When considering fencing options for your yard, one of the biggest factors is often cost. Lattice fencing is an attractive and popular choice, but is it actually cheaper than other fencing materials? There are a few key factors to consider when comparing the cost of a lattice fence versus other types of fences.
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Upfront cost
Looking strictly at upfront material and installation costs, lattice fencing is generally cheaper than wood privacy fences or vinyl fencing, but more expensive than chain link. The exact cost can vary depending on the size of your yard and local labor rates, but here is a general comparison:
| Fence Type | Cost per Linear Foot |
|---|---|
| Chain Link | $8 – $16 |
| Lattice | $15 – $35 |
| Wood Privacy | $25 – $50 |
| Vinyl | $30 – $75 |
As you can see, the materials and installation for basic chain link fencing is the cheapest upfront cost, while wood privacy and vinyl cost significantly more. Lattice fencing falls somewhere in the middle.
Durability and lifespan
While lattice fencing may be cheaper upfront than wood or vinyl, those pricier materials usually last much longer. Here are the typical lifespans for common fencing materials:
| Fence Type | Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Chain Link | 15-25 years |
| Lattice | 10-15 years |
| Wood | 15-30 years |
| Vinyl | 20-30 years |
Over time, you may need to replace a lattice fence more often than a wood or vinyl fence. Factor in the cost of repairs or replacement down the road when considering total long term costs.
Maintenance
Some fencing materials require more frequent maintenance than others. Here’s an overview of typical maintenance needs:
- Chain Link: Low maintenance. May need occasional paint or repairs.
- Lattice: Moderate maintenance. Needs regular staining, sealing, and repair of damaged slats.
- Wood: High maintenance. Requires staining/sealing every 1-3 years. Vulnerable to weathering and rot over time.
- Vinyl: Low maintenance. No staining needed. Occasional cleaning.
The continual staining and sealing required for wood fencing can get costly over time. Lattice also requires more upkeep than low-maintenance options like chain link or vinyl. Make sure to account for these future maintenance expenses when budgeting.
Privacy
Lattice is not very private – you can easily see through the crisscross slat pattern. Here is how common fencing materials compare for privacy:
| Fence Type | Privacy Level |
|---|---|
| Chain Link | Very Low |
| Lattice | Low |
| Wood | Medium-High |
| Vinyl | Medium-High |
If privacy is a priority, you may need to supplement a lattice fence with additional plantings or an inner fence layer. This can drive up costs beyond the initial fence installation.
Aesthetics
Visibility and curb appeal are big advantages of lattice fencing. The open, airy look allows light and air to pass through while maintaining a clean, decorative look. Lattice comes in versatile sizes and you can paint or stain it to match your home. Other fencing options like chain link or vinyl have a more utilitarian, industrial look.
Customization Options
Lattice is very customizable – you can get creative with fun patterns, colors, and incorporated decorative accents. It’s easy to match lattice fencing to your home’s existing color scheme or architecture. Other fencing materials like wood and chain link have fewer possibilities for custom looks. Vinyl does come in many colors but the overall appearance is still plainer than lattice.
Resale Value
Curb appeal matters when selling your home. Many buyers prefer the attractive, welcoming look of wood, vinyl or lattice fencing over chain link fencing. This can positively impact your resale value. However, aging, weathered lattice that needs replacing may detract rather than add value.
Environmental Impact
Lattice fencing is typically made from wood, a renewable and sustainable material when sourced responsibly. Other fencing types have higher embodied carbon:
- Vinyl – Made from plastic, derived from fossil fuels
- Chain Link – Made from galvanized steel
If sustainability is important to you, choosing a renewable wood or composite lattice may be the greener choice compared to vinyl or chain link fencing.
Conclusion
There are valid arguments on both sides of whether lattice fencing is truly cheaper than alternatives. While lattice costs less upfront, it may need replacing sooner and requires more maintenance than wood or vinyl fencing over the years. Lattice is usually affordable enough for homeowners wanting an attractive, customizable look without the privacy of a solid wood fence. But if low long-term costs are the priority, basic chain link may be the most budget-friendly choice despite the tradeoffs in aesthetics and curb appeal.
Every homeowner needs to weigh all the factors – upfront costs, lifespan, maintenance needs, aesthetics, and their own personal priorities. Do your homework to calculate total costs both now and years down the road. This will determine whether lattice is the most cost-effective option for your specific fencing needs and budget.