No matter what kind of home improvement project you are beginning, having the best materials for the job plays an important role in getting quality results. In the sometimes harsh environment of Washington DC, vinyl fencing is a material that can be very effective during every season. Though not as common as other fencing materials, vinyl has many benefits that make it a good choice for homeowners in and around Washington DC. Vinyl fences are not the only option on the market, but knowing a little about their characteristics (both good and bad) can be a big help when it comes to choosing the right material for your new fence.
Washington DC Vinyl Fence Benefits
Since DC sees all types of precipitation and weather patterns in a given year, one of the deciding factors in any outdoor installation in the area is always how a material holds up under the wide range of conditions it will be exposed to. With a vinyl fence, Washington DC homeowners can rest assured that their investments will go the distance. Vinyl is impervious to moisture in all of its forms, but thatýs not its only benefit. It is also extremely low maintenance, not a food source for insects, and easy on the eyes, to boot! Vinyl fencing comes in many different colors and styles, so even homeowners with particular tastes should be able to find something they like. When compared to the performance of wood fencing in Washington DC, vinyl fencing is easier to take care of, less likely to be damaged by the elements, and is designed to last far longer!
Drawbacks of Vinyl Fences in Washington DC
Though there are many reasons to opt for vinyl fencing, Washington DC homeowners still seem to favor wood fences for a few reasons. With so many classic homes in the area, DC residents might be reluctant to display a material on their lawns that is not in keeping with the style of the house or the neighborhood. Wood fences also offer more variety when it comes to style, and they are less expensive in initial installation than vinyl fencing, as well.
One major reason why homeowners in DC might avoid vinyl fencing deals with an undeserved reputation brought on by early vinyl products. In the past, vinyl fencing (as well as vinyl siding and other vinyl products) had some serious problems with fading over time; though far more durable and low maintenance than their wood counterparts, older vinyl products simply didnýt look as good after a few years. Today, manufacturers of vinyl siding and vinyl fencing have improved their products to such a point that fading is no longer an issue. While some low-end vinyl products might still fade in direct sunlight, a high quality vinyl fence in Washington DC will retain its color for years and years (without ever needing to be painted).
Prices of Washington DC Vinyl Fencing
For initial installation, Washington DC vinyl fences are definitely going to cost more than some other options. According to our figures, the national average cost of installing a vinyl fence is about $4,000 (compared to $2,800 for wood fencing and $2,200 for chain link). When looking at our numbers specifically for DC, vinyl fence installation tends to stick in the $5,000 range, while wood fencing prices vary significantly from one job to another (though the majority of wood fence installations stay pretty close to the national average). It is important to remember, however, that despite the higher initial investment, vinyl fencing is likely to hold longer better and require less maintenance over its lifetime than wood fencing. When you take repairs and more frequent replacements into account, vinyl fencing might end up saving you money in the long run!

Jon Nunan is a freelance writer who draws on his experience in construction, ranging from landscaping to log home building, for his articles on home improvement.