Wood vs. Vinyl Fence in Maine: How to Choose

This is the most common decision our customers make. Both give full privacy at six feet, both hold up in Maine, and both are installed the same way as far as the posts are concerned. The differences show up in cost timing, upkeep and how each ages.

Up-front cost

Pressure-treated wood is usually the least expensive way to get a privacy fence. Cedar sits in the middle. Vinyl typically costs more to install. If the up-front number is the deciding factor, wood generally wins.

Maintenance over time

Vinyl needs a rinse. Wood needs cleaning and staining every few years if you want to keep its original tone, and that's real time or real money. Over a long enough horizon the gap narrows.

Appearance

Cedar looks right on older Maine homes and weathers into a soft gray many people prefer. Vinyl looks crisp and uniform, and stays that way. Neither is better — they're different looks.

Repairs

• Wood: replace individual boards, blend into the existing fence over time
• Vinyl: replace a full panel; matching an older color or discontinued style can be a problem

So which one?

If you want maximum customization or a traditional look, choose wood. If you'd rather never stain anything, choose vinyl. Both are good fences when the posts are set properly.