What You Need to Know About Wood Versus Vinyl Lattice Fencing
If you are interested in constructing a fence, it is important to research your options beforehand. From a picket fence to a privacy fence, every type of fence has unique characteristics and advantages. Homeowners have a wide range of material choices to select from, including wood, vinyl, steel, aluminum, wrought-iron, chain link, and more.
What about décor? Do you lean towards standard vertical fencing boards or are you looking for a more unique look?
Among these decorative possibilities, wood and vinyl lattice has become an increasingly popular pick. Homeowners love the versatility, durability, and eye-catching beauty of a lattice fence. Let’s explore why a lattice fence is a well-loved fencing style.
What is a Lattice Fence?
Lattice fencing is often compared to the look of a weaved basket. A lattice fence is made of diagonal slats that are arranged in a crisscross pattern, creating individual square holes throughout the fence.
Before you shove away the idea of lattice fencing based upon its poor reputation in the past, it is worth noting that a lot has changed over the years. It is not the thin and frail fencing choice it once was considered.
Lattice fencing traditionally used ¼-inch thick laths, making it prone to damage and breakage. With new and improved manufacturing, lattice fencing comes in ¾-inch thick laths now. Laths also come in varying widths. When taking into account the increased thickness and width of available products, lattice fencing is stronger and better than ever.
Also, the gap size between the lath strips can vary greatly. You can even purchase full six-foot or eight-foot panels of lattice fencing. As lattice fences have grown in popularity, homeowners can now customize the look of their lattice fence to meet their exact preferences.
Wood or Vinyl Lattice Fencing?
Lattice fences are made from vinyl or natural wood fencing materials, and there are distinct differences and advantages between the two.
● Maintenance: Wood fencing (lattice or not) needs to be painted or stained to preserve its function and look. When you apply stain to a wood fence on a routine basis, you extend the life of the wood and protect it against sun and weather damage. Moreover, if you apply a waterproof stain, you can keep the wood from cracking and warping.
Vinyl fencing does not require paint or stain applications. Because it is a non-porous material that does not absorb water, vinyl does not need that extra layer of protection that comes from staining or painting a wood fence.
● Appearance: You can find vinyl lattice fencing that mimics the look of real wood, but natural wood is in a class of its own. The organic grain patterns of wood offer a traditional feel and inherent warmth.
Wood will change color over time, though. That’s where the regular need for a fresh coat of stain or paint comes in handy. In fact, if you desire a new color altogether, a simple coat of paint can transform a wood fence.
On the other hand, a vinyl fence is a one-and-done deal. While a vinyl fence does not require staining for maintenance purposes, it is not recommended to paint or stain a vinyl fence for aesthetics reasons either. With vinyl fencing, you can select faux-wood patterns as well as solid neutral shades like white, brown, tan, black, and gray tones.
While many homeowners enjoy the low maintenance and clean look of vinyl, others prefer the natural variation present in wood.
● Upkeep: Vinyl fencing is rot resistant, but mildew and mold can accumulate. To remove, you can wipe the surface clean or use a power washing tool for a more in-depth cleaning.
Without regular upkeep, wood materials can begin to break, crack, rot away, or warp. The sun, weather, insects, and moisture tend to break down the wood over time, which is yet another reason to stain or paint your wood fence. Wood fences can also benefit from a power washing every now and then.
● Cost: It is true that wood fencing materials typically cost less than vinyl. The real cost difference comes down to the long term, routine maintenance required to maintain the strength and integrity of your lattice fence (described in the points listed above). Vinyl tends to cost more upfront, while wood costs more over the lifespan of the fence.
To know the going rates for wood materials, it is best to check the exact prices with a supplier of lumber in Colorado.
A Lattice Fence that is Best For You
There is no right or wrong answer when selecting a lattice fence. Wood or vinyl, lattice fencing is sure to elevate your outdoor living space and beautify your yard.
Ask yourself the amount of maintenance and upkeep you are willing to invest into your fence, then consider your aesthetics and visual preferences, and you are sure to discover the type of lattice fence that is best for you.
