From Picket to Privacy: Wood and Vinyl Fencing

Two of the most popular fencing styles here in Boise, ID are cedar wood fencing and vinyl (or PVC) fencing. This is with good reason: both materials are extremely flexible and offer clients a variety of options that can cater to almost every preference. From the classic, white picket-fenced American dream home to a beautiful privacy fence to transform your property into an intimate oasis, both wood and vinyl fences can serve a variety of aesthetic tastes and purposes. 

Your Property and Aesthetics

Wood fences are still the industry leader when it comes to residential fencing aesthetics. Wood naturally comes in warm, inviting colors and is fully customizable. From different stains to different styles made from different kinds of wood, you have limitless options to create the exact fence you want in ways that vinyl simply cannot mimic. Additionally, wood can be painted or stained, so you can mix it up after installation if you feel like a change. With vinyl, you're locked in with your initial decision unless you redo the entire fence; you are also often limited by models of fence that are produced, and you must choose from the selection that's available on the market. Although vinyl has come a long way in recent years--becoming stronger and more durable, as well as offering more options to mimic wood grain or stonework--it has yet to overcome the synthetic, artificial appearance that is its hallmark. 

Fence Maintenance

Although vinyl is more expensive upfront, it doesn't require as much maintenance. Vinyl doesn't really change over time as long as it's cleaned periodically; vinyl fences can simply be hosed off every once in a while. Additionally, vinyl doesn't break down easily; it's non-porous and durable, and can last up to 100 years of properly maintained. Wood fences generally need to be fully replaced within 20 years due to wood being more susceptible to such forces like weather, exposure to sprinklers and sun, and regular wear and tear. Wood can warp and rot and break down, and so requires more maintenance and repair, making it more costly in the long run. 

Fence Repair

When it comes to repair, wooden fences are by far superior to vinyl fencing. PVC fencing is generally more durable, but it can be damaged and broken by inclement weather or from a heavy impact from kids playing sports. For minor scratches or small holes, you can pick up a vinyl fence repair kit from a local home improvement store, but anything beyond minor damage will require calling a professional. Because vinyl fences come in entire panels approximately eight feet wide, and entire panel of the fence may need to be replaced. If the style of fence you chose is discontinued, this can affect the aesthetic of your fence as well. With a wood fence, you can simply replace a few planks, making repairs far more effective. 

In short, each client will have to weigh the pros and cons and evaluate which aspects of a fence are most important to their unique situation. At Certified Fencing, we fully support our clients in their decisions and are eager to help make the process as smooth as possible. Fill out our online contact form or give us a call at (208) 449-2040 with any questions today!