When choosing the right type of fence for your property, you may be stuck between a post and rail fence and a split rail fence.

At Fencing Direct, we are dedicated to providing our customers with high-quality, budget-friendly fences. One of our most popular products is vinyl post and rail fences – and for good reason. 

Our vinyl post and rail fences offer impressive longevity as well as low maintenance. Their long-lasting capabilities make them the smarter and cheaper choice overall.

This blog post will compare vinyl post and rail with wood split rail fences and discuss the pros and cons of each product.

Upkeep and Maintenance 

When it comes to keeping your fence in good condition, there is a significant difference between vinyl and wood fences. 

Wood split rail fences require much higher general upkeep efforts. Anything from wild animals to poor weather can affect the way the fence looks and functions.

Therefore, wooden fences may require paint touch-ups, replacements of broken boards, or other maintenance tasks throughout their lifetime.

The maintenance process with vinyl post and rail fences, however, tends to be much simpler. Their high durability results in minimal maintenance, making them more ideal for someone with an already-busy schedule.

Cleaning the Fence

In particular, the amount of effort given to cleaning is far lower with a vinyl post and rail fence than with a wood split rail fence. 

Vinyl is typically very easy to clean. It is pre-waterproofed and does not need to be sealed. A vinyl fence may require occasional power washing or a bit of soap, but the overall process is quick and simple. 

Wood fences, on the other hand, may need hard scrubs and more frequent cleanings. This is because wood is far more affected by moisture and mildew, as well as dirt and general seasonal changes.

Overall, because wood is more affected by the natural elements, it has more issues with cleaning and maintenance. 

Longevity of the Fence

Because they have such a low likelihood of significant damage, vinyl post and rail fences can stay functional and productive for longer than their wooden counterparts.

Horses and livestock can not chew into vinyl fencing as they can with wood fences. Additionally, vinyl flexes on impact, so it is much less likely to break if an animal or object hits it.

In fact, we are so confident in our vinyl fences that we offer our UV-resistant vinyl fencing with a lifetime warranty. 

Even if wood fences appear to be the cheaper option at first glance, because of their significant maintenance and repair requirements, vinyl fences tend to be the more budget-friendly option.

Repair Process

Any fence has the possibility of breaking down over time due to its unique circumstances, but this is not to say that the repair processes for all fences are the same.

Because wood fences absorb water and frequently expand, when it comes to wood split rail fences, it is common for the rails to fall out of the posts. Many other types of impact, weather changes, etc. can cause damage to wood fences as well.

As discussed earlier, vinyl split and rail fences are much more durable, but intense pressure or impact can cause damage to the structure. 

The repair process of these different types of fences is just as different as their potential for damage.

Vinyl fence repair and installation is fairly simple, meaning that most property owners can get the job done on their own. We even provide online installation instruction videos to help you out.

Wood fence repairs require more expertise and effort, meaning that you will likely need to hire a professional to complete the repair.

Aesthetic Appeal

Many people enjoy the classic look of a wooden split rail fence. It seems rustic and natural and can fit in well with the overall landscape.

Vinyl post and rail fences, however, can also provide a great visual addition to the property. Our white vinyl fencing materials are simple and elegant. We also offer customization options to ensure that your fence meets all your aesthetic expectations.

Ready to get started with your vinyl post and rail fence project? We offer a Fence Builder online tool so that you can create your perfect new addition to any property.

Plus, our experienced team is available to answer any questions you may have. Give us a call to kickstart your fencing project.