If you’re looking for a stylish, durable fence that adds value to your home, then vinyl is a great option.
Choosing a quality contractor who can install your vinyl fence correctly is important. This will ensure that the installation process goes smoothly and according to manufacturer guidelines.
The biggest reason to choose vinyl over other fencing materials is its durability. This man-made material is extruded with exact precision making it incredibly strong and nearly impervious to the weather elements that cause decay in organic materials like wood. Vinyl fences can also resist damage from insects such as termites and carpenter ants. Additionally, it can withstand impact from debris such as rock chips, lawnmowers, and weed-whackers.
In addition to being durable, vinyl is extremely easy to maintain. No painting, staining or treating with chemicals are required for this type of fencing. Simply hosing down your vinyl fence with a garden hose will keep it looking brand new. Additionally, this is an excellent option for families with children or pets, as vinyl does not splinter when touched.
When choosing a vinyl fence, it is important to purchase from a reputable dealer and manufacturer. This will ensure that you receive the best quality vinyl and that it is backed by a warranty should you need to replace any components of your fence as time passes by. You should also look for a vinyl fence that is made in the USA. This will help to ensure that your fence is produced in an environmentally responsible way.
Another aspect to consider is the durability of the hardware used in your vinyl fence. Typically, hardware that is sold in big box stores, such as Lowe’s and Home Depot, is cheaper and less durable than what is used on professional-grade vinyl fences. Cheaper hardware can rust and break over time, leaving your vinyl fence with holes and weak spots. In contrast, a professional-grade vinyl fence uses metal hardware that is secured with plastic lock rings, which hold the rails in place much more securely than the traditional punched tabs.
When choosing a vinyl fence, you should also consider the color and style that will best match your home. There are many options to choose from, including different colors, heights, textures and styles. The best vinyl fence will be able to blend in with your house and complement the surrounding landscape. It will also be able to match the style of other homes in your neighborhood.
Low Maintenance
Unlike wood fences, vinyl fences do not require regular painting or staining. They are also resistant to pests, including termites. They do, however, need to be periodically inspected for damage and other concerns.
If the vinyl does develop mildew or mold on the surface, it can be easily removed with a rag and some mild soap or detergent. However, it is important to avoid using any abrasive cleaners, as these can dull the vinyl and cause permanent damage.
Another problem is sun damage, especially with darker colors of vinyl. While it is possible to add a UV-protective coating or paint that will help safeguard the vinyl from sun damage, the color of the vinyl can still fade over time.
One way to prevent this is to ensure the proper amount of ventilation around the fence by trimming back any overgrown plants or bushes. If there isn’t enough air flow, moisture can build up on the surface of the vinyl and create a breeding ground for mildew or mold.
Additionally, it is important to regularly remove organic materials from the fence, such as grass clippings and leaves. These can lead to stains on the vinyl, and they can also attract insects that can damage the fence.
Lastly, it is important to keep dogs from scratching or chewing on the vinyl fence. While this is usually the result of an innate desire to explore, it can be very damaging to the fence and can actually cause it to deteriorate faster. Thankfully, vinyl fences are less likely to be damaged by dogs, as they do not have any wooden boards that can be chewed or scratched.
Ideally, you should also conduct regular inspections of your vinyl fence for any signs of damage or wear and tear. This can be done visually by walking along the entire length of the fence and paying special attention to any areas that may be exposed to harsh weather conditions or potential impact points. You can then address any issues promptly to minimize the likelihood of them worsening. If you have any questions or concerns, contact a professional vinyl fence supplier or installer in your area for advice and assistance.
Variety
With many new colors, patterns, tops, and styles of vinyl fencing now available, it’s easier than ever to find a fence that will compliment your home and your own personal sense of style. Unlike wood, vinyl will not warp or rot and is virtually impervious to the elements that cause decay in organic materials such as wood.
The popularity of vinyl fencing has been fueled by its versatility and ease of maintenance. With a little imagination and some help from your local professional installer, you can choose a vinyl fence that is both functional and attractive.
Originally manufactured as a transparent material, vinyl has evolved into a wide variety of colors and styles to complement your home and landscape. From simple white to deep chocolate brown, there are color options that will match just about any type of house siding or paint shade.
For those who want a more natural look, vinyl fences can also be made to mimic the appearance of real wood. The process of manufacturing vinyl involves putting salt and petroleum through a heating process known as cracking, creating ethylene gas and chlorine. This gas is combined with a special compound to produce vinyl chloride monomer (VCM) and is then extruded into a sheet of fencing material.
In addition to the range of colors, vinyl fences can be textured to resemble wood grain or even have a lattice effect to add an attractive design element to any property. Many vinyl fences can even be shaded to replicate the appearance of weathered wood, giving them a more realistic and classic look.
Another thing to keep in mind when selecting a vinyl fence is the quality of the product. Many cheaper consumer grade products are sold as “vinyl fence.” These lower-quality products may not meet professional quality standards and may not withstand the same amount of stress as a true vinyl fence.
A quality, professional-grade vinyl fence is reinforced with rebar and concrete to make it stronger than other types of fencing. Professionally installed, a vinyl fence will be safe and strong for years to come.
Affordable
There are few things more satisfying than coming home to a quiet, safe and serene sanctuary where you can spend time away from the pressures of the outside world. A well-maintained, beautiful yard is one of the most important ways you can create this environment for yourself.
Vinyl fences can transform your yard into the relaxing oasis you desire, and they do so without the high price tag of other materials. While a vinyl fence may be more expensive to install than some other types, it has lower upkeep costs and will save you money over the long run.
Another benefit of vinyl is that it does not need to be sanded or stained and can usually be cleaned with a garden hose. This can help cut down on the costs associated with cleaning, sanding and repainting, which can add up quickly. Additionally, vinyl is resistant to mold, mildew and other environmental contaminants that can easily stain and discolor wood.
A great thing about vinyl is that it can also be used for the construction of a wide range of gates. These can give your yard the finished look that it needs, and they can be designed to match or complement any type of vinyl fencing. Vinyl is also very easy to work with and can be cut, drilled and sawed just like wood.
Unlike wood, which can rot, warp and crack due to the weather, vinyl is not affected by rain, snow or ice. This makes it a great option for areas where harsh weather conditions are prevalent and can help prevent your fence from becoming damaged by extreme temperatures.
While many people are drawn to the versatility of vinyl, its non-natural nature can turn some off from the beginning. While it is one of the most durable types of plastic, vinyl is not considered environmentally friendly by some people, and it will require a certain amount of energy to manufacture and dispose of it.
When shopping for a vinyl fence, it is crucial to shop around and find the best price. While it may be tempting to buy a cheap vinyl fence at a big-box store, keep in mind that the quality of these fences will be less than ideal. In addition, the sales experts at these stores are usually just employees who were pulled in from other departments and do not know much about the vinyl they sell.