Composite vs. Vinyl Fences: Pros, Cons, and Costs

Looking to make your yard more private and secure? You have lots of fence options, including vinyl and composite. Learn more about composite vs. vinyl fences so you can choose the option that's right for your home.

Composite vs. Vinyl Fences: What Are the Key Differences?

Composite fences and vinyl fences appear similar, but looks can be deceiving. There are numerous differences between the two, notably their material. Composite fences are made from a mix of recycled plastic and wood, while vinyl fences are made solely from vinyl.  

What Is a Composite Fence?

Composite fences are made of a combination of wood and plastic material that's extra durable and strong. These fences are available in various colors and styles, such as a classic white picket fence or privacy panel fence.

Best for: 

• Green-minded homeowners

• Households that want a low-maintenance privacy fence option

• Homeowners who want the beauty of wood without the upkeep

Pros of Composite Fences

One of the biggest draws of composite fences is that they're much more environmentally friendly than other options. They are made from recycled materials rather than from fresh resources. They don't need to be chemically treated like certain types of wood fences. 

Composite material is also very durable. It can withstand years of exposure to wind, rain, and other elements while still looking good. Many composite fences come with a warranty, and most will last for at least 20 years. 

The fences are also easy to care for. You don't have to stain or paint them to keep them looking fresh. The boards won't warp or rot. 

Cons of Composite Fences

The biggest drawback of composite fences is their price tag. Compared to vinyl or wood fence cost, the price of composite is way more. However, while composite fences have a higher upfront price compared to vinyl or wood, their long lifespans and limited maintenance requirements often make them an affordable option in the long run.

Another potential disadvantage of a composite fence is that it can fade in the sun. Fading may be particularly noticeable on darker-colored fences. If your yard gets a lot of sun, it may be best to choose a composite fence in a lighter color. It’s not a good idea to paint composite fencing, either, as the chemicals in the paint could damage the composite material. So, if you want to change your fence’s look with a fresh new color, composite fencing isn’t a good option.

What Is a Vinyl Fence?

Vinyl fences are made from PVC, a hard, sturdy type of plastic. Like composite fences, vinyl fences come in a range of styles, from classic picket fences to privacy panels.

Best for: 

• Budget-conscious homeowners

• Homeowners looking for a low-maintenance fence option

• Households looking for a long-lasting fence

Pros of Vinyl Fences

The cost of a vinyl fence is less than that of a composite fence. Like composite fences, vinyl fences last for 20 years or longer, giving you a fair amount of bang for your buck. 

While you don't have a wide range of styles to choose from where vinyl is concerned, there are a few options out there, including fences with closely spaced pickets and semi-private fences with openings between the pickets. Lattice-top fences are also available. A local vinyl fence installer can help you choose the style that would work best for your property.

You don't have to stain, paint, or seal a vinyl fence to take care of it. The only upkeep your fence may need is the occasional cleaning. 

Cons of Vinyl Fences

Vinyl isn't an eco-friendly material. You can't recycle an old vinyl fence, and the material releases potentially harmful chemicals during production. 

Another issue with vinyl is the fact that it's not all-weatherproof. High heat can cause the panels or posts to warp, and extreme cold can cause the vinyl to crack. If you live in an area that's subject to weather extremes, you may want to choose a different type of fence.

Composite vs. Vinyl Fences​

So, when it comes to vinyl vs. composite fences—which type is right for you? See how each option stacks up.

Appearance​: Composite Fences

Composite fences can look more attractive than vinyl fences, which often tend to be shiny, white, and plastic-looking. A composite fence can imitate the look and feel of wood. Composite also comes in a range of colors or styles.

Options and Customizations​​: Composite Fences

Your style options are much more limited with a vinyl fence. However, composite fences come in a range of colors and can be customized to truly reflect your home's aesthetic and style.

Durability​​: Tie

You can get decades of life out of either a composite or vinyl fence, so this one's a tie. Both options can easily last you 20 years, if not more.

Price​: Vinyl Fences

Vinyl fences typically cost less than composite, mainly because the material is more common and easier to find. Since vinyl is low-maintenance, it also has low upkeep costs. 

Ease of Installation: Composite Fences

While you may prefer to hire a local fence installer for either a composite or vinyl fence, composite fences have an easier installation process. The panels weigh less than vinyl and are designed to slide into place. 

Maintenance​: Tie

Another tie, as composite and vinyl fences are both pretty easy to maintain. Unlike other fence types, you don't have to worry about them rotting or rusting if you don't seal or paint them. 

The most care and attention either fence type might need is the occasional cleaning, particularly if you see dirt or stains start to build up. You can clean vinyl or composite fences using regular soap and water. For stubborn stains, you may need to break out a soft-bristled brush.

Eco-Friendliness/Sustainability​: Composite Fences

Made from recycled materials, composite is the hands-down winner when it comes to sustainability. Many composite fences are made from materials that would have otherwise gone into the landfill, such as plastic shopping, dry cleaner, and sandwich bags. Using recycled wood or reclaimed sawdust means that no trees need to be cut down to produce a composite fence.

Bry'Ana Arvie contributed to this piece.