Wood vs. vinyl vs. aluminum: which fence is right for you?

Nine out of ten homeowners we quote are deciding between wood, vinyl and aluminum. Each wins for a different reason. Here's the short version.

Wood: warm and classic

Cedar and pine give you that timeless look and full privacy for the lowest privacy-fence price. The trade-off is upkeep: Florida sun and humidity mean you'll want to seal or stain it every 2 to 3 years, and it has the shortest lifespan of the three (10 to 15 years).

Vinyl: set it and forget it

Vinyl is the most popular privacy fence in South Florida for a reason: no painting, no rot, no rust, and modern panels are engineered to take hurricane-force wind loads. It costs more upfront than wood but nothing after that, and it lasts 25 to 30 years. If you want privacy and never want to think about it again, this is it.

Aluminum: upscale and pool-ready

Aluminum ornamental fencing is rust-proof, powder-coated, and the go-to for pool enclosures because it meets safety code while still looking elegant. It doesn't give privacy, but for front yards, pools and estate perimeters it's the premium choice, and it can outlive your mortgage.

Quick pick

• Best value privacy: wood
• Best low-maintenance privacy: vinyl
• Best for pools & curb appeal: aluminum
• Best for pets & budgets: chain-link