Composite Fence Material vs Vinyl Fence Material

When choosing a low-maintenance fencing solution, two of the most popular options are composite fencing and vinyl fencing. While both offer durability and minimal upkeep compared to traditional wood, they have distinct differences in material composition, appearance, performance, and cost. Many other fence companies conflate vinyl fencing and composite fencing, but they are in fact quite different for a multitude of reasons.

Composite fencing is made from a blend of wood fibers and recycled plastic. This combination gives composite fences a more natural, wood-like appearance while benefiting from enhanced weather resistance. Composite fencing tends to be heavier and denser than vinyl, providing a sturdy and robust feel. Because of the wood content, composite can better mimic the texture, grain, and coloring variations of real wood, making it a popular choice for homeowners who want the traditional look without the regular staining, sealing, or rotting issues. However, since it contains organic materials, composite fences can still be susceptible to some fading, mildew, or staining over time, although much less than traditional wood.

Vinyl fencing, on the other hand, is made entirely from synthetic materials—specifically polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It offers a sleek, clean look, often available in bright whites, tans, and other solid colors. Vinyl fences are highly resistant to moisture, pests, and UV rays, making them ideal for areas with harsh weather conditions. Unlike composite, vinyl does not contain any wood, so it’s virtually immune to rot, mold, and decay. Vinyl is also lighter in weight, making installation a bit easier and sometimes more affordable. However, its appearance is more uniform and less natural compared to composite, which may not appeal to homeowners seeking a more traditional aesthetic.

In terms of maintenance, both materials are extremely easy to care for. Vinyl typically only requires occasional washing with a hose or soapy water to keep it looking fresh. Composite may need a little more attention if stains or mildew form, but still far less than natural wood fences.

When considering cost, vinyl fencing is generally less expensive upfront than composite. Composite fences can be a significant investment but may provide greater long-term value if a more realistic wood-like look and enhanced durability are important to the homeowner.

If you prioritize a natural appearance and a heavier, wood-like feel, composite fencing may be the better option. If you prefer a clean, modern look with ultra-low maintenance and a more budget-friendly installation, vinyl fencing might be the way to go. Both offer excellent longevity and are environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional wood fencing.

Composite Fence Brands

We primarily use Trex Fencing but are open to other brands by customer request. Trex has a long history of providing very high quality fence material so we tend to lean towards them for that reason. There are other companies such as Greenwood Fence that offer composite fence as well. The advantage of using Greenwood over Trex is the availability of additional colors and styles, while Trex only has 2 styles and 3 colors. But whatever composite fence brand you choose, you can be assured it is the best fence material available on the market. It has the density of wood with the longevity of vinyl, truly the best of both worlds.