Is chain link or vinyl fence cheaper?

When it comes to installing a new fence around your property, two of the most popular options are chain link and vinyl. Both chain link and vinyl fences have their advantages and disadvantages when it comes to cost. In this article, we’ll compare the upfront installation costs as well as the long-term maintenance costs of chain link vs. vinyl fencing to help you determine which is the more affordable option for your needs.

Upfront Installation Cost

The upfront installation cost is often the biggest factor for homeowners when deciding between chain link and vinyl fencing. Here is a comparison of the average upfront costs:

Chain Link Fence

Chain link fences are generally the more affordable option for installation. The base costs can range from:

• $8 – $15 per linear foot for basic galvanized chain link fence
• $15 – $20 per linear foot for vinyl coated chain link fence

On average, expect to pay around $10 – $30 per linear foot installed depending on fence height and materials. A basic 3-4 foot tall galvanized chain link fence usually starts around $10 per linear foot installed.

Vinyl Fence

Vinyl fences tend to cost significantly more for upfront installation. The base costs can range from:

• $20 – $50 per linear foot for more basic vinyl styles and lower quality materials
• $50 – $100+ per linear foot for more premium vinyl privacy fences

On average, expect to pay around $30 – $70 per linear foot installed. A basic 5-6 foot privacy vinyl fence typically starts around $50 per linear foot installed.

Ongoing Maintenance Costs

In addition to upfront installation costs, homeowners need to consider the ongoing maintenance expenses and lifespan of each fence type.

Chain Link Fence

Chain link requires more regular maintenance and has a shorter lifespan than vinyl fencing. Expect to budget the following over the years:

• Inspect annually for rust/damage – Repairing sections of rusted or damaged chain link can cost $10-$30 per linear foot
• Re-stretch chain link every 2-3 years as needed – Average cost around $3-$5 per linear foot
• Galvanized chain link lasts 15-20 years before needing full replacement
• Vinyl coated chain link lasts 20-25 years before needing full replacement

So while chain link is very affordable for initial installation, the ongoing maintenance and shorter lifespan mean you will likely need to fully replace the fence one or more times over the 25+ year lifespan of vinyl.

Vinyl Fence

Vinyl is more durable, requires little maintenance, and will last over 25 years. Expect only minimal maintenance costs such as:

• Wash occasionally with soap and water
• Inspect annually for damage – Repair or replace damaged boards/posts as needed (usually under $100 per 8 foot section)
• Vinyl lasts 25-30 years or more before needing full replacement

So while vinyl is more expensive upfront, the very low maintenance and long lifespan make it cheaper in the long run. You likely will not need to replace the fence more than once within 25-30 years.

Average Lifetime Costs

To get a true lifetime cost comparison, you need to factor in both the upfront installation as well as long-term maintenance. Here is an estimate for a 100 linear foot fence over a 25 year period:

Fence Type	Initial Install Cost	Maintenance Cost Over 25 Years	Total 25 Year Cost
Chain Link	$1,000	$2,000 (2 replacements)	$3,000
Vinyl	$5,000	$500	$5,500

As you can see, the vinyl fence is more expensive initially, but over the course of 25 years the chain link fence ends up costing slightly more due to the shorter lifespan and increased maintenance. Of course these numbers are just estimates, but it illustrates how vinyl can be cheaper in the long run.

Cost Per Year Over 25 Years

Another helpful way to compare lifetime costs is to look at the annual cost per year over 25 years. Here is how the per year cost breaks down:

Fence Type	Annual Cost Over 25 Years
Chain Link	$120 ($3000 total / 25 years)
Vinyl	$220 ($5500 total / 25 years)

When calculated on a per year basis, the chain link fence costs around $120 per year while the vinyl fence costs around $220 per year over the 25 year lifespan. So vinyl is about $100 more per year for the added benefits of increased durability, privacy, aesthetics and low maintenance.

Factors That Can Affect Cost

When estimating your total fencing costs, here are some important factors to consider:

Fence Height

The height of your fence will affect the price for both chain link and vinyl. Expect costs to be 25-50% higher for 6-8 foot privacy fences versus shorter 3-4 foot fences.

Fence Materials

For chain link, galvanized and vinyl coated options have different price points. For vinyl, wood-grain and composite materials are more expensive than standard PVC vinyl.

Fence Style

Privacy fences or fencing with added features like lattice or post caps will be more expensive for both chain link and vinyl installations.

Terrain

Fences installed on hilly terrain or areas that require extra excavation for posts will add cost for additional labor and materials.

Permits/HOA Rules

Some areas may require permits or have HOA regulations that add cost. Be sure to check local requirements.

Professional Installation

Hiring a professional fencing company versus doing a DIY install will add labor costs, often an additional $5-10 per foot.

