Affordable Fencing: PVC Fence vs Plastic Fence

Are you looking for affordable fencing for your home?

This can be a pretty challenging task as the market is flooded with a wide variety of fencing options.

Wood fences and PVC fences are some of the most popular affordable options. You can easily be torn between the two. Before you make your choice you must do your research to make sure you have chosen the right fence for your property.

PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride. These types of fences are sometimes referred to as plastic fences or vinyl fences. This is because PVC is made up of 20% plastic. Other components used in its manufacture include natural gas, crude oil, and chloride.

We’ve made things easier for you by taking you through the benefits and drawbacks of plastic and PVC fences.

Pros of PVC Fences

Consider the following benefits of PVC as an affordable fencing option:

1. Strong and Durable

The most important function of your fence is to protect your home. Thus, it needs to be strong and secure. Because of their complex compact structure, PVC fences are quite durable.

Unlike wood, they don’t absorb water, and therefore, they can’t rot. You won’t have to worry about a weakened fence during wet seasons. They’re also more flexible than wood fences, thus, they can’t snap and break easily.

Furthermore, because vinyl fences are made of plastic, termites can’t destroy them.

2. Low Maintenance

PVC fences aren’t as demanding as wood fences. They don’t decay. Thus, they don’t need regular sealing or painting.

The plastic fence will look attractive and remain strong over the years without a lot of effort. This easy maintenance regime makes it an affordable fencing option for homeowners in the long run.

However, plastic fences do get dirty. At least once or twice every year, you’ll need to remove the grass, moss, and fungus that grow around the lower section of the fence.

To clean the fence, you’ll simply a garden hose, warm water, and dish-washing liquid. After the thorough wipe-down, your fence will be as good as new.

3. Aesthetics

Although a fence is primarily required for security, it needs to be visually appealing and complement your surrounding structures. PVC fencing is the right choice for you in this regard.

It’s available in various classic colors including white, gray, and tan. It also comes in a variety of unique designs and shapes. Some come with decorative post-caps, while others are simulated with wood grain to give them a natural hardwood appearance.

So that the fence matches your home’s outdoor décor, it’s recommended to choose a fence color that matches that of your roof.

With improved aesthetics, PVC fences could easily increase the resale value of your home when you put it on the market.

4. Easy Installation

PVC fences are made out of lightweight materials that make transportation effortless. Their panels are also prefabricated to make installation quick and easy.

After careful measurements, you can install the fence yourself by following the instructions on the manual and using easily available home tools.

The fact that you can install PVC fences yourself, makes this investment even more affordable and worthwhile. Depending on your area, always remember to get a municipal building permit before the installation.

5. Optimal Safety and Privacy

PVC fences don’t expand and contract, leaving no gaps in between the panels. This offers you ample privacy at your home. You don’t have to worry about the prying eyes of neighbors and passers-by.

Plastic fencing is also family-friendly. Unlike wood fences, they don’t have splinters that could hurt you, your kids, or your pet.

Additionally, PVC fences don’t burn easily, making them more fire-resistant than wood. It can be a great choice if your area is prone to wildfires.

Cons of PVC Fences

Let’s look at some of the downsides of PVC as an affordable fencing option.

1. More Expensive to Buy Than Wood

When compared to wood fencing, PVC is expensive. Depending on the type, it can cost up to 80% more than the price of the ordinary wood fence. This can be a problem if you’re on a budget.

However, its low maintenance plan, strength, and durability will help you save money in the long run.

2. Artificial Look

Standard PVC fences have shiny and synthetic panels. You might find this less appealing than wood fences.

However, with the enhanced technology today, you can find PVC fences textured to resemble wood. Furthermore, PVC fences have a wide range of colors to match a variety of outdoor décor.

3. Can Get Damaged Under Extreme Weather Conditions

PVC fences are made of plastic, making them vulnerable to extreme temperatures.

They become weak when frequently exposed to very hot and very cold temperatures. This may lead to cracking and breaking. They’re also likely to be damaged by strong wind due to their tightly-fitted panels.

Other factors such as setting up shallow holes for the fence and failing to consider a sloped ground when installing the fence can also increase the risk of damage.

PVC Plastic Fences: An Affordable Fencing Option for You

PVC fences are not only affordable fencing options. They are also eco-friendly. They’re made from recycled materials, increasing their sustainability.

Looking at the pros and cons of these fences, it’s clear that the pros outweigh the cons.

When purchasing your vinyl fence, be sure to ask whether the manufacturer offers lifetime warranties. This will not only give you some peace of mind about the durability of the fence, but will also come in handy in case the fence gets damaged.

Always make consultations to get high-quality products. Feel free to contact us to get a free estimate on your PVC fence.