The Difference Between a Vinyl & a Composite Fence

Materials

• Vinyl fencing is made from polyvinyl chloride, otherwise known as PVC. High-quality fencing contains only virgin vinyl or high-quality recycled scraps. Lower-quality vinyl fencing might contain scraps taken from recycled milk jugs and other weak plastic materials. Vinyl fencing also has a double layer of titanium dioxide to slow the damaging effects of the sun's rays. Vinyl fences, including the posts and railings, are often hollow, making them light and easy to work with. However, higher-quality fence shells are thicker.

  Composite fences are made from a combination of wood fibers and plastics called resin. Large fence posts are sometimes hollow, but the majority of composite fences are solid. The higher the quality of composite fences, the more difficult it is to tell them apart from real wood fences.

Longevity

• Both vinyl and composite fencing outlast natural wooden fences by several years. However, composite fencing has an edge over vinyl. Vinyl fencing does not stand up well in extremely cold conditions; it can crack or shatter if hit. After several years of experiencing extreme weather conditions, vinyl can crack or warp, causing you to replace all or part of it.

  Composite fences are better able to withstand extreme cold because they have natural wood fibers mixed in with the plastic. Depending on quality, your composite fence can last more than 25 years without replacement. High-quality composite fences resist warping, peeling, rotting and pests better than low-quality composite fences.

Installation

• Vinyl and composite fences have similar installation procedures. Each type comes with the necessary tools and accessories needed for you to install the fence. Items such as railings, fence posts, fasteners and gate pieces are included. You must follow the manufacturer's instructions for installing your fence, or risk voiding the warranty.

Environmental Considerations

• Vinyl fencing is made using the chemical vinyl chloride monomer. Vinyl chloride monomer is a known carcinogen, and its manufacture causes environmental damage as a result of toxins that bleed out during the manufacturing process. Because it is nonporous, the vinyl fencing can leach dioxins into the soil, which can harm surrounding plant and animal life.

  The manufacture of composite fencing, however, is safer, as most makers use a nontoxic form of plastic. However, some manufacturers make composite fences using PVC and another carcinogen, polystyrene. The manufacture of polystyrene uses benzene, which is toxic to the environment. When looking for a composite fence, look for manufacturers that use high-density polyethylene and low-density polyethylene. While not completely nontoxic, they are considered safer options.