The Best Fence Materials for Maryland Homes: A Practical Comparison

Choosing a fence material in Maryland isn't the same as choosing one in Arizona or Maine. We get hot, humid summers that warp cheap wood, coastal moisture that accelerates rust, freeze-thaw cycles that test post footings, and the occasional nor'easter or hurricane remnant that tests structural integrity.

Here's an honest comparison of the four most common fencing materials based on how they actually perform in Anne Arundel County.

Wood Fencing

Wood is the classic choice, and for good reason. A well-built wood privacy fence looks great and gives you maximum design flexibility. Cedar and pressure-treated pine are the two most popular options here.

Cedar is naturally rot-resistant and holds stain beautifully. It costs more upfront but requires less maintenance long-term. Pressure-treated pine is more affordable and very durable when maintained, but it needs staining or sealing every 2–3 years to prevent graying and moisture damage.

Best for: Privacy fencing, traditional aesthetics, custom designs

Typical cost: $25–$45 per linear foot installed

Maintenance: Stain/seal every 2–3 years for pine; every 3–5 years for cedar

Lifespan: 15–25 years with proper maintenance

Vinyl Fencing

Vinyl (PVC) fencing has exploded in popularity because it's essentially maintenance-free. No painting, no staining, no rotting. It comes in white, tan, and gray tones, and modern vinyl actually looks quite good.

The trade-off is cost: vinyl runs 30–50% more than wood upfront. It can also become brittle in extreme cold, though that's rarely an issue in our climate. Some HOAs actually prefer vinyl because it stays looking uniform for decades.

Best for: Low-maintenance properties, HOA communities, families who don't want to re-stain every few years

Typical cost: $30–$55 per linear foot installed

Maintenance: Occasional cleaning with a hose

Lifespan: 20–30+ years

Aluminum Fencing

Aluminum gives you the look of wrought iron without the rust. It's elegant, durable, and perfect for front yards, pool enclosures, and properties where you want visibility with a defined boundary. It won't block wind or provide full privacy, though.

Best for: Decorative boundaries, pool fencing (meets code), front yard curb appeal

Typical cost: $30–$55 per linear foot installed

Maintenance: Very minimal — occasional cleaning

Lifespan: 25–30+ years

Chain Link

Let's be honest: chain link isn't the prettiest option. But it's functional, affordable, and tough. For utility fencing around equipment areas, pet containment, or properties where budget is the top priority, it does the job.

Modern chain link comes in black or green vinyl-coated versions that look significantly better than the old galvanized silver. Adding privacy slats can improve both appearance and wind protection.

Best for: Pet containment, utility areas, large properties on a budget

Typical cost: $15–$30 per linear foot installed

Maintenance: Virtually none

Lifespan: 20+ years

Side-by-Side Material Comparison

So Which Should You Choose?

For most homeowners in Anne Arundel County looking for backyard privacy: wood or vinyl is the answer. Wood if you prefer the natural look and don't mind occasional maintenance. Vinyl if you want set-it-and-forget-it durability.

For front yards and pool areas: aluminum is hard to beat.

For large properties on a budget: vinyl-coated chain link gives you the best value per foot.

The best advice we can give is to consider your priorities — privacy, aesthetics, maintenance, and budget — and then let a local installer walk your property line with you. Slopes, tree roots, and existing structures all affect which material makes the most sense for your specific lot.