Wood vs Vinyl

The material matters — the build matters just as much

West Michigan weather can be hard on fences. Seasonal moisture, shifting soil, and repeated freeze-thaw cycles all put stress on posts over time. Wood, vinyl, and aluminum can all perform well in this climate when installed for the site and soil conditions — and every fence we build sits on posts set at a depth chosen for your yard's soil.

Wood

Cedar resists moisture and rot naturally. Our wood fence installation starts with true 2x4 rails and 11/16-inch pickets, and we source white cedar from Upper Peninsula mills and plane it in-house. Well-built cedar fences commonly last 15 to 20 years or more with routine maintenance — seal or stain every few years. Wood costs less upfront and offers the most customization and a natural look.

Vinyl

Quality vinyl handles freeze-thaw cycles without cracking and needs very little upkeep beyond cleaning. Vinyl fencing often lasts 25 to 30 years because it does not absorb moisture or decay. It costs more to install than wood but requires significantly less maintenance over time.

Aluminum

Powder-coated aluminum does not rust through West Michigan's wet springs or salt-heavy winters, and it requires the least maintenance of all — typically only occasional washing. Aluminum fences can last 30 years or longer, and they suit areas near water or slopes.

What affects the cost

The most accurate number comes from a free site visit. We walk your property, review terrain and site conditions, and give you a clear price before any work begins.

• Fence length — linear footage is the biggest cost variable.
• Material type — wood, vinyl, aluminum, and chain link each carry different material and installation costs.
• Fence height — most residential fences run 4 to 6 feet.
• Terrain and site conditions — slopes, tree roots, tight lot lines, and existing structures.
• Gates and access points — walk gates and driveway gates add framing, hardware, and material.
• Permits — most municipalities in Kent County require a permit; we handle the application and factor the cost in from the start.