Appearance Comparison

In addition to cost, homeowners also need to consider the appearance difference between chain link and vinyl fencing:

Chain Link Fence

• Metal wire mesh design with visible diamond pattern
• Available in galvanized, vinyl coated or powder coated finishes
• Very open and transparent
• Wide range of top/bottom rail and post cap options

Vinyl Fence

• Resembles traditional wood picket fence
• Many color and style options
• Can provide full privacy when installed as solid panels
• More customized with post caps, lattice, and decorative accent options

Vinyl has the advantage when it comes to aesthetics, customization, and privacy. But chain link offers its own open, wire mesh appearance that some homeowners prefer. Assess your own needs and preferences for the look you want to achieve.

Privacy Comparison

For homeowners wanting to section off their yard or pool deck from neighbors, vinyl is the better choice for privacy:

Chain Link Fence

• Provides almost no privacy
• Open wire mesh allows visibility from all angles
• Can add visual blockade slats but still has visibility gaps

Vinyl Fence

• Solid panel sections provide full privacy when viewed head on
• Small gaps from sides/below but mostly blocked visibility
• Can add lattice or decorative panels to fill side gaps

For creating a secluded private yard, vinyl fencing is the much better option over chain link.

Security Comparison

Both chain link and vinyl fencing provide some level of added security and protection:

Chain Link Fence

• Secure metal wire construction
• Discourages casual trespassers
• Can be climbed by determined intruders

Vinyl Fence

• More deterrent than no fence
• Not as secure as wood or chain link
• Lower panels can be broken through by intruders

For maximum home and yard security, chain link is the better choice. But vinyl still provides useful deterrence and boundary marking over not having a fence at all.

Durability Comparison

When it comes to durability and lifespan, vinyl is the clear winner:

Chain Link Fence

• Prone to rusting and corrosion
• Susceptible to wind damage
• Needs re-stretching over time as mesh sags
• Has a lifespan of 15-25 years

Vinyl Fence

• Withstands weathering and wind
• Won’t rot, warp, or splinter
• No peeling or cracking issues
• Lifespan over 25 years

Vinyl holds up much better than chain link over decades outdoors. Vinyl’s durability is a major advantage for cost and longevity.

Weather Resistance Comparison

Vinyl also holds up far better than chain link when exposed to the elements:

Chain Link Fence

• Vulnerable to rust and corrosion
• Galvanization wears over time
• Wind, rain, and snow can damage posts and mesh

Vinyl Fence

• Impervious to moisture
• UV-stabilized to prevent fading
• Flexible material won’t crack or warp
• Excellent wind resistance

Vinyl outperforms chain link in rain, snow, sun exposure, and windstorms. Vinyl is nearly maintenance-free under all weather conditions.

Maintenance Comparison

Speaking of maintenance, vinyl also beats chain link when it comes to care and upkeep:

Chain Link Fence

• Needs rust protection and preventative coating
• Must be re-stretched as it starts to sag
• Refurbishing galvanization recommended every few years
• Annual inspections to check for needed repairs

Vinyl Fence

• Just occasional washing with soap and water
• Inspect annually for any minor repairs needed
• Very little required maintenance

Vinyl’s longevity comes largely from it being virtually maintenance free. Chain link involves much more time, hassle, and expense for proper care.

Installation Comparison

Installation is fairly straightforward for both chain link and vinyl fencing:

Chain Link Fence

• Relatively easy DIY install for basic fences
• Setting posts and attaching mesh is simple process
• Can be tricky to get mesh tautness and height even

Vinyl Fence

• Recommended to hire pros for best results
• Installing posts and panels is moderately complex
• Getting structure plumb and secure takes expertise

For DIYers, chain link is likely the simpler install. But for long-lasting quality, vinyl benefits from experienced professional installation.

Resale Value Comparison

Quality fencing can also help boost your home’s resale value. Here is how vinyl and chain link compare:

Chain Link Fence

• Considered lower-end for home value
• Can detract from curb appeal
• Won’t increase value, but also won’t decrease it

Vinyl Fence

• Enhances curb appeal with attractive appearance
• Regarded as a quality home upgrade
• Can increase resale value by 3-5%

While vinyl offers a better return, chain link is considered a neutral value-add for resale. But vinyl can actively boost interest and home prices.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

One final cost factor is whether you take on installation as a DIY project or hire professional installers. Here is a summary:

DIY Install

• Saves on labor costs
• Only pay for materials
• Learning curve involved
• Quality depends on skill level

Professional Install

• Added cost of $5-$10 per foot for labor
• Higher overall expense
• Experts handle complex work
• Highest quality end product

As a beginner DIYer, chain link is the easier option to install. For vinyl, hiring a qualified local fencing contractor is highly recommended to get the best results.

Conclusion

When considering total lifetime costs, vinyl fencing ends up being cheaper than chain link in most cases thanks to its superior durability and lifespan. But chain link can make sense for cost-conscious homeowners focused on minimizing the initial installation expense.

To determine the best fencing solution for your yard within your budget, carefully weigh the upfront costs with the long-term maintenance and how long you plan to stay in your home. And consider appearance, privacy, security, longevity, weather resistance, and resale value based on your specific needs and priorities.

With the right information, you can decide whether durable vinyl or affordable chain link is the more cost-effective pick to fence your backyard.