What to Consider to Determine Whether a Vinyl Fence is Worth It?

There are many reservations a homeowner may have about whether or not a vinyl fence installation will be worth it or cause buyer’s remorse. 

Determining whether a vinyl fence will be worth it is a subjective decision that will require evaluation based on the needs of the property owner. There are many factors involved in the decision, such as: curb appeal, aesthetics, privacy, landscaping, and neighbor relationships. To make a final decision, it may be helpful to also consult with a licensed AFA contractor, a landscape designer, and a trusted local real estate agent.

If you’ve been mulling over the decision to install a fence for months. You’ve looked at all of the fencing options. You’ve done research on the best manufacturer that fits your needs. You’ve selected your favorite product and have determined, for example, that a six foot vinyl classic style privacy fence will be perfect. You’d like to install two gates–one on each side of the house. And, you want your vinyl fence to be gray because it will match well with both the coloring of the rock work and the garden daisies that showcase the front of your home.

You are even getting excited to not have to share the sunrise each morning on the back patio with your neighbor’s 38 year-old son–who is inevitably drinking a coffee in his ultra wornout whitey-tighties. 

You’ve measured your property, estimated material needs, and you have even gone as far as requesting four bids from local contractors. Only one contractor got back with you, but they can conveniently sneak you into their schedule within the next three weeks. The bid came back in the price range you expected, but still, the installation will cost you the proverbial “arm and a leg”. It’s just expensive and it’s caused a pit to grow within your stomach.  And now you’re wondering. . .Is installing a vinyl fence really worth it? 

Purchasing a Vinyl Fence is a Difficult Decision to Make

The scenario portrayed above may not exactly reflect your situation. And, price may not be the reason holding you back from making the decision.

For example, some homeowners may be concerned that installing a vinyl privacy fence may damage neighbor relationships. Others may be concerned about the durability or appearance of the vinyl product itself. And some may alternatively question its environmental impact.

Make Your Own Vinyl Fence Pros and Cons List

To overcome your uncertainty, and to be able to make your decision with confidence, start by making a Pros and Cons list. There are lots out there on the web to give you examples of things to think about and consider. But, creating your own pros and cons list is a great way to narrow in on what’s most important to you.  

To help you create your list, try answering the following questions:

1. Pros:
   • List all of the reasons why you are considering a vinyl fence installation.
     • examples: to create privacy and curb appeal, to increase property value, or to be able to create your own specific space, look, and feel. 
   • Which of these reasons would give the most satisfaction?
2. Alternatives:
   • Are there other alternatives that could help you obtain the same results?
     • For example, could you simply plant a tree to block the view of your neighbor’s patio so you can be shielded from their son’s morning-whitey-tighty-coffee routine? Or, alternatively, would the tree be planted to prevent your neighbors from sharing in on your morning-whitey-tighty-coffee routine?
3. Cons:
   • List all of the concerns you have about the fence installation?
     • For example, price is too high, are you concerned you will not realize an increase in home value that will offset the cost of the project.
     • Vinyl look doesn’t appeal to you.
     • Environmental concerns with the manufacturing of plastic.
4. Resolutions:
   • Can any of your concerns be resolved?
     • For example:
       • If the price is too costly, would you consider installing the fence yourself if you felt confident enough to do so? This would save you about half the cost. Or, would you consider working overtime, if available through your employer, while you wait for your contractor to show up, to help offset the cost? 
       • If your concern is about getting your money back, who could you reach out to to help you determine how home prices in your area might respond to the addition of a hypothetical fence install? 
       • If the vinyl fencing look doesn’t appeal to you, are there properties in your neighborhood that you adore who have a vinyl fence? How did they use the vinyl fence to create a space that still appeals to you?
       • If you have environmental concerns, would you consider installing a vinyl fence that was manufactured with recycled materials using strictly renewable energy? (This option exists.)
5. Pros Vs. Cons
   • Which Cons can be resolved and how? 
   • Do any of your Pros offset or out-weigh any of your Cons? 
   • Are there any Pros or Cons that cannot be offset and become an absolute dealmaker or dealbreaker? 
6. Your Answer:
   • Your answer to the question: “Is Building a Vinyl Fence Worth It?” can be found in the trump card found in the very last step listed above.