As a top-rated Butler, Pennsylvania fence contractor, we get a lot of questions about the differences between wood and vinyl. Now, customers are asking us about SimTek, the leading specialty fence made from a proprietary blend of polyethylene plastic and reinforced with galvanized steel.
SimTek outperforms wood and vinyl in many settings, and homeowners throughout Butler County and beyond are finding it to be the best alternative for lasting privacy, security, and curb appeal.
What Is SimTek Fencing Made Of?
SimTek fencing is made of polyethylene, a durable, long-lasting plastic. It’s so strong and resistant to damage that it’s often used to make pipes.
The unique type of polyethylene plastic SimTek uses was built for decades of outdoor use. Vinyl fencing, on the other hand, is made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic, which is less durable, flimsier, and offers far less sound insulation and impact resistance than SimTek.
The Look of Wood Without the Hassle of Upkeep
Wood fences are beautiful, no doubt, but they’re also a lot of work. Homeowners have to consider both the upfront cost of installation, plus routine staining and repairs as the fence ages. As a natural material, wood fencing is prone to warping, rotting, and changing over time. This can lead to difficulties as a homeowner, especially if you don’t invest in high-quality wood from the start.
A Butler, PA SimTek fence is designed to look like natural wood or stone with none of the maintenance requirements. This means zero staining, sealing, pests, loose pickets, or wobbly posts to worry about. In fact, SimTek panels are reinforced with galvanized steel, so they won’t rot or lose strength over time.
Stronger Than Vinyl and Wood, Just as Attractive
SimTek’s strength lies in its solid panels, which build a strong system that isn’t easily blown in the wind or knocked over. Wood fences and even some vinyl panels can sag over time, especially with routine impact from kids and pets.
Homeowners who want the low-maintenance of vinyl with the natural beauty of wood find SimTek to be the perfect option. It’s built for everyday life, offers decades of protection, and lets you customize your yard to make it feel complete.
SimTek vs. Wood vs. Vinyl
Explore the differences between a Butler, Pennsylvania SimTek fence, wood, and vinyl fencing. While each one has its benefits, this table can help you better understand the key differences and advantages of SimTek.
| Criterion | SimTek Fence | Wood Fence | Vinyl Fence |
| Durability | Very high. Made of rotationally molded polyethylene reinforced with steel, resists cracking, warping, and UV fading. | Moderate. Prone to rot, splitting, insect damage, and weather wear without maintenance. (Angi) | High. Designed to resist rotting, warping, and chipping; very weather-resistant. (Angi) |
| Maintenance | Very low. No painting or staining; just occasional rinsing with water. | High. Needs periodic staining, sealing, or painting; boards may need replacing. (Angi) | Low. Usually just needs rinsing and cleaning; no sealing required. (Angi) |
| Weather Resistance | Excellent. Rated to withstand temperatures from –40°F to +140°F. Also tested for high winds. (Vinyli) | Varies. Can warp or swell in moisture; may deteriorate in harsh climates. | Very good. UV stabilizers help resist sun damage, but extreme weather can stress vinyl. |
| Impact Resistance | Very high. Steel reinforcement gives strong impact strength. (Penn Fencing) | Moderate. Wood can crack or split under hard impact or over time. | Moderate to high, depending on quality. But typical vinyl is less impact-resistant than SimTek. |
| Sound / Noise Reduction | Excellent. Solid molded panels block ~98% of direct sound; STC rating ~26. | Fair. Wood offers some sound reduction but less consistent as boards age. | Moderate. Some vinyl is solid, but many designs don’t block sound as well as SimTek. |
| Privacy | Very high. Solid, gap-free panels provide strong visual and spatial privacy. | Good. Board on board or tightly spaced designs can offer privacy but may shift or rot. | Good. Privacy vinyl panels are common, but quality and thickness affect the feel. |
| Aesthetics / Style Options | Very natural. Offers realistic stone (EcoStone) or deep wood-grain textures (Ashland). | Classic, natural wood look. It can be stained or painted in many ways. | Versatile. Many colors and textures (including wood-look), but some lower-end vinyl feels more plastic. |
| Lifespan | Long. Manufacturers often claim 25+ years with minimal degradation. | Variable. With good maintenance, maybe 15–20 years; without it, much less. (Angi) | Long. Typically lasts 20–30 years if high quality. (Angi) |
| Cost (Installed) | Higher | Moderate to low upfront | Moderate to high. |
| Eco‑Friendliness | Excellent. Often made with recycled polyethylene; no trees cut. (Penn Fencing) | Depends. Wood is renewable, but production can impact forests; treated wood may contain chemicals. | Mixed. Vinyl is very durable but made from PVC; production has environmental concerns. (Angi) |
| Longevity of Look / Color | Excellent. UV inhibitors help prevent fading, keeping texture and color consistent. | Variable. Stain or paint can fade; raw wood can weather. | Good. Quality vinyl resists fading, though lower-quality options may discolor over time. |
Schedule Your SimTek Consultation With a Butler, Pennsylvania Fence Contractor
We’re here to create the privacy, peace, and security you want in your yard. Let’s explore your options together and find the perfect fence.
To contact our team, you can message us or give us a call at (724) 586-7906.
