How to Properly Install a PVC Fence
Installing a PVC fence is a cheap way to add a great new look to your house. PVC fences are durable and can be reused. There are many options available for finishes. From a basic color to a customized style, you can select the style that best suits your needs.
Prepare your property
It is not possible to construct a fence without preparing your property for the installation. This may seem obvious, but you would be shocked by how many homeowners fail to make this a priority. Before you can begin installing a new fence it is essential to ensure that the area of the fence line is free of debris and rocks. It is also essential to make sure that your lawn is free of debris and grass. By eliminating these elements before you begin the construction process you’ll save yourself the headache and expense of dealing with a messy lawn.
There are a myriad of pitfalls to avoid and essential steps to take to ensure a safe and smooth experience. You must ensure you have enough materials to build an attractive fence. Also, be aware of local ordinances and codes. Depending on the town you might have to pay a fee or obtain an approval before you can start constructing your fence.
Before you begin to fence your property it is advisable to call 811 to make sure that your underground power lines have been marked. This will eliminate the headache of trying to figure out where the power cord goes. It is also possible to consult your contractor on the best way to mark your line. There are contractors who can mark this for you. Other contractors might not.
Making sure your property is properly prepared is the best way to get the most from your time and money. This will ensure that your next fence installation will be easy. A few hours of making plans will result in a great result.
Dig holes for the posts
When installing PVC fences, you should dig holes for the posts before installing the sections. This will ensure that the posts are level and that your fence is straight from top to bottom.
This job can be accomplished using a power auger. The power auger can be available for rent from the majority of home improvement stores. The hole should be about three feet deep.
After you have dug the holes then you can add gravel to the bottom. This will create a base for drainage. Concrete can be used to fill in the remaining of the post.
After the holes are filled, place the posts in the holes. The amount of concrete you need will depend on the dimensions of the holes as well as the depth of the posts. You can use a calculator online or a bag chart to figure out the amount of concrete you’ll need.
When putting the post into the concrete, make sure it is level. You should leave about 2 inches at the top of the post. It is important to ensure that the concrete isn’t warped during the pouring.
You can set the posts using regular mix or quick setting concrete. This allows you to take your time and set the posts in the hole. You can also mix the concrete directly in the holes.
Once the posts are in place, you can place the rails on the bottom. This will prevent pests from getting in the posts. You can also cover the top rails in order to prevent rain from getting into the concrete. You should then secure the top rails onto the inside of the post using screw.
Before you install anything, be sure to inquire with your local building inspectors. To ensure that your neighbors are on the same page, you must also consult them.
Place the rails
When installing colored vinyl fences fences, it is important to place the rails in a proper way. These are spacers that allow panels to snap together. However, placing them incorrectly can be very costly. Here are some tips to ensure that you do not make mistakes.
Before you cut the panels, you must lay them out. This will allow you to mark the fence in the correct way. If your fence is curved or a corner, you can use fencing stakes to mark the boundary.
The next step is to level the fence posts. This is particularly crucial if the fence is to be installed on a slope. Sometimes, the fence might need to be cut to fit the posts. This is due to the fact that some building codes require that the best side face out.
Once the posts are set, you can put in the rails. It is important to install the bottom rail, as this helps to stabilize the boards. The bottom rail will also help keep the boards away from the ground. The rails should be installed on the outside of the post facing the public. This is also the best position for the top rail since it helps limit the sagging.
Duct tape is recommended for the installation of the bottom rail. This will prevent concrete from entering the bottom horizontal rail. Once the bottom rail is put in place, place the top rail on the panels.
After you have installed the top and bottom rails, it’s time to start building the rest of your fence. Most designs don’t need the middle rail. Instead you can make use of aluminum u-channels to connect the rails to the posts. The top rail can be placed on either the front or backside of the panels.
Level the panels
It is important to make sure that your vinyl fence panels are level prior to installing it. A level fence will give a more pleasing effect. While it might appear like a daunting undertaking however, it can be accomplished with basic carpentry skills.
A fence which is level and well-constructed will be more durable and less likely to crack or blow over. It’s not as simple as it sounds to lay out the posts. Before you begin you’ll need to make sure you’ve reviewed the deed, your property line and underground utilities.
To do this mark the lines using landscaping stakes or string. This will assist you in setting up the picket fence panels properly and eliminate a lot of confusion.
Next, you’ll have to make use of a fence post hole digger to dig the holes for vinyl fence panels your posts. These are the most vital element of your fence. The holes in the posts must be sufficient in depth to hold a few inches of gravel. Concrete or pea gravel could be used to fill in the holes and also provide drainage.
After the posts are in place, you can install the bottom rail. A bottom rail can be put in by cutting a section of aluminum u-channel to the size you require and fastening it to the posts using screws.
After the bottom rail is set and the top rail is in place, it’s time to begin assembling the sections. Although this will take some time, it’s necessary. The anchor post is the first step. Then, you can connect the other posts at the end. This will prevent you from needing to move the posts too much after the concrete is set.
As you progress up the fence, make sure you level the panels as you move up the fence. This is much easier than trying to level it after the concrete has set.
Repair any damage
If you’re planning to put up a new PVC fence on your property, it is crucial to repair any damages. This will ensure that your fence will last the long haul.
Your fence can be damaged by many things. These include people who walk past your fence, animals or even strong winds. It is important to check your fence for signs of damage after a storm. If you spot any cracks, rust, or mildew, it is essential that you take care of the problem.
You may have to call a professional to help you with repairs. This can be costly. If you’d like to tackle the work yourself, there are a few easy ways to restore your fence.
First, fill small cracks vinyl gates with fences wood glue. To fill larger holes, you can also make use of polyvinylchloride glue. You can then fill the hole with epoxy resin or urethane. This will seal the area and protect it from future water damage.
You should consider the cost of repair of your fence. A warranty will cover any unintentional damage. The most costly repairs are usually those that have to do with foundation or reinforcement issues.
If you are not able to fix the plastic fence panels yourself, a local fencing company can assist. This will lower the cost of work and ensure that the job is done correctly.
The cost of repairs depend on the type of fence you have and how extensive the damage is. It might be more cost-effective to replace the fence instead of to fix it, depending on your situation.