When installing new fencing around your property in New Zealand, two of the most popular options are timber and PVC. Both offer certain advantages that make them attractive choices for homeowners.

Timber fences provide a natural, traditional look that blends into garden landscapes. PVC fencing on the other hand offers a more contemporary aesthetic with additional benefits like durability, low maintenance, and cost savings over time.

The goal of this article is to compare the pros and cons of timber versus PVC fencing. We’ll look at factors like upfront costs, appearance, lifespan, maintenance needs, safety, eco-friendliness, noise reduction, and privacy. With this information, you’ll be equipped to decide which material makes the most sense for your home.

Cost

When it comes to cost, there are a few factors to consider:

• Upfront costs: Timber is generally more affordable upfront. Cedar timber fencing starts at around $55 per linear meter, whereas PVC fencing starts around $100 per linear meter. Installation costs are comparable for both materials.
• Long-term maintenance costs: Over time, PVC fencing is the more cost-effective option. PVC is virtually maintenance-free, while timber fences require staining/sealing every 2-3 years. Timber fences may need repairs if slats warp or split. The ongoing stain/seal and repair costs add up over the lifespan of a timber fence.
• Lifespan: Properly installed PVC fences can last 50+ years, while timber fences last 15-25 years on average. So PVC fencing may work out cheaper in the long run by avoiding multiple replacement costs.
• Resale value: Timber fences may negatively impact resale value as they age and require maintenance/repairs. PVC fences can better retain their appearance and value over decades.

Overall, PVC fencing costs more upfront but saves money long-term thanks to its durability and lack of maintenance. Timber fencing is the budget-friendly option, but requires more continual investment. Consider lifespan and resale value along with upfront costs when deciding between materials. Proper installation and care also impact longevity for both fence types.

Appearance

When it comes to aesthetics, timber and PVC fences offer very different looks.

Timber fences have a natural, traditional appearance that can fit in with a variety of architectural styles. The wood grain provides visual interest and texture. Timber comes in various species, each with its own unique coloring and patterns. This allows for more customization in appearance. Timber fences can also be painted or stained to achieve different effects. A timber fence makes a warm, inviting statement.

PVC fences have a more modern, sleek look. The plastic material is consistent in color and texture. PVC fences are available in many colors, but don’t have the same range of options as natural wood. While PVC colors won’t fade or discolor over time, the look is more artificial and uniform. PVC offers a minimal, low-maintenance aesthetic.

Both timber and PVC allow for decorative post caps, lattice, and other accessories to customize the style. But timber ultimately provides more versatility in creating a unique, aesthetically pleasing fence through species, stains, paints, and natural variations. It comes down to personal preference between a traditional wood fence versus a consistent, contemporary PVC look.

Durability

Timber and PVC fences have different lifespans and weather resistance.

Timber fences are prone to rotting, splitting, and warping over time. The lifespan of a timber fence typically ranges from 10-15 years before requiring replacement. Cedar timber is more durable, lasting 15-20 years. Without proper treatment and sealing, timber will rot and decay from exposure to moisture, rain, sun, pests, and fungus. Over time, the wood can crack, split, or warp leading to an unattractive, unsafe fence.

PVC fences are highly resistant to weathering, rotting, and cracking. They have a lifespan of 20-50 years, much longer than timber options. PVC contains UV stabilizers that prevent sun damage. The material won’t rot, decay, or be damaged by termites and pests. PVC won’t warp or crack like timber. The color is formulated throughout the material, so it retains its appearance despite sun exposure. With proper installation, PVC fences maintain their integrity and function for decades.

So in terms of durability and weather resistance, PVC is the clear winner over timber fences. PVC offers a longer-lasting, low-maintenance fence that retains its appeal over decades of use. Timber requires diligent sealing and treatment but will still deteriorate faster from weathering.

Maintenance

Timber fences require more maintenance than PVC fences. Wood is susceptible to rotting, cracking, and warping from exposure to moisture and sunlight. You’ll need to regularly check a timber fence for any damage or deterioration, and repair issues like loose boards, splinters, cracked wood, rotting posts, and peeled paint. Plan to repaint or re-stain a timber fence every 2-5 years to protect and restore it.

PVC fencing is highly durable and weather-resistant. It won’t rot, warp, or splinter like natural wood. PVC doesn’t need painting or staining. Just wash it occasionally with soap and water. Minor scratches can be buffed out. With PVC you avoid the continual upkeep of repairing, sanding, re-painting, and re-staining required by traditional wood fencing. While PVC won’t entirely eliminate maintenance, it requires far less time and expense compared to a timber fence.

Safety

When it comes to safety and security, both timber and PVC fences have their pros and cons.

Timber fences can provide a good amount of strength and security when constructed properly with sturdy wooden posts and rails. However, timber is susceptible to rotting, cracking, and breaking over time. An aging or poorly maintained timber fence may start to develop weak spots that compromise its integrity. Timber can also be more easily damaged by weather events like storms.

PVC fences are inherently strong and rigid by design. The PVC material itself does not rot or crack. Properly installed PVC posts and rails offer good security against intruders. PVC fencing is also resistant to damage from weather and environmental factors. However, PVC can become brittle and degrade over time when exposed to sunlight. Cheaper PVC may be more vulnerable to breaking.

Both options need to be properly installed and maintained to maximize safety. Timber may require more vigilant upkeep. For low maintenance and lasting strength, PVC is a good choice. But well-built timber fencing also offers good protective qualities for a natural material.

