditional wood fencing in residential applications, contact a reputable vinyl fencing installation service to discuss your situation and concerns.