The fencing around your property or backyard provides privacy and protection. Both wood and vinyl fencing provide attractive, cost-effective options for your home and are popular options in Baton Rouge. While the experts at Forrest Scott Fencing are happy to help you choose the best fence material for your needs and budget, it helps to understand the pros and cons of vinyl vs. wood fences.
Wooden Fencing
- Classic Appearance The decorative “white picket fence” of 20th century Americana has come a long way since its origin in the colonial era. Wooden fencing comes in a full spectrum of colors and styles that transcend the vintage picket. Wood is organic, and each board displays a variance in texture and grain. Additionally, wood can be easily painted, stained, or treated with a sealant to show its natural luster. The most popular choices in wooden fencing are cedar, redwood, and teak.
- Requires Special Care The porous nature of wood requires special treatment and care. Wood ages over time with exposure to the elements and requires cleaning, re-staining, and re-sealing to prevent warping and decay. Depending on the type of wood and finish, the average lifespan of wooden fencing is between 10 and 20 years.
Vinyl Fencing
- Attractive and Durable Vinyl fencing has come a long way since its introduction in the 1980s. The look and quality of vinyl fencing now rivals wood in its natural “faux wood” appearance and superior durability. Vinyl fencing does cost more upfront than wood but offers substantial savings in the long run.
It also has a longer lifespan than wood and does not usually require maintenance. Vinyl is easy to clean with water from a garden hose or pressure washer and does not warp or degrade from sun exposure or weather.
- Difficult To Repair Vinyl is typically more durable than wood. However, if damaged from impact or extreme weather, vinyl fencing repair can be complicated and costly. Vinyl fencing comes in large panels fabricated to resemble adjoined wooded planks. If the damage is severe, it may be necessary to replace an entire panel as opposed to one or two wooden planks.
- Fewer Design Possibilities Wood fences can be painted and repainted, stripped, and stained as your needs and tastes change over time. The color and style of vinyl fencing are more difficult to change. It is challenging to paint, and you can’t use stain. If your taste or preferences change over time, you either have to make do with your existing fencing or tear it down and have a new one installed.
Need Help Installing a Fence?
Ultimately your taste and budget will determine the right type of fence for your property. For more information on wood and vinyl fencing in Baton Rouge or to schedule a consultation for fence installation, call Forrest Scott Fencing at (225) 230-1798.
