Does vinyl or composite fencing last longer?

Vinyl fencing was introduced to the fencing industry as the long-lasting alternative to wood. By nature of its composition, plastic does not biodegrade, which means that a vinyl fence would theoretically last forever. The key word there is theoretically. Even though plastic lasts forever, its beauty certainly does not. 

The biggest problems you run into with vinyl fencing long-term concern the fences aesthetic and its durability. Plastic reacts negatively to sunlight, resulting in unsightly discoloring after enough exposure. White vinyl fencing, for example, will begin to fade to a yellowish color over time. Extreme temperatures - whether the heat or cold - affects the strength of the material over the years as well, resulting in the plastic becoming brittle. This promotes cracking, and the plastic will easily break when struck with rocks or some sort of blunt force.

How long a composite fence lasts depends on the quality, design, and installation of the brand. There are only a few manufacturers that have successfully designed a composite material that will last for at least a couple of decades. However, only one has designed a system that can also handle the requirements for durability in high winds, harsh heat and cold, and incidental contact that can cause damage. Trex introduced its fencing system in 2005, making it the fence with the longest track record. A Trex composite fence is expected to last at least 25 years without requiring any significant maintenance. It is a rot and insect resistant fence and is designed intelligently for longevity while also maintaining an elegant appearance. 

Sure, plastic will sit in a landfill for a hundred years, but Trex composite fencing is designed to maintain its aesthetic appeal with higher durability than most vinyl fencing for decades to come. Visit Trex vs Vinyl for a more in-depth comparison.