If you’re thinking about installing a new privacy fence, selecting a material is likely one of the first decisions you’ll have to make. Which material is best for your property depends on style, budget, and other factors.
What Material Best Fits Your Property
For a farmhouse, we usually recommend wood fences where the natural grain and weathered look fit the property. For a newer build, the cleaner, more modern look of vinyl or aluminum often makes more sense. Setting matters too. For example, in a wooded setting, a wood fence makes the most sense if you’d like it to blend in. Wood and vinyl offer the widest range of styles:
Wood options:
- Tongue-and-groove for a solid, seamless look (This is a “good neighbor” fence. Good neighbor means it looks the same on both sides)
- Board-and-batten or dog-ear for more texture
- Scalloped tops for a curved edge
- Horizontal-plank for a more modern feel
- Board on board, a good neighbor fence that allows air flow
- Lattice or spindle tops to finish it off
Vinyl options (all good neighbor):
- Tongue-and-groove for a solid panel
- Horizontal for something more contemporary
- Spindle or lattice tops for detail
Aluminum privacy panels are a good option for a sleek, modern look and minimal upkeep. The Vanguard privacy fence brochure shows available styles. Some property-owners choose chain link with privacy slats for a more industrial look, with coverage that depends on the slat: top lock slats block about 75% of the view, winged slats closer to 95%.
Considering Cost
Homeowners often assume that wood is the most budget-friendly option, and sometimes it is. A basic stockade fence typically costs less than vinyl. But higher-end wood privacy fences like lattice-top or tongue-and-groove cedar can be more expensive than vinyl. Material alone doesn’t determine cost, though aluminum privacy panels typically are the most expensive option.
Questions We Ask When You’re Not Sure
If you’re having a difficult time deciding, these are the questions we typically ask when working with customers:
- Do you like the weathered, natural look of wood?
- Does vinyl’s clean, consistent look appeal to you?
- Do you want the flexibility to change your fence color down the road with paint or stain, or are you comfortable picking one color now and keeping it?
- Will you be up for the work required to maintain a wood fence that’s been painted or stained? (Paint or stain is always optional.)
- How long do you plan to be in this house — long enough that you might be the one replacing the fence someday?
- What will the setting of the fence be? Wooded or open space?
- What is the style of your home and/or property?
A Note About New York Winters
New York winters affect both wood and vinyl fences. Vinyl posts are hollow and lightweight, which makes them more prone to frost heave. Wood posts hold up better against heaving but break down over time from moisture and rot. Neither material can totally withstand a Hudson Valley winter over time, but upkeep looks different.
Still Deciding?
If you’re having trouble deciding and you’re located in Orange County, NY or Sussex County, NJ and the surrounding areas, give us a call. We’d be happy to discuss your options. In the meantime, take a look at our vinyl privacy fence installation or wood fence installation pages, or get in touch for a free estimate. If cost is your biggest concern, check out our fence cost guide and see what factors affect the price of any installation.
