How Do They Stack Up for Maintenance, Durability and Lifespan?
Vinyl and cedar are both reliable fencing materials that can provide years of enjoyment for you and your family. But each differs significantly in maintenance and how they age. Vinyl requires less routine maintenance and maintains a more consistent appearance, while cedar offers the natural beauty of real wood and can provide excellent longevity when professionally installed and maintained.
At AVO Fence & Supply, we work with both vinyl and cedar fencing and operate our own cedar mill in Maine, giving us firsthand knowledge of how material quality, manufacturing, and proper installation can affect fence performance and longevity.
Which Requires Less Maintenance: Vinyl or Cedar Fencing?
Vinyl fencing requires less routine maintenance than cedar. It doesn’t need to be painted, stained, or sealed, and it won’t rot, splinter, or attract insects. An occasional cleaning with soap and water is generally all that’s needed to remove dirt, pollen, or mildew.
Cedar requires somewhat more care. Homeowners who want to maintain its original color can periodically stain or seal it. Cedar can also be left unfinished and allowed to weather naturally, gradually developing the distinctive silvery-gray appearance that many homeowners like.
Which Lasts Longer: Vinyl or Cedar Fencing?
Both materials can provide long-lasting performance. Lifespan depends on the quality of the material selected, how the fence is installed, exposure, and maintenance.
Quality vinyl is designed to withstand moisture and changing weather conditions without many of the maintenance requirements associated with natural wood.
Cedar is naturally resistant to moisture, decay, and insects, making it particularly well suited for outdoor applications. Starting with carefully selected and milled cedar, combined with quality construction and installation, can make a major difference in how a fence performs over time.
How Does Cedar Fencing Age Over Time?
One of the distinctive characteristics of cedar is that its appearance naturally evolves.
Left untreated, cedar gradually changes from its original warm wood tones to a soft silvery gray. This weathering is a natural part of the aging process and does not necessarily indicate that the wood is deteriorating.
Homeowners who prefer the original cedar color can use an appropriate stain or finish to help preserve it.
Is Vinyl or Cedar Better for New England Weather?
Both can be excellent choices when quality materials are professionally installed.
Vinyl offers excellent moisture resistance and requires little seasonal maintenance. Cedar has natural properties that help it resist moisture, decay, and insects and has a long history of use in New England’s changing climate.
AVO’s Eastern white cedar is sourced and milled in Maine at our own cedar mill. Controlling the process from the mill forward gives us greater oversight of the cedar used in our fencing, and a deeper understanding of the material itself.
How Do You Choose Between Vinyl and Cedar Fencing?
The best choice depends on what matters most for your property.
Vinyl may be the better fit if you want:
- Minimal ongoing maintenance
- Consistent color and appearance
- No staining or sealing
- Excellent resistance to moisture and insects
Cedar may be the better fit if you prefer:
- The warmth and character of natural wood
- A fence that develops a natural patina over time
- The option to stain or customize the finish
- The traditional appearance of cedar fencing
Start With the Right Material
AVO Fence & Supply offers vinyl fencing, along with Eastern white cedar fencing produced from cedar milled at our own Maine facility. Whether you choose vinyl or cedar wood, material quality and proper installation play a key role in how well your fence performs over time.
Not only do we help you select the right material, AVO offers design guidance and support, and can connect you to one of the professional fence contractors we partner with. Our team can help you compare options and choose the right material for your project, taking into account the desired appearance, maintenance expectations, and long-term performance.
Contact us today to get started on your fencing project or to learn more about the different fencing materials available.
Frequently Asked Questions About Vinyl and Cedar Fencing
How long does a cedar fence last?
The lifespan of a cedar fence depends on the quality of the wood, installation, exposure to weather, and ongoing care. Cedar’s natural resistance to moisture, decay, and insects makes it an excellent material for long-lasting outdoor fencing.
Does vinyl fencing require maintenance?
Vinyl is considered a low-maintenance fencing material. It doesn’t require painting, staining, or sealing, although occasional cleaning can help keep it looking its best.
Does cedar fencing need to be stained?
No. Cedar can be left unfinished and allowed to weather naturally to a silvery-gray patina. Staining or sealing is an option for homeowners who want to maintain more of the wood’s original color.
Is cedar or vinyl better for a New England home?
Both can perform well in New England. Vinyl is an excellent choice for homeowners prioritizing minimal maintenance, while cedar offers natural beauty, character, and proven durability. The right choice depends on the property, desired appearance, and maintenance preferences.
Contact us today to get started on your fencing project or to learn more about the different fencing materials available.