Wood vs Vinyl Fence: Which Should You Choose?
Both make great privacy fences — the choice comes down to budget and maintenance. In short: wood is cheaper upfront; vinyl costs more but never needs painting and lasts longer.
Quick comparison
| Feature | Wood | Vinyl |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per ft | $18 – $35 | $25 – $45 |
| Maintenance | Stain/seal every few years | Rinse with a hose |
| Lifespan | 15–20 years | 25–30+ years |
| Look | Warm, natural, customizable | Clean, uniform, modern |
| Repairs | Easy, cheap boards | Replace full panels |
When wood makes sense
Choose wood if you want the lowest upfront cost, a natural look, or the flexibility to stain any color. Cedar resists rot better than pine but costs more.
When vinyl is worth it
Choose vinyl if you never want to paint or stain again and plan to stay in the home long term. The higher upfront cost pays off in decades of no maintenance.
Not sure? Get a free quote and a local installer will price both options for your yard.