
If you’ve ever looked at the price of composite fencing versus wood fencing, you may have been perplexed as to why the price per square foot goes up so high. The truth is, there are several reasons why composite fencing can be more expensive than wooden fence styles. Here we’ll cover three main reasons why and also provide you with some helpful tips on how to ensure that you’re getting a great deal when installing your new fence!
Differences in Materials
A major reason why is composite fencing expensive than wood fencing is because the materials used to create a fence are much different. Unifloor, for example, uses high-quality PVC material to make their fences, which means that their products last longer and require fewer repairs. Some composite materials can also be recycled!
Besides the different types of material used in composite fencing, there are also many new styles and designs available to choose from. This means that you have a wide variety of options when deciding on what type of fence would best suit your needs.
Differences in Installation
Compositions fences are more expensive than wood because of the extra steps involved in the installation process. Unifloor, the company that manufactures composites, notes that the composite materials are more expensive than conventional lumber and require a skilled installer. Further, composite materials must be milled by hand from sheets of material before they can be installed. The cost of these extra steps (milling and installation) can range from $500 to $3000 depending on the size of your fence. In comparison, vinyl fencing costs around $600 per linear foot for an installer to install it for you.
A labor fee may also be incurred for cutting the board down if it exceeds six feet in height.
This labor fee may run up to $150 per hour or more depending on where you live. On top of this labor fee, there will also likely be charges for transportation and disposal of waste materials as well as permit fees if applicable which could increase the price significantly.
Differences in Maintenance
Many composite fences are also made with a product called Unifloor. This material provides a more durable, less porous surface that will resist cracking and fading in the sun. Another factor that makes composite fencing more expensive than wood is that it requires less maintenance. With regular upkeep, your fence will last for years without needing to be replaced! Wooden fences require lots of care if they’re not going to quickly fade or become brittle. They need to be painted regularly (or covered) and need periodic repairs because they don’t hold up as well against rotting, insects, water damage etc.
Additionally, while you can use pressure treated lumber on a wooden fence, these products emit harmful chemicals over time which can have detrimental health effects on humans and animals alike.
Getting the most out of your investment
When you want to get the most out of your investment, composite fencing might be a better option. Composites are stronger and more durable than wood, which means they will last longer with minimal upkeep. The material also tends to resist both rot and decay, so you won’t have to worry about it falling apart or deteriorating over time. The cost of composite fences is typically higher than other types, but the advantages may outweigh the price tag.