You may be debating between choosing wood or vinyl for your fence, but in our experience there’s a clear winner – wood.
Who is Solid Fencing Company?
We are a team of entrepreneurs installing reliable, solid fencing across Madison, Wisconsin. We bring an unbound level of integrity and passion to each job, earning nothing but 5-star reviews since we opened our doors. At the end of the day, we want each customer to be thrilled with their new fence, so we are quick to go the extra mile. As expert fence contractors, we have seen fences stand (or not stand) the test of time and have strong opinions for our customers based on that experience.
The problem with Vinyl Fences
Vinyl fences have been given the reputation of being a more reliable choice for fencing than wood fences or many other options. At first glance you can understand why – plastic has a resiliency that lasts for ages, doesn’t attract termites, and can be molded into a variety of shapes and sizes. Experts claim it retains color better and is more durable against the harsh Wisconsin winters.
So let’s break down these claims based on our experiences across Madison.
Let’s start with aesthetics. There’s something undeniably timeless and charming about a well-crafted wood fence. The warm, earthy tones of wood blend seamlessly into any landscape, whether it’s a rustic countryside or a suburban backyard. In contrast, vinyl fences often have a synthetic, artificial appearance that can detract from the overall look of a property. Even worse, vinyl fences require frequent cleaning and maintenance to avoid becoming an eyesore. Vinyl fences get dirty fast and require more upkeep to maintain their aesthetic. What we find the worst part about them is their durability: vinyl fences become brittle with exposure to the sun.
Vinyl fences are often touted as low-maintenance, and that couldn’t be more wrong. After only a few years in the sun, any impact could break your fence. If you trip and try to put a hand against it to steady yourself, CRACK. If the dog runs into it a little too hard, CRACK. If you run a mower into it… you get the idea.
Why We Love Wood Fences
What we’ve found from building hundreds of fences across Madison, Wisconsin, is that wood fences offer a larger variety of advantages. From their natural beauty to their durability, wood fences stand the test of time in ways that vinyl does not.
On the other hand, wood fences age gracefully, developing a natural patina that only adds to their character over time. But if the natural patina isn’t for you, that’s not a problem either. With minimal maintenance – a coat of sealant and/or stain once every few years – a wood fence can last for decades, retaining its beauty without the need for constant attention. Neither will your wood fence crack under minimal pressure. Even if somehow you do manage to break a picket, that’s not a problem with wood. You can just buy another picket. That’s not how it works with vinyl. Even if only one picket breaks, you need to buy a full panel because they are only sold in full panels. That’s a few hundred dollars for a panel of plastic vs four dollars for a fresh wood picket.
So, if you’re considering a fence for your property, remember: you can always paint a wood fence white (or almond or brown or whatever color vinyl you’re looking at). There’s no treatment that can make a vinyl fence reliable.
| Feature | Vinyl | Wood |
| Durability | Brittle in the sun | Strong after many years |
| Maintenance | Shows dirt easily, needs to be cleaned | Has a natural patina and doesn’t show dirt |
| Repair | Must repair the entire panel if broken | Can replace a picket simply and easily |
| Upkeep | Regular washing to keep clean | Seal it once and it’s aesthetic for years |
Wood fences are much easier to repair or replace compared to vinyl. If a section of your wood fence gets damaged, you can simply replace the damaged parts without needing to replace large sections.
Location and Environment Considerations
When deciding between wood and vinyl for your fence, it’s important to consider the specific environment and location where the fence will be installed. For instance, if you live near Sherman, a neighborhood known for its charming residential areas, you might prefer the classic look of a wooden fence to complement the traditional aesthetics.
Nearby Landmarks
If your property is close to landmarks such as Bridges Golf Course, the choice of fencing could also be influenced by the surrounding landscape. A vinyl fence might offer a more modern contrast against the lush greens of the golf course, while a wooden fence could blend seamlessly with the natural environment.
Intersection and Accessibility
Consider the accessibility and visibility of your property. For example, if your home is located near Packers Ave and Manley St, a vinyl fence might offer the added benefit of low maintenance and durability in a busy area with high traffic.
Geographical Coordinates
Finally, the geographical coordinates of your property, such as 43.121490296613, -89.355058508493, can help determine the climate conditions you’ll need to consider. In areas with significant weather variations, vinyl might be more resilient against the elements compared to wood.
Transform your property with a new fence from Solid Fencing!
At Solid Fencing Company, our skilled professionals are committed to guiding homeowners in the Madison, WI, area through the entire process of choosing, installing, and maintaining the ideal fence for their property.
Reach out to us today for a free consultation, and let us transform your outdoor space with a stunning, long-lasting fence solution.