Why We Use Vinyl & Not Cedar?

Quality Fencing That Will Last For Years

At Northland Fence we believe all our fences should be built with the best products available. Although cedar boards have been a traditional material used in fencing for decades, we now know that it is not the best option for Minnesota weather or long term customer satisfaction. With our years of experience we have seen firsthand the issues with cedar, and we believe that vinyl is the better choice for fencing.

Wood

  • Pros
  • Less Initial Cost
  • Can be painted or stained many colors ($$)
  • Cons
  • Requires regular maintenance ($$)
  • Vulnerable to rotting, peeling, and sagging
  • Prone to moisture damage (mold)
  • Susceptible to termite and pest damage
  • Cedar will fade to grey if untreated
  • Warping occurs in posts, rails and boards
  • Average 10 year lifespan

Vinyl

  • Pros
  • Extremely durable
  • Low maintenance
  • No painting or staining needed
  • Will not chip, fade, or warp
  • Not susceptible to termites or insects
  • Lifetime Warranty
  • Versatile colors and styles
  • Fireproof
  • Best lifetime value
  • Cons
  • Costs are slightly higher then a standard cedar fence

Contemporary Vinyl vs. Traditional Cedar

Fortunately, vinyl fencing is versatile and comes in many colors, including those that mimic real wood. Cedar has long been the traditional choice for fencing.  Although cedar fencing arrives in great condition initially, the wood breaks down fairly quickly, is susceptible to discoloration, decay, rot, and even termite and pest damage. In Minnesota where our weather fluctuates from cold winters to hot summer days, snow and rain warps the wood and footings ruining the appeal and stability of the fence.  Vinyl fences do not need to be stained or painted to keep their beauty and hey are not prone to chipping, warping, or weathering.

Low Maintenance Vinyl vs High Maintenance Cedar

Cedar fencing requires frequent care to prevent rotting and discoloration. If you have a cedar fence, you need to seal, stain, or paint your fence to protect the wood. Unfortunately, this can be very time consuming and costly. Over time, as the wood warps or rots, you will have to replace or repair boards as well. Overall the cost and time savings make vinyl fencing our preferred choice. Vinyl is virtually maintenance free. To keep clean, you can simply spay it down or wipe it down with a rag or sponge. And if you decide not to brush off dirt, it will not impact the lifespan of the material in any way.

Lifetime Value Vinyl vs Limited Warranty Cedar

In Minnesota weather, anything that is going to stand the test of time needs to be strong and durable. Cedar fencing can last about 20 years, but during those years it will require multiple treatments, stains, and frequent care. Maintenance on a cedar fence can be costly, and in the end eventually all of the wood will deteriorate and need to be replaced.

A vinyl fence will last decades without needing any maintenance or upkeep from you. As vinyl is more durable, it also handles hot humid sunny days the same as biting winter winds with flexibility and unchanging appearance. Northland Fence offers a lifetime non-prorated warranty on materials as well as a 5-year warranty on labor with all of our vinyl fence installations. Hands down, the durability of vinyl allows for the best lifetime value that far outweighs the slightly higher initial costs.

Contact Northland Fence Today for Your Free Estimate

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