Consider your specific needs and weigh longevity vs maintenance factors. Both can provide safe, sturdy garden boundaries when chosen and installed wisely.

Eco-Friendliness

When it comes to eco-friendliness, there are some clear differences between timber and PVC fences.

Timber is generally considered the more sustainable option. Most timber used for fencing in New Zealand comes from sustainably managed pine forests. Pine is a renewable resource that can be replanted after harvesting. Timber fences are also very recyclable at the end of their lifespan. The wood can be reclaimed, reused, or ground down for other purposes.

PVC, on the other hand, is made from non-renewable petroleum-based resources. While PVC fences are durable and low maintenance, they cannot biodegrade at the end of their life. Most PVC ends up in landfills. Recycling programs for PVC are limited since it’s difficult to recycle.

So if you’re looking for the most environmentally friendly fencing option, timber is likely the better choice. Pine timber from sustainably managed forests has less impact on the planet compared to PVC derived from fossil fuels. Just be sure to choose a reputable timber supplier that follows ethical and sustainable forestry practices.

Noise Reduction

When choosing fencing materials, it’s important to consider noise reduction. Both timber and PVC fencing can help block unwanted sounds, but they differ in effectiveness.

Timber fences, especially those made from thick, solid wood panels, are very effective at reducing noise. The dense wood acts as a sound barrier, absorbing and blocking noises like traffic, construction, loud neighbors, etc. The more mass a timber fence has, the better it will insulate against noise. Some timber fences can reduce outdoor noise by up to 50 decibels.

PVC fencing is not as inherently effective at blocking sound. The plastic material does not have the same density and mass as wood. However, PVC fence panels often have internal voids or cavities, which can help dissipate noise energy. PVC materials do not resonate or amplify noise like some metals or other hard surfaces.

To improve noise reduction, some PVC fences are designed with added features:

• Filling internal voids with insulating foam
• Using noise-dampening materials behind panels
• Increasing panel thickness and density

With the right design, PVC fencing can achieve respectable noise blocking, reducing sounds by 15-35 decibels. Still, solid wood timber fences tend to outperform PVC options when it comes to effective noise control and insulation.

So if noise reduction is a key priority, traditional timber fences are the optimal choice. But PVC fencing can also dampen noise to a degree with the right additions and engineering. Consider location, noise sources, fence materials, and design when deciding on the best option to reduce sound from entering your property.

Privacy

Both timber and PVC fences provide privacy for your property. However, there are some differences when it comes to the opacity of each material.

Timber fences can provide excellent privacy as the wooden slats are generally installed tightly together with little space between them. The solid nature of the wood blocks views and noise from entering your property. However, depending on the type of timber used, over time as the wood ages and cracks, small gaps can start to appear between the slats. This can gradually reduce the level of privacy and seclusion a timber fence provides.

PVC fences are made from plastic rather than natural wood. This means that PVC slats can be manufactured to exact specifications with precision. PVC fences are designed with overlaps between each slat to ensure no gaps appear over time. This provides a complete visual barrier that does not degrade or allow peeking between slats. PVC is a denser material than timber and can provide an opaque surface that completely blocks the line of sight.

So in summary, both material types offer privacy but PVC may have a slight edge when it comes to complete visual blocking thanks to its dense, manufactured overlapping slats. If privacy is your main aim, a PVC solution can provide reliable opacity.

Conclusion

When deciding between timber and PVC fencing for your New Zealand home, there are several key factors to consider.

Cost: PVC fencing is generally more expensive upfront, but requires less ongoing maintenance over its lifetime. Timber is more affordable initially, but requires regular staining or painting. Consider total lifecycle costs.

Appearance: Timber fencing can provide a classic, natural look. PVC offers more contemporary styles and colors. Choose the aesthetic that best fits your home.

Durability: Both perform well in NZ’s climate. PVC won’t rot, warp, or splinter like timber. But timber is easier to spot treat and replace individual boards if needed.

Maintenance: PVC is virtually maintenance-free, while timber needs re-staining/painting every 2-3 years. If you don’t mind the maintenance, timber can be a good option.

Safety: PVC’s smooth surfaces reduce the chances of splinters and cuts. It’s also fire-resistant. Timber is more flammable but can be treated with fire retardants.

Eco-friendliness: PVC is not biodegradable, but timber is renewable. Overall, PVC may have a slight edge in sustainability.

Privacy: Both provide good privacy and noise reduction. The color and style you choose will impact these factors more than the material itself.

Overall, PVC fencing often provides the best value for low maintenance and longevity. But timber can be a great choice if you prefer the natural look and don’t mind the regular upkeep. Assess your priorities and needs to decide which material fits your lifestyle and budget. The right fencing helps you make the most of your outdoor living space for years to come.

Recommendation

Here at Real Fencing, we recommend considering both timber and PVC fencing options for properties across New Zealand. Each material provides unique benefits that may align with your priorities.

Our qualified fencing experts can help you evaluate which material makes the most sense for your specific property requirements and budget. We provide quality installations of both timber and PVC fences, using sustainable locally-sourced timber and durable PVC materials.

If low maintenance is your top concern, our PVC fence solutions offer an attractive, sturdy option that will retain its integrity for decades without much upkeep required. For those who prefer the timeless look of wood, our timber fences showcase the natural beauty of quality weather-resistant woods like cedar.

At Real Fencing, we aim to understand your needs and recommend the best fencing solution, whether timber or PVC, to enhance your outdoor living space. Our experienced team focuses on craftsmanship and customer service. Get in touch with us today to start planning your new fence and choose between timber or PVC with confidence.