Western Washington gets over 37 inches of rain annually. Our mild, wet winters and cool summers create unique challenges for outdoor structures. So which fence material actually holds up better: classic wood or modern vinyl?
After installing thousands of fences across the Puget Sound region, we've seen how both materials perform over 10, 15, even 20+ years. Here's what we've learned.
Quick Comparison
| Factor | Vinyl (PVC) | Cedar Wood | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | $30-$45/ft | $35-$55/ft | Tie |
| Lifespan | 20-30 years | 15-20 years | Vinyl |
| Maintenance | Occasional wash | Stain every 2-3 years | Vinyl |
| Appearance | Uniform, modern | Natural, classic | Preference |
| Rain Resistance | Excellent | Good (with care) | Vinyl |
| Repair Ease | Replace whole panel | Individual boards | Cedar |
Vinyl Fencing in the PNW
Vinyl Pros
- 100% waterproof - no rot, no warping
- Zero maintenance beyond occasional cleaning
- UV-resistant, won't fade or gray
- Lower lifetime cost (no staining needed)
Vinyl Cons
- Can crack in extreme cold (rare in Western WA)
- Green algae staining in shaded, damp areas
- Harder to repair - often need full panel replacement
- Limited color options (mostly white, tan, gray)
Cedar Wood Fencing in the PNW
Cedar Pros
- Natural beauty that fits PNW aesthetic
- Natural oils resist rot without chemicals
- Easy repairs - replace individual boards
- Can be stained any color
- Locally sourced, sustainable option
Cedar Cons
- Requires staining/sealing every 2-3 years
- Will gray and weather if left untreated
- Susceptible to moss growth in shaded areas
- Posts can rot at ground level over time
The Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
Choose Vinyl If...
- You want zero maintenance
- Your fence is in a wet, shaded area
- You prefer a clean, modern look
- You plan to stay 15+ years
Choose Cedar If...
- You love natural wood aesthetics
- You're willing to maintain it
- You want a custom stain color
- You prefer locally-sourced materials
Both vinyl and cedar are excellent choices for Western Washington. The "right" answer depends on your priorities: if maintenance-free longevity is key, go vinyl. If you want natural beauty and don't mind some upkeep, cedar is a fantastic choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does vinyl fencing hold up in the rainy Pacific Northwest?
Yes, vinyl is excellent for wet climates. It won't absorb moisture, rot, or grow mold like wood can. However, it can become brittle in extreme cold and may show green algae staining that requires occasional cleaning.
Which fence lasts longer in Washington: vinyl or cedar?
Vinyl typically lasts 20-30 years with minimal maintenance. Cedar lasts 15-20 years but requires staining/sealing every 2-3 years. Both are good choices for Western Washington's climate.
Is vinyl or wood fence cheaper in the long run?
Vinyl has higher upfront costs but lower lifetime costs due to zero maintenance. Over 20 years, vinyl often costs less total when you factor in staining, sealing, and repairs for wood fences.