You want to transform your outdoor space and create a secure and private haven that you, your family and your friends will want to spend time in having bbq’s, sharing quiet drinks and creating lasting memories. So how do you decide whether to choose a vinyl fence vs cedar fence?
The choice is not as straight forward as it first appears. As with most choices in life, your budget will play a major role in the decision, but aside from that there are other considerations too. Are you the type of person who is happy to potter and tinker and do general maintenance in order to achieve a more personal, natural look?
Or perhaps you are someone who is environmentally conscious and would rather base your choice on those options when it comes to your home and garden decor. Maybe you are after a modern, clean look that requires very little maintenance, something that will fit in with your modern and busy lifestyle without too much effort on your part.
When deciding whether to choose a vinyl fence vs cedar first consider the aesthetics you are wanting to achieve. Cedar wood will offer a warm and natural, classic look, while vinyl appears more sleek, modern and clean.
Decide which option best suits your style and works for your personal needs, then weigh up the options for both.
Cedar Fence Pros and Cons
Cedar wood fencing is the traditional choice in fencing and provides a classic look that is both warm and natural. It is also a sustainable and renewable material making it an environmentally friendly choice for your outdoor space.
Cedar doesn’t require chemical treatment thanks to the natural oils and resins which are present in the wood, making it naturally resistant to rot, decay and insects. Cedar oils can also help repel wood-boring insects and deter other wildlife like deer and rabbits from your garden.
However, if you want to maintain the beautiful colour of your cedar fence and help to protect the wood from harsh weather conditions, it will need to be maintained. If you don’t seal or stain the wood every few years the warm color of cedar will fade to a silvery-gray over time, when exposed to sunlight.
You cannot just expect to put up a cedar wood fence and ‘set it and forget it’. It will require ongoing maintenance and inspections to prolong its life and keep it in tip-top condition.
Vinyl Fence Pros and Cons
The biggest pro of vinyl fencing is the fact that once it is installed it does not require any other maintenance than simple cleaning to keep it looking good. No painting, staining or sealing is needed, and because this material is extremely durable, it is resistant to rust, corrosion and pests, making it a long-lasting option for any property.
Vinyl fencing is available in different colors, styles and textures, so everyone can find a look to suit their preferences.
However, vinyl is a synthetic material and not biodegradable, so is not a very environmentally conscious choice for homeowners and it will not match the natural aesthetic appearance of wood. If it becomes damaged, vinyl fencing can be more complicated and expensive to repair than other types of fencing, and with extreme weather conditions and prolonged sun exposure the material can fade and discolor over time.
Upfront Costs vs Long-term Value
When considering the upfront costs of a vinyl fence vs cedar, cedar wins hands down. The initial outlay for materials and installation of a cedar fence is generally much lower than compared to that of vinyl, however, it is important to remember that cedar fencing will require regular maintenance and painting to preserve its appearance and protect it from the weather.
It is necessary to think beyond just the initial costs and take into consideration the ongoing maintenance and repair costs to both materials.
Vinyl fencing will typically have a higher initial price tag than cedar, but this can reflect the lower long-term maintenance needs of vinyl, saving on future repairs and maintenance costs later on.
Vinyl is an extremely durable material, giving it a long life span that requires very little maintenance over time, and because it is more resistant to weathering and rot it is generally considered a better investment for those who live in damper climates.
Maintenance and Upkeep: A Key Differentiator
Cedar Fences
They may need annual cleaning to remove dirt, mildew and debris and will require a sealant or stain to prevent rot, weathering and insect damage, especially at ground level. It’s necessary to re-stain or seal the wood every few years to maintain its appearance and durability.
Vinyl Fences
They can be hosed off to remove debris, and more stubborn dirt can be washed off using a mild detergent and a soft brush. There is no sealing, staining or painting required.
The Final Verdict: Which Fence is Right for You?
Choose cedar if:
- You want lower upfront costs.
- You want to have more DIY flexibility regarding customization and painting.
- You don’t mind doing regular maintenance.
- You want a natural and renewable material
Choose vinyl if:
- You want a low-maintenance fence.
- You want long-term durability.
- You want long-term value.
- You want a clean and modern appearance that fits a contemporary home
There are benefits to both and whichever you decide is right for you, OnPoint Fencing and Decking can help. Read more about our fencing services here.
