The Many Differences between a PVC fence and a Vinyl Fence

Meta description: Are PVC fences and vinyl fences the same? Not exactly. Read this guide to know where the differences lie.

For most people in the fence construction industry, a PVC fence and a vinyl fence refer to the same item. After all, PVC is polyvinyl chloride which some just shorten to “vinyl”. But there seems to be a recent trend to using the term vinyl fence for the fences that are specifically meant to be an alternative to a wooden fence. On the other hand, PVC fences are those which are constructed from sawed PVC pipes.

Cost of Purchase

This is perhaps the biggest difference, because PVC fences are so much cheaper than other fencing solutions. In fact, this type of fence probably started out as a makeshift DIY solution for those who didn’t have much of a budget for a proper fence. PVC pipes are extremely cheap, while the vinyl fences are much more expensive because they’re meant to be used for fencing.

So let’s put it this way. A PVC fence (which is made out of PVC pipes) is generally more affordable than many types of wooden fence. A vinyl fence, however, is more expensive than not just the PVC pipe but also the wooden fence.

Ease of Installation

When you’re installing a vinyl fence, all you really need to do is to follow the instructions of the manufacturer. This should be easier since it is actually designed to function as a fence.

Meanwhile, building a PVC fence requires more effort. You will have to buy PVC pipes in the exact same measurement, or you can saw a long PVC pipe to get several pipes with the same length. You will have to carefully plan the length of each pipe, especially when you want some variety in the lengths.

Design

While these two types of fences may both be made from polyvinyl chloride, they don’t look in any way alike. Keep in mind that the vinyl fence is intentionally made to look like a proper fence. So the parts are all moulded to whatever shape you fancy and they may come in a colour you like. A fence like these can look very attractive indeed. They can look like a classic picket fence or it can be a privacy fence instead.

With the PVC fence, there’s no escaping the fact that you made this out of a series of PVC pipes. It looks very basic and it’s not quite as attractive.

Lifespan

As they’re made from the same material, they both have the same advantages against termites, fungi, and the elements. The polyvinyl chloride on both types of fences can withstand them all. Both fences require very little maintenance, and soap and some water from a hose may be enough to clean them both.

But there’s really no guarantee how long a makeshift fence made from PVC pipes will last. And if a particular PVC pipe breaks, then you’ll have to replace it yourself.

With the vinyl fences, however, there’s usually a warranty. So if anything breaks during the warranty period, the manufacturer can repair or replace the fence.

Conclusion

So which one should you get? If you’re on a tight budget, then you’ll have to go with a PVC fence. But if you need a real alternative that can compare favourably with wood fences, then get the vinyl fence.