Between the hot summers and harsh winters that the Minnesota weather brings, the elements can be tough on fences. When it comes time to choose the right fence for your residential or commercial property, you need one that will look great but also be able to withstand the variable Minnesota elements. Working with The Shed & Fence Company, one of the top-rated fencing contractors in Minnesota with experts who guide you through the process is vital when choosing the right fence. In this article, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons of two of our favorite types: wood and vinyl fences! 

The Basics of Vinyl Fencing and Wood Fencing

Vinyl fences are a very popular choice for homeowners who prefer a low-maintenance and attractive fencing solution for their West Metro property. These strong, durable fences come in a variety of styles that will suit any property’s aesthetic. Made of durable PVC, vinyl fences are incredibly low-maintenance. 

 

Wood fences are a natural, classic, and timeless choice for any home or property. A wood fence makes a beautiful border that comes in a variety of different styles. Stockade, board-on-board, and privacy designs all provide an attractive fence that is easy on the wallet and pleasing to the eye. 

Comparing Vinyl Fences and Wood Fences

Both wood fences and vinyl fences from our West Metro, MN fence company are made from high-quality materials and installed by our knowledgeable team of experts. However, vinyl fences and wood fences are very different, and each has its own benefits and drawbacks. Here are some things you should consider when choosing between vinyl and wood fences. 

Maintenance Requirements

Vinyl fences are extremely low maintenance, requiring only the occasional rinsing down with a hose and gentle cleanser. Aside from repairing infrequent damages, vinyl fences are virtually maintenance-free. 

 

Wood fences require consistent monitoring in order to identify areas of rot, warping, or other types of damage. Additionally, a wood fence will need routine painting or staining to keep it looking its best and prevent premature breakdown or larger maintenance issues in the future. 

Budget 

A wood fence is one of the most affordable fence options upfront. However, after installing a wood fence, you may incur more in maintenance costs over the course of your fence’s lifetime. 

 

Alternatively, vinyl fences are sometimes more expensive upfront than wood fences, but with the low-maintenance needs and the longevity of a vinyl fence, ultimately you’ll end up spending less over the lifetime of your fence. 

Aesthetics

Vinyl fences are a great option for property owners looking for full-privacy, semi-privacy, and decorative fence styles. Our vinyl fence options at The Shed & Fence Company extend to all tastes and budgets, including a variety of unique color choices and textures.

 

Wood fences are also customizable with a variety of custom top finishes like lattice tops, concave and convex cuts, and gothic picket tops. The pros at Shed and Fence also only use Western Red cedar for our wood fences for its great appearance and longevity.

Climate

A wood fence is much more likely to warp and rot when placed in damp or shady areas, such as underneath trees or behind bushes. Areas that are prone to standing water or parts of your home that accumulate a buildup of snow and ice may not be suitable for wood fences. 

 

Vinyl fences are more resistant to the effects of wind, rain, snow, and ice. Portions of the fence that are in shaded or damp areas may grow mold and mildew if left untreated for long periods, but can easily be cleaned using a gentle cleanser and water. 

 

One of the most important factors when choosing your fence is how your fence will look on your property. Our West Metro, MN fence company photo gallery has pictures of many of our finished vinyl fences and wood fences to help you determine which is best suited to your tastes! 

The Pros and Cons of Wood and Vinyl Fences

Vinyl Fences

Wood Fences

Pros: 

  • Durability: Resistant to insects, high-quality PVC resists breakdown, unlike natural materials. 
  • Ease of Maintenance: occasionally rinsing your vinyl fence with water and a gentle cleaner is usually all the maintenance required. 
Pros: 

  • Natural Appearance: wood fences are well suited for creating a natural-looking barrier
  • Highly Customizable: with an abundance of top cuts and designs, wood fences are one of the most customizable fence options.
Cons: 

  • Upfront Cost: vinyl fences can be more expensive than other materials initially. 
Cons:

  • Increased Maintenance: wood fences need regular painting or staining and potential repairs. 

The Shed & Fence Company is a Top Fencing Contractor in Minnesota

As a top-rated West Metro, MN fence company, we are proud to offer both high-quality wood and vinyl fences for properties in the West Metro, Minnesota area. We pride ourselves on our excellent customer service and have a team of individuals ready to guide you through your new fence installation every step of the way. If you have any questions or want to find out more about our fences, give us a call or use our convenient Instant Quote Tool to discover all of our fantastic fence options. 

Ready to Work With the Best Fencing Contractor in Minnesota?

From beautiful wood fences to classic and durable vinyl fences, the team at The Shed & Fence Company is looking forward to working with you to create the backyard of your dreams. If you have any questions or need guidance from an expert, give us a call at (763) 568-3183 or contact us online. Our team is here to help and answer any questions!