Pvc Vs Vinyl Fence? Prices, Installation Cost, Best Brands, Pros and Cons

When considering fencing options for your property, PVC and vinyl fences often emerge as popular choices due to their durability and low maintenance requirements. However, many homeowners find themselves confused about the differences between these materials, their relative costs, and which option might be best for their specific needs. This comprehensive guide explores the similarities and differences between PVC and vinyl fencing, including pricing information, installation considerations, top manufacturers, and the advantages and limitations of each option to help you make an informed decision for your property.

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) fencing is made from a synthetic plastic polymer that consists of polyvinyl chloride resin, UV inhibitors, impact modifiers, and other compounds that create a durable building material. The term “PVC fence” typically refers to a rigid, hollow fence structure made of PVC material that mimics the appearance of traditional wood fencing while offering greater durability.

Vinyl fencing is essentially made from PVC that has been modified with additional ingredients to increase flexibility, durability, and UV resistance. The terms “vinyl fence” and “PVC fence” are often used interchangeably in the marketplace, which creates confusion for consumers. In most contexts, when people say “vinyl fence,” they’re referring to the same product as a PVC fence.

PVC vs Vinyl: Is There Actually a Difference?

The confusion between PVC and vinyl fencing stems from terminology rather than actual material differences. Technically speaking, vinyl is a type of PVC. Vinyl is the common term for polyvinyl chloride (PVC) when used in certain consumer applications. In the fencing industry, both terms refer to essentially the same product.

There may be slight variations in manufacturing processes and additive formulations between products marketed as “PVC” versus “vinyl,” but these differences are minimal. The quality differences consumers encounter are more related to the specific manufacturer’s standards and the grade of materials used rather than a fundamental difference between PVC and vinyl. Higher-grade products typically contain more UV inhibitors and impact modifiers regardless of which term is used in their marketing.

Cost Comparison: PVC/Vinyl Fence Pricing

Material Costs

PVC/vinyl fencing typically costs between $20 and $40 per linear foot for materials alone, depending on the style, height, and quality. Premium lines with enhanced features like wood grain textures or reinforced construction can cost up to $60 per linear foot. By comparison, wood fencing materials range from $10 to $25 per linear foot, while aluminum can cost $20 to $30, and wrought iron $24 to $44.

Style/Type	Price Range (per linear foot)
Privacy vinyl fence (6ft)	$25-$45
Semi-privacy vinyl fence	$20-$35
Picket vinyl fence	$18-$30
Ranch rail vinyl fence	$15-$25
Premium/reinforced vinyl	$40-$60

Installation Costs

Professional installation of PVC/vinyl fencing typically adds $8-$15 per linear foot to the material costs. For a standard 150-foot residential perimeter, installation labor costs range from $1,200 to $2,250. Several factors affect installation costs:

• Property terrain (flat land is less expensive than slopes)
• Soil conditions (rocky soil requires more labor)
• Fence design complexity (more posts and gates increase costs)
• Regional labor rates
• Removal of existing fencing (adds $3-$5 per linear foot)

The total project cost for a professionally installed vinyl/PVC fence typically ranges from $4,200 to $8,250 for a 150-foot boundary. While DIY installation can save approximately 30-40% on the total project cost, it requires specialized tools and intermediate construction skills to ensure proper post setting and alignment.

Top Brands for PVC/Vinyl Fencing

The quality of PVC/vinyl fencing varies significantly between manufacturers. Premium brands typically offer better warranties, higher-grade materials, and more innovative features. Here are the most reputable brands in the U.S. market:

• Certainteed – Known for their Bufftech® line with lifetime warranties and innovative color-through technology
• Freedom Outdoor Living – Offers excellent wind resistance ratings and proprietary SolarGuard® technology
• WamBam Fence – Specializes in DIY-friendly “no-dig” vinyl fence systems with innovative installation methods
• Vinyl Fence Wholesaler – Provides commercial-grade products at competitive prices
• Weatherables – Features heavy-duty vinyl fencing with aluminum reinforcement
• Illusions Vinyl Fence – Offers a wide range of color options and wood grain textures

According to a 2023 consumer satisfaction survey by Fence Industry Research Group, Certainteed and Freedom Outdoor Living rank highest for customer satisfaction with 92% and 89% approval ratings respectively. WamBam Fence received the highest DIY-friendly rating at 95% among homeowners who installed their own fencing.

Pros and Cons of PVC/Vinyl Fencing

Advantages

PVC/vinyl fencing offers numerous benefits that have contributed to its growing popularity:

• Low maintenance – Never needs painting, staining, or sealing; occasional cleaning with soap and water is sufficient
• Longevity – Typically lasts 20-30 years with quality brands offering lifetime warranties
• Weather resistance – Doesn’t rot, rust, warp, or splinter; resistant to moisture damage
• Insect proof – Immune to termites and other wood-boring insects
• Color retention – Better quality vinyl contains UV inhibitors that prevent fading
• Environmentally friendly – Many brands use partially recycled materials and the fencing itself is recyclable
• Safety – No splinters, no nails or sharp edges, ideal for families with children and pets

Disadvantages

Despite its benefits, PVC/vinyl fencing has several drawbacks to consider:

• Higher initial cost – Typically 30-40% more expensive than comparable wood fencing for materials
• Difficult repairs – Damaged sections often require complete panel replacement
• Brittleness in extreme cold – Can become brittle and crack in very cold temperatures (below -20°F)
• Limited color options – Though improving, still offers fewer color choices than painted wood
• Artificial appearance – Some homeowners find the aesthetic less appealing than natural materials
• Environmental impact – Manufacturing process has a larger carbon footprint than wood production

Durability and Maintenance Comparison

A quality PVC/vinyl fence will last 20-30 years with minimal maintenance, compared to 10-15 years for a well-maintained wood fence. Unlike wood, vinyl won’t rot, warp, or splinter. It’s also immune to termites and other insects that can damage wooden structures.

Maintenance requirements are significantly lower than other fencing materials. Annual cleaning with soap and water is typically all that’s needed to keep vinyl fencing looking new. For tougher stains, a mild cleanser or a specialized vinyl cleaner can be used. By comparison, wood fences require regular staining or painting every 2-3 years.

Weather impact varies by climate. In moderate climates, vinyl performs exceptionally well. However, in areas with extreme temperature fluctuations, lower-quality vinyl can become brittle in severe cold or sag in intense heat. Premium vinyl products with higher-grade materials and UV inhibitors perform much better in challenging climates.

Which is Better for Different Situations?

Best for Privacy

Solid privacy-style PVC/vinyl fencing is excellent for creating secluded outdoor spaces, especially in suburban neighborhoods with close property lines. The 6-foot privacy style provides complete visual screening and some sound dampening. For enhanced privacy, look for designs without gaps between pickets and panels.

Best for Durability in Harsh Climates

For extreme weather conditions, vinyl products with aluminum reinforcement in the bottom rails and posts offer superior strength against high winds and heavy snow loads. Brands like Weatherables and CertainTeed’s Bufftech line feature specialized formulations for extreme climate performance.

Best for Front Yards and Aesthetics

For front yard applications where curb appeal is important, decorative vinyl fencing with post caps and stylized pickets can enhance a property’s appearance. Modern wood-grain textured vinyl that mimics the look of painted wood offers an attractive compromise between traditional aesthetics and low maintenance.

Best for Large Properties

For acreage or large properties, ranch-style or split-rail vinyl fencing provides economical boundary marking while maintaining an open feel. These styles use less material than privacy fencing, making them more cost-effective for long runs while still offering the longevity benefits of vinyl.