Wood vs Vinyl Fence Cost
Wood wins on upfront price; vinyl wins on maintenance. The right answer for a client depends on how long they will keep the fence.
Upfront cost
Wood (pressure-treated pine, cedar, spruce) is cheaper to buy and install — $15–$30 per linear foot. Vinyl runs $25–$40 per foot because the panels cost more, though installation labor is similar.
Maintenance and lifetime cost
Wood needs staining or sealing every 2–3 years and eventual board and post repairs; vinyl needs only occasional cleaning. Over 15–20 years the maintenance gap often makes vinyl cheaper overall despite the higher sticker price. Show clients both numbers with a side-by-side estimate.
FAQ
Is vinyl fence cheaper than wood?
Not upfront — vinyl costs more to install. But with near-zero maintenance it often costs less over a 15–20 year life than wood, which needs regular staining and repairs.
How long does a wood fence last vs vinyl?
A maintained wood fence lasts roughly 15–20 years; vinyl commonly lasts 20–30+ years with minimal upkeep.