Compared to chain link, vinyl fencing is more expensive. You have to pay for improved appearance and privacy. While it's very durable for the most part, vinyl fencing can have trouble in exceedingly windy conditions. Because it possesses few gaps, it takes on a lot of wind resistance.
There is no question here – standard chain link fences are the most economical and cost-effective, and cheap fencing material available (outside of the agricultural wire types.) Vinyl fence models cost more, but they do because they are superior in most ways.
On average, you can expect your chain link fence to last about 15 years. Compare that to about 15 to 20 years for wood, 20 to 30 years for vinyl, upwards of 50 for aluminum, and centuries for wrought iron.
The difference between vinyl and steel chain-link fence
The major difference between the fences is that one is coated with vinyl, and the other is galvanized. Galvanization involves coating iron wires with other metals, such as zinc or carbon, to reduce rusting.
CHAIN LINK FENCING CONS
Offers minimal privacy or security. Inelegant appearance that won't enhance your curb appeal. May not be allowed by certain homeowner's associations. Not ideal for pets who could scale and climb over the fence.
Chain link fencing is a cheap fencing type that can serve your home for many years. This type of fencing's primary role is the creation of physical barriers for entry of intruders and the exit of pets and children at school playgrounds. The material is highly durable cheap and requires little maintenance.
Premium Vinyl fencing will outlast the wood fencing by years, requires no maintenance upkeep, is impervious to insects, and over the long run, VINYL IS LESS EXPENSIVE THAN WOOD! Not only will it be less expensive than wood over 10 years, but it will also have about 6-1/2 times the Return On Investment over wood.
Even though chain-link fencing is metal, this is the one fence that doesn't really add value to your home. In fact, it can hurt your home value. Chain link is not as durable and aesthetically pleasing as other fencing materials.
aluminum fence for your home, the clear winner is aluminum fencing. It's more durable, easier to maintain, comes in a variety of customization options, and can actually increase your property value compared to chain link fencing. Plus, it's more cost-effective over the long term.
Not only can harsh weather cause the fence to be damaged, but it can also cause the color on the fence to fade and over time, will lead to the need to replace the fence. Unlike wood, vinyl fences tend to grow mildew.
PVC is known for being highly durable and exceptionally resistant to breaks. Plus, vinyl fences are also more flexible than other fencing options. This lets them “bend” with high winds while different material types “break” under pressure. It's just one more reason why this fencing type typically lasts up to 30 years.
Look for virgin vinyl fencing.
Vinyl is made primarily from polyvinylchloride, or PVC. To ensure that you're receiving a professional-grade fence, look for vinyl fencing systems made of virgin PVC. The alternative is recycled vinyl, which is probably not what you think it is.
Midsize vinyl-coated chain-link fence costs $12 to $39 per linear foot to install, so you can expect to pay about $1,200 to $3,900 for 100 linear feet. Material costs are $5 to $22 per foot, including fence fabric, terminal posts, line posts, top rail, and accessories. You'll pay $6 to $17 per foot in labor fees.
Chain link fences are among the most durable type of fencing available. The woven design provides added strength, and it is highly adaptable to many uses. It is perfect for keeping pets and young children safely in your own yard.
Vinyl Fencing Wins for Longevity!
It will outlast its wooden counterpart by many years or even decades. A perfectly maintained, top-quality wooden fence, will last around 14 years, while a vinyl one will last 20-30 years!
Good news: When properly maintained, a vinyl fence can last for decades — upwards of 30 years in many cases. That's longer than wood.
Vinyl typically outlasts wood by many years. It's not susceptible to termites, cracking, rotting, or moisture. In Kansas, this weather resistance is a big plus for homeowners. And, unlike chain link or wrought iron, a vinyl fence will never rust.
Save Money During the Off-Season
Whether it's because there were some surplus materials sitting in a warehouse, or because your contractor didn't have to pay their employees for overtime, fencing projects are generally cheaper during the fall and winter months.
Vinyl fencing: Vinyl fencing can last 30+ years with minimal maintenance required. Unlike wood that can warp, rot, or shrink over time, vinyl is rigid and resilient. It is resistant to pests, rain, snow, temperature changes, and other elements. That is why vinyl fencing is the longest lasting fence material.