Do you need to fix your fence? Are you wondering what type of fence is right for you? Have you been wondering how a new fence might impact your landscape and property aesthetic? Understandably, these questions and many more may arise in considering how to put up a fence. In this guide, find out more about how to install a vinyl fence, specifically the advantages and cautions involved with this type of installation.
Advantages Of Installing a Vinyl Fence
The attributes of individual fencing installations are as varied as the different materials and designs with which they may be constructed. Although the “How-Tos” of installing a fence, vinyl or otherwise, have similarities such as clarity around the fence’s purpose and awareness of local fencing regulations, there may also be some differences to consider. These differences may make installing a vinyl fence a better choice than others, depending on each homeowner’s individual needs and preferences. Below, learn more about the advantages often associated with how to install a vinyl fence.
- Simplified construction options: For homeowners who are planning to build their own fences, a vinyl fence installation may make the project easier overall. For example, pre-fabricated panels or sections remove some of the meticulous alignment work necessary for this project. Additionally, prepared panels are often designed to connect with each other, which also helps simplify the installation. Finally, in comparison with metal or wood fencing, fewer carpentry skills or specialized tools may be required for vinyl installations.
- Reduced workload: Another benefit of vinyl designs is that installation may be faster, and the materials may be easier to carry and maneuver. For example, when it comes to how to install a vinyl fence, digging post holes can be a challenge. Soil type, tree roots and rocks may slow down or impede this process, especially for those who may not have the right tools or experience with fencing installation. After this time-consuming work, vinyl posts are typically lighter, so their placement may be easier once the post hole is ready.
Common Challenges Installing a Vinyl Fence
Every fence material and style offers its own set of considerations, not to mention those associated with different combinations of the two. Before getting to the actual installation phase, understanding what will or will not be possible in terms of installing a vinyl fence is key in order to avoid unnecessary expenses or time spent on the work. Awareness of 4 potential challenges may help you decide if a vinyl fence installation is something that you want to take on or if you’d rather leave it to the residential or commercial fencing specialist in your area.
- Customization: Pre-fabricated vinyl panels often come in a variety of colors and designs. However, further changes may be difficult, especially for DIY-ers. For individuals looking for more unique constructions or alignment with their home’s architecture or otherwise, a better option may be to consult with a fencing professional regarding custom fence and gate builds.
- Precision: Installing a vinyl fence (or any other fence type) requires precise attention to detail. Better to measure and re-measure than to have to undo that post installation that was finally set. Although using prepared fence panels may reduce some of the measuring and alignment work, any discrepancy between panels may be even more noticeable since instead of one picket, there might be ten that are out of line.
- Landscape features: When it comes to DIY vinyl fence installation, caution should be taken with regard to the location. Whether using prepared panels or otherwise, adapting vinyl fencing requires a certain level of expertise, especially in a property that has uneven ground or varied slopes. In these circumstances, extra care may be needed so that the fence looks nice and is stable. Additionally, cutting vinyl to accommodate the terrain may require specialized skills and tools for accurate completion.
- Weather: Anticipated and unexpected weather impacts home improvement projects of all kinds. In planning any fence installation project, consider the weather. Especially for novice fence builders, extreme heat and cold present greater installation challenges.
Is a fence next on your DIY project list? Check out this tutorial on how to install a vinyl picket fence yourself. Would you rather that the professional fencing experts near you handle your fencing installation? A CommunityVotes award winner, Orange Fence is here to help with all of your residential and commercial fencing and gate services. Since its origins in the 1930s, Orange Fence has been dedicated to helping homeowners and business owners select, design and install the right vinyl fences for their properties. For a free fence estimate, contact us or call us today at (203) 795-1321 with any questions about a new fence, a fence repair or one of Orange Fence’s many other services!
