The Pros And Cons Of PVC Fencing
Posted on: 30 June 2021
There's nothing like a little peace, quiet, and privacy in a hectic and busy world, and that's what most homeowners are looking for when they install fencing around their property. If you're looking to create your own little backyard oasis in a currently unfenced yard, you might feel a little overwhelmed at all the available material options. PVC or vinyl fencing is one option that's really exploded in popularity in the last few decades as PVC has become easier to manufacture and more affordable. If you're considering PVC fencing, here are a few of the pros and cons you should consider.
PROS
Low Maintenance
If you've ever stained or maintained a wood fence, you can understand why the number one reason that homeowners choose vinyl fencing is because of its low maintenance needs when compared with wood. Gone is the need to ever sand or stain. The need to worry about rotting pickets is eliminated because vinyl is completely waterproof. And when it gets dirty, vinyl fencing can be cleaned up easily with some soap and water or with a low-pressure power washer.
Variety
Another reason homeowners choose PVC is the wide variety of available colors, textures, and designs. Because PVC can be manufactured in just about any color you desire, you can choose the look that best suits your home. And if you dislike the plastic look of a white vinyl fence, you can opt for one of the many faux-wood textures and colors available. There are also several design options to choose from like lattice fences, post and rail, board on board, crossbuck, scalloped, post caps, post finials, tapered angles, and more.
Privacy
If privacy is your top desire, there are few options that will give you more privacy than PVC fencing, especially if you choose a solid fence panel rather than one with pickets.
CONS
Cost
The biggest setback to buying a PVC fence is the cost. The average price is around $15 to $30 per linear foot with higher-end customized options moving a bit above that. For comparison, the average price for a wood fence is between $13 and $19 per foot. However, the prices for wood don't factor in the staining or maintenance required down the road.
Susceptible to Breakage
Another disadvantage of vinyl is its susceptibility to breakage. A high-velocity impact with a hard object such as a baseball, a tree branch in a windstorm, or a vehicle collision can cause vinyl pickets to shatter on impact.